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Star Mountain Horse Rescue #2
Making Wild Vows
I’m a pageant queen on the run and a marriage of convenience to the barn’s grumpy blacksmith is the only thing that can save me.
After escaping my controlling parents, I run as far away as I can, to Star Mountain Horse Rescue in Montana. But I need money to protect myself and I can’t access my trust fund unless I get married.
Jonah Smith is the tattooed, taciturn farrier at the barn, and he’s disliked me and my sunshine smiles from the moment we met. But he needs money to pay his mom’s medical debt, and it doesn’t take much to get him to agree to a hasty marriage of convenience.
Our marriage isn’t supposed to be real. Jonah is a cynical grump and I want freedom, not another set of shackles. But underneath his tough exterior, Jonah is kind and caring.
He vows to protect me from my family. He holds me when I cry and takes care of me when I’m sick. He calls me his wife and gives me a ring.
We married for money. But before I know it, I’m falling for my husband.
After escaping my controlling parents, I run as far away as I can, to Star Mountain Horse Rescue in Montana. But I need money to protect myself and I can’t access my trust fund unless I get married.
Jonah Smith is the tattooed, taciturn farrier at the barn, and he’s disliked me and my sunshine smiles from the moment we met. But he needs money to pay his mom’s medical debt, and it doesn’t take much to get him to agree to a hasty marriage of convenience.
Our marriage isn’t supposed to be real. Jonah is a cynical grump and I want freedom, not another set of shackles. But underneath his tough exterior, Jonah is kind and caring.
He vows to protect me from my family. He holds me when I cry and takes care of me when I’m sick. He calls me his wife and gives me a ring.
We married for money. But before I know it, I’m falling for my husband.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 12, 2026
25 people are currently reading
207 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews
February 21, 2026
ARC Review: Making Wild Vows by Lucy Harper
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
---
The Story:
Pageant queen on the run 🏃🏻♀️ ends up in small town Montana, hiding at a horse rescue. She needs money. She needs freedom. But her trust fund is locked behind a marriage clause.
Enter Jonah Smith—tattooed, grumpy, works with horses, definitely not interested in her sunshine personality. But he's drowning in his mom's medical bills.
They make a deal: marriage of convenience. Simple. Transactional. No feelings.
Except he starts calling her "my wife." Starts taking care of her when she's sad or sick. Starts looking at her like she matters.
And suddenly the "convenient" part gets complicated.
Jonah Smith is everything. Grumpy on the outside, soft on the inside, completely gone for her by the middle of the book. The way he protects her? The way he holds her when she cries? The way he says "my wife" like it means something? Yeah. That's the good stuff.
Their chemistry is solid. The banter is fun. The small town setting is cozy and the horse rescue adds a nice touch.
---
Why 4 Stars and Not 5:
The pacing drags a tiny bit in the middle. Some parts felt repetitive—like we get it, he's grumpy, she's sunshine, they're catching feelings. Could've been trimmed.
Also wanted a LITTLE more from the family confrontation at the end. It wrapped up a bit quick for how big of a deal it was built up to be.
Still a really solid read though🤌🏼!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
---
The Story:
Pageant queen on the run 🏃🏻♀️ ends up in small town Montana, hiding at a horse rescue. She needs money. She needs freedom. But her trust fund is locked behind a marriage clause.
Enter Jonah Smith—tattooed, grumpy, works with horses, definitely not interested in her sunshine personality. But he's drowning in his mom's medical bills.
They make a deal: marriage of convenience. Simple. Transactional. No feelings.
Except he starts calling her "my wife." Starts taking care of her when she's sad or sick. Starts looking at her like she matters.
And suddenly the "convenient" part gets complicated.
Jonah Smith is everything. Grumpy on the outside, soft on the inside, completely gone for her by the middle of the book. The way he protects her? The way he holds her when she cries? The way he says "my wife" like it means something? Yeah. That's the good stuff.
Their chemistry is solid. The banter is fun. The small town setting is cozy and the horse rescue adds a nice touch.
---
Why 4 Stars and Not 5:
The pacing drags a tiny bit in the middle. Some parts felt repetitive—like we get it, he's grumpy, she's sunshine, they're catching feelings. Could've been trimmed.
Also wanted a LITTLE more from the family confrontation at the end. It wrapped up a bit quick for how big of a deal it was built up to be.
Still a really solid read though🤌🏼!
February 7, 2026
3.5 stars
Making Wild Vows had a lot of elements I usually eat up. The grumpy/sunshine dynamic worked really well, and I genuinely loved watching the MMC support the FMC as she begins to heal from an abusive relationship with her parents. Seeing him help her recognize the injustices she’d been conditioned to accept was one of the strongest parts of the story and added real emotional weight.
I’m also a sucker for marriage of convenience and small-town romances, so this book was already working in its favor there. Those tropes were definitely highlights for me.
That said, I wanted to love this one a bit more than I did. Some parts of the story felt rushed, and at times there was a noticeable disconnect with certain characters that pulled me out of the narrative. I found myself wishing a few moments had been given more space to fully land.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read with solid tropes and heartfelt moments, but it didn’t quite hit as hard as I hoped. Still a good pick if you love grumpy/sunshine, small-town vibes, and a marriage of convenience.
Making Wild Vows had a lot of elements I usually eat up. The grumpy/sunshine dynamic worked really well, and I genuinely loved watching the MMC support the FMC as she begins to heal from an abusive relationship with her parents. Seeing him help her recognize the injustices she’d been conditioned to accept was one of the strongest parts of the story and added real emotional weight.
I’m also a sucker for marriage of convenience and small-town romances, so this book was already working in its favor there. Those tropes were definitely highlights for me.
That said, I wanted to love this one a bit more than I did. Some parts of the story felt rushed, and at times there was a noticeable disconnect with certain characters that pulled me out of the narrative. I found myself wishing a few moments had been given more space to fully land.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read with solid tropes and heartfelt moments, but it didn’t quite hit as hard as I hoped. Still a good pick if you love grumpy/sunshine, small-town vibes, and a marriage of convenience.
February 13, 2026
I loved this book so much!!!!! 🥹🩷
Winnie and Jonah’s dynamic was so incredibly fun to read and I had a great time in their story! 🤭
An incredible small town romance with fun, sweet and intriguing characters and I cannot wait to read more about them 👀🤭💞
What to expect:
🏡 Small Town
🤠 Western
💍 Marriage of Convenience
🌆 City Girl x Country Boy
⛅️ Grumpy Sunshine
Thank you Love Notes PR for the arc, I had the besttt time 🫶🫶
Winnie and Jonah’s dynamic was so incredibly fun to read and I had a great time in their story! 🤭
An incredible small town romance with fun, sweet and intriguing characters and I cannot wait to read more about them 👀🤭💞
What to expect:
🏡 Small Town
🤠 Western
💍 Marriage of Convenience
🌆 City Girl x Country Boy
⛅️ Grumpy Sunshine
Thank you Love Notes PR for the arc, I had the besttt time 🫶🫶
February 6, 2026
What To Expect:
- small town
- western romance
- grumpy x sunshine
- city girl x country boy
- marriage of convenience
- spicy
5⭐️
okay you know what? i think this might be my favorite book of the year so far 😍 i am obsessed with this!
i am a big sucker for all of the tropes up above so i had to sign up for this arc and man am i so glad i did. it captured my heart and honestly left me speechless. i dont even know where to begin to for a review without accidentally spoiling all of my favorite moments and the book in general.
this is the second book in the star mountain horse rescue series and it was also my introduction to the author. i definitely need to go back and read book one just so i can stay in this small town, and hopefully for forever.
jonah and winnie start out as enemies which hello a little enemies to lovers vibe, but it is so obvious they are meant to be together. they are so perfect for one another. another little surprise trope you get is "my wife" and damn did that put me on my knees 🙈
thank you so so much lovenotespr and lucy harper for giving me this amazing opportunity to read and review this e-arc! 🫶🏼🫶🏼
- small town
- western romance
- grumpy x sunshine
- city girl x country boy
- marriage of convenience
- spicy
5⭐️
okay you know what? i think this might be my favorite book of the year so far 😍 i am obsessed with this!
i am a big sucker for all of the tropes up above so i had to sign up for this arc and man am i so glad i did. it captured my heart and honestly left me speechless. i dont even know where to begin to for a review without accidentally spoiling all of my favorite moments and the book in general.
this is the second book in the star mountain horse rescue series and it was also my introduction to the author. i definitely need to go back and read book one just so i can stay in this small town, and hopefully for forever.
jonah and winnie start out as enemies which hello a little enemies to lovers vibe, but it is so obvious they are meant to be together. they are so perfect for one another. another little surprise trope you get is "my wife" and damn did that put me on my knees 🙈
thank you so so much lovenotespr and lucy harper for giving me this amazing opportunity to read and review this e-arc! 🫶🏼🫶🏼
March 1, 2026
This story had some new aspects I had not read before. We get a marriage of convenience between a country boy and a city girl. But she's also a pageant queen wanting to escape her life.
You follow Winnie and Jonah at Star Mountain Horse Rescue. Her life takes a turn and he feels protective of her. They have an amazing little community at the ranch When her hand gets forced to make one decision, will he make the same?
And let me just say.. I need a Rosie in my life lol
🌶️🌶️/5
You follow Winnie and Jonah at Star Mountain Horse Rescue. Her life takes a turn and he feels protective of her. They have an amazing little community at the ranch When her hand gets forced to make one decision, will he make the same?
And let me just say.. I need a Rosie in my life lol
🌶️🌶️/5
February 18, 2026
I absolutely loved reading Winnie and Jonahs story. They were fun and sweet and and the chemistry was definitely there.
The story was well written and beautiful, I didnt want it to end.
The tropes are definitely some of my favourite. Especially marriage of convenience 🥵
Thank you to the author and @lovenotes.pr for a copy of this eARC tonread and review 💛
The story was well written and beautiful, I didnt want it to end.
The tropes are definitely some of my favourite. Especially marriage of convenience 🥵
Thank you to the author and @lovenotes.pr for a copy of this eARC tonread and review 💛
February 15, 2026
I loved Jonah and Winnie's story. It was crazy but worked. What Winnie left was traumatizing but the safe haven she found was beautiful . The chemistry was good and it was well written.
February 9, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Oh my God Lucy Harper did it again! Thank you to Lucy and her team for an ARC of Making Wild Vows. With the addition of Jonah and Winnie to the Star Mountain crew, we’re gifted another strong FMC in Winnie and a near perfect MMC in Jonah. This my have started out as enemies but it quickly becomes clear that they are meant for each other! Winnie’s parents are such awful people and for her to be so kind and find such amazing people in her life willing to help her escape was so endearing to read. One of the best parts of the early start to this series are the characters that Lucy has created and she keeps adding emotional depth and development to these characters that make me want to keep returning to this series.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Oh my God Lucy Harper did it again! Thank you to Lucy and her team for an ARC of Making Wild Vows. With the addition of Jonah and Winnie to the Star Mountain crew, we’re gifted another strong FMC in Winnie and a near perfect MMC in Jonah. This my have started out as enemies but it quickly becomes clear that they are meant for each other! Winnie’s parents are such awful people and for her to be so kind and find such amazing people in her life willing to help her escape was so endearing to read. One of the best parts of the early start to this series are the characters that Lucy has created and she keeps adding emotional depth and development to these characters that make me want to keep returning to this series.
February 11, 2026
Winnie is such a little firecracker and I loved that about her. She’s resilient without losing her spark. And Jonah?? An actual sweetheart. The way he shows up for the people he loves had me melting.
I really loved watching Winnie adjust from city life to country life and how Jonah never tried to change her, just supported her. The way they push each other toward their dreams instead of holding each other back? That’s the good stuff.
I really loved watching Winnie adjust from city life to country life and how Jonah never tried to change her, just supported her. The way they push each other toward their dreams instead of holding each other back? That’s the good stuff.
February 12, 2026
I went into this book expecting a steamy romance, but what I got was so much more—a perfect storm of sexual tension, emotional vulnerability, and a deeply satisfying opposites-attract love story. From the very first scene, Jonah and Winnie’s chemistry is electric. The way they banter, clash, and eventually give in to their desire is both frustrating and intoxicating to read, because you can feel just how much they want each other, even when the timing is all wrong.
Jonah is exactly the kind of male lead you hope for in a romance: protective without being controlling, confident but not arrogant, and unapologetically sensual. His attraction to Winnie is intense, raw, and entirely believable. Winnie, on the other hand, is fiercely independent and smart, yet vulnerable in ways that make her human and relatable. The author does an incredible job of showing her internal conflicts—her fears about her parents, her doubts about the marriage, and her struggle to trust her own heart—without ever diminishing her strength.
What sets this book apart from typical “marriage of convenience” stories is the emotional depth. Their arrangement could have felt shallow or transactional, but the author fills it with tension, intimacy, and real stakes. There’s a constant push-and-pull between desire and fear, between wanting each other physically and emotionally, and it makes every interaction crackle. The sexual scenes are hot, bold, and unapologetic—Jonah’s dirty talk is fierce, and Winnie’s reactions are just as fiery—but the story never loses sight of the emotional connection underneath. The way they care for each other, even in small, domestic moments like showering together or decorating a Christmas tree, adds so much authenticity to their relationship.
The family drama and external stakes elevate the story even further. Winnie’s controlling parents, Jonah’s worry over his mom’s health, and the threat of public exposure add real tension and suspense that make you invested in more than just the romance. When Winnie leaves to protect Jonah, the heartbreak and urgency that follow are gut-wrenching, and you can’t help but root for them to overcome the obstacles and find their way back to each other. Jonah’s determination to get her back, his planning, and his refusal to let outside forces dictate their love is both satisfying and inspiring.
I also appreciated the pacing. The story balances high-intensity, steamy moments with quiet, intimate scenes that allow the characters to breathe, reflect, and grow. The humor, the teasing, the tender gestures—the moments where they just look at each other or brush each other’s hair—make the romance feel lived-in and real. It’s not just lust; it’s desire, care, and growing love all wrapped together.
Ultimately, this is a book that delivers on every level: the chemistry is scorching, the romance is heartfelt, and the stakes are compelling. If you love enemies-to-lovers or opposites-attract tropes, a strong female lead, a protective and seductive male lead, and a story that’s both emotional and intensely sexy, this is absolutely a must-read. It made me laugh, swoon, and at times even tear up. I finished it with a huge grin, completely satisfied, but also wishing it didn’t have to end.
This book proves that a romance can be both sexy and meaningful, with characters you want to root for long after the last page. Jonah and Winnie are unforgettable, and their story will linger in your mind for a long time. I can’t recommend it enough, and I can’t wait to read more from this author.
Jonah is exactly the kind of male lead you hope for in a romance: protective without being controlling, confident but not arrogant, and unapologetically sensual. His attraction to Winnie is intense, raw, and entirely believable. Winnie, on the other hand, is fiercely independent and smart, yet vulnerable in ways that make her human and relatable. The author does an incredible job of showing her internal conflicts—her fears about her parents, her doubts about the marriage, and her struggle to trust her own heart—without ever diminishing her strength.
What sets this book apart from typical “marriage of convenience” stories is the emotional depth. Their arrangement could have felt shallow or transactional, but the author fills it with tension, intimacy, and real stakes. There’s a constant push-and-pull between desire and fear, between wanting each other physically and emotionally, and it makes every interaction crackle. The sexual scenes are hot, bold, and unapologetic—Jonah’s dirty talk is fierce, and Winnie’s reactions are just as fiery—but the story never loses sight of the emotional connection underneath. The way they care for each other, even in small, domestic moments like showering together or decorating a Christmas tree, adds so much authenticity to their relationship.
The family drama and external stakes elevate the story even further. Winnie’s controlling parents, Jonah’s worry over his mom’s health, and the threat of public exposure add real tension and suspense that make you invested in more than just the romance. When Winnie leaves to protect Jonah, the heartbreak and urgency that follow are gut-wrenching, and you can’t help but root for them to overcome the obstacles and find their way back to each other. Jonah’s determination to get her back, his planning, and his refusal to let outside forces dictate their love is both satisfying and inspiring.
I also appreciated the pacing. The story balances high-intensity, steamy moments with quiet, intimate scenes that allow the characters to breathe, reflect, and grow. The humor, the teasing, the tender gestures—the moments where they just look at each other or brush each other’s hair—make the romance feel lived-in and real. It’s not just lust; it’s desire, care, and growing love all wrapped together.
Ultimately, this is a book that delivers on every level: the chemistry is scorching, the romance is heartfelt, and the stakes are compelling. If you love enemies-to-lovers or opposites-attract tropes, a strong female lead, a protective and seductive male lead, and a story that’s both emotional and intensely sexy, this is absolutely a must-read. It made me laugh, swoon, and at times even tear up. I finished it with a huge grin, completely satisfied, but also wishing it didn’t have to end.
This book proves that a romance can be both sexy and meaningful, with characters you want to root for long after the last page. Jonah and Winnie are unforgettable, and their story will linger in your mind for a long time. I can’t recommend it enough, and I can’t wait to read more from this author.
February 17, 2026
ARC REVIEW
¿Qué pasa cuando decides huir de todo el mundo para poder reencontrarte contigo misma?
Winnie lleva años practicando sus sonrisas, sus gestos y su comportamiento. A una temprana edad decidió que le gustaban los certámenes de belleza, su impacto fue tal que en la actualidad, a sus 24 años, se prepara para ser Miss Alabama, pero la verdad está cansada: sus padres, quienes apenas vieron que su hija recibía dinero en los concursos dejaron de trabajar y se convirtieron en una especia de mánager y reciben todo el dinero que lleva años ganando, su vida es controlada hasta el más minucioso detalle, reduciéndola a solo una cara bonita y convirtiéndose en el banco familiar.
Su vida nunca ha pertenecido a ella y decide revelarse, cambiar su imagen y dirigirse a Star Mountain, en donde su mejor amiga, Candice, tiene un santuario para caballos y está más que dispuesta en darle asilo y esconderse de sus padres.
Jonah ha tenido una mala racha con el amor, su expareja lo deja cuando a su madre le diagnostican cancer y declarándole que ella no está dispuesta a enfrentarse con temas familiares. Sacando a flote su personalidad gruñona y no muy amable, su vida se define en trabajar como Herrero para el santuario de Candice y ayudar a sus padres a pagar la gran deuda que dejó el tratamiento de su madre.
Su primera interacción no es nada buena: Winnie llevaba 5 días conduciendo para llegar a Star Mountain y Jonah justo llega cuando el auto de ella impide la entrada al establo, dejándolo molesto por interrumpir su trabajo.
Pero su interacciones aumentan cuando los padres de Winnie la encuentran y deciden demandarla por dejar "sus obligaciones", sin tener ni un peso para un abogado, se acuerda de la herencia de su abuela pero solo puede acceder a ella de dos maneras: cumpliendo los 30 o casarse. Y justamente hay un cowboy gruñón que estaría necesitando parte de ese dinero a cambio de un pequeño trato.
Claramente tenemos a un grumpy x sunshine a primera vista y podemos disfrutar por un momento del desagrado que se tienen uno al otro, pero en el momento que deciden cerrar el trato y casarse, todo cambiará.
Winnie debe aprenderse a conocerse y soltar todo lo que sus padres le enseñaron de mala manera y Jonah estará más que dispuesto a ser quien sostenga su mano en este proceso. Ella está dañada lo suficiente como para que él tenga la misión de enseñarle los placeres de la vida, en todos los sentidos de la palabra.
Por otro lado Jonah no cree que haya alguien que pueda ver su verdadero valor, su exnovia lo dejó bastante marcado y se niega a sentir como su corazón se rompe de nuevo, aparte evidenció como su padre se derrumbó cuando su madre se enfermó, obligándose a vivir en una burbuja en donde ellos son su mundo entero y se niega a experimentar lo mismo de su padre. Winnie está dispuesta a enseñarle que el amor no duele, ni duda, tampoco se abandona cuando las cosas se ponen difíciles; mientras ella sea su esposa falsa, nunca le faltará una mano que tomar.
Pero lo falso se vuelve cada vez más real y los sentimientos se comienzan a mezclar lentamente.
Es un libro fácil de leer, que te hará suspirar más de una vez y una gran mención al crecimiento personal de Winnie y la fuerza que tiene Jonah al protegerla de quienes debieron hacerlo desde el principio.
¿Qué pasa cuando decides huir de todo el mundo para poder reencontrarte contigo misma?
Winnie lleva años practicando sus sonrisas, sus gestos y su comportamiento. A una temprana edad decidió que le gustaban los certámenes de belleza, su impacto fue tal que en la actualidad, a sus 24 años, se prepara para ser Miss Alabama, pero la verdad está cansada: sus padres, quienes apenas vieron que su hija recibía dinero en los concursos dejaron de trabajar y se convirtieron en una especia de mánager y reciben todo el dinero que lleva años ganando, su vida es controlada hasta el más minucioso detalle, reduciéndola a solo una cara bonita y convirtiéndose en el banco familiar.
Su vida nunca ha pertenecido a ella y decide revelarse, cambiar su imagen y dirigirse a Star Mountain, en donde su mejor amiga, Candice, tiene un santuario para caballos y está más que dispuesta en darle asilo y esconderse de sus padres.
Jonah ha tenido una mala racha con el amor, su expareja lo deja cuando a su madre le diagnostican cancer y declarándole que ella no está dispuesta a enfrentarse con temas familiares. Sacando a flote su personalidad gruñona y no muy amable, su vida se define en trabajar como Herrero para el santuario de Candice y ayudar a sus padres a pagar la gran deuda que dejó el tratamiento de su madre.
Su primera interacción no es nada buena: Winnie llevaba 5 días conduciendo para llegar a Star Mountain y Jonah justo llega cuando el auto de ella impide la entrada al establo, dejándolo molesto por interrumpir su trabajo.
Pero su interacciones aumentan cuando los padres de Winnie la encuentran y deciden demandarla por dejar "sus obligaciones", sin tener ni un peso para un abogado, se acuerda de la herencia de su abuela pero solo puede acceder a ella de dos maneras: cumpliendo los 30 o casarse. Y justamente hay un cowboy gruñón que estaría necesitando parte de ese dinero a cambio de un pequeño trato.
Claramente tenemos a un grumpy x sunshine a primera vista y podemos disfrutar por un momento del desagrado que se tienen uno al otro, pero en el momento que deciden cerrar el trato y casarse, todo cambiará.
Winnie debe aprenderse a conocerse y soltar todo lo que sus padres le enseñaron de mala manera y Jonah estará más que dispuesto a ser quien sostenga su mano en este proceso. Ella está dañada lo suficiente como para que él tenga la misión de enseñarle los placeres de la vida, en todos los sentidos de la palabra.
Por otro lado Jonah no cree que haya alguien que pueda ver su verdadero valor, su exnovia lo dejó bastante marcado y se niega a sentir como su corazón se rompe de nuevo, aparte evidenció como su padre se derrumbó cuando su madre se enfermó, obligándose a vivir en una burbuja en donde ellos son su mundo entero y se niega a experimentar lo mismo de su padre. Winnie está dispuesta a enseñarle que el amor no duele, ni duda, tampoco se abandona cuando las cosas se ponen difíciles; mientras ella sea su esposa falsa, nunca le faltará una mano que tomar.
Pero lo falso se vuelve cada vez más real y los sentimientos se comienzan a mezclar lentamente.
Es un libro fácil de leer, que te hará suspirar más de una vez y una gran mención al crecimiento personal de Winnie y la fuerza que tiene Jonah al protegerla de quienes debieron hacerlo desde el principio.
February 17, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Read this book for:
🐴 Pageant Queen on the Run
👑 Marriage of Convenience
🐴 City Girl x Country Boy
👑 Grumpy x Sunshine
🐴 Small Town
👑 Western Small Town
Synopsis
She’s running from a gilded cage. He’s hiding behind a wall of iron.
A former pageant queen escapes her powerful, manipulative parents and disappears into the quiet wilderness of Montana, seeking safety at Star Mountain Horse Rescue. But freedom comes with a price. Her trust fund is locked behind one brutal condition: marriage.
Jonah Smith is the barn’s grumpy blacksmith and farrier, tattooed, silent, and emotionally closed off. He doesn’t like her. He doesn’t trust her. But he needs money to save his mother from crushing medical debt.
So they strike a deal.
A marriage on paper. Protection in real life. No emotions allowed.
Except Jonah doesn’t just play husband, he becomes one. He stands between her and her family. He takes care of her when she’s sick. He holds her when the past catches up. And the fake marriage starts to feel terrifyingly real.
She wanted freedom. He wanted money. Neither expected forever.
My Thoughts
This is the second book in the Star Mountain Horse Rescue series, and honestly, I didn’t think the series could get any better, but Lucy proved me wrong. She created another beautiful story set in Star Mountain, this time with a runaway pageant queen and a grumpy, handsome farrier, and I was completely hooked.
I absolutely loved Winnie and Jonah. Jonah’s quiet strength and the way he cares for the people in his life, especially his mother after her battle with breast cancer, made me swoon. But what really made me swoon was how he took care of Winnie after they got married. The way he protected her, supported her, and showed up for her emotionally was just everything.
And then there’s Winnie. She’s been emotionally manipulated and, in my opinion, emotionally abused by her money-obsessed parents, yet she still sees the good in the world. She’s kind, strong, and brave, and she’s not afraid to stand up for herself or fight for her freedom. I loved how she also took care of Jonah in ways he wasn’t used to, giving him love and softness where he least expected it. Truly a match made in (Star Mountain) heaven.
Winnie was so clever to come up with her escape plan with Carly, even though her parents were like a dog with a bone and were never going to let her go. To them, she was their cash cow, and they were determined to keep her trapped in their golden castle. That made it even more powerful to see Jonah stand by her side, fight for her, and help her find her voice again.
It felt so good to be back at the horse rescue and reconnect with all the characters again. Seeing Candice, Nathan, Beau, Jenny, Lila, and Tomas made the world feel full, warm, and alive, and it really reminded me why I love this series so much.
Lucy, I am still manifesting a Beau and Jenny book because I need to know what happened there. They would be such a perfect couple, and I’m not letting that dream go anytime soon.
Read this book for:
🐴 Pageant Queen on the Run
👑 Marriage of Convenience
🐴 City Girl x Country Boy
👑 Grumpy x Sunshine
🐴 Small Town
👑 Western Small Town
Synopsis
She’s running from a gilded cage. He’s hiding behind a wall of iron.
A former pageant queen escapes her powerful, manipulative parents and disappears into the quiet wilderness of Montana, seeking safety at Star Mountain Horse Rescue. But freedom comes with a price. Her trust fund is locked behind one brutal condition: marriage.
Jonah Smith is the barn’s grumpy blacksmith and farrier, tattooed, silent, and emotionally closed off. He doesn’t like her. He doesn’t trust her. But he needs money to save his mother from crushing medical debt.
So they strike a deal.
A marriage on paper. Protection in real life. No emotions allowed.
Except Jonah doesn’t just play husband, he becomes one. He stands between her and her family. He takes care of her when she’s sick. He holds her when the past catches up. And the fake marriage starts to feel terrifyingly real.
She wanted freedom. He wanted money. Neither expected forever.
My Thoughts
This is the second book in the Star Mountain Horse Rescue series, and honestly, I didn’t think the series could get any better, but Lucy proved me wrong. She created another beautiful story set in Star Mountain, this time with a runaway pageant queen and a grumpy, handsome farrier, and I was completely hooked.
I absolutely loved Winnie and Jonah. Jonah’s quiet strength and the way he cares for the people in his life, especially his mother after her battle with breast cancer, made me swoon. But what really made me swoon was how he took care of Winnie after they got married. The way he protected her, supported her, and showed up for her emotionally was just everything.
And then there’s Winnie. She’s been emotionally manipulated and, in my opinion, emotionally abused by her money-obsessed parents, yet she still sees the good in the world. She’s kind, strong, and brave, and she’s not afraid to stand up for herself or fight for her freedom. I loved how she also took care of Jonah in ways he wasn’t used to, giving him love and softness where he least expected it. Truly a match made in (Star Mountain) heaven.
Winnie was so clever to come up with her escape plan with Carly, even though her parents were like a dog with a bone and were never going to let her go. To them, she was their cash cow, and they were determined to keep her trapped in their golden castle. That made it even more powerful to see Jonah stand by her side, fight for her, and help her find her voice again.
It felt so good to be back at the horse rescue and reconnect with all the characters again. Seeing Candice, Nathan, Beau, Jenny, Lila, and Tomas made the world feel full, warm, and alive, and it really reminded me why I love this series so much.
Lucy, I am still manifesting a Beau and Jenny book because I need to know what happened there. They would be such a perfect couple, and I’m not letting that dream go anytime soon.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“I’m pessimistic enough for the both of us, and I like your sunshine. Don’t let them take it from you.”
✔️marriage of convenience
✔️western romance
✔️FMC on the run
✔️grumpy x sunshine
✔️city girl x country boy
✔️small town
✔️no true 3rd act breakup
4.5⭐️
I love a good marriage of convenience story, and this one is so cute! Winnie (FMC) and Jonah (MMC) don’t seem like they would be a good match, in fact they really don’t like each other at first, but the more they are vulnerable and get to know each other, they realize that they actually enjoy each other’s company and that their first impressions were way off base. She is on the run, leaving the life she always knew and her abusive parents behind her and trying to start fresh in a small town. Though she is an adult, she was never able to make her own decisions and the last thing she needs is a man telling her what to do. However, when she needs to access her trust fund quickly and the only way is through marriage, Jonah is there for her, willing to help in any way she needs and ready to show her that love doesn’t mean controlling your partner, in fact it’s the opposite.
They might do things a bit backwards, but it is necessary and forces them to get to know each other. They get married then move in together, before becoming friends and eventually the relationship becomes romantic. I love that they don’t push communication too hard, they are gentle with each other and in doing so become each other’s safe place. The caretaking scene is one of my favorites. Though there is *kind of* a third act breakup, it doesn’t really count in my opinion (spoiler: ). The horse rescue is the perfect setting for Winnie to find her strength. It was always there, she just has to learn who she is behind the carefully curated pageant persona, and that isn’t an easy task (but finding her people makes it easier).
I wanted to punch her parents in the face the entire time, and just when you think things are going to be okay they find a way to wreak havoc in her life again. Of course, this ends on a HEA and things are resolved in the best way possible, but it’s a road to get there (as every good story is).
*Thank you so much to Love Notes PR and the author (Lucy Harper) for the opportunity to ARC read this book! All opinions are my own*
✔️marriage of convenience
✔️western romance
✔️FMC on the run
✔️grumpy x sunshine
✔️city girl x country boy
✔️small town
✔️no true 3rd act breakup
4.5⭐️
I love a good marriage of convenience story, and this one is so cute! Winnie (FMC) and Jonah (MMC) don’t seem like they would be a good match, in fact they really don’t like each other at first, but the more they are vulnerable and get to know each other, they realize that they actually enjoy each other’s company and that their first impressions were way off base. She is on the run, leaving the life she always knew and her abusive parents behind her and trying to start fresh in a small town. Though she is an adult, she was never able to make her own decisions and the last thing she needs is a man telling her what to do. However, when she needs to access her trust fund quickly and the only way is through marriage, Jonah is there for her, willing to help in any way she needs and ready to show her that love doesn’t mean controlling your partner, in fact it’s the opposite.
They might do things a bit backwards, but it is necessary and forces them to get to know each other. They get married then move in together, before becoming friends and eventually the relationship becomes romantic. I love that they don’t push communication too hard, they are gentle with each other and in doing so become each other’s safe place. The caretaking scene is one of my favorites. Though there is *kind of* a third act breakup, it doesn’t really count in my opinion (spoiler: ). The horse rescue is the perfect setting for Winnie to find her strength. It was always there, she just has to learn who she is behind the carefully curated pageant persona, and that isn’t an easy task (but finding her people makes it easier).
I wanted to punch her parents in the face the entire time, and just when you think things are going to be okay they find a way to wreak havoc in her life again. Of course, this ends on a HEA and things are resolved in the best way possible, but it’s a road to get there (as every good story is).
*Thank you so much to Love Notes PR and the author (Lucy Harper) for the opportunity to ARC read this book! All opinions are my own*
Review of advance copy
[ARC REVIEW]
- 4 stars⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“It’s here. The life I always wanted. The one that’s all my own. The one I built with the man standing right in front of me.”
This was such a wholesome and inspiring read. It takes you on a journey of self discovery and shows you that all you need is to surround yourself with the right people. To believe in yourself and trust your heart, that’s where true happiness lies.
Winnie is an absolute ray of sunshine that sadly, her own parents have tried to bully into submission. She uproots her entire life in a bid to get away from them and start fresh, goes to her best friend and her family who helps her and supports her exactly how she needs. This is where she meets the grumpy farrier, Jonah. He may be grumpy and broody at first but wow does he warm up to Winnie fast, can’t blame him either she’s a delight.
These two have such a beautiful relationship, I absolutely adore the ‘falling in love while in a fake marriage’ micro-trope. It’s so perfect when you can literally see that connection forming page by page, they literally cannot fight the chemistry they have straight off the bat. I am so obsessed with how their relationship progressed, the patience that Jonah showed throughout, while quietly supporting Winnie as she figured out who she wanted to be. I’m proud of Winnie for burning her old life to the ground and starting fresh in a quiet little town, mapping out her perfect dream life and grabbing it with both hands.
My favourite side characters were Candice and Beau, these two were Winnie and Jonah’s biggest supporters, hyping them up the entire way and being ready to go to bat for them when necessary. We love strong main characters but those strong side characters? They add that little something extra to the story. I hope to see Beau and Jenny in the future, fingers crossed theirs a happy ending waiting for them too.
This book is perfect for lovers of the marriage of convenience trope and for anyone who’s ever wanted to show the haters the middle finger. Be whoever you choose to be, not who others want you to be. Live your life for yourself because you only get one. That’s the main message in this book and I truly had the best time, it was so hopeful and inspiring and I can’t wait to see what Lucy brings us in the future.
Thank you to Lucy Harper and Love Notes PR for the eARC and the opportunity to read and review this book, forever grateful.
- 4 stars⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“It’s here. The life I always wanted. The one that’s all my own. The one I built with the man standing right in front of me.”
This was such a wholesome and inspiring read. It takes you on a journey of self discovery and shows you that all you need is to surround yourself with the right people. To believe in yourself and trust your heart, that’s where true happiness lies.
Winnie is an absolute ray of sunshine that sadly, her own parents have tried to bully into submission. She uproots her entire life in a bid to get away from them and start fresh, goes to her best friend and her family who helps her and supports her exactly how she needs. This is where she meets the grumpy farrier, Jonah. He may be grumpy and broody at first but wow does he warm up to Winnie fast, can’t blame him either she’s a delight.
These two have such a beautiful relationship, I absolutely adore the ‘falling in love while in a fake marriage’ micro-trope. It’s so perfect when you can literally see that connection forming page by page, they literally cannot fight the chemistry they have straight off the bat. I am so obsessed with how their relationship progressed, the patience that Jonah showed throughout, while quietly supporting Winnie as she figured out who she wanted to be. I’m proud of Winnie for burning her old life to the ground and starting fresh in a quiet little town, mapping out her perfect dream life and grabbing it with both hands.
My favourite side characters were Candice and Beau, these two were Winnie and Jonah’s biggest supporters, hyping them up the entire way and being ready to go to bat for them when necessary. We love strong main characters but those strong side characters? They add that little something extra to the story. I hope to see Beau and Jenny in the future, fingers crossed theirs a happy ending waiting for them too.
This book is perfect for lovers of the marriage of convenience trope and for anyone who’s ever wanted to show the haters the middle finger. Be whoever you choose to be, not who others want you to be. Live your life for yourself because you only get one. That’s the main message in this book and I truly had the best time, it was so hopeful and inspiring and I can’t wait to see what Lucy brings us in the future.
Thank you to Lucy Harper and Love Notes PR for the eARC and the opportunity to read and review this book, forever grateful.
February 5, 2026
🔥 Forged in fire, signed “my wife” 💍
4.75 ⭐️ | 3.75 🌶️
Lucy Harper ate with Making Wild Vows, and I am still not over it.
As the second installment in the Star Mountain Horse Rescue series, this book takes everything I loved about book one and digs deeper: emotionally, romantically, and yes… ferally.
Winnie is our FMC, a former Miss Alabama and social media darling who finally snaps under the weight of psychologically abusive, controlling parents. She doesn’t just want distance, she wants FREEDOM. So she runs. All the way to Montana. All the way to Star Mountain. And straight into a marriage of convenience that feels anything but convenient.
Enter Jonah Smith. The barn’s grumpy, tattooed farrier/blacksmith hybrid who looks like he was carved out of bad decisions and good intentions. He’s taciturn, judgmental at first glance and deeply uninterested in Winnie’s sunshine persona; until he isn’t. Underneath the broody exterior is a man with his heart worn right on his sleeve, doing everything he can to keep his family afloat.
They don’t like each other.
They don’t trust each other.
They definitely don’t plan to fall in love.
And yet.
Watching Winnie reclaim her voice and Jonah soften in ways that feel earned (not rushed, not convenient) was raw, honest and incredibly satisfying. Their emotional growth is where this book truly shines. The care. The protection. The quiet moments. The way Jonah shows up again and again.
And when that man starts casually dropping “my wife” like it’s his favorite prayer??? Yeah. I was done for. Absolutely folded 🧎🏼♀️🥵.
This is a story about chosen family, healing and learning the difference between safety and love, realising you might get both at once in the end.
Tropes delivered flawlessly:
🏡 Small Town
🤠 Western
💍 Marriage of Convenience
🌆 City Girl x Country Boy
⛅️ Grumpy x Sunshine
Thank you to Love Notes PR for the e-ARC, and huge congratulations to Lucy Harper on the upcoming release (February 12th). If you love emotionally grounded romance with protective MMCs, slow-burn payoff, and a heroine finding her power, this one is an easy yes.
Now excuse me while I manifest a real-life Jonah Smith to come and find me!
4.75 ⭐️ | 3.75 🌶️
Lucy Harper ate with Making Wild Vows, and I am still not over it.
As the second installment in the Star Mountain Horse Rescue series, this book takes everything I loved about book one and digs deeper: emotionally, romantically, and yes… ferally.
Winnie is our FMC, a former Miss Alabama and social media darling who finally snaps under the weight of psychologically abusive, controlling parents. She doesn’t just want distance, she wants FREEDOM. So she runs. All the way to Montana. All the way to Star Mountain. And straight into a marriage of convenience that feels anything but convenient.
Enter Jonah Smith. The barn’s grumpy, tattooed farrier/blacksmith hybrid who looks like he was carved out of bad decisions and good intentions. He’s taciturn, judgmental at first glance and deeply uninterested in Winnie’s sunshine persona; until he isn’t. Underneath the broody exterior is a man with his heart worn right on his sleeve, doing everything he can to keep his family afloat.
They don’t like each other.
They don’t trust each other.
They definitely don’t plan to fall in love.
And yet.
Watching Winnie reclaim her voice and Jonah soften in ways that feel earned (not rushed, not convenient) was raw, honest and incredibly satisfying. Their emotional growth is where this book truly shines. The care. The protection. The quiet moments. The way Jonah shows up again and again.
And when that man starts casually dropping “my wife” like it’s his favorite prayer??? Yeah. I was done for. Absolutely folded 🧎🏼♀️🥵.
This is a story about chosen family, healing and learning the difference between safety and love, realising you might get both at once in the end.
Tropes delivered flawlessly:
🏡 Small Town
🤠 Western
💍 Marriage of Convenience
🌆 City Girl x Country Boy
⛅️ Grumpy x Sunshine
Thank you to Love Notes PR for the e-ARC, and huge congratulations to Lucy Harper on the upcoming release (February 12th). If you love emotionally grounded romance with protective MMCs, slow-burn payoff, and a heroine finding her power, this one is an easy yes.
Now excuse me while I manifest a real-life Jonah Smith to come and find me!
February 19, 2026
“They don’t like each other.
They don’t trust each other.
They definitely don’t plan to fall in love.”
And you already know I am a sucker for that setup.
This book completely captured my heart. I don’t even know where to start without spoiling all my favorite moments, but I’ll try.
My heart absolutely broke for Winnie. The way her parents control her, manipulate her, and treat her like she’s nothing more than a business transaction? Devastating. This girl got excited over wearing jeans and a T-shirt. That alone tells you everything about the cage she was living in. “Cowgirl Barbie” deserved so much more and watching her slowly realize that? Watching her stand up for herself? I was SO proud of her.
She and Jonah come from completely opposite worlds. She’s raised in a golden cage with money-obsessed parents. He’s small-town, steady, grounded, and quietly strong. They start off as enemies (which I loved), but it’s so obvious they’re meant to be. The tension? So good.
Jonah made me swoon in the quietest way. The way he takes care of his mom after her battle with breast cancer. The way he protects Winnie without overpowering her. The way he shows up emotionally after they get married. And the “my wife” energy? Absolutely lethal.
But what made them so special is that it wasn’t one-sided. Winnie takes care of Jonah too. She gives him softness and love in ways he isn’t used to. They heal each other. Truly a match made in Star Mountain heaven.
Winnie’s escape plan was so clever, especially knowing her parents were never going to let their “cash cow” go without a fight. Seeing Jonah stand beside her while she finds her voice again? That was everything.
Being back at the horse rescue felt like coming home. Seeing Candice, Nathan, Beau, Jenny, Lila, and Tomas made the world feel warm and full and alive again.
This was my introduction to the author, and now I need to go back and read book one immediately because I’m not ready to leave this small town.
And Lucy… I am still manifesting a Beau and Jenny book. I need it. I’m not letting that go.
They don’t trust each other.
They definitely don’t plan to fall in love.”
And you already know I am a sucker for that setup.
This book completely captured my heart. I don’t even know where to start without spoiling all my favorite moments, but I’ll try.
My heart absolutely broke for Winnie. The way her parents control her, manipulate her, and treat her like she’s nothing more than a business transaction? Devastating. This girl got excited over wearing jeans and a T-shirt. That alone tells you everything about the cage she was living in. “Cowgirl Barbie” deserved so much more and watching her slowly realize that? Watching her stand up for herself? I was SO proud of her.
She and Jonah come from completely opposite worlds. She’s raised in a golden cage with money-obsessed parents. He’s small-town, steady, grounded, and quietly strong. They start off as enemies (which I loved), but it’s so obvious they’re meant to be. The tension? So good.
Jonah made me swoon in the quietest way. The way he takes care of his mom after her battle with breast cancer. The way he protects Winnie without overpowering her. The way he shows up emotionally after they get married. And the “my wife” energy? Absolutely lethal.
But what made them so special is that it wasn’t one-sided. Winnie takes care of Jonah too. She gives him softness and love in ways he isn’t used to. They heal each other. Truly a match made in Star Mountain heaven.
Winnie’s escape plan was so clever, especially knowing her parents were never going to let their “cash cow” go without a fight. Seeing Jonah stand beside her while she finds her voice again? That was everything.
Being back at the horse rescue felt like coming home. Seeing Candice, Nathan, Beau, Jenny, Lila, and Tomas made the world feel warm and full and alive again.
This was my introduction to the author, and now I need to go back and read book one immediately because I’m not ready to leave this small town.
And Lucy… I am still manifesting a Beau and Jenny book. I need it. I’m not letting that go.
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨️arc review✨️
5🌟/5
I loved this book so freaking much!
It all starts with Winnie running away, escaping her parent abusive control over her entire life, treating her as a way to make money and criticize her every single step, literally. Winnie was a pageant queen and a social media influencer, she started at such young age and as soon as her mother saw the potential to make money out of this the abuse started.
But she's done, she finally execute the plan and run away to Star Mountain Horse Rescue in Montana, owned by her best friend Candice.
She arrives and she doesn't even get out of the car and hug her bff that she meets Jonah, that is the super grumpy ferrier, and they definitely don't like each other at first sight haha
But days go by, Winnie is trying to understand who she is now that she's not a pageant queen anymore, she lives with the constant fear that her parent will found her and take her back home and in this time Jonah start noticing her, that she's more then fake smile and that she's definitely hiding all the pain from her past.
But Winnie parents do find her and sue her, she's in desperate need of money and you'll know how she can get them? By marry someone, that's the rule to access her grandparents trust fund. You all also know who's in need of money because of medical bills? Jonah.
Winnie master up the courage and go to Jonah asking to marry her and now, he could say all he wants that it did it first because of selfish reason, but i don't believe him. He wanted to help Winnie so bad and finally got the opportunity.
The writing was amazing, i enjoyed it so much, this was the first book from Lucy Harper and it won't be the last!
If you're looking was good book with the marriage of convenience trope you should read this, stop. I swear you won't regret it!
5🌟/5
I loved this book so freaking much!
It all starts with Winnie running away, escaping her parent abusive control over her entire life, treating her as a way to make money and criticize her every single step, literally. Winnie was a pageant queen and a social media influencer, she started at such young age and as soon as her mother saw the potential to make money out of this the abuse started.
But she's done, she finally execute the plan and run away to Star Mountain Horse Rescue in Montana, owned by her best friend Candice.
She arrives and she doesn't even get out of the car and hug her bff that she meets Jonah, that is the super grumpy ferrier, and they definitely don't like each other at first sight haha
But days go by, Winnie is trying to understand who she is now that she's not a pageant queen anymore, she lives with the constant fear that her parent will found her and take her back home and in this time Jonah start noticing her, that she's more then fake smile and that she's definitely hiding all the pain from her past.
But Winnie parents do find her and sue her, she's in desperate need of money and you'll know how she can get them? By marry someone, that's the rule to access her grandparents trust fund. You all also know who's in need of money because of medical bills? Jonah.
Winnie master up the courage and go to Jonah asking to marry her and now, he could say all he wants that it did it first because of selfish reason, but i don't believe him. He wanted to help Winnie so bad and finally got the opportunity.
The writing was amazing, i enjoyed it so much, this was the first book from Lucy Harper and it won't be the last!
If you're looking was good book with the marriage of convenience trope you should read this, stop. I swear you won't regret it!
Review of advance copy
Making Wild Vows left me almost speechless. This book wrecked me in the best way and rebuilt me completely by the ending. It is beautiful, messy, heartbreaking, and deeply human. I went in expecting romance, but what I found was a raw exploration of growing up, unlearning, and realizing that we are allowed to want more for ourselves. Healing isn’t simple — and even when you finally free yourself, that quiet little voice in your head can still creep back in.
Jonah and Winnie both carry so much. He wants to care for his family but doesn’t have the means, while she pours everything she has into people who take and take without giving back. Though Winnie’s world is rooted in pageantry, her struggles feel painfully familiar: be strong, smile, don’t complain, and never make waves. Watching her begin to question that narrative was powerful and emotional to witness.
This story also quietly but powerfully reminds you that asking for help can feel like weakness — like admitting you can’t handle things on your own. But in reality, being able to ask for help is an act of strength. It’s an opening, a vulnerability, and proof that there are people out there who will love you exactly as you are.
Just when I thought I knew where the story was going, the rug was pulled out from under me. I knew something was coming — but I was not prepared for the full weight of it. The twists, the tension, and the emotional depth make this a true roller coaster of a read. At its core, though, this is a story about finding your voice, choosing yourself, and discovering that family and love can be found in unexpected places.
If you love character-driven stories with heart, complexity, and a touch of angst — this one will stay with you
Jonah and Winnie both carry so much. He wants to care for his family but doesn’t have the means, while she pours everything she has into people who take and take without giving back. Though Winnie’s world is rooted in pageantry, her struggles feel painfully familiar: be strong, smile, don’t complain, and never make waves. Watching her begin to question that narrative was powerful and emotional to witness.
This story also quietly but powerfully reminds you that asking for help can feel like weakness — like admitting you can’t handle things on your own. But in reality, being able to ask for help is an act of strength. It’s an opening, a vulnerability, and proof that there are people out there who will love you exactly as you are.
Just when I thought I knew where the story was going, the rug was pulled out from under me. I knew something was coming — but I was not prepared for the full weight of it. The twists, the tension, and the emotional depth make this a true roller coaster of a read. At its core, though, this is a story about finding your voice, choosing yourself, and discovering that family and love can be found in unexpected places.
If you love character-driven stories with heart, complexity, and a touch of angst — this one will stay with you
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a great book this is. I was drawn to the story by the way Lucy wrote an engaging plot of a marriage of convenience.
I liked how this story incorporated suspense, with the FMC, Winsome 'Winnie' Grant, on the run, needing to escape her controlling parents.
At 26, pageant queen and influencer Winnie is ready to stop. The life she now leads was never her vision; it is a gilded cage, with her parents seizing her winnings and controlling every aspect of her existence, right down to her love life.
I had an instant affinity for Winnie, and I hoped her escape plan worked because I felt her nervous energy coming off the page.
I am glad Winnie has great friends who want to help her. Candice, who runs Star Mountain Horse Rescue along with her brother Beau, gives Winnie a place to stay and hide out. When she arrives after travelling for five days, she parks her car behind a truck. Sparks fly when the MMC, Jonah Smith, a farrier, comes around from the other side of the parked truck, expressing his annoyance at being blocked and calling Winnie a “Ditz”.
I relished the enraged banter between Winnie and Jonah. The insults are hilarious, and their chemistry simmers as they get to know and open up to one another.
It is beautiful how two people who started out exchanging insults find common ground and realise that there is more to them than just being a pageant queen or a grump. It’s at this point that you feel their connection getting stronger, and their protectiveness for each other develops. It’s this protectiveness that decides their outcome.
Lucy has written a beautifully crafted book that will have you falling for Winnie and Jonah. I can’t wait to read the continuation of this series.
I liked how this story incorporated suspense, with the FMC, Winsome 'Winnie' Grant, on the run, needing to escape her controlling parents.
At 26, pageant queen and influencer Winnie is ready to stop. The life she now leads was never her vision; it is a gilded cage, with her parents seizing her winnings and controlling every aspect of her existence, right down to her love life.
I had an instant affinity for Winnie, and I hoped her escape plan worked because I felt her nervous energy coming off the page.
I am glad Winnie has great friends who want to help her. Candice, who runs Star Mountain Horse Rescue along with her brother Beau, gives Winnie a place to stay and hide out. When she arrives after travelling for five days, she parks her car behind a truck. Sparks fly when the MMC, Jonah Smith, a farrier, comes around from the other side of the parked truck, expressing his annoyance at being blocked and calling Winnie a “Ditz”.
I relished the enraged banter between Winnie and Jonah. The insults are hilarious, and their chemistry simmers as they get to know and open up to one another.
It is beautiful how two people who started out exchanging insults find common ground and realise that there is more to them than just being a pageant queen or a grump. It’s at this point that you feel their connection getting stronger, and their protectiveness for each other develops. It’s this protectiveness that decides their outcome.
Lucy has written a beautifully crafted book that will have you falling for Winnie and Jonah. I can’t wait to read the continuation of this series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book tugged on my heart strings in every way possible. This is a true representation that your family isn’t always who you’re blood related to and it’s okay to go no contact when that’s the best option for your wellbeing.
I love a marriage of convenience because you always see the relationship between two people who otherwise wouldn’t be together grow into something beautiful.
Jonah is as grumpy as ever but has a soft side not everyone gets to see.
Winnie is an ex pageant queen and social media influencer who wants a fresh start after escaping her abusive parents.
You see both of these characters work through their struggles independently and together.
I love any book set on a farm and this one was no different.
* Found Family
* Small town
* Western
* Marriage of convenience
* Dirty talk
* Grumpy sunshine
—-
When escaping her abusive parents, Winnie ends up on a farm with her best friend in Montana. As she begins building this new life, her parents sure her for quitting her job without notice and require her to come back immediately. The only way she will be able to fight the lawsuit is to activate her trust fund. The only problem is she can’t receive it until she’s either 30 or married.
Jonah works as the farrier on a farm and his mom recently beat cancer. With that, she accrued over $50,000 in medical debt. Jonah is working endlessly to pay his parents’ bills but the money is still looming over his head. When this ex pageant queen ditz comes to town, she offers him an offer he can’t refuse - marry her so she can activate her trust fund and she will give him $100,000 of it.
TW: Abusive Relationship (financial, mental, and physical)
Thank you Lucy Harper and Love Notes PR for allowing me to be an ARC reader on this book.
I love a marriage of convenience because you always see the relationship between two people who otherwise wouldn’t be together grow into something beautiful.
Jonah is as grumpy as ever but has a soft side not everyone gets to see.
Winnie is an ex pageant queen and social media influencer who wants a fresh start after escaping her abusive parents.
You see both of these characters work through their struggles independently and together.
I love any book set on a farm and this one was no different.
* Found Family
* Small town
* Western
* Marriage of convenience
* Dirty talk
* Grumpy sunshine
—-
When escaping her abusive parents, Winnie ends up on a farm with her best friend in Montana. As she begins building this new life, her parents sure her for quitting her job without notice and require her to come back immediately. The only way she will be able to fight the lawsuit is to activate her trust fund. The only problem is she can’t receive it until she’s either 30 or married.
Jonah works as the farrier on a farm and his mom recently beat cancer. With that, she accrued over $50,000 in medical debt. Jonah is working endlessly to pay his parents’ bills but the money is still looming over his head. When this ex pageant queen ditz comes to town, she offers him an offer he can’t refuse - marry her so she can activate her trust fund and she will give him $100,000 of it.
TW: Abusive Relationship (financial, mental, and physical)
Thank you Lucy Harper and Love Notes PR for allowing me to be an ARC reader on this book.
February 15, 2026
Making Wild Vows is a small town, western, city girl x country boy, marriage of convenience romance.
I really enjoyed Making Wild Vows. From the first page I found myself hook in the story all the way to the end. The main characters of the story are Winnie and Jonah. Winnie is a past Miss Alabama, is basically looked like a social media darling but is deal with the controlling parent and their mental/emotionally abuse. This leads her to run away to Montana where she meets Jonah. Jonah is known as the barn’s grump. He super judgmental when Winnie enters him life. He as the hard exterior but underneath he is man that will do whatever he can to help his family. One thing I enjoyed about this book was watching the development off Winnie and Jonah relationship. From the time they first meet judgements they have toward each other’s. To be coming friends to realizing that their feelings might go past friends. I also love how they are there for each other and how they push/force each other.
Another things about the story, I though the writing was good. I also thought story was told at good pace and flowed well. The story was easy to follow and to understand. There is spicy scenes in the story. Those scenes were written well. They weren’t cheesy or over the top. Also I felt it was a the amount of spice scenes was good. The spice didn’t over shadow the story or it wasn’t too little where I found myself wishing there was more.
Overall, Making Wild Vows, is a good. The writing is good. The main characters were both relatable and likable. This is a story that once you start reading you won’t be able to out down till the end.
I really enjoyed Making Wild Vows. From the first page I found myself hook in the story all the way to the end. The main characters of the story are Winnie and Jonah. Winnie is a past Miss Alabama, is basically looked like a social media darling but is deal with the controlling parent and their mental/emotionally abuse. This leads her to run away to Montana where she meets Jonah. Jonah is known as the barn’s grump. He super judgmental when Winnie enters him life. He as the hard exterior but underneath he is man that will do whatever he can to help his family. One thing I enjoyed about this book was watching the development off Winnie and Jonah relationship. From the time they first meet judgements they have toward each other’s. To be coming friends to realizing that their feelings might go past friends. I also love how they are there for each other and how they push/force each other.
Another things about the story, I though the writing was good. I also thought story was told at good pace and flowed well. The story was easy to follow and to understand. There is spicy scenes in the story. Those scenes were written well. They weren’t cheesy or over the top. Also I felt it was a the amount of spice scenes was good. The spice didn’t over shadow the story or it wasn’t too little where I found myself wishing there was more.
Overall, Making Wild Vows, is a good. The writing is good. The main characters were both relatable and likable. This is a story that once you start reading you won’t be able to out down till the end.
February 12, 2026
4.25⭐️ rounded for Goodreads. Thank you to LoveNotes PR and the author for the E-ARC copy of this book!!🥰
This book was super cute!! I love me a good cowboy romance and this was no exception! Book 2 in an interconnected standalone series and I loved the vibes of it. I hadn’t read book one yet when I was reading this and it didn’t hinder the reading experience at all but definitely made me want to go back and read book one! Winnie and Jonah’s relationship developed perfectly in my eyes the pacing didn’t feel too rushed or too drawn out. I absolutely adore a marriage of convenience, forced proximity book and this delivered. Winnie’s relationship with Rosie too was super pure and I loved how they both grew together. And Jonah was the absolute greenest flag! He can sing, play guitar, carve wood and make things out of steel he’s a jack of all trades and so kind and protective of his loved ones. The only thing I didn’t fully love about this was the conflict at the end. I obviously don’t know what Winnie’s life must’ve been like it but felt like all the growth she made was cut down. While she was also trying to protect her loved ones i just didn’t love how she handled the situation. But don’t let that dissuade you from reading this book! I really loved it and also loved that the book was set around winter. I think a lot of cowboy romances are set in the summer and don’t get me wrong I love that too but this was a nice change up and nice to read in the winter. The perfect Valentine’s Day read for sure!!
This book was super cute!! I love me a good cowboy romance and this was no exception! Book 2 in an interconnected standalone series and I loved the vibes of it. I hadn’t read book one yet when I was reading this and it didn’t hinder the reading experience at all but definitely made me want to go back and read book one! Winnie and Jonah’s relationship developed perfectly in my eyes the pacing didn’t feel too rushed or too drawn out. I absolutely adore a marriage of convenience, forced proximity book and this delivered. Winnie’s relationship with Rosie too was super pure and I loved how they both grew together. And Jonah was the absolute greenest flag! He can sing, play guitar, carve wood and make things out of steel he’s a jack of all trades and so kind and protective of his loved ones. The only thing I didn’t fully love about this was the conflict at the end. I obviously don’t know what Winnie’s life must’ve been like it but felt like all the growth she made was cut down. While she was also trying to protect her loved ones i just didn’t love how she handled the situation. But don’t let that dissuade you from reading this book! I really loved it and also loved that the book was set around winter. I think a lot of cowboy romances are set in the summer and don’t get me wrong I love that too but this was a nice change up and nice to read in the winter. The perfect Valentine’s Day read for sure!!
February 5, 2026
4,75⭐️
ARC REVIEW
“He's a better man than I ever hoped I’d have. Back when I was a kid, I used to wish for someone just like him. Someone who would care about me openly, tenderly, truthfully. With no ulterion motives.”
•
Making wild vows is the second book in the “Star Mountain Horse Rescue” series, here you’ll find:
🐎Small town
💍Marriage of convenience
✨Forced proximity
🤠Grumpy x Sunshine
This was my first book by this author, and I absolutely loved it.
Winnie was such a great character, and I grew really attached to her. I loved how she knew she wanted something different for herself—and actually went after it. She wanted to find her true self, and she did, even though it wasn’t easy at all. Growing up in a dysfunctional family leaves you with that constant voice in your head, and silencing it takes so much strength. I really loved her growth throughout the book, as well as the found family that slowly formed along the way.
Jonah is a grumpy, quiet, and reserved soul who carries the heavy responsibility of paying off his mom’s medical bills. All he really wants is to write music and record an album. The arrangement he makes with Winnie starts because of that need, but it quickly turns into something much deeper and more meaningful than a simple marriage of convenience.
Jonah and Winnie’s relationship was so well done. They definitely didn’t start on the right foot, but little by little it became clear that they couldn’t stay away from each other. Their connection felt natural, emotional, and earned, which made their journey together even more satisfying to read.
Thank you so much to @lovenotes.pr & @lucyharperauthor for the ARC!
ARC REVIEW
“He's a better man than I ever hoped I’d have. Back when I was a kid, I used to wish for someone just like him. Someone who would care about me openly, tenderly, truthfully. With no ulterion motives.”
•
Making wild vows is the second book in the “Star Mountain Horse Rescue” series, here you’ll find:
🐎Small town
💍Marriage of convenience
✨Forced proximity
🤠Grumpy x Sunshine
This was my first book by this author, and I absolutely loved it.
Winnie was such a great character, and I grew really attached to her. I loved how she knew she wanted something different for herself—and actually went after it. She wanted to find her true self, and she did, even though it wasn’t easy at all. Growing up in a dysfunctional family leaves you with that constant voice in your head, and silencing it takes so much strength. I really loved her growth throughout the book, as well as the found family that slowly formed along the way.
Jonah is a grumpy, quiet, and reserved soul who carries the heavy responsibility of paying off his mom’s medical bills. All he really wants is to write music and record an album. The arrangement he makes with Winnie starts because of that need, but it quickly turns into something much deeper and more meaningful than a simple marriage of convenience.
Jonah and Winnie’s relationship was so well done. They definitely didn’t start on the right foot, but little by little it became clear that they couldn’t stay away from each other. Their connection felt natural, emotional, and earned, which made their journey together even more satisfying to read.
Thank you so much to @lovenotes.pr & @lucyharperauthor for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
It’s such a wonderful feeling to fall in love with a new book by an author you’ve never known before! This happened for me with Making Wild Vows by Lucy Harper. I literally could not put this book down and I was sad when it was over. I actually miss the characters!
First, the setting has my heart - Star Mountain Horse Rescue in Montana. The horses are so sweet and part of the healing process for Winnie, the female main character who escaped her caged life as famous pageant queen with cruel and controlling parents. Winnie finds refuge at the horse rescue with her best friend Candace. As she arrives, she meets the grumpy horse farrier, Jonah. Their first encounters are rough and it’s surprising to see Jonah’s true and kind character unfold as he steps up to help Winnie.
Eventually Winnie and Jonah end up in a marriage of convenience and it’s a delicious slow burn as we see them start to fall in love. Their sexual chemistry is HOT! The character development is lovely, and I found myself wanting to jump into the book to defend them against Winnie’s awful parents. The last few chapters were so exciting that I stayed up late into the night to finish the book. It has a very satisfying ending!
Making Wild Vows is book two in the Star Mountain Horse Rescue series and can be read as standalone. I just purchased book one, Roping Wild Dreams.
First, the setting has my heart - Star Mountain Horse Rescue in Montana. The horses are so sweet and part of the healing process for Winnie, the female main character who escaped her caged life as famous pageant queen with cruel and controlling parents. Winnie finds refuge at the horse rescue with her best friend Candace. As she arrives, she meets the grumpy horse farrier, Jonah. Their first encounters are rough and it’s surprising to see Jonah’s true and kind character unfold as he steps up to help Winnie.
Eventually Winnie and Jonah end up in a marriage of convenience and it’s a delicious slow burn as we see them start to fall in love. Their sexual chemistry is HOT! The character development is lovely, and I found myself wanting to jump into the book to defend them against Winnie’s awful parents. The last few chapters were so exciting that I stayed up late into the night to finish the book. It has a very satisfying ending!
Making Wild Vows is book two in the Star Mountain Horse Rescue series and can be read as standalone. I just purchased book one, Roping Wild Dreams.
February 4, 2026
Thank you to Lucy Harper and Love Notes PR for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Country romances always have my heart, and Making Wild Vows delivered in the best way. Discovering a new author and falling in love with their storytelling so quickly is such a special feeling—and Lucy Harper absolutely nailed it.
Winnie is such a beautifully written and complex character. Her growth throughout the story is incredibly rewarding, and she is so deeply deserving of everything she achieves. She’s fun, layered, and refreshingly different from characters I’ve read before, which made her journey even more engaging.
Jonah, despite his best efforts to convince you otherwise, is an absolute sweetheart, and the love he has for his people is everything. The dynamic between him and Winnie was one of my favourite parts of the book—their connection is natural, emotional, and so easy to root for because you can just tell how much they mean to each other."
The setting of Star Mountain Horse Rescue was the perfect backdrop for this story. It felt warm, meaningful, and integral to Winnie’s journey, rather than simply existing in the background.
Messy, heartfelt, and full of giggles alongside quiet heartbreaks, Making Wild Vows was such a joy to read. A beautifully emotional country romance that I won’t be forgetting anytime soon.
Country romances always have my heart, and Making Wild Vows delivered in the best way. Discovering a new author and falling in love with their storytelling so quickly is such a special feeling—and Lucy Harper absolutely nailed it.
Winnie is such a beautifully written and complex character. Her growth throughout the story is incredibly rewarding, and she is so deeply deserving of everything she achieves. She’s fun, layered, and refreshingly different from characters I’ve read before, which made her journey even more engaging.
Jonah, despite his best efforts to convince you otherwise, is an absolute sweetheart, and the love he has for his people is everything. The dynamic between him and Winnie was one of my favourite parts of the book—their connection is natural, emotional, and so easy to root for because you can just tell how much they mean to each other."
The setting of Star Mountain Horse Rescue was the perfect backdrop for this story. It felt warm, meaningful, and integral to Winnie’s journey, rather than simply existing in the background.
Messy, heartfelt, and full of giggles alongside quiet heartbreaks, Making Wild Vows was such a joy to read. A beautifully emotional country romance that I won’t be forgetting anytime soon.
February 9, 2026
I absolutely adored this story and writing style. It was such an easy read, but with real substance — romance, spice, and an engaging, interesting plot all wrapped together perfectly.
Winnie’s story is both heartbreaking and liberating. Reading about her family situation was incredibly sad, but the courage and bravery she shows from the very beginning was beautiful to witness. Her journey felt raw, emotional, and so empowering.
And Jonah… omg. A walking green flag. His tough exterior is easy to see through, and the way he cares for the horses is a clear window into his soft, loyal heart. He’s protective, kind, and exactly the kind of MMC you can’t help but fall for.
Their chemistry was unmatched. The relationship may be fast-paced, but it felt completely believable given how much time they spend in close quarters. This book really proves that love is about quality time, not quantity, and I loved watching their connection grow from tentative friendship into something deep and meaningful.
The setting was wonderful, and the side characters added so much depth to the story. Candice is the best friend we all need in our lives, and Jenny was such a sweet and supportive presence as well.
Thank you so much to the author for the ARC. If you love cowboys, small-town romance, and emotional yet swoony love stories, I highly recommend adding Making Wild Vows to your TBR 🤠💍
Winnie’s story is both heartbreaking and liberating. Reading about her family situation was incredibly sad, but the courage and bravery she shows from the very beginning was beautiful to witness. Her journey felt raw, emotional, and so empowering.
And Jonah… omg. A walking green flag. His tough exterior is easy to see through, and the way he cares for the horses is a clear window into his soft, loyal heart. He’s protective, kind, and exactly the kind of MMC you can’t help but fall for.
Their chemistry was unmatched. The relationship may be fast-paced, but it felt completely believable given how much time they spend in close quarters. This book really proves that love is about quality time, not quantity, and I loved watching their connection grow from tentative friendship into something deep and meaningful.
The setting was wonderful, and the side characters added so much depth to the story. Candice is the best friend we all need in our lives, and Jenny was such a sweet and supportive presence as well.
Thank you so much to the author for the ARC. If you love cowboys, small-town romance, and emotional yet swoony love stories, I highly recommend adding Making Wild Vows to your TBR 🤠💍
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2026
Having read Roping Wild Dreams last year I've been looking forward to more from this author and world! Back to Star Mountain Horse Rescue I went! I so enjoyed this story!
Winnie and Jonah's journey captured my attention quickly! Winnie is leaving everything behind and starting over. That's what has her heading to Montana and to her best friend, Candice. Jonah is the farrier at the Star Mountain Horse Rescue. Jonah and Winnie don't exactly get along at first, but as they enter a marriage of convenience could that change everything between them?
The moment Winnie and Jonah met I wanted to see how things would play out between these two! I loved seeing them be at the rescue together and be in a marriage of convenience. You really get to dig deeper with Jonah and Winnie and into their lives which I really appreciated. They were both so human as they took on personal things and their marriage.
Winnie was such a strong character! I so admired her and felt for her. The friendship that she and Candice shared was so sweet. Seeing her taking on things and her feelings for Jonah got me in the heart. Jonah was a really dedicated and caring soul, especially when it came to those he loved and the horses. The way Winnie got to him was great to see.
Jonah and Winnie had me feeling so much with them! Seeing them truly get to know one another and things blossom between them brought me joy.
I so enjoyed being back at Star Mountain Horse Rescue and reuniting with familiar faces and the horses!
With Making Wild Vows, Ms.Harper has created such a good marriage of convenience romance that brought realness, grumpy x sunshine, horses, and heart!
Check out the author's content warning note.
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Love Notes PR / the author*
Winnie and Jonah's journey captured my attention quickly! Winnie is leaving everything behind and starting over. That's what has her heading to Montana and to her best friend, Candice. Jonah is the farrier at the Star Mountain Horse Rescue. Jonah and Winnie don't exactly get along at first, but as they enter a marriage of convenience could that change everything between them?
The moment Winnie and Jonah met I wanted to see how things would play out between these two! I loved seeing them be at the rescue together and be in a marriage of convenience. You really get to dig deeper with Jonah and Winnie and into their lives which I really appreciated. They were both so human as they took on personal things and their marriage.
Winnie was such a strong character! I so admired her and felt for her. The friendship that she and Candice shared was so sweet. Seeing her taking on things and her feelings for Jonah got me in the heart. Jonah was a really dedicated and caring soul, especially when it came to those he loved and the horses. The way Winnie got to him was great to see.
Jonah and Winnie had me feeling so much with them! Seeing them truly get to know one another and things blossom between them brought me joy.
I so enjoyed being back at Star Mountain Horse Rescue and reuniting with familiar faces and the horses!
With Making Wild Vows, Ms.Harper has created such a good marriage of convenience romance that brought realness, grumpy x sunshine, horses, and heart!
Check out the author's content warning note.
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Love Notes PR / the author*
February 3, 2026
Making Wild Vows was such a great read!! This is the story of Winnie, a beauty queen on the run from her controlling parents, seeking refuge at the Star Mountain Horse Rescue. There, she meets Jonah, the local farrier, and they agree to a marriage of convenience.
Making Wild Vows is such a sweet story, the central romance feels earnest, and the entire cast of characters is wonderful, the FMC and MMC are lovely, and the side characters flesh out a sweet small town atmosphere. Winnie is warm and kind, and the reader falls in love with her just as easily as Jonah does. Jonah is just as kind, a gruff exterior hiding a large heart, and the soul of a musician.
I admit to kicking my feet and giggling when Winnie is referred to as “cowgirl Barbie”, the setting of a horse rescue made my horse girly heart warm. I also personally loved the musical sub-plot, it was really sweet seeing Winnie and Jonah bond over their love of music. Pacing is great too, I couldn’t put this down, and read it in less than a day.
Making Wild Vows is great, I highly recommend it if you are looking for your next romantic read! Huge thank you to Love Notes PR and the author for providing an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Making Wild Vows is such a sweet story, the central romance feels earnest, and the entire cast of characters is wonderful, the FMC and MMC are lovely, and the side characters flesh out a sweet small town atmosphere. Winnie is warm and kind, and the reader falls in love with her just as easily as Jonah does. Jonah is just as kind, a gruff exterior hiding a large heart, and the soul of a musician.
I admit to kicking my feet and giggling when Winnie is referred to as “cowgirl Barbie”, the setting of a horse rescue made my horse girly heart warm. I also personally loved the musical sub-plot, it was really sweet seeing Winnie and Jonah bond over their love of music. Pacing is great too, I couldn’t put this down, and read it in less than a day.
Making Wild Vows is great, I highly recommend it if you are looking for your next romantic read! Huge thank you to Love Notes PR and the author for providing an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 8, 2026
I recieved this as an ARC
OH. MY. FUCKING. GOD..
WINNIE AND JONAH??? I am absolutely in love with them. I love a good marriage of convenience trope. I read this in one sitting because I couldn’t put it down.
I was kicking my feet and screaming and just i cant put into words how much i love their relationship. I did really like how truthful they were with each other, as well as the people around them, and it genuinely was such a healthy relationship from the start and gave it a good place to grow. Both of them were able to grow and learn to communicate, even if they weren’t there 100% yet. And I thoroughly loved that she explained. That made me SO HAPPY and really emphasized how healthy they are.
Plus their chemistry, and their friends knowing they wouldn’t be able to keep their hands off each other once they got married was so funny since these two were so stubborn and didn’t give in for such a long time because “the other doesn’t think of me like that” and the will they wont they became a “when” not an “if” and when they do…. Whew they are HOT together.
I absolutely adore this series and her writing, and i cannot wait to see who comes next and fall more in love with this little town in Montana.
OH. MY. FUCKING. GOD..
WINNIE AND JONAH??? I am absolutely in love with them. I love a good marriage of convenience trope. I read this in one sitting because I couldn’t put it down.
I was kicking my feet and screaming and just i cant put into words how much i love their relationship. I did really like how truthful they were with each other, as well as the people around them, and it genuinely was such a healthy relationship from the start and gave it a good place to grow. Both of them were able to grow and learn to communicate, even if they weren’t there 100% yet. And I thoroughly loved that she explained. That made me SO HAPPY and really emphasized how healthy they are.
Plus their chemistry, and their friends knowing they wouldn’t be able to keep their hands off each other once they got married was so funny since these two were so stubborn and didn’t give in for such a long time because “the other doesn’t think of me like that” and the will they wont they became a “when” not an “if” and when they do…. Whew they are HOT together.
I absolutely adore this series and her writing, and i cannot wait to see who comes next and fall more in love with this little town in Montana.
Review of advance copy
Absolutely gorgeous grumpy x sunshine cowboy romance.
There is something about a farrier that makes you instantly think grumpy and Jonah is the absolute poster boy for this. Tattooed, scarred from former relationships and struggling for money, he does not take to a former paegant queen gracing his hometown.
Their marriage of convenience is well done, and I love the little moments of connection that open their eyes beyond their pre-conceived notions of who the other was.
The tension that Lucy creates when it come to Winnie's parents helped keep the plot moving as you knew something was coming around the corner, you just didn't know when. The only thing I would say is that parts of the storyline, especially towards the end, did feel rushed and I would've liked 20-50 more pages to create a slightly longer timeline or more depth to the last third of the book.
Having said that, I am a cowboy romance reader through and through and I will definitely be picking up Book 3. So if you like your cowboys with dirty mouths, a run down bar, a marriage of convenience and some stunning rescue horses pick this up.
Huge thanks to Lucy Harper and Love Notes PR for the arc copy of this book.
There is something about a farrier that makes you instantly think grumpy and Jonah is the absolute poster boy for this. Tattooed, scarred from former relationships and struggling for money, he does not take to a former paegant queen gracing his hometown.
Their marriage of convenience is well done, and I love the little moments of connection that open their eyes beyond their pre-conceived notions of who the other was.
The tension that Lucy creates when it come to Winnie's parents helped keep the plot moving as you knew something was coming around the corner, you just didn't know when. The only thing I would say is that parts of the storyline, especially towards the end, did feel rushed and I would've liked 20-50 more pages to create a slightly longer timeline or more depth to the last third of the book.
Having said that, I am a cowboy romance reader through and through and I will definitely be picking up Book 3. So if you like your cowboys with dirty mouths, a run down bar, a marriage of convenience and some stunning rescue horses pick this up.
Huge thanks to Lucy Harper and Love Notes PR for the arc copy of this book.
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