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About Bucking Time
No woman wants a pity proposal.
Just because I’m turning forty, dealing with perimenopause, and recently dumped another loser doesn’t mean I need rescuing—especially not by my best friend.
But when Dallas Gamble blurts out that we’re engaged in a very public attempt at protecting me, there’s not much I can do but play along. Bless his dumb, beautiful heart.
The man has always been impulsive. Protective. Flirty. And able to fill out a pair of Levi’s like nobody’s business. In no time at all, he slides a ring on my finger, moves me into his house, and swears it’s no big deal.
But then things get complicated.
Because suddenly, he’s trying—as in, really trying. And even though every clumsy romantic gesture ends in disaster, it’s getting harder to pretend this isn’t real.
Dallas Gamble was never supposed to be my happily ever after. If we do this, I risk losing my best friend.
And if we don’t… I might lose the great love story I’ve been chasing my whole life.
But I’m starting to think it’s about bucking time we go for it.
Just because I’m turning forty, dealing with perimenopause, and recently dumped another loser doesn’t mean I need rescuing—especially not by my best friend.
But when Dallas Gamble blurts out that we’re engaged in a very public attempt at protecting me, there’s not much I can do but play along. Bless his dumb, beautiful heart.
The man has always been impulsive. Protective. Flirty. And able to fill out a pair of Levi’s like nobody’s business. In no time at all, he slides a ring on my finger, moves me into his house, and swears it’s no big deal.
But then things get complicated.
Because suddenly, he’s trying—as in, really trying. And even though every clumsy romantic gesture ends in disaster, it’s getting harder to pretend this isn’t real.
Dallas Gamble was never supposed to be my happily ever after. If we do this, I risk losing my best friend.
And if we don’t… I might lose the great love story I’ve been chasing my whole life.
But I’m starting to think it’s about bucking time we go for it.
303 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 8, 2026
67 people are currently reading
194 people want to read
About the author
Marika Ray
91 books1,435 followersMarika is a USA Today bestselling author writing steamy RomComs to make your heart explode and bring a smile to your face. She lives by the beach and posts a delightful number of hot lifeguard pictures.
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Drop your email to be notified when each book releases: http://bit.ly/MarikaRayNews
Be sure to add my new releases to your TBR Today!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
December 20, 2025
Holy hotness, this was good!
Friends to lovers at its best with sprinkled in quirky side characters and glimpses of perimenopause…
Loved it!!! 6 stars for the chemistry between them!
Friends to lovers at its best with sprinkled in quirky side characters and glimpses of perimenopause…
Loved it!!! 6 stars for the chemistry between them!
January 14, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars what a great story! I cant wait for the next one! I loved all the characters. There are a few unexpected twists and turns.This book was hard to put down.
January 28, 2026
Great start to the series.
This was my first intro to MR and SS and I’m not mad at it. If you are looking for a ROM-COM full of banter and sass with two best friends turning to lovers then this is the book for you. Not to mention, he’s a single dad, there is secret pinning, small town meddling and they are both almost 40. Omg, his grandma 😂😂😂, I loved her.
Dallas and Shelby have been in each others lives since high school. They are best of friends, but nothing like an Ex talking stuff to make someone step up. Yep, Dallas is like a knight and shinning armor is taking care of his girl. (They get fake engaged)
Cue the roller coaster. These two! What a ride. The push, pull, the mutual pinning all while trying to fight their feelings for one another. The way this man tried to woo her. She’s a hopeless romantic at heart and he tired to become the best book boyfriend. It was hot but also had me cracking up at the same time. He even tried a third act break up. I’m glad they finally figured it out and got their HEA.
The audiobook was narrated in duel format by Amanda Stribling and Lucas Dixon. This was my first listen by them. The characterizations, the accents needed were excellent. They both gave the emotions needed within the storyline. Great listen.
This was my first intro to MR and SS and I’m not mad at it. If you are looking for a ROM-COM full of banter and sass with two best friends turning to lovers then this is the book for you. Not to mention, he’s a single dad, there is secret pinning, small town meddling and they are both almost 40. Omg, his grandma 😂😂😂, I loved her.
Dallas and Shelby have been in each others lives since high school. They are best of friends, but nothing like an Ex talking stuff to make someone step up. Yep, Dallas is like a knight and shinning armor is taking care of his girl. (They get fake engaged)
Cue the roller coaster. These two! What a ride. The push, pull, the mutual pinning all while trying to fight their feelings for one another. The way this man tried to woo her. She’s a hopeless romantic at heart and he tired to become the best book boyfriend. It was hot but also had me cracking up at the same time. He even tried a third act break up. I’m glad they finally figured it out and got their HEA.
The audiobook was narrated in duel format by Amanda Stribling and Lucas Dixon. This was my first listen by them. The characterizations, the accents needed were excellent. They both gave the emotions needed within the storyline. Great listen.
January 18, 2026
This is the first in a new series, and this is Dallas and Shelby’s story.
Dallas is a single dad to his son, protective, flirty, and impulsive, while his best friend Shelby, is a veterinarian, sweet, and kind. When Shelby faces another public breakup, Dallas comes to her rescue and blurts out they are engaged.
This is a later in life cowboy romance, and these authors have done a phenomenal job in weaving this hilarious storyline.
This is a well written easy to read story, with family, friendships, emotions, hilarious antics, fake engagement, marriage pact, best friends / lovers, challenges, humour, witty banter, palpable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, sweet, touching, and fun, small-town romance.
I look forward to reading more from these talented authors’ whose work I highly recommend.
Dallas is a single dad to his son, protective, flirty, and impulsive, while his best friend Shelby, is a veterinarian, sweet, and kind. When Shelby faces another public breakup, Dallas comes to her rescue and blurts out they are engaged.
This is a later in life cowboy romance, and these authors have done a phenomenal job in weaving this hilarious storyline.
This is a well written easy to read story, with family, friendships, emotions, hilarious antics, fake engagement, marriage pact, best friends / lovers, challenges, humour, witty banter, palpable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, sweet, touching, and fun, small-town romance.
I look forward to reading more from these talented authors’ whose work I highly recommend.
February 3, 2026
put the "forced" in forced proximity
Review of advance copy received from Author
There is some rom-com magic that happens when Marika and Sylvie team up and write a book together!
About Bucking Time is the first book in their new Out to Pasture series- which brings us the magic of small ranch life, the single dad who's a perpetual bachelor and his best friend the veterinarian as they get fake engaged but develop real feelings.
Dallas Gamble and Shelby Sweet are the BEST kind of friends to lovers. They've known each other since they were 15 and while Shelby held a small crush on her BFF while they were in high school she knew never to act on those feelings. Dallas didn't do relationships. He charmed, he flirted and he was only there for a good time whereas Shelby dreamed of big romantic gestures and the kind of love that she saw in her parents before she lost them.
I love these kinds of friends to lovers stories. They are always so fun to dive into and see all the ways that the two MCs are clearly in love with each other as anyone with eyes could clearly see- except for them. Shelby has that stereotypical- sweet as pie energy for everyone but something about her relationship with Dallas brings out her sassy side just like she can tap into his gentler side. I love Dallas' protective energy and how invested he is in helping Shelby find the kind of love she wants- he just can't find anyone he thinks is worthy of all she has to offer, including himself. But when that man tries, he tries with his whole being and it's some of the sweetest stuff ever- even if his gestures tend to also go awry. The chemistry is electric and I have no clue how these two managed over 20 years of friendship before crossing any lines with each other!
But my favorite thing about these Marika/Sylvie mashups is the way that they integrate these real life pieces that most stories aren't going to touch with a 10 foot pole like the horrors of perimenopause or realities of dealing with a child that has at times intense sensory sensitivities. These ladies not only include these things but intertwine them with humor as well as compassion.
I absolutely cannot wait for more of this series!!
About Bucking Time is the first book in their new Out to Pasture series- which brings us the magic of small ranch life, the single dad who's a perpetual bachelor and his best friend the veterinarian as they get fake engaged but develop real feelings.
Dallas Gamble and Shelby Sweet are the BEST kind of friends to lovers. They've known each other since they were 15 and while Shelby held a small crush on her BFF while they were in high school she knew never to act on those feelings. Dallas didn't do relationships. He charmed, he flirted and he was only there for a good time whereas Shelby dreamed of big romantic gestures and the kind of love that she saw in her parents before she lost them.
I love these kinds of friends to lovers stories. They are always so fun to dive into and see all the ways that the two MCs are clearly in love with each other as anyone with eyes could clearly see- except for them. Shelby has that stereotypical- sweet as pie energy for everyone but something about her relationship with Dallas brings out her sassy side just like she can tap into his gentler side. I love Dallas' protective energy and how invested he is in helping Shelby find the kind of love she wants- he just can't find anyone he thinks is worthy of all she has to offer, including himself. But when that man tries, he tries with his whole being and it's some of the sweetest stuff ever- even if his gestures tend to also go awry. The chemistry is electric and I have no clue how these two managed over 20 years of friendship before crossing any lines with each other!
But my favorite thing about these Marika/Sylvie mashups is the way that they integrate these real life pieces that most stories aren't going to touch with a 10 foot pole like the horrors of perimenopause or realities of dealing with a child that has at times intense sensory sensitivities. These ladies not only include these things but intertwine them with humor as well as compassion.
I absolutely cannot wait for more of this series!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
“I always knew Shelby would be the one woman to bring me to my knees.”
About Bucking Time is a delightful friends-to-lovers romance that balances humor, heart, and slow-burn tension. Dallas and Shelby have been best friends ever since Shelby moved to town. Dallas, the town flirt with a knack for saying the wrong thing at the wrong time, has always been the life of the party. Shelby, determined to find her one true love, refuses to settle—even if that means enduring more than her fair share of disastrous relationships.
After Shelby’s latest breakup, Dallas impulsively announces to the entire town that he’s her fiancé. What starts as a playful cover story gradually forces them both to confront feelings they’ve long buried. The realization doesn’t come easily—Dallas and Shelby second-guess themselves, afraid of risking the friendship that anchors them. Yet as sparks fly and their banter grows more charged, they begin to see that what they share might be worth fighting for.
Dallas and Shelby are an absolute hoot together. Dallas’s irrepressible charm and tendency to stick his foot in his mouth make him endlessly entertaining, while Shelby’s fiery wit ensures she keeps him on his toes. Their chemistry is undeniable—flirty, snarky, and sizzling—and watching Dallas attempt grand romantic gestures (that rarely go as planned) is both hilarious and endearing.
What I loved most is that these are mature characters who know what they want out of life. Even when doubt creeps in, they ultimately choose to fight for each other. That determination makes their love story all the more satisfying.
About Bucking Time is a fun, heartfelt start to a promising new series, and I can’t wait to see what comes next.
About Bucking Time is a delightful friends-to-lovers romance that balances humor, heart, and slow-burn tension. Dallas and Shelby have been best friends ever since Shelby moved to town. Dallas, the town flirt with a knack for saying the wrong thing at the wrong time, has always been the life of the party. Shelby, determined to find her one true love, refuses to settle—even if that means enduring more than her fair share of disastrous relationships.
After Shelby’s latest breakup, Dallas impulsively announces to the entire town that he’s her fiancé. What starts as a playful cover story gradually forces them both to confront feelings they’ve long buried. The realization doesn’t come easily—Dallas and Shelby second-guess themselves, afraid of risking the friendship that anchors them. Yet as sparks fly and their banter grows more charged, they begin to see that what they share might be worth fighting for.
Dallas and Shelby are an absolute hoot together. Dallas’s irrepressible charm and tendency to stick his foot in his mouth make him endlessly entertaining, while Shelby’s fiery wit ensures she keeps him on his toes. Their chemistry is undeniable—flirty, snarky, and sizzling—and watching Dallas attempt grand romantic gestures (that rarely go as planned) is both hilarious and endearing.
What I loved most is that these are mature characters who know what they want out of life. Even when doubt creeps in, they ultimately choose to fight for each other. That determination makes their love story all the more satisfying.
About Bucking Time is a fun, heartfelt start to a promising new series, and I can’t wait to see what comes next.
December 23, 2025
Finally accepting the love that was always there
I loved, loved, loved this best friends to lovers, fake relationship romance with a side of seasoned main characters. It just made me so happy to read about these two feisty real and relatable humans who are dealing with the messy parts of life while trying to overcome all their insecurities and negative self-talk. The story will give you all the swoony swoons along with the snort worthy laughs all the while pulling at your heartstrings with all the big warm fuzzy feels. Shelby is a veterinarian in small town Big Knob, Oklahoma. Dallas is a custom furniture maker and helps on his family’s ranch. Shelby and Dallas met when they were 15 years old and have been best friends ever since. Shelby is looking for a white knight romance hero but seems to only pick toads. Dallas is the flirty perpetual bachelor. While defending Shelby from her latest non-knight, Dallas announces they are engaged. And thus the eye opening no longer ignoring their feelings begins. To get to their HEA and turn the just pretending into real and forever will require baggage unpacking, heart opening, truth telling, and life course correction. I loved the inner monologues of both Shelby and Dallas. They were equally hilarious and heart clenching which made the characters even more likable and believable. No spoilers but “the third act (non) breakup” was such a great scene. As always with this author, the story was well written and included three dimensional characters who grow and a book that’s hard to put down. I am so excited to read more Gamble HEAs.
I loved, loved, loved this best friends to lovers, fake relationship romance with a side of seasoned main characters. It just made me so happy to read about these two feisty real and relatable humans who are dealing with the messy parts of life while trying to overcome all their insecurities and negative self-talk. The story will give you all the swoony swoons along with the snort worthy laughs all the while pulling at your heartstrings with all the big warm fuzzy feels. Shelby is a veterinarian in small town Big Knob, Oklahoma. Dallas is a custom furniture maker and helps on his family’s ranch. Shelby and Dallas met when they were 15 years old and have been best friends ever since. Shelby is looking for a white knight romance hero but seems to only pick toads. Dallas is the flirty perpetual bachelor. While defending Shelby from her latest non-knight, Dallas announces they are engaged. And thus the eye opening no longer ignoring their feelings begins. To get to their HEA and turn the just pretending into real and forever will require baggage unpacking, heart opening, truth telling, and life course correction. I loved the inner monologues of both Shelby and Dallas. They were equally hilarious and heart clenching which made the characters even more likable and believable. No spoilers but “the third act (non) breakup” was such a great scene. As always with this author, the story was well written and included three dimensional characters who grow and a book that’s hard to put down. I am so excited to read more Gamble HEAs.
December 24, 2025
What a way to start a series! Sylvie & Marika have a way of keeping you on your toes, finding your heart strings & making you laugh so damn hard you almost pee yourself!
This story is legit one of the best rom-coms I have read in a long time & I have read their other series! Dallas is the quintessential playboy, even at 40 yrs old. He has enjoyed just about every woman in Big Knob, except his best friend Shelby!
Shelby moved to Big Knob when she was just a kid & the first person to "accuse" her of stealing his cow, was Dallas! They've been best friends ever since. She is a large animal vet in the area, with an amazing amount of empathy for owner & animal.
When Shelby has trouble with an ex, Dallas moves her into his house & everything goes sideways from there. Feelings that she hid for 25 yrs & feelings he didn't ever realize he harbored. It was wonderful to watch them navigate a new side of their friendship & deal with their overzealous friends & family.
I think my favorite part of this story was the relationship between Shelby, Dallas & his son Ryder. Having a son on the spectrum, I can relate to many of the bits & pieces from Ryder's side. The sounds, the sensory issues & being completely overwhelmed. The way Shelby paid attention & knew exactly what to do when Dallas wasn't around, was wonderful.
This story was laugh out loud funny, heart warming, exciting and super spicy, sexy & steamy. Let me tell you that Dallas is an absolute cowboy wet dream! Shelby is a deliciously stunning full figured woman that Dallas can't stop thinking about! Enjoy!!
This story is legit one of the best rom-coms I have read in a long time & I have read their other series! Dallas is the quintessential playboy, even at 40 yrs old. He has enjoyed just about every woman in Big Knob, except his best friend Shelby!
Shelby moved to Big Knob when she was just a kid & the first person to "accuse" her of stealing his cow, was Dallas! They've been best friends ever since. She is a large animal vet in the area, with an amazing amount of empathy for owner & animal.
When Shelby has trouble with an ex, Dallas moves her into his house & everything goes sideways from there. Feelings that she hid for 25 yrs & feelings he didn't ever realize he harbored. It was wonderful to watch them navigate a new side of their friendship & deal with their overzealous friends & family.
I think my favorite part of this story was the relationship between Shelby, Dallas & his son Ryder. Having a son on the spectrum, I can relate to many of the bits & pieces from Ryder's side. The sounds, the sensory issues & being completely overwhelmed. The way Shelby paid attention & knew exactly what to do when Dallas wasn't around, was wonderful.
This story was laugh out loud funny, heart warming, exciting and super spicy, sexy & steamy. Let me tell you that Dallas is an absolute cowboy wet dream! Shelby is a deliciously stunning full figured woman that Dallas can't stop thinking about! Enjoy!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
About Bucking Time is the new release by Marika Ray and Sylvie Stewart. I like to refer to these two authors as my favorite dynamic duo because whenever they team up, I know the book will be worth the wait and then some!
About Bucking Time is the story of two best friends...Dallas Gamble and Shelby Sweet. They have been best friends since they were both fifteen years old, and that bond has only gotten stronger through the years. At one point, Shelby had the typical teenage crush on Dallas, but she never acted on it because she didn't want to risk losing their friendship.
Now fast forward 25 years, and Dallas reminds Shelby of the promise they made to each other one drunken night many years ago...if both were still single when they turned forty, they would marry each other. Initially Shelby laughs it off, but then something happens and Dallas blurts out that they are engaged.
The story that unfolds is filled with friendship, family, love and humor! The characters are simply amazing and so well-written, even the quirky characters are lovable! I love the build-up as the story progresses, and the chemistry between Dallas and Shelby is literally off the charts (even though both try to initially deny it). Underneath the witty banter, humor, and "fake engagement" storyline is a beautifully written friends-to-lovers story that is pure joy to witness!
I could go on, but I don't want to risk giving away too much. About Bucking Time is a wonderful story that will pull you in from the beginning to the very end! I would honestly give it 10 stars if I could!
I received an ARC from the author. My views are my own and are not influenced by anyone else.
About Bucking Time is the story of two best friends...Dallas Gamble and Shelby Sweet. They have been best friends since they were both fifteen years old, and that bond has only gotten stronger through the years. At one point, Shelby had the typical teenage crush on Dallas, but she never acted on it because she didn't want to risk losing their friendship.
Now fast forward 25 years, and Dallas reminds Shelby of the promise they made to each other one drunken night many years ago...if both were still single when they turned forty, they would marry each other. Initially Shelby laughs it off, but then something happens and Dallas blurts out that they are engaged.
The story that unfolds is filled with friendship, family, love and humor! The characters are simply amazing and so well-written, even the quirky characters are lovable! I love the build-up as the story progresses, and the chemistry between Dallas and Shelby is literally off the charts (even though both try to initially deny it). Underneath the witty banter, humor, and "fake engagement" storyline is a beautifully written friends-to-lovers story that is pure joy to witness!
I could go on, but I don't want to risk giving away too much. About Bucking Time is a wonderful story that will pull you in from the beginning to the very end! I would honestly give it 10 stars if I could!
I received an ARC from the author. My views are my own and are not influenced by anyone else.
January 8, 2026
I was honoured to read this advance copy and this is my honest review.
Dallas has an 8yr old son called Ryder. Shelby is a vet for larger animals - cows etc.
Dallas is known for not wanting to settle down. So when he announces to everyone that he is engaged to Shelby, as you can imagine Shelby refuses to believe that he is serious about going through with the pact they made when they were kids.
The pact they made was if they were both single when they were 40 they would marry each other. To make this seem more official they both signed their names on a piece of paper. When they both become single, Dallas is serious in marrying his best friend Shelby. Dally then shocks everyone by accidentally announcing they are engaged
There are people in town that view Shelby as she is beneath them, their opinion is based on looks and not the whole person.
Shelby's ex is much worse as he is a major hippo-twata-potamus! How he treats and speaks to Shelby is shocking. It is understandable that as a result of his and the towns actions towards her she loses confidence in herself.
To prove to Shelby he is serious about marrying her he tries to do grand gestures as Shelby loves reading, so Dallas actually reads some of her books to understand the concept of the grand gestures.
Shelby has never been oblivious as to how hot Dally is, so when she sees him using the hose spray outside she is rendered speechless. So I love this quote....
☆ “Want me to turn it on again so you get a longer show?” I holler, teasing her.
Dallas has an 8yr old son called Ryder. Shelby is a vet for larger animals - cows etc.
Dallas is known for not wanting to settle down. So when he announces to everyone that he is engaged to Shelby, as you can imagine Shelby refuses to believe that he is serious about going through with the pact they made when they were kids.
The pact they made was if they were both single when they were 40 they would marry each other. To make this seem more official they both signed their names on a piece of paper. When they both become single, Dallas is serious in marrying his best friend Shelby. Dally then shocks everyone by accidentally announcing they are engaged
There are people in town that view Shelby as she is beneath them, their opinion is based on looks and not the whole person.
Shelby's ex is much worse as he is a major hippo-twata-potamus! How he treats and speaks to Shelby is shocking. It is understandable that as a result of his and the towns actions towards her she loses confidence in herself.
To prove to Shelby he is serious about marrying her he tries to do grand gestures as Shelby loves reading, so Dallas actually reads some of her books to understand the concept of the grand gestures.
Shelby has never been oblivious as to how hot Dally is, so when she sees him using the hose spray outside she is rendered speechless. So I love this quote....
☆ “Want me to turn it on again so you get a longer show?” I holler, teasing her.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Marika Ray and Sylvie Stewart are back together again with a hilarious, brand new series full of romance, heated glances and family drama! “About Bucking Time” introduces us to Shelby and Dallas, who had been best friends since they were fifteen years old. At 22, they signed a marriage pact that stated: if still single at 40, they would agree to marry. What could possibly go wrong with a plan like that?
As their story begins, Dallas saves Shelby from an aggressive and stupid boyfriend and whisks her away to his ranch where she would be safe and he could keep an eye on her. Being this close to Shelby was agonizing for Dallas and he found it hard to resist her brilliance, beauty and feisty personality. Boy, was he in big trouble! Shelby didn’t like any man telling her what to do but Dallas, being her bestie, was allowed to protect her from any and all wayward former boyfriends, especially her latest mistake. She loved his son Ryder, was close to his father and trusted Dallas with her life, but maybe not with her heart. The longer Shelby resided at the ranch, the harder it would be for her to leave when their fake engagement was over, but why did she have to go? She was over-the-top happy, Dallas had always been there for her, and she loved her new family with all her heart. She was skeptical that Dallas was the settling down type, but she was willing to open her heart and soul to a future with the best man she had ever known!!
As their story begins, Dallas saves Shelby from an aggressive and stupid boyfriend and whisks her away to his ranch where she would be safe and he could keep an eye on her. Being this close to Shelby was agonizing for Dallas and he found it hard to resist her brilliance, beauty and feisty personality. Boy, was he in big trouble! Shelby didn’t like any man telling her what to do but Dallas, being her bestie, was allowed to protect her from any and all wayward former boyfriends, especially her latest mistake. She loved his son Ryder, was close to his father and trusted Dallas with her life, but maybe not with her heart. The longer Shelby resided at the ranch, the harder it would be for her to leave when their fake engagement was over, but why did she have to go? She was over-the-top happy, Dallas had always been there for her, and she loved her new family with all her heart. She was skeptical that Dallas was the settling down type, but she was willing to open her heart and soul to a future with the best man she had ever known!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
#FriendsToLovers #FakeRelationship #Cowboy #SingleDad #SmallTown #ARC
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
Book one in a new series has a prologue written in third person. The rest of the book is written in first person from an alternating dual POV, can be read as a standalone, and ends with a HEA.
Dallas and Shelby meet at the beginning of high school and become fast best friends. Twenty-=five years later, as they each turned 40, they finally realized they were meant to be more. Set in Big Knob, Oklahoma, this book is the beginning of a family series set on a ranch. Shelby is a veterinarian for livestock and large animals in their county. She is smart, feisty, and strong. She has faced loss in her life and has recently been grappling with her horrible romantic choices. Dallas is a charmer, a playboy, Shelby’s best friend, and a good guy under his cluelessness. They must overcome fear of ruining the friendship, Dallas’ utter obliviousness to his own feelings, and Shelby’s vision of what Dallas is capable of to get their HEA, but they make it.
This was a fun read with lots of southern charm, hilarious small-town names for things, and interesting secondary characters. The Gamble family promises to bring laughter and love to readers with their banter, love for each other, and witty southern sayings. I can’t wait for the rest of the series.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
Book one in a new series has a prologue written in third person. The rest of the book is written in first person from an alternating dual POV, can be read as a standalone, and ends with a HEA.
Dallas and Shelby meet at the beginning of high school and become fast best friends. Twenty-=five years later, as they each turned 40, they finally realized they were meant to be more. Set in Big Knob, Oklahoma, this book is the beginning of a family series set on a ranch. Shelby is a veterinarian for livestock and large animals in their county. She is smart, feisty, and strong. She has faced loss in her life and has recently been grappling with her horrible romantic choices. Dallas is a charmer, a playboy, Shelby’s best friend, and a good guy under his cluelessness. They must overcome fear of ruining the friendship, Dallas’ utter obliviousness to his own feelings, and Shelby’s vision of what Dallas is capable of to get their HEA, but they make it.
This was a fun read with lots of southern charm, hilarious small-town names for things, and interesting secondary characters. The Gamble family promises to bring laughter and love to readers with their banter, love for each other, and witty southern sayings. I can’t wait for the rest of the series.
January 12, 2026
About Bucking Time by Marika Ray and Sylvie Stewart
Contemporary Romance
303 pages
Dallas and Shelby
Awwwww I loved this very sweet and spicy romance. You will laugh and your heart will break but you will love this story. Two best friends who have loved each other since they were teenagers but both felt that they didn't deserve one another. Their story has grand gestures (unfortunately, they fail spectacularly but are funny at the same time), hero moments and a love story for the ages. The family dynamic will have you rolling and their interactions are hilarious. There were a few things that surprised me along the way. One is Ryder, Dallas's son. Yep that surprised me. He is so sweet and neurodivergent. You don't get the ex drama which I appreciate so much. and you get a found family between Shelby, Dallas and Ryder that will make you smile.
This book was truly a blessing on a rough day for me. It kept my interest and I finished it in one sitting. When a book is written by 2 people, sometimes the story isn't as seamless. This one is. I could not tell which chapter was written by Marika and which one was written by Sylvie. They are the perfect writing duo and highly suggest this book for those that just want to smile while reading and all the while still getting a beautiful HEA. Well done Ladies. (I gave this one a 4.5 and have rounded up because I don't get that option here.)
Contemporary Romance
303 pages
Dallas and Shelby
Awwwww I loved this very sweet and spicy romance. You will laugh and your heart will break but you will love this story. Two best friends who have loved each other since they were teenagers but both felt that they didn't deserve one another. Their story has grand gestures (unfortunately, they fail spectacularly but are funny at the same time), hero moments and a love story for the ages. The family dynamic will have you rolling and their interactions are hilarious. There were a few things that surprised me along the way. One is Ryder, Dallas's son. Yep that surprised me. He is so sweet and neurodivergent. You don't get the ex drama which I appreciate so much. and you get a found family between Shelby, Dallas and Ryder that will make you smile.
This book was truly a blessing on a rough day for me. It kept my interest and I finished it in one sitting. When a book is written by 2 people, sometimes the story isn't as seamless. This one is. I could not tell which chapter was written by Marika and which one was written by Sylvie. They are the perfect writing duo and highly suggest this book for those that just want to smile while reading and all the while still getting a beautiful HEA. Well done Ladies. (I gave this one a 4.5 and have rounded up because I don't get that option here.)
Review of advance copy received from Author
I truly love the books by Sylvie Stewart and Marika Ray, the are so funny and I love having characters of my age group... and the unique challenges we face! This is the start of a new series (if you want a complete series, then their hockey series is just wonderful), which is looking like it will be one of my favourite rom-com series.
This series is full of small town fun and fabulous cowboys, but also delivers the romantic comedy that we have come to expect, which will have you laughing out loud. Dallas is a handsome 40 year old cowboy, who is a firm favourite with the ladies. Shelby is his best friend and local vet, the one woman in town he hasn't been trying to seduce.
They have however always had feelings for each other, and whilst Shelby has always been self-aware of her "crush", Dallas is just starting to realise how strongly he feels for his "friend". I love the side characters and can't wait for more of them... and Dallas' son Ryder (who is on the spectrum) is just a joy. It is wonderful see the diversity of characters and how well they are written.
This story is laugh out loud funny, a sweet, heart warming small town romance and also an exciting, spicy read. I highly recommend this new series and can't wait for more. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
This series is full of small town fun and fabulous cowboys, but also delivers the romantic comedy that we have come to expect, which will have you laughing out loud. Dallas is a handsome 40 year old cowboy, who is a firm favourite with the ladies. Shelby is his best friend and local vet, the one woman in town he hasn't been trying to seduce.
They have however always had feelings for each other, and whilst Shelby has always been self-aware of her "crush", Dallas is just starting to realise how strongly he feels for his "friend". I love the side characters and can't wait for more of them... and Dallas' son Ryder (who is on the spectrum) is just a joy. It is wonderful see the diversity of characters and how well they are written.
This story is laugh out loud funny, a sweet, heart warming small town romance and also an exciting, spicy read. I highly recommend this new series and can't wait for more. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
January 23, 2026
This is a sweet story (but spicy!) of two best friends who finally are in a place to figure out they are not really just best friends – they are each other’s world. Dallas and Shelby have been best friends for 25 years, through other relationships, loss of loved ones, moves, career troubles – and one day while pretending to be engaged, Dallas realizes he wants more. It sure does take a lot of time and trouble to get Shelby on board, however.
In general, I’m not a huge fan of situations that could be resolved by a conversation but aren’t. This isn’t quite that straightforward, because it takes a while for Dallas to identify his feelings, and then a bit longer to admit to himself that it’s been Shelby all along. And what if it goes badly? Can he afford to lose his best friend in the world? Shelby experiences similar misgivings once her mind goes there, but she’s also pretty tied to this idea of the Ideal Romance. Bless Dallas for trying so hard to make that happen for her! Both of them ultimately have to look a bit harder at what is, rather than what might be, and decide whether moving forward is worth the risk. The parallels to the romance novels Shelby’s mom loved are pretty cute, and there are some pretty funny moments too (as I expect from both Marika and Sylvie). This was a fast, funny, enjoyable read that I would happily take to the beach again and again.
In general, I’m not a huge fan of situations that could be resolved by a conversation but aren’t. This isn’t quite that straightforward, because it takes a while for Dallas to identify his feelings, and then a bit longer to admit to himself that it’s been Shelby all along. And what if it goes badly? Can he afford to lose his best friend in the world? Shelby experiences similar misgivings once her mind goes there, but she’s also pretty tied to this idea of the Ideal Romance. Bless Dallas for trying so hard to make that happen for her! Both of them ultimately have to look a bit harder at what is, rather than what might be, and decide whether moving forward is worth the risk. The parallels to the romance novels Shelby’s mom loved are pretty cute, and there are some pretty funny moments too (as I expect from both Marika and Sylvie). This was a fast, funny, enjoyable read that I would happily take to the beach again and again.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First, this story is hilarious. Second, it’s sweet and touching. Third, it will tug at your heart. Fourth, it will make you laugh while shaking your head…
Dallas Gamble is the biggest, clueless, adorable and did I mention clueless, lug of a guy. He’s 40 and “should” know by now how the world works. But he has gotten a pass, especially with relationships, because is a gorgeous hunk of male – and a good guy at that. The one person who doesn’t give him a pass is his BFF, Shelby Sweet. Shelby is so strong, but at heart, she is a little lost. She’s also smart and kind, and a bit of a smarty pants. These two are SO much more to each other and this book is them figuring that out. They are not so young as to give them a pass at some of their antics but it IS hilarious to read. However, at 40 years old, they shouldn’t be acting like teenagers – but that’s what makes this book so much fun.
The cast of characters, aka Dallas’s family and Shelby’s friends, sometimes had me ROFL. And Dallas’s son, Ryder, is a hoot – love him!
It was fun to read about Dallas’s and Shelby’s…journey from BFF’s to so much more. I can’t wait to read about more from this family and their friends. Loved it!
Dallas Gamble is the biggest, clueless, adorable and did I mention clueless, lug of a guy. He’s 40 and “should” know by now how the world works. But he has gotten a pass, especially with relationships, because is a gorgeous hunk of male – and a good guy at that. The one person who doesn’t give him a pass is his BFF, Shelby Sweet. Shelby is so strong, but at heart, she is a little lost. She’s also smart and kind, and a bit of a smarty pants. These two are SO much more to each other and this book is them figuring that out. They are not so young as to give them a pass at some of their antics but it IS hilarious to read. However, at 40 years old, they shouldn’t be acting like teenagers – but that’s what makes this book so much fun.
The cast of characters, aka Dallas’s family and Shelby’s friends, sometimes had me ROFL. And Dallas’s son, Ryder, is a hoot – love him!
It was fun to read about Dallas’s and Shelby’s…journey from BFF’s to so much more. I can’t wait to read about more from this family and their friends. Loved it!
January 10, 2026
“That’s all I want. Your whole heart. Because you’ve had mine since that day you accused me of stealing your cow.”
A fake engagement with your best friend? What can go wrong?
Shelby and Dallas have been best friends since they were teenagers. They would do anything for each other and that includes Dallas announcing to the world that they’re engaged to protect Shelby from another one of her loser ex-boyfriends. They’ve never crossed the line in all the years they’ve been friends but now that they’re living together, they start seeing each other in a different light. Can this be the start of something more between these two best friends or are they risking their decades long friendship?
I love Shelby and Dallas’ friendship, the way they just balance each other out. I enjoyed seeing them see each other past the friendship line and realize that their person is just right under their nose. There’s no one that knows you better than your best friend and these two showed us how compatible they really are, in and out of the bedroom!
If you love grand gestures then you’ll enjoy Dallas’ grand gestures, this man is not playing games! Once he was in, he was all in!
So relatable in so many ways, I really enjoyed this book! I’m looking forward to more from this series!
A fake engagement with your best friend? What can go wrong?
Shelby and Dallas have been best friends since they were teenagers. They would do anything for each other and that includes Dallas announcing to the world that they’re engaged to protect Shelby from another one of her loser ex-boyfriends. They’ve never crossed the line in all the years they’ve been friends but now that they’re living together, they start seeing each other in a different light. Can this be the start of something more between these two best friends or are they risking their decades long friendship?
I love Shelby and Dallas’ friendship, the way they just balance each other out. I enjoyed seeing them see each other past the friendship line and realize that their person is just right under their nose. There’s no one that knows you better than your best friend and these two showed us how compatible they really are, in and out of the bedroom!
If you love grand gestures then you’ll enjoy Dallas’ grand gestures, this man is not playing games! Once he was in, he was all in!
So relatable in so many ways, I really enjoyed this book! I’m looking forward to more from this series!
December 22, 2025
Shelby met Dallas at 15 and they became best friends almost immediately. They made a marriage pact in their early 20’s and continued their friendship as they both dated other people. Shelby is looking for a relationship like her late parents and won’t settle for less, but she isn’t having any luck. Dallas is a single dad and still just out for fun until Shelby’s latest breakup which occurs just before their marriage pact deadline.
Dallas kept the napkin they wrote the pact on and has real feelings for Shelby since they wrote the pact. Shelby fights Dallas when he announces their engagement even as they give in to their chemistry and feelings start spilling out. It takes a crisis for them to finally proclaim their feelings and make it real.
I loved Dallas’ grand gestures that kept backfiring on him. He is so sweet but also a natural born flirt which doesn’t help his case with Shelby.
This book was full of great characters, humor, witty banter and steamy moments. This looks to be the start of another great series by Marika Ray and Sylie Stewart
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Dallas kept the napkin they wrote the pact on and has real feelings for Shelby since they wrote the pact. Shelby fights Dallas when he announces their engagement even as they give in to their chemistry and feelings start spilling out. It takes a crisis for them to finally proclaim their feelings and make it real.
I loved Dallas’ grand gestures that kept backfiring on him. He is so sweet but also a natural born flirt which doesn’t help his case with Shelby.
This book was full of great characters, humor, witty banter and steamy moments. This looks to be the start of another great series by Marika Ray and Sylie Stewart
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 9, 2026
"I thought if I could be the man you wanted, you'd fall in love with me too. But all I've done is mess things up and prove I will never be the man you want."
Shelby & Dallas. Best friends, she fell first, he fell hard. They've been best friends since they were kids and she has watched him go through woman after woman. She has had a string of boyfriends who were definitely not the one and Dallas was always standing by ready to defend her. These two are really cute together and the friendship they build was definitely a huge preparation for their future relationship. But Dallas' history made me so hesitant to root for for them. I think what made it okay for me is that he also realized that his history made it hesitant for him to root for himself. I enjoyed watching the relationship grow and see the personal growth that each of them went through.
This is my first book my Marika Ray and Sylvie Stewart. I so enjoyed it and hope for more books from the siblings - especially Houston and his mustache.
tropes include:
*best friends to lovers
*single dad
*cowboy romance
*fake relationship
*women's health rep
I received a complimentary eARC and ny review is voluntary. Thank you to the authors!
Shelby & Dallas. Best friends, she fell first, he fell hard. They've been best friends since they were kids and she has watched him go through woman after woman. She has had a string of boyfriends who were definitely not the one and Dallas was always standing by ready to defend her. These two are really cute together and the friendship they build was definitely a huge preparation for their future relationship. But Dallas' history made me so hesitant to root for for them. I think what made it okay for me is that he also realized that his history made it hesitant for him to root for himself. I enjoyed watching the relationship grow and see the personal growth that each of them went through.
This is my first book my Marika Ray and Sylvie Stewart. I so enjoyed it and hope for more books from the siblings - especially Houston and his mustache.
tropes include:
*best friends to lovers
*single dad
*cowboy romance
*fake relationship
*women's health rep
I received a complimentary eARC and ny review is voluntary. Thank you to the authors!
January 14, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½ Goodreads Review 💕🐎
It’s About Bucking Time by Marika Ray is a heartfelt, small-town romance that swept me right off my feet 🏡✨. From the very first chapter, I was drawn into the emotions, the setting, and the slow-burn chemistry that builds so naturally throughout the story.
The characters feel incredibly real and relatable ❤️. Both the heroine and hero carry their own struggles, and watching them grow—individually and together—was so satisfying. The romance unfolds at just the right pace 🐢🔥, making their connection feel genuine, earned, and emotionally rich.
The rural, country setting adds so much warmth and charm 🌾🐄. It feels like a character of its own, perfectly complementing the themes of second chances, resilience, and finding love when you least expect it 🌈💫.
Marika Ray’s writing is smooth, emotional, and easy to fall into 📖✨. This is the kind of book that leaves you smiling at the end 😊 and wishing you could stay in that small-town world just a little longer.
Highly recommend for fans of small-town romance, slow burns, and heartfelt love stories 💖📚🐎.
It’s About Bucking Time by Marika Ray is a heartfelt, small-town romance that swept me right off my feet 🏡✨. From the very first chapter, I was drawn into the emotions, the setting, and the slow-burn chemistry that builds so naturally throughout the story.
The characters feel incredibly real and relatable ❤️. Both the heroine and hero carry their own struggles, and watching them grow—individually and together—was so satisfying. The romance unfolds at just the right pace 🐢🔥, making their connection feel genuine, earned, and emotionally rich.
The rural, country setting adds so much warmth and charm 🌾🐄. It feels like a character of its own, perfectly complementing the themes of second chances, resilience, and finding love when you least expect it 🌈💫.
Marika Ray’s writing is smooth, emotional, and easy to fall into 📖✨. This is the kind of book that leaves you smiling at the end 😊 and wishing you could stay in that small-town world just a little longer.
Highly recommend for fans of small-town romance, slow burns, and heartfelt love stories 💖📚🐎.
January 16, 2026
Authors Marika Ray and Sylvie Stewart have brought us the late-in-life romance we all needed.
💚 Best friends to lovers
💚 Single dad
💚 Curvy FMC
💚 Fake engagement
💚 Marriage pact
💚 Small town
💚 Neurodivergent themes
About Bucking Time is the story of Dallas and Shelby, best friends since childhood.
When Shelby finds herself the victim of yet another unfortunate public break-up, Dallas blurts out that they are engaged in an attempt to help Shelby save face, keep her safe from her most recent ex and to help her fulfill a ridiculous stipulation in order to inherit her family's business.
As a result of their fake engagement, Shelby finds herself suddenly living with her best friend. The new living arrangements, daily interactions and close proximity find both Dallas and Shelby questioning the nature of their “relationship” and if each of their feelings run deeper than what they have believed all these years.
Their story is one full of laughs, heart, steam and amazing supporting characters.
I highly recommend it for anyone who appreciates a witty, heartfelt, well-developed Friends to Lovers romance.
💚 Best friends to lovers
💚 Single dad
💚 Curvy FMC
💚 Fake engagement
💚 Marriage pact
💚 Small town
💚 Neurodivergent themes
About Bucking Time is the story of Dallas and Shelby, best friends since childhood.
When Shelby finds herself the victim of yet another unfortunate public break-up, Dallas blurts out that they are engaged in an attempt to help Shelby save face, keep her safe from her most recent ex and to help her fulfill a ridiculous stipulation in order to inherit her family's business.
As a result of their fake engagement, Shelby finds herself suddenly living with her best friend. The new living arrangements, daily interactions and close proximity find both Dallas and Shelby questioning the nature of their “relationship” and if each of their feelings run deeper than what they have believed all these years.
Their story is one full of laughs, heart, steam and amazing supporting characters.
I highly recommend it for anyone who appreciates a witty, heartfelt, well-developed Friends to Lovers romance.
February 2, 2026
Have a bucket of cold water handy as the chemistry in this book is scorching hot from the very beginning.
Dallas and Shelby's story has everything you need from a small town friends to lovers - banter and chemistry, shared memories and unacknowledged jealousy, quirky family and loved ones that tell them they are blind idiots!
Shelby is a bit of a hot mess with her abysmal dating history. She has a huge heart and I love that she's a respected small town business owner. I absolutely adored her.
Dallas is swoony with a capital S! I loved his protectiveness towards Shelby, both before and after he finally realised he loves her. His attempts at grand gestures were the most gorgeous thing ever.
I was surprised that Dallas is a single dad as it's not mentioned in the blurb or tropes. His son Ryder is adorable and I loved how amazing Dallas is as a father. It was really nice to have a healthy co-parenting relationship between all of the adults in Ryder's life.
The Gamble family is so much fun. I am excited to see where the rest of the series goes and hopefully see more of Dallas and Shelby.
Dallas and Shelby's story has everything you need from a small town friends to lovers - banter and chemistry, shared memories and unacknowledged jealousy, quirky family and loved ones that tell them they are blind idiots!
Shelby is a bit of a hot mess with her abysmal dating history. She has a huge heart and I love that she's a respected small town business owner. I absolutely adored her.
Dallas is swoony with a capital S! I loved his protectiveness towards Shelby, both before and after he finally realised he loves her. His attempts at grand gestures were the most gorgeous thing ever.
I was surprised that Dallas is a single dad as it's not mentioned in the blurb or tropes. His son Ryder is adorable and I loved how amazing Dallas is as a father. It was really nice to have a healthy co-parenting relationship between all of the adults in Ryder's life.
The Gamble family is so much fun. I am excited to see where the rest of the series goes and hopefully see more of Dallas and Shelby.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ABOUT BUCKING TIME by Marika Ray and Sylvie Stewart is the kind of romcom that grabs you by the heart and doesn’t let go. It’s laugh-out-loud funny, refreshingly real, and downright swoon worthy. I devoured this story and loved every chaotic, heartfelt, and hilarious moment of it.
Shelby Sweet is forty, fabulous, and done with losers. When her best friend, Dallas Gamble, impulsively announces their “engagement” to protect her, things spiral into the most delightful kind of chaos. Dallas is flirty, protective, and fills out a pair of jeans like it’s his job. What starts as a fake engagement quickly turns into something deeper, full of romantic gestures, sizzling tension, and genuine emotion.
Add in a weed smoking Meemaw and a family that can’t mind their own business, and you’ve got a story that’s as heartwarming as it is hilarious. ABOUT BUCKING TIME is a definite five star, feel good, laugh out loud, clutch your pearls romance. I’m giving it gets the judy.ann.loves.books stamp of approval, TBR and Enjoy!
Shelby Sweet is forty, fabulous, and done with losers. When her best friend, Dallas Gamble, impulsively announces their “engagement” to protect her, things spiral into the most delightful kind of chaos. Dallas is flirty, protective, and fills out a pair of jeans like it’s his job. What starts as a fake engagement quickly turns into something deeper, full of romantic gestures, sizzling tension, and genuine emotion.
Add in a weed smoking Meemaw and a family that can’t mind their own business, and you’ve got a story that’s as heartwarming as it is hilarious. ABOUT BUCKING TIME is a definite five star, feel good, laugh out loud, clutch your pearls romance. I’m giving it gets the judy.ann.loves.books stamp of approval, TBR and Enjoy!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I started laughing from the first word and spent most of the book doing so. I listened to the audiobook and I laughed out loud so many times, I got many a strange look from passerbys on the street. I am laughing even now as I write this review...
When Ryder says that Shelby would have to stay in his dad's room because his room smells like farts, I knew I would love this book. Ryder steals every scene that he's in, and the love between the main characters, the quirky townspeople, and their friends make this a community that I would live to visit. Meema and her chickens (and weed). No third act breakup despite everything. The list of what to like about this book is endless.
As for the story, the best friends to lovers trope is one of my favorites, and I loved how it played out in this book. They truly care for each other and the transition to lovers, from love to "in love", just makes sense and is inevitable. Going along on this journey to their HEA was so much fun!
I cannot wait for the next book by these authors...
When Ryder says that Shelby would have to stay in his dad's room because his room smells like farts, I knew I would love this book. Ryder steals every scene that he's in, and the love between the main characters, the quirky townspeople, and their friends make this a community that I would live to visit. Meema and her chickens (and weed). No third act breakup despite everything. The list of what to like about this book is endless.
As for the story, the best friends to lovers trope is one of my favorites, and I loved how it played out in this book. They truly care for each other and the transition to lovers, from love to "in love", just makes sense and is inevitable. Going along on this journey to their HEA was so much fun!
I cannot wait for the next book by these authors...
January 10, 2026
This is such a fun book. I broke out in delighted laughter several times. Shelby and Dallas have been best friends since they were teens. They are now about 40. Neither has married, although he's chased most of the available women in their county and some in the next one, too. He still lives on the family ranch, but he's earning a living in woodworking. He has an 8 year old son who is adorable and is autistic. Dallas is on good terms with the boy's mother.
Shelby is now a large animal vet and close to Dallas and his family. When she has a hurtful breakup with her latest boyfriend, Dallas pulls out a napkin from many years ago that states that if they are still unmarried at age 40, they will get married. He stuns her by announcing their (fake) engagement publicaly.
And a kiss changes their relationship forever. Great story about falling in love with your best friend. This book has some language and explicit sex, so it's not for everyone, but I loved it.
Thanks to the two authors who provided me with an early version of this book.
Shelby is now a large animal vet and close to Dallas and his family. When she has a hurtful breakup with her latest boyfriend, Dallas pulls out a napkin from many years ago that states that if they are still unmarried at age 40, they will get married. He stuns her by announcing their (fake) engagement publicaly.
And a kiss changes their relationship forever. Great story about falling in love with your best friend. This book has some language and explicit sex, so it's not for everyone, but I loved it.
Thanks to the two authors who provided me with an early version of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
So Bucking Good! 🩷
Wow! Fantastic start to this series.
Two perfectly written characters that I couldn’t wait to get to know and see them finally get their happy ending.
Shelby and Dallas were always meant to be in each others lives as best friends and nothing more, or so they thought.
With characters in their 40’s, a cute 8 year old, some romantic gestures that flop, nosey town folk, a weed smoking mawmaw plus family that stick together in the good and bad times made this story a delight, full of fun, romance and steaminess.
There were so many hilarious moments throughout this book and what a crack up some of the towns, etc are - Big Knob, Hornville and Annual Knockers County Fair 🤣
I love Marika’s and Sylvie’s writing style, it’s like they drop you right into the story and you feel like you are enjoying every part of it - and I’m happily along for the ride.
Loved it so much I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
Wow! Fantastic start to this series.
Two perfectly written characters that I couldn’t wait to get to know and see them finally get their happy ending.
Shelby and Dallas were always meant to be in each others lives as best friends and nothing more, or so they thought.
With characters in their 40’s, a cute 8 year old, some romantic gestures that flop, nosey town folk, a weed smoking mawmaw plus family that stick together in the good and bad times made this story a delight, full of fun, romance and steaminess.
There were so many hilarious moments throughout this book and what a crack up some of the towns, etc are - Big Knob, Hornville and Annual Knockers County Fair 🤣
I love Marika’s and Sylvie’s writing style, it’s like they drop you right into the story and you feel like you are enjoying every part of it - and I’m happily along for the ride.
Loved it so much I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“I care… because this here piece of paper says I’m your fiancé. And no one treats my woman like that.”
Dallas and Shelby made a drunk napkin pact in their 20s. If they aren’t married by 40 they will marry each other. Shelby all but forgot about it until the day Dallas pulls the napkin out declaring they are now engaged and telling the town.
Dallas and Shelby were adorable best friends. Their friendship had been so long and serious that they never really noticed the moment they were no longer just friends. When the man Shelby has always dreamed of turns out to be the one who has never left her side everything is great! I loved their friendship and how each other them slowly learned their true feelings for the other.
“If you think I’m a third-act breakup girl, you’ve got another thing coming, ma’am!”
This was a great start to a new series and I can’t wait for more Gamble siblings!
🔥: “Don’t take away my fun, woman.”
Dallas and Shelby made a drunk napkin pact in their 20s. If they aren’t married by 40 they will marry each other. Shelby all but forgot about it until the day Dallas pulls the napkin out declaring they are now engaged and telling the town.
Dallas and Shelby were adorable best friends. Their friendship had been so long and serious that they never really noticed the moment they were no longer just friends. When the man Shelby has always dreamed of turns out to be the one who has never left her side everything is great! I loved their friendship and how each other them slowly learned their true feelings for the other.
“If you think I’m a third-act breakup girl, you’ve got another thing coming, ma’am!”
This was a great start to a new series and I can’t wait for more Gamble siblings!
🔥: “Don’t take away my fun, woman.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’ve been so excited for the Out to Pasture series & once again Marika & Sylvie did not disappoint!! I loved the Hot Flashes series & being a little past my prime myself, I could totally identify.
About Bucking Time is a best friends to lovers, fake romance (that of course turns real), single dad, cowboy, reformed playboy love story set in a small town. And I love a good small town, especially one with an awesome gossip mill & a pot-smoking Granny- hell yeah!! The love story between Dallas & Shelby is so swoony. I think everyone knew they were ment to be except for them. The banter they have, the found family she finds with the Gambles, the relationship she has with Ryder are such wonderful additions to the story. I didn’t even mention the spice!!🥰🥰🥰 I loved how Dallas tries to be romantic & bombs! And Shelby’s poem!!🤣 Bonus points for the town bar, Knockin’ Boots!!
I listened to the audiobook & the narration was fantastic! I can’t wait for Houston & Josie Mae’s story.
About Bucking Time is a best friends to lovers, fake romance (that of course turns real), single dad, cowboy, reformed playboy love story set in a small town. And I love a good small town, especially one with an awesome gossip mill & a pot-smoking Granny- hell yeah!! The love story between Dallas & Shelby is so swoony. I think everyone knew they were ment to be except for them. The banter they have, the found family she finds with the Gambles, the relationship she has with Ryder are such wonderful additions to the story. I didn’t even mention the spice!!🥰🥰🥰 I loved how Dallas tries to be romantic & bombs! And Shelby’s poem!!🤣 Bonus points for the town bar, Knockin’ Boots!!
I listened to the audiobook & the narration was fantastic! I can’t wait for Houston & Josie Mae’s story.
January 8, 2026
Romcom that will keep you laughing!
What to expect:
🐄Small town
🐔Best friends to lovers
🐄Curvy vetenarian fmc
🐔Furniture maker mmc
🐄Meet cute involving a cow at age 15
🐔Single dad of a neurodivergent kid
🐄Over 40 romance
🐔Fake relationship
🐄Cowboy
🐔Perimenopause representation
🐄HEA
About Bucking Time is a fun small town best friends to lovers book that will keep you laughing! Shelby and Dallas have been best friends ever since she had to sweet talk his runaway cow as teenagers. Fast forward to the present and they are 40 and fabulous! All Shelby wants is her happily ever after while Dallas claims to love the single life. While trying to protect Shelby from her ex boyfriend, Dallas tells the whole town they are engaged! The whole mess is adorable at times and smoking hot at others! The banter is top notch! I cant wait to see how this series turns out! It didn't take long to fall for the whole family and I want to see everyone have their hea!!!
What to expect:
🐄Small town
🐔Best friends to lovers
🐄Curvy vetenarian fmc
🐔Furniture maker mmc
🐄Meet cute involving a cow at age 15
🐔Single dad of a neurodivergent kid
🐄Over 40 romance
🐔Fake relationship
🐄Cowboy
🐔Perimenopause representation
🐄HEA
About Bucking Time is a fun small town best friends to lovers book that will keep you laughing! Shelby and Dallas have been best friends ever since she had to sweet talk his runaway cow as teenagers. Fast forward to the present and they are 40 and fabulous! All Shelby wants is her happily ever after while Dallas claims to love the single life. While trying to protect Shelby from her ex boyfriend, Dallas tells the whole town they are engaged! The whole mess is adorable at times and smoking hot at others! The banter is top notch! I cant wait to see how this series turns out! It didn't take long to fall for the whole family and I want to see everyone have their hea!!!
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