Dust & Clover: A Heartwarming Small-Town Slow-Burn Cowboy Romance

by Gracie Fuchs

Georgia Scott arrives in Primrose Valley with a battered heart and a single goal: stay invisible. A job at the local bar offers a lifeline, but her walls start to crumble the moment she meets Luke Corbin.

Luke is the kind of man who fills a room without saying a word. Steady hands. Quiet strength. A stare that sees too much. The last thing he needs is a distraction, especially one wrapped in secrets.

But fate has other plans. Renovations shove them together. Long days blur into longer nights. A spark becomes something neither can ignore.

Georgia tries to resist. She’s been broken before, and she promised she’d never give a man the pieces again.

Luke isn’t asking for pieces. He wants all of her, on her terms.

When Georgia’s past catches up, she's forced to keep running, or trust the man who shows her what home is supposed to feel like.

275 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 31, 2025

About the author

Gracie Fuchs is a Midwest-rooted author who writes romance with grit, heart, and raw human connection. She’s a mom of two wild toddlers, married to a man who inspires her most stubborn heroes. When she’s not writing, she bartends on weekends, collecting stories one drink at a time. Seminole Creek Ranch is her debut romance series, with plenty more to come.

Reviews

[Moonlight_reading_29 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Gracie Fuchs for the opportunity to read this ARC.

This book 😍 The chemistry between the characters was so good, I couldn’t get enough of their dynamic. If you love a good cowboy romance, this one is definitely worth the read.

[Heather H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dust and Clover by Gracie Fuchs is a captivating holiday romance that stands out for its emotional depth and festive spirit. Much like other standout titles in the genre, this novel features complex, well-developed characters whose authentic voices and motivations create a compelling and relatable journey. The author skillfully uses the Christmas setting not just as a backdrop, but as an integral part of the story, infusing the narrative with cozy details and seasonal magic that enhance the romance and bring the world to life.
The story explores themes of forgiveness, self-discovery, and the courage to embrace love despite differences and past heartbreaks. Fuchs’s writing delivers both sweet and steamy moments, balanced with genuine emotional resonance. Witty banter and lively dialogue keep the pacing brisk, while the chemistry between the leads makes their relationship feel both natural and deeply engaging.
Dust and Clover is a perfect choice for readers seeking a heartwarming escape this holiday season. Whether you’re looking for nuanced characters, festive charm, or a story that delves beneath the surface of romance, this novel promises a memorable experience—ideal for cozy winter nights with a mug of cocoa by your side.

[Priscilla Cruz · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was so hard to put this book down! I was so invested in the characters. It’s such a sweet and heartwarming story. If you love a slow burns, small town romances, and cowboys this is the perfect book for you! There’s a cute sidekick you’ll love as well.

Georgia is running from her past and finds Primrose valley. She creates a beautiful life here and falls in love with one of the Corbin brothers, Luke. Both characters have trust issues from previous relationships and learn to grow from it. They are able to communicate and support each other to overcome their trust issues. Luke is willing to be patient and love Georgia on her terms, while Georgia shows him she’s sticking around for good.

Thank you to Gracie Fuchs for providing me with an advanced reader copy. I loved this one and look forward to reading future books about the Corbin brothers!

[Carmen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had the pleasure of reading this as an ARC, and I really enjoyed it! The character development of the FMC was a standout for me. I loved how her confidence grew, and it felt incredibly authentic how the MMC helped her achieve that, simply by allowing her to be herself. It was such a heartwarming dynamic to see them both learning to trust again.

One of the things I really appreciated about this book was the lack of a typical third-act breakup. Instead of unnecessary drama, the relationship unfolded in a way that felt real and grounded. The storyline wasn’t as predictable - like many ranch/cowboy romances.

Overall, this was a solid 4-star read for me. Thank you so much to the author for entrusting me with this ARC! I’m definitely looking forward to reading more from this author in the future.

[Gemma (Bookishgem94) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved jumping into this book. It was such a sweet story, and even though Georgia and Luke both have painful pasts, they deserve to be happy and together. Both are overcoming their own demons, and with the help of the side characters, they finally see happiness and a bright future ahead. I fell in love with all the characters in this book, and I'm looking forward to the rest of the series and everyone's stories. The chemistry between these characters is off the charts, and the instant connection they have is beautiful. If you love a slow burn small town cowboy romance this is perfect.

[Destiny Wescoat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dust & Clover was an amazing book. I feel so honored that I got an ARC of this book. If you love small town romances, cowboy romance, found family this books is for you. The books main characters both have problems with trust and if they can learn to trust someone ago after being hurt. The male main character Luke has brothers that like to tease him but is also there for him. The female main character Georgia has a best friend that is the one of the most sported friend a girl could ask for when dealing with her past. This was the author debut book and I can’t wait to read the next book to come in this series.

[Gemma Curren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶.5
Release Date: 31/12/2025

Grumpy/Sunshine
Found Family
Second Chance
Slow burn
He falls first
Dual POV

Firstly, it was a pleasure to be chosen to recieve this ARC read from @ 🥰 thank you for the opportunity!

Our FMC Georgia is fleeing from her painful past in Chicago, specifically her piece of shit ex! On her journey she finds herself in the small, quaint little town of Primrose Valley. She decides to stay for a little while, seems as good a spot as any to regroup, decide what the plan is. She doesn't count on falling for everything this town has to offer, including Luke our grumpy cowboy, his family, the real FMC Clover 🥰 and the whole community and their slower way of life.

I like the sneeky nods to further books in the series! I'll be keeping an eye out to see if what I think will happen, will happen!

Favourite Quotes - "You don't touch her" 🫠

“You were halfway on top of me, wearing nothing but my t-shirt,” he says matter-of-factly. “If there ever comes a day when I walk away from that, I want you to take me out back and shoot me.” 🫠

This book is cute, it's heart warming, it's got banter and with a bit of spice sprinked in too! Perfect recipe if you ask me.
If you're looking for an easy, spicy, cowboy read then Dust & Clover could be up your street!!

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC directly from the author in exchange for an honest review.

This was a perfect feel good standalone romance. Georgia is running from an abusive relationship seeking a life of her own. She lands in a small town in Texas and immediately finds comfort and friends who will help her rebuild her life. Luke and his brothers own a local farm in town and help out with projects in town. The slow burn romance between Luke and Georgia beautifully shows that even though both have been burned previously in relationships, with communication and openness safety, trust and loyalty can be found. The comedic relief Clover, the rehabilitated squirrel, brings to the story adds the perfect amount of laughter needed.

I would recommend this to anyone looking for a feel good romance that shows how strength and found family can overcome any past.

[Addy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dust & Clover by Gracie Fuchs was such a cute read! If a small-town, slow-burn, cowboy romance with a cheeky squirrel on the side, then this could be the read for you! Thank you so much for allowing me to ARC read!

Georgia and Luke are the main characters that we meet via dual narration. Not only did I adore them, but I also fell in love with so many of the other side characters as well. The only downside was the lack of communication that got on my nerves. I was screaming at them to just properly talk to one another!

Admittedly, my favorite part of the story has to be Clover the squirrel. It was such a cute, silly aspect added to the story that I loved! I wholeheartedly believe that it was 100%, necessary for the story. 💜😂

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved Luke and Georgia's story! It was sweet, steady and comforting.
If you love

Found family
Lots of critters
& all the cowboys!
Then this is the perfect, heartwarming, feel good book for you.

I love how Georgia found her backbone and voice by the end of the book, and how Luke supported her quietly unless she needed help. The Corbin brothers, Sadie and Ali won my heart and I can't wait to read more about them all!

[Dary Pamias · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just finished reading ARC Dust & Clover by Gracie Fuchs — and I LOVED it!!! 🥹✨

Luke and Georgia completely stole my heart. Their chemistry? Perfection. The Corbin brothers? Obsessed with their personalities and how each one stands out. And Georgia’s journey — finding herself again after escaping an abusive relationship — was so beautifully written. ❤️‍🩹

If it wasn’t for work, mom life, and being sick, I would’ve devoured this book in one sitting. The spice was just right 👀🔥

I don’t want to say too much because I’ll end up spoiling the best parts… but just know: this story is worth every page.

Thank you, Gracie Fuchs, for letting me read your book early — I can’t wait for everyone else to fall in love with it too! 💚📖🌿

[Karen Wheat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book so much. I was a little scared bc of my abusive past but it was mild in description and I was able to read through it. Georgia and Luke's story was so real and honest both having fear and pasts shape their actions. I loved the brothers they were so funny. Clover was the best I want a Clover of my own hehe. The spice was just the right amount too. The book was amazing overall and I couldn't be more happy with how it ended.

[Jessica Ungar · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Dust & Clover by Gracie Fuchs. I gave this book 3.5 stars. Overall this was a cute contemporary cowboy romance and an easy read. I did feel the ending (specifically the epilogue) was rushed which brought my rating down 1/2 a star. But overall I really enjoyed this novel. If you are looking for a small town, cowboy & big city girl romance, and a cute animal sidekick, I recommend giving this book a read.

[Annie Gary · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review for Dust & Clover
By Gracie Fuchs
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Slow burn + small town + a cowboy who knows exactly what he’s doing

Dust and Clover delivered all the feels. Georgia’s healing journey is heartfelt, but let’s be honest—the real pull is the chemistry between her and Luke. Their tension is slow, sweet, and scorching in all the best ways. Every glance, every almost-kiss had me kicking my feet.

Luke is the rugged, patient, quietly-hot cowboy who makes you believe in second chances. Georgia’s growth is powerful, but watching her finally let herself want him? Perfection.

If you love small towns 🏠 , found family 👩‍❤️‍👨, and romance ❤️‍🩹 that builds until it absolutely burns, this one’s for you.

[Marci Crawford · Rating 4 out of 5]

**ARC Read**

This is the author’s debut novel, and wow…she started out strong.

We follow Georgia, who’s running from her past and unexpectedly finds herself in a small town that’s just too good to leave. She stays, focuses on healing, and takes up residence above the bar where she starts working. That’s where she meets Luke and his brothers.

Luke is broody, guarded, and carrying a past of his own. One that’s made him hesitant to open his heart again. He’s a protector and falls hard, but communication isn’t exactly his strong suit (and honestly, it isn’t Georgia’s either), so yes… the third-act breakup is inevitable.

Still, watching them figure each other out, heal together, and grow is such a sweet journey—with some spice sprinkled in. 🌶️

Georgia’s best friend Nora was a fun addition to the story. And the friendship that Luke and Georgia developed with Clover was the sweetest. IYKYK

I’m really hoping this becomes a series because I’m absolutely looking forward to reading about the other two Corbin brothers. 💕📚

Thank you to Gracie Fuchs for sharing this ARC for me to enjoy!

[Jessica Corley · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review
This story is all about finding yourself, choosing your people, and letting real love grow at its own pace. Georgia is running from a life that never truly felt like hers especially from a fiancé who controlled every part of who she was allowed to be. When she finally walks away, she ends up in a tiny country town desperate for caffeine… but what she finds is so much more.
The only place open is a small bar, and its owner takes one look at Georgia and knows she’s been through hell. The owner offers help without pushing. She stays and begins working at the bar and living above it and slowly begins rediscovering who she is outside of her past.
Luke is your classic small-town cowboy with a bruised heart and trust issues of his own. The story follows both of them as they learn to open up again. Georgia finding her voice and Luke learning to trust that love won’t fall apart this time. And of course, “Clover” plays the perfect little role in bringing warmth, humor, and healing to the entire journey. 😉
I really loved the author’s writing style. It’s heartfelt without being heavy, uplifting without feeling unrealistic, and full of that warm, small-town charm. Overall, such a feel-good, fun, and meaningful read.

[Jemma · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was sent this book as an Arc. To give an honest review. I’m very happy I was.

I enjoyed this story from the first page to the last page.
It is well written and enjoyable read.

I really liked the mfc Georgia…she was broken at first but slowly found her own strength and way to find a new life that she wanted. She knew her mind and even though she was scared she took chances. (Something we all have to do in life). She was kind, funny and loving.

The mmc Luke was a typical cowboy but with a heart of gold, but had it protected. He learnt to take chances and let someone else into his life. He is strong minded, family oriented and caring.

Who could not love clover the squirrel 🐿️.

As for the other characters they were all written that you will like them. I want a friend like Nora and Ali.

Now we just need the next stories with Cal and Ty. They need their happy ever after.

I would recommend this book, it has a slow-burn romance with some spicy scenes but not over the top.
Humour and trauma.

[Kelsea Wolf · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well if this wasn’t THE CUTEST small town / cowboy romance I’ve read then I don’t know what is. Luke is a walking green flag and I relate to Georgia on so many levels. I loved their chemistry, along with all the other side characters. Throw in an adorable baby squirrel (being raised by a cowboy?! SWOON) and you’ve got one fun read.

Thank you to Gracie Fuchs for the eARC in exchange for honest feedback!

[Liz Bench · Rating 5 out of 5]

this book is really good. it follows a cowboy and a city girl. The spice rating is like 3.5/5🌶️. I loved the beginning (you got to read it to see why I love it) and I love how the end is literally like the book cover "Dust & Clover." again you'll have to read it to see why I absolutely adore this book and want it on my trophy shelf to reread! I highly recommend

[Elaina Bressman · Rating 4 out of 5]

I went in with I would day lower expectations then I cane out with.
Georgia is the unassuming woman of this small town but a much larger then life personality. Been through so much in her life with the best ever bestie. Her story can be relationship, love, friendship. All of them come into play with a hint of spice.
Great read and look forward to more

[Barbara Mann · Rating 4 out of 5]

cute cowboy romance. The time in the book kinda slips as it isn't really defined by how long the characters initially interact, but doesn't hinder the story. Also reads as a second in series as it hints to another characters back story, but again not affect on the MC

[Emily Arriola · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a cute read! I enjoyed it very much! I loved Georgia’s personality so much and how the town just welcomed her with open arms!


☘️fmc on the run
❤️protective cowboy mmc
☘️fresh start
❤️forced proximity

[Brianne Hersey · Rating 5 out of 5]

absolutely loved it. its one of those stories that just sucks you right in and you can't help yourself from smiling the entire time you're reading.

[Natasha · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book made me grin like a fool for most of it. The banter was excellent and the characters had unique personalities with past experiences that truly shaped them. While I initially expected more tension or drama to unfold, it was a heartwarming story that drew me in with cozy vibes.

Recommended for when you need a feel-good story and enjoy slowing things down.

3.5⭐️

🌶🌶

[Jeni · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great story about breaking free from the past and how everyone moves on in their own way. I loved Georgias character and how she had people along the way to help her. I also loved clover. I hope to read more of the side characters in future books.

[Shawn Burt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dust and clover is a slow burn cowboy romance. This was an awesome feel good story. I really enjoyed it. I devoured this arc. It has all the feels. It is about moving forward, and learning how to forgive. This is a book that definitely needs to be on your TBR.

[Ohheyymorgan M · Rating 4 out of 5]

**Thanks for the opportunity to check out this ARC**

📚Spoiler Free Review📚

Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Spice:
🌶🌶

Such a wonderful and heartwarming read. I fell in love with the characters and the town. The banter, the growing emotions, the connections drew me in and held me captive until the end.
Add this to your TBR! You wont be disappointed

[Lauryn Rohl · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Clover gave it the .5 If you Know, You know

ARC Review

You could truly feel like your at Primrose Valley with the characters.
The author explained everything to a T, without it being boring.

Luke and Georgia are Perfect for one another, they both needed a fresh start, and romance in their lives, as well as a community band together with each other. They needed some who would take the leap of faith

Georgia comes from a city life and a fiance who doesn't know how to treat a lady.
Georgia was Not at all put together when arrived to a Small town and just her existence changed Everything for everyone as well.
She needed to step away and the emotional growth for her was IT.

Now for Luke's past relationship was very bland but to the point as to how it ended and why. The author felt it didn't need to go into much detail and she was RIGHT. Would have made the book cheesy. Luke stays to himself apart from his Cowboy family and Ali.

Ali, I loved her character She seemed to be the Mother who is always right where she needs to be with her group of cowboys. She made everyone feel like a family in her bar and on Sundays for Girls day.

The fact that everything started slow and how time feels still all in the same made the story unique.

The romance was a bit not for me for the slow burn that was building. What occured once the slow burn passed is what really resonated with me.

Ty was my other favorite and once Nora came to town Oh they need their own story. Ty comebacks and snotty replies Oh yes keep talking.
Call & Ali??

Nora and Georgia their storyline needed elaboration for me. Their best friends from kindergarten, What? How? I needed information.
Nora was the Perfect friend with the life, job, living a real Barbie.

The Animals were Icing on the cake for me. Everything about it make you feel like a young kid going to a zoo for the 1st time.

The Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

[Ashley Egipciaco · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

🌶🌶


Georgia, a big-city girl, decides to take control of her life and leave her abusive fiancé. When she ends up in a small town looking for a hotel, her whole life changes. She meets Ali and the Corbin brothers, who show her the impact supportive people can have on her life. Luke Corbin shows her what real love looks like, but is she ready to take that step?

I enjoyed all the characters in this book for their own reasons, but some stood out for sure. First, let me say how awesome it was to have a furry creature as Luke's companion. Clover was the perfect add to this story!!!! Nora, Georgia's best friend, is such a caring but funny friend who knows exactly what Georgia needs. Ty, the youngest Corbin, is so full of character and just loves life, while Luke is serious and has been heartbroken before by a big-city girl. He isn't sure what he should feel about Georgia. Who could not fall in love with Sadie, a sharp little girl who just sees the world in a way that only a child could?

It is definitely a slow burn, but I feel like it went at a perfect pace with a HEA. One of my favorite parts was when Georgia went back to Chicago and closed that chapter because of the type of growth she had. She learned to really love herself and that no man would ever control her. I didn't like how Ty would constantly flirt with her in front of Luke, although I knew it was in good fun.

I would recommend this book for anyone who is looking for a small-town book that depicts the land so well that you can envision it. Also, I would recommend it for anyone who has dealt with domestic abuse and wants to see how someone can have their happy ending after they have the courage to leave.

[Cassandra Booth · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ARC REVIEW 💜

“Inject this slow burn straight into my veins, please 🥹🔥”

Dust & Clover by Gracie Fuchs is everything I didn’t know I needed this holiday season. I went in expecting a cute Christmas-y read and instead… I devoured it in one sitting, whispering “just one more chapter” like an absolute liar for three hours straight. 😭☕

Georgia; fragile, fierce, trauma-carrier extraordinaire arrives in Primrose Valley running from her past. She wants to stay invisible… but Luke Corbin? The broody, quiet, cowboy-man-of-my-dreams? He refuses. And yes, that includes the tiny rescue animals 🐾💛 (Clover = pure chaos + heart-melter).

Slow burn lovers, THIS is how you do it. Every look, every lingering touch, every “we really shouldn’t” moment had me feral. The chemistry is tender, slow, and absolutely delicious 🌶️✨. I cried. I swooned. I laughed at Luke being broody but secretly a cinnamon roll with a squirrel in his pocket. Absolute perfection.

The small-town vibes, the found family energy, and the emotional growth of both Georgia and Luke? Chef’s kiss. Their journey is messy, beautiful, and fully earned. By the end, I wanted to move into Primrose Valley and never leave.

And yes… like all the best cowboy romances:
✔ Slow burn
✔ Emotional growth
✔ Quiet, dominant cowboy
✔ Rescue animals
✔ Found family vibes
✔ Soft heat 🌶️
✔ Me emotionally compromised

Gracie Fuchs, you’ve created magic here. I need the next one immediately:
Ty + Nora?
Cal + Alli?
I’m ready. Saddle up, friends 🌵🔥

Thank you to the Gracie Fuchs for this ARC! 💖