What do you think?
Rate this book
Dear Rodeo
She was looking for an adventure… he never expected her to show up on his ranch.Lola-Mae has never done anything reckless in her life. West Texas is her whole world–and until now, she’s been perfectly content staying safe inside it.
Then a job offer in Granite Falls lands in her inbox.
On the urging of her best friend, Lola-Mae loads up her beat-up, oxidized once green 4Runner and heads straight for the Hill Country, chasing a thrill she’s not sure she’s brave enough to want.
Harlan Blackmoore prefers cattle and wide-open land to people. Hiring a secretary from West Texas who doesn’t know anyone feels like a smart decision. She’ll focus on her job. There will be no distractions.
Until she walks into his office.
One look is all it takes to unravel him. Lola-Mae is temptation wrapped in innocence, and Harlan wants her in ways he’s never wanted anyone before. The problem? He doesn’t know how to say it out loud.
So he writes it.
Naughty little notes. Filthy promises. Words meant only for her eyes–left where only she’ll find them.
Lola-Mae is falling for the man behind the messages.
And the quiet, possessive cowboy watching her blush from across the room is running out of time before his secrets–his self-control–shatters.
This Valentine’s Day eight of your favorite instalove authors have something special just for you!
Our secret admirers are done pining and yearning. They’re more than ready to spring into action to be able to call their valentine mine. Pushed to the edge, these book boyfriends have been craving their women for too long and will do anything to claim them. From sweet nothings, whispered spicy dirty talk or sexy love notes, there is nothing they won't do to get their women.
Get ready for all the happily ever afters and swoon worthy moments that will guarantee to make your heart pitter patter with joy.
Then a job offer in Granite Falls lands in her inbox.
On the urging of her best friend, Lola-Mae loads up her beat-up, oxidized once green 4Runner and heads straight for the Hill Country, chasing a thrill she’s not sure she’s brave enough to want.
Harlan Blackmoore prefers cattle and wide-open land to people. Hiring a secretary from West Texas who doesn’t know anyone feels like a smart decision. She’ll focus on her job. There will be no distractions.
Until she walks into his office.
One look is all it takes to unravel him. Lola-Mae is temptation wrapped in innocence, and Harlan wants her in ways he’s never wanted anyone before. The problem? He doesn’t know how to say it out loud.
So he writes it.
Naughty little notes. Filthy promises. Words meant only for her eyes–left where only she’ll find them.
Lola-Mae is falling for the man behind the messages.
And the quiet, possessive cowboy watching her blush from across the room is running out of time before his secrets–his self-control–shatters.
This Valentine’s Day eight of your favorite instalove authors have something special just for you!
Our secret admirers are done pining and yearning. They’re more than ready to spring into action to be able to call their valentine mine. Pushed to the edge, these book boyfriends have been craving their women for too long and will do anything to claim them. From sweet nothings, whispered spicy dirty talk or sexy love notes, there is nothing they won't do to get their women.
Get ready for all the happily ever afters and swoon worthy moments that will guarantee to make your heart pitter patter with joy.
114 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 4, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
February 11, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 🌶️🌶️
This is a sweet and spicy Insta-love cowboy romance. This was an entertaining quick read. The banter was great, the characters were good and the idea of the little notes was cute. The chemistry between the characters was hot and the spice was good. If you want a quick spicy cowboy romance, then this would be a good choice.
This is a sweet and spicy Insta-love cowboy romance. This was an entertaining quick read. The banter was great, the characters were good and the idea of the little notes was cute. The chemistry between the characters was hot and the spice was good. If you want a quick spicy cowboy romance, then this would be a good choice.
February 22, 2026
WOW!! Fab*u*lous Absolutely love this one!! I couldn't put this one down. This was a nice quick, short read.
Harlan and Lola-Mae met when she comes to Granite Falls for a job he's offering to be his secretary. Harlan needs someone to get his ranch in order, he's behind in paying some of his bills. Lola-Mae applied to a job offer and moved to a different town. When Lola-Mae arrives Harlan shows her the house she'll be living in then invites her up to the main house for dinner. Lola-Mae gets her things unpacked then goes to the house to have dinner with Harlan. Lola-Mae asks Harlan about the job and he tells her what he needs. Over the next several days Lola-Mae gets the office organized and pays some of Harlan's bills. Harlan watches Lola-Mae he's never wanted anyone as much as he wants her. When Lola-Mae watches Harlan ride off on his horse she never met anyone so grumpy that she's wanted. Lola-Mae finds a note on a sticky pad and wonders who Harlan wrote it to. Harlan comes in from fixing the fences and offers Lola-Mae lunch he's not sure why he did it. Soon Lola-Mae finds another note on the sticky pad sitting at her desk. When she calls her friend back home she's told to make a move on Harlan. Harlan comes home to find dinner made by Lola-Mae. Harlan and Lola-Mae enjoy dinner and he knows he needs to tell her about his family. Harlan kisses Lola-Mae then he takes her to his bedroom where they make love. Harlan wants Lola-Mae to stay with him but she wakes to find he needs to head out and check on his cattle. When Harlan comes back he finds Lola-Mae in the kitchen making him breakfast. Harlan takes Lola-Mae back to bed where they make love. Over the next few weeks, Lola-Mae stay in the main house with Harlan and they start a relationship. Harlan tells Lola-Mae he loves her and she tells him she loves him too. Harlan takes Lola-Mae out to lunch and they have a picnic. Harlan opens up to Lola-Mae about his family and she tells him about hers.
When Lola-Mae is invited to a bonfire at another ranch Harlan tells her that they'll go together. One year later, Lola-Mae goes to her office and finds a bouquet of flowers that Harlan left for her. Along with the flowers is a note for Lola-Mae. Two years later, Harlan and Lola-Mae are husband and wife. Two months later, Lola-Mae is afraid to tell Harlan she's pregnant but he already knows. Seven months later, Lola-Mae gives birth to a girl and she couldn't be happier. Harlan knows he'll protect his girls. Lola-Mae's life is a dream come true, it's all hers and she's never letting go.
Harlan and Lola-Mae met when she comes to Granite Falls for a job he's offering to be his secretary. Harlan needs someone to get his ranch in order, he's behind in paying some of his bills. Lola-Mae applied to a job offer and moved to a different town. When Lola-Mae arrives Harlan shows her the house she'll be living in then invites her up to the main house for dinner. Lola-Mae gets her things unpacked then goes to the house to have dinner with Harlan. Lola-Mae asks Harlan about the job and he tells her what he needs. Over the next several days Lola-Mae gets the office organized and pays some of Harlan's bills. Harlan watches Lola-Mae he's never wanted anyone as much as he wants her. When Lola-Mae watches Harlan ride off on his horse she never met anyone so grumpy that she's wanted. Lola-Mae finds a note on a sticky pad and wonders who Harlan wrote it to. Harlan comes in from fixing the fences and offers Lola-Mae lunch he's not sure why he did it. Soon Lola-Mae finds another note on the sticky pad sitting at her desk. When she calls her friend back home she's told to make a move on Harlan. Harlan comes home to find dinner made by Lola-Mae. Harlan and Lola-Mae enjoy dinner and he knows he needs to tell her about his family. Harlan kisses Lola-Mae then he takes her to his bedroom where they make love. Harlan wants Lola-Mae to stay with him but she wakes to find he needs to head out and check on his cattle. When Harlan comes back he finds Lola-Mae in the kitchen making him breakfast. Harlan takes Lola-Mae back to bed where they make love. Over the next few weeks, Lola-Mae stay in the main house with Harlan and they start a relationship. Harlan tells Lola-Mae he loves her and she tells him she loves him too. Harlan takes Lola-Mae out to lunch and they have a picnic. Harlan opens up to Lola-Mae about his family and she tells him about hers.
When Lola-Mae is invited to a bonfire at another ranch Harlan tells her that they'll go together. One year later, Lola-Mae goes to her office and finds a bouquet of flowers that Harlan left for her. Along with the flowers is a note for Lola-Mae. Two years later, Harlan and Lola-Mae are husband and wife. Two months later, Lola-Mae is afraid to tell Harlan she's pregnant but he already knows. Seven months later, Lola-Mae gives birth to a girl and she couldn't be happier. Harlan knows he'll protect his girls. Lola-Mae's life is a dream come true, it's all hers and she's never letting go.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy
Dear Rodeo absolutely wrecked me in the best possible way. I came for a cute cowboy romance and left feral about handwritten notes, shy glances, and one very quiet, very possessive rancher who says everything with his pen because his mouth cannot keep up with his feelings.
Lola-Mae is that kind of heroine you instantly want to protect and cheer for. Soft but not weak. Careful but brave enough to load up her sad little oxidized green 4Runner and chase a maybe. Watching her step outside her comfort zone felt tender and real, like growth that sneaks up on you instead of kicking the door down. I adored her.
And Harlan Blackmoore. Sir. The restraint. The yearning. The internal panic every time Lola-Mae breathes in his direction. Give me a cowboy who prefers cattle to people but absolutely loses his mind over one woman and I will fold every time. The secret notes. The filthy promises written instead of spoken. The way he watches her blush and just quietly burns. I was screaming into the void.
This book is instalove done right. It’s soft and spicy, sweet and filthy, all wrapped in Hill Country dust and Valentine’s Day longing. Every note felt intimate, like I was intruding on something private. The tension builds in these delicious little increments until you’re begging Harlan to just say it already.
By the end I was grinning like an idiot, fully in love with Lola-Mae and Harlan, and emotionally attached to a fictional ranch I never want to leave. Short, swoony, and dangerously addictive.
If you like shy cowboys, bold feelings, love notes that make your knees weak, and happily-ever-afters that feel earned, this one’s for you. I loved them. Still thinking about them. Probably always will. 🤠💌📜
Lola-Mae is that kind of heroine you instantly want to protect and cheer for. Soft but not weak. Careful but brave enough to load up her sad little oxidized green 4Runner and chase a maybe. Watching her step outside her comfort zone felt tender and real, like growth that sneaks up on you instead of kicking the door down. I adored her.
And Harlan Blackmoore. Sir. The restraint. The yearning. The internal panic every time Lola-Mae breathes in his direction. Give me a cowboy who prefers cattle to people but absolutely loses his mind over one woman and I will fold every time. The secret notes. The filthy promises written instead of spoken. The way he watches her blush and just quietly burns. I was screaming into the void.
This book is instalove done right. It’s soft and spicy, sweet and filthy, all wrapped in Hill Country dust and Valentine’s Day longing. Every note felt intimate, like I was intruding on something private. The tension builds in these delicious little increments until you’re begging Harlan to just say it already.
By the end I was grinning like an idiot, fully in love with Lola-Mae and Harlan, and emotionally attached to a fictional ranch I never want to leave. Short, swoony, and dangerously addictive.
If you like shy cowboys, bold feelings, love notes that make your knees weak, and happily-ever-afters that feel earned, this one’s for you. I loved them. Still thinking about them. Probably always will. 🤠💌📜
February 10, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️🌶️🌶️
So much spice, romance, and swooning is packed into this novella by Hayley James! Part of the Naughty Notes collaboration series, Dear Rodeo is a quick and easy to read love story that brings back love notes in a big way. I loved how our two MCs fell for each other both on paper and in life. The written word is powerful, as most of us readers know, and can awaken things within you that you never thought possible.
Lola-Mae and Harlan could easily set this book on fire. The heat that rolls off these two is impossible to not feel from the moment they meet. Both taking a chance on something new may just prove to be the best decision either of them has ever made. Lola-Mae is sweet and kind, while strong and brave. She is the girl who turns every head when she walks in a room, but doesn’t notice. And Harlan is the man who not only notices her but wants to make her his. He fell hard for her from the moment he laid eyes on her. He holds nothing back after that, leaving notes for her to find, sharing things about himself and how she makes him feel.
I could have easily read a full length novel about these two and adore Hayley’s writing no matter what. I loved seeing a world written by her that is outside of the ice rink and man, can she write cowboys! Nothing was missing from this book, Hayley provides a story that is full of heart. I can’t wait to read more in this series from the other authors as well! I really enjoyed this short love story and everything that Hayley brought to it.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
💌Secret Admirer
🪻Grumpy MMC
💌Office Romance
🪻Cowboy Romance
💌Small Town Romance
🪻He Falls First
So much spice, romance, and swooning is packed into this novella by Hayley James! Part of the Naughty Notes collaboration series, Dear Rodeo is a quick and easy to read love story that brings back love notes in a big way. I loved how our two MCs fell for each other both on paper and in life. The written word is powerful, as most of us readers know, and can awaken things within you that you never thought possible.
Lola-Mae and Harlan could easily set this book on fire. The heat that rolls off these two is impossible to not feel from the moment they meet. Both taking a chance on something new may just prove to be the best decision either of them has ever made. Lola-Mae is sweet and kind, while strong and brave. She is the girl who turns every head when she walks in a room, but doesn’t notice. And Harlan is the man who not only notices her but wants to make her his. He fell hard for her from the moment he laid eyes on her. He holds nothing back after that, leaving notes for her to find, sharing things about himself and how she makes him feel.
I could have easily read a full length novel about these two and adore Hayley’s writing no matter what. I loved seeing a world written by her that is outside of the ice rink and man, can she write cowboys! Nothing was missing from this book, Hayley provides a story that is full of heart. I can’t wait to read more in this series from the other authors as well! I really enjoyed this short love story and everything that Hayley brought to it.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
💌Secret Admirer
🪻Grumpy MMC
💌Office Romance
🪻Cowboy Romance
💌Small Town Romance
🪻He Falls First
February 7, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Quiet yearning, cowboy devotion, and filthy little notes done right
Dear Rodeo is soft, swoony, and sneaky-hot in that way where you don’t realize how deep you’re in until your heart is already galloping.
Lola-Mae is such a refreshing heroine—careful, grounded, and quietly brave. I loved that her “reckless” moment isn’t wild or impulsive, but simply choosing herself for once. Packing up her beat-up 4Runner and heading to Granite Falls felt real, relatable, and earned.
And Harlan Blackmoore? Oh, he’s the dangerous kind of quiet. The broody rancher who doesn’t talk about his feelings but writes them instead? Absolutely lethal. His restraint, his awkward longing, the way he watches her blush while pretending to be nothing more than her boss—perfection. The notes are filthy, tender, and intimate in a way that feels deeply personal, not performative. Every one of them peeled back another layer of his control.
The tension builds beautifully, and when his self-control finally cracks, it’s incredibly satisfying. Possessive without being cruel, protective without smothering—Harlan is the kind of book boyfriend who doesn’t shout his devotion. He shows it, line by line, note by note.
Sweet, spicy, and emotionally cozy with just enough heat to make your toes curl. This one left me smiling and swooning long after the last page. 💌🤠🔥.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Dear Rodeo is soft, swoony, and sneaky-hot in that way where you don’t realize how deep you’re in until your heart is already galloping.
Lola-Mae is such a refreshing heroine—careful, grounded, and quietly brave. I loved that her “reckless” moment isn’t wild or impulsive, but simply choosing herself for once. Packing up her beat-up 4Runner and heading to Granite Falls felt real, relatable, and earned.
And Harlan Blackmoore? Oh, he’s the dangerous kind of quiet. The broody rancher who doesn’t talk about his feelings but writes them instead? Absolutely lethal. His restraint, his awkward longing, the way he watches her blush while pretending to be nothing more than her boss—perfection. The notes are filthy, tender, and intimate in a way that feels deeply personal, not performative. Every one of them peeled back another layer of his control.
The tension builds beautifully, and when his self-control finally cracks, it’s incredibly satisfying. Possessive without being cruel, protective without smothering—Harlan is the kind of book boyfriend who doesn’t shout his devotion. He shows it, line by line, note by note.
Sweet, spicy, and emotionally cozy with just enough heat to make your toes curl. This one left me smiling and swooning long after the last page. 💌🤠🔥.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Dear Rodeo by Hayley James is the first title I've read by this author and as part of the multi author Naughty Notes series I wasn't disappointed.
As an instalove, small town cowboy romance the plot and storyline was completely engaging especially with the main characters of Harlan, the grumpy loner rancher, and Lola-Mae, a younger and adventurous woman, that has moved across Texas to take up a job on Harlan's ranch, sight unseen.
Harlan regrets his decision to hire Lola-Mae immediately due to the instant desire and attraction he feels towards her. Aside from the fact that he is her boss, he is also shy and not good with words and subsequently is frustrated by his growing feelings.
The attraction is mutual but its Harlan that acts first with small gestures of kindness followed by secret admirer notes left for Lola-Mae in the office.
The chemistry sizzles and Lola-Mae breaks the stalemate and some steam and spiciness ensue which kept me turning the pages wanting to see how their HEA turned out.
It was definitely an entertaining read and I look forward to trying other stories by this author.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
As an instalove, small town cowboy romance the plot and storyline was completely engaging especially with the main characters of Harlan, the grumpy loner rancher, and Lola-Mae, a younger and adventurous woman, that has moved across Texas to take up a job on Harlan's ranch, sight unseen.
Harlan regrets his decision to hire Lola-Mae immediately due to the instant desire and attraction he feels towards her. Aside from the fact that he is her boss, he is also shy and not good with words and subsequently is frustrated by his growing feelings.
The attraction is mutual but its Harlan that acts first with small gestures of kindness followed by secret admirer notes left for Lola-Mae in the office.
The chemistry sizzles and Lola-Mae breaks the stalemate and some steam and spiciness ensue which kept me turning the pages wanting to see how their HEA turned out.
It was definitely an entertaining read and I look forward to trying other stories by this author.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 8, 2026
Ready to fall head-over-boots just in time for Valentine’s Day? Dear Rodeo by Hayley James is a swoony, flirty cowboy novella that delivers all the heart-fluttering vibes.
If you’re craving a quick, feel-good romance with a side of heat and charm, this little novella is exactly the mood. Enter Harlan — rugged, gruff, prefers cattle over people… and somehow even more irresistible because of it. Honestly, the only thing better than reading about him would be having him show up in person (a girl can dream).
Lola-Mae isn’t usually the reckless type, but taking a job as secretary to a reclusive rancher who keeps to himself? That’s definitely a leap. She’s not looking for adventure — yet adventure finds her anyway when she steps onto Harlan’s ranch and straight into his carefully controlled world. Hiring someone from outside his small town felt like a safe choice… what Harlan didn’t expect was Lola-Mae turning his quiet routine completely upside down.
Their chemistry builds beautifully, with playful banter, unexpected tenderness, and those adorable little Post-it notes that will absolutely melt your heart. It’s flirty, fun, and effortlessly swoon-worthy — the kind of romance that leaves you smiling long after you finish.
Dear Rodeo is part of the Naughty Notes collection — eight interconnected novellas by different authors — and this is Hayley James at her very best. Short, steamy, and packed with charm, it’s the perfect Valentine’s Day read for anyone who loves cowboys, workplace romance, and a hero who falls hard when he least expects it. 💕🤠
If you’re craving a quick, feel-good romance with a side of heat and charm, this little novella is exactly the mood. Enter Harlan — rugged, gruff, prefers cattle over people… and somehow even more irresistible because of it. Honestly, the only thing better than reading about him would be having him show up in person (a girl can dream).
Lola-Mae isn’t usually the reckless type, but taking a job as secretary to a reclusive rancher who keeps to himself? That’s definitely a leap. She’s not looking for adventure — yet adventure finds her anyway when she steps onto Harlan’s ranch and straight into his carefully controlled world. Hiring someone from outside his small town felt like a safe choice… what Harlan didn’t expect was Lola-Mae turning his quiet routine completely upside down.
Their chemistry builds beautifully, with playful banter, unexpected tenderness, and those adorable little Post-it notes that will absolutely melt your heart. It’s flirty, fun, and effortlessly swoon-worthy — the kind of romance that leaves you smiling long after you finish.
Dear Rodeo is part of the Naughty Notes collection — eight interconnected novellas by different authors — and this is Hayley James at her very best. Short, steamy, and packed with charm, it’s the perfect Valentine’s Day read for anyone who loves cowboys, workplace romance, and a hero who falls hard when he least expects it. 💕🤠
February 15, 2026
ARC Review
Book: Dear Rodeo
Author: Hayley James
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book is part of the Naughty Notes Series
Harlan needs a secretary to help him keep organized in his ranch office. Lola-Mae needs a new job after she lost hers. She decides to move and start fresh. What she does not expect is the grumpy, but handsome cowboy to be her boss.
They both try their best to keep their distance, however is easier said than done. Especially for Harland who really wants her. But since he is really shy, he decides to write Lola- Mae naughty little notes which he leaves them on her desk.
When Lola-Mae finds the first one, she thinks it might be an old note to someone else, but when she finds the second one, she knows Harland wrote them for her.
When they decide to give them a chance to a relationship, sparks fly and they can’t get their hands off each other.
I enjoyed this book from page one, and I loved Harlan and Lola-Mae so much, I wish their story would never end. If you love age gap, Small town, spicy office romance, grumpy, cowboy alpha hero, this book is for you.
Book: Dear Rodeo
Author: Hayley James
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book is part of the Naughty Notes Series
Harlan needs a secretary to help him keep organized in his ranch office. Lola-Mae needs a new job after she lost hers. She decides to move and start fresh. What she does not expect is the grumpy, but handsome cowboy to be her boss.
They both try their best to keep their distance, however is easier said than done. Especially for Harland who really wants her. But since he is really shy, he decides to write Lola- Mae naughty little notes which he leaves them on her desk.
When Lola-Mae finds the first one, she thinks it might be an old note to someone else, but when she finds the second one, she knows Harland wrote them for her.
When they decide to give them a chance to a relationship, sparks fly and they can’t get their hands off each other.
I enjoyed this book from page one, and I loved Harlan and Lola-Mae so much, I wish their story would never end. If you love age gap, Small town, spicy office romance, grumpy, cowboy alpha hero, this book is for you.
February 2, 2026
Dear Rodeo was absolutely adorable. Lola-Mae pleasantly surprised me as a character, especially when she’s faced with a difficult decision after losing her job. Instead of playing it safe, she packs up her truck and drives hours away from home to take a secretary position for Harlan Blackmoore—a solitary cowboy who prefers his quiet life on the ranch. A flirty note sets things in motion, and from there the sparks fly as both take a chance on something unexpected. Harlan is older than Lola-Mae, and I’m a sucker for a well-done age-gap romance. He’s especially endearing in how nervous and awkward he becomes around her, and I loved seeing a tough cowboy coming undone by the woman he’s falling for. Both Lola-Mae and Harlan describe him as a grump, but to me, that just made him even more lovable.
February 5, 2026
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephaine's Book Reports.
Lola-Mae is a girl who likes her life safe and sound. So it was odd for her to take a job as a secretary for a reclusive rancher. The man certainly knows how to keep to himself. She is a woman who is not into adventure, but she is about to embark on an adventure she will never forget. She is now entering Harlan's ranch and his world that is carefully crafted and controlled. He thought she was a safe choice since she wasn't from his small town. But what he gets is a woman who turns his world upside down. I love the chemistry these two have between them. Their banter will have your heart melting and the post it notes, well I was living for those. These two are so much fun to read about. You do not want to miss this book.
Lola-Mae is a girl who likes her life safe and sound. So it was odd for her to take a job as a secretary for a reclusive rancher. The man certainly knows how to keep to himself. She is a woman who is not into adventure, but she is about to embark on an adventure she will never forget. She is now entering Harlan's ranch and his world that is carefully crafted and controlled. He thought she was a safe choice since she wasn't from his small town. But what he gets is a woman who turns his world upside down. I love the chemistry these two have between them. Their banter will have your heart melting and the post it notes, well I was living for those. These two are so much fun to read about. You do not want to miss this book.
February 15, 2026
Harlan Blackmoore preferred cattle and wide open land to people. He needed help. Lola-Mae was looking for an adventure away from the life she was living. Granite Falls offered her that adventure. These two have instant chemistry but Harlan has a very difficult time expressing his feelings. So he decides to leave her naughty notes only where she will be the one finding them. These notes are filled of naughty promises that Lola-Mae really hopes that Harlan can fulfill. Will these two be able to get past the shyness that is between them and find happy ever after? I absolutely loved this amazing story. It was instalove done right. Every single note felt intimate private like you were invading a private moment between the two of them. A great beginning to the Naughty Notes series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
After finding herself unemployed, Lola-Mae accepts a position in Granite Falls and leaves her West Texas home behind. When she arrives at the ranch, she has no idea she’s been hired as secretary to the gruff—but undeniably handsome—Harlan Blackmoore. Harlan prefers the quiet, uncomplicated life of the ranch, especially after enduring painful loss in his family. But Lola-Mae’s arrival turns his world upside down. He quickly realizes he’s hired a woman he can’t stop thinking about—and wants in a way he hasn’t wanted anyone before. When Lola-Mae begins discovering mysterious love and sexy notes left on her desk, she decides she might as well take a chance on the cowboy. Maybe, they’re exactly what each other needs.
Review of advance copy
💌You went from a stranger to someone I can't stop thinking about. -Cowboy💌
A short, sweet, sexy, a little spicy cowboy romance. 🤠🔥
Old-school vibes. It took me straight back to the Harlequin novels I was obsessed with about fifteen years ago. I devoured this in one sitting (around two hours!), which was exactly what I needed after a streak of chunky reads.
The MMC? A broody, shy, true cowboy who’d rather pour his heart out on paper than say the words out loud ... simply perfect. And the FMC is everything I love. She's strong, brave, and unafraid to completely change her life.
Workplace romance, grumpy and sunshine, possessive cowboy, secret admirer, instalove ... basically a Valentine’s Day mood in book form ❤️🌹
📖 Dear, Rodeo by Hayley James (ARC) 🤠
A short, sweet, sexy, a little spicy cowboy romance. 🤠🔥
Old-school vibes. It took me straight back to the Harlequin novels I was obsessed with about fifteen years ago. I devoured this in one sitting (around two hours!), which was exactly what I needed after a streak of chunky reads.
The MMC? A broody, shy, true cowboy who’d rather pour his heart out on paper than say the words out loud ... simply perfect. And the FMC is everything I love. She's strong, brave, and unafraid to completely change her life.
Workplace romance, grumpy and sunshine, possessive cowboy, secret admirer, instalove ... basically a Valentine’s Day mood in book form ❤️🌹
📖 Dear, Rodeo by Hayley James (ARC) 🤠
February 6, 2026
Lola-Mae lost her job and there was not many opportunities in her small town, so after a lot of wine she and her friend filled out an online profile to relocate. Then she gets a call from Harland Blackmoore and she has agreed to move to East Texas for an office manager job. Harland contradictory to his name, is not an old man but hot and sexy thirty something male. The pair have an instant attraction, but they are employee and employer. Everything changes when he writes her a note and is distracted and leaves it on her desk.
Both of them are all alone in the world, came from different places economically but fit together so great.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Both of them are all alone in the world, came from different places economically but fit together so great.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
This was a cute little book that I was glad to be able to read. Dear Rodeo follows an older grumpy cowboy who opens up to the young office secretary and falls in love. It is a quick read of them falling in love and spending the rest of their lives together. I enjoyed the little notes that were left for Lola-Mae as his way of opening up to her. I also like how they were both scared to be open and honest with each other about their feelings even though they both felt the same way. Overall, it was a good book and I enjoyed it.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
📖 𝘼𝙍𝘾 𝙍𝙀𝙑𝙄𝙀𝙒 📖
Book 3 in the Naughty Notes series. Eight authors are releasing instalove novellas for Valentine’s Day.
Dear, Rodeo is also the first book in the Granite Falls, Texas series.
What to expect:
💞Secret Admirer
🤠Grumpy Hero
💞Spicy Office Romance
🤠Cowboy Alpha Hero
💞Small Town Romance
🤠He Falls First
Lola-Mae leaves her small town for a new start in another small town where she starts working for Harlan. For Harlan it’s pretty much love at first sight but he is too shy to let her know so he leaves her notes.
Dear, Rodeo is a really cute quick feel good read with a little spice and is perfect for Valentine’s Day and a great start to a new series.
Book 3 in the Naughty Notes series. Eight authors are releasing instalove novellas for Valentine’s Day.
Dear, Rodeo is also the first book in the Granite Falls, Texas series.
What to expect:
💞Secret Admirer
🤠Grumpy Hero
💞Spicy Office Romance
🤠Cowboy Alpha Hero
💞Small Town Romance
🤠He Falls First
Lola-Mae leaves her small town for a new start in another small town where she starts working for Harlan. For Harlan it’s pretty much love at first sight but he is too shy to let her know so he leaves her notes.
Dear, Rodeo is a really cute quick feel good read with a little spice and is perfect for Valentine’s Day and a great start to a new series.
February 4, 2026
Lola Mae has always played it safe, but she is looking for adventure, and a job offer in West Texas, has her heading to the ranch. Harlan is a rancher, who prefers his cattle and wide-open spaces to people, and when his new hire arrives, his world tilts on its axels. Harlan is attracted to Lola Mae instantly, but does not know how to express himself, so he writes sweet notes.
This is an easy and quick read, with friendships, emotions, humour, romance, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and fun page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
This is an easy and quick read, with friendships, emotions, humour, romance, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and fun page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
February 5, 2026
Book 1 of the multi-author Naughty Notes series. And it starts things off with a bang!
'Lola-Mae is temptation wrapped in innocence, and Harlan wants her in ways he’s never wanted anyone before. The problem? He doesn’t know how to say it out loud.
So he writes it.'
The characters drove the storyline and they were so very appealing and likeable and perfectly steamy together. Plot was well written and straightforward. World building was excellent and impressive. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
'Lola-Mae is temptation wrapped in innocence, and Harlan wants her in ways he’s never wanted anyone before. The problem? He doesn’t know how to say it out loud.
So he writes it.'
The characters drove the storyline and they were so very appealing and likeable and perfectly steamy together. Plot was well written and straightforward. World building was excellent and impressive. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 12, 2026
Lola-Mae needs a change of pace somewhere she can think and just be herself. When she takes a job in Granite Falls, she's unsure what to expect. It definitely isn't the brooding cowboy Harlan Blackmoore. Harlan doesn't have time for any funny business; he has a ranch to run and animals to care for. Hiring someone is a must before he loses his mind. But when Lola-Mae comes to the ranch, things change. He's still grumpy and wants things his way, but he finds himself thinking more about her. Lola-Mae needs to find a new life, and when she begins, it's the cowboy who will turn her head. Can these two have a love story for the ages? Or will they both crash and burn into the friend zone?
March 7, 2026
Dear Rodeo is a delightful and engaging start to the Naughty Notes series. The story is charming and easy to fall into, with a fun premise that keeps the pages turning while the romance unfolds naturally.
The characters are likable and well developed, and the emotional connection builds at a comfortable pace. The tone is light, romantic, and feel-good, making it an enjoyable and immersive read from beginning to end.
Recommended for readers who enjoy contemporary romance with heart, strong chemistry, and a cozy, uplifting vibe.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The characters are likable and well developed, and the emotional connection builds at a comfortable pace. The tone is light, romantic, and feel-good, making it an enjoyable and immersive read from beginning to end.
Recommended for readers who enjoy contemporary romance with heart, strong chemistry, and a cozy, uplifting vibe.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Lola‑Mae and Harlan certainly set the pages alight. This is definitely a spicy romance that leaves you smiling. Both characters just speak to you, and it’s so easy to get swept up in their journey. There’s no third‑act drama or unnecessary break‑ups—just two people who meet, feel that spark, work through what they think should keep them apart, and then take a chance on their HEA. And of course, watching a grumpy alpha turn into a romantic softie for love is the absolute cherry on top.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 4, 2026
Secret Admirer
Grumpy Hero
Spicy Office Romance
Cowboy Alpha Hero
Small Town
He Falls First
Who doesn't love a grumpy cowboy. Lola-Mae took the push from her best friend to take a job on the other side of Texas. Lola-Mae takes a job at a Ranch where she meets grumpy cowboy Harlan. Harlan tries everything to not think of his new employee as anything other than that. Lola and Harlan are perfection. The little notes Harlan starts to leave. This story was an amazing read. I cannot wait for the next book in this town.
Grumpy Hero
Spicy Office Romance
Cowboy Alpha Hero
Small Town
He Falls First
Who doesn't love a grumpy cowboy. Lola-Mae took the push from her best friend to take a job on the other side of Texas. Lola-Mae takes a job at a Ranch where she meets grumpy cowboy Harlan. Harlan tries everything to not think of his new employee as anything other than that. Lola and Harlan are perfection. The little notes Harlan starts to leave. This story was an amazing read. I cannot wait for the next book in this town.
February 4, 2026
Wow, so good! Such a sweet read! I have read another novel by this author and really enjoyed it! I was excited to jump into this novel and it did not let me down. From the first chapter this novel grabbed my heart and held on tight until the very last page. So good! I loved Lola-Mae and Harlan's story. Their chemistry was so good! I loved the sweet notes Harlan would write Lola-Mae. They melted my heart. Once I started reading I didn't want to put this novel down. I can hardly wait to see what this author has coming next. So so good!
February 11, 2026
Dear Rodeo didn’t work for me. It’s a small-town romance built around insta-love, which made the relationship feel rushed and unearned. The emotional connection never had room to grow, so the romance fell flat. The book teased “sexy little notes,” but they came across as mild and forgettable rather than genuinely sensual. There is some spice, but it didn’t add much to the story for me and felt unnecessary. Overall, the plot was very simple and predictable, with little tension or depth. This may appeal to readers who enjoy quick, low-stakes small-town romances, but it wasn’t for me.
Review of advance copy
I loved this couple so much. There is nothing better than a grumpy cowboy that turns into the sexiest, biggest teddy bear for his lady. Lola-Mae picks up and moves 7 hours away for a job where she knows no one. Harlan is running his ranch all on his own and is pretty closed off socially. Lola-Mae turns out to be just the woman he needs.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 4, 2026
A hot and steamy collaborative series where these naughty notes bring about relationships. Each is a stand-alone read. Some are short stories while others are novellas, but each will leave you wanting to read more.
Harlan is grumpy, quiet, and shy. He doesn’t know how to tell Lola-Mae how he feels, so he starts leaving her notes on her desk. Get ready for a hot read about a lonely cowboy.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Harlan is grumpy, quiet, and shy. He doesn’t know how to tell Lola-Mae how he feels, so he starts leaving her notes on her desk. Get ready for a hot read about a lonely cowboy.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 4, 2026
I liked the connection and chemistry between these two, the notes Harlan left her and what they lead to. Lola-Mae showed strength and courage in first taking a job that took her away from everything and everyone she knew, and for going after what she wanted. I liked seeing things bloosom between these two and how they were together.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 5, 2026
Definitely a favourite of 2026 so far!!!
This book delivers exactly what it promises: romcom vibes, high heat, and a story you'll devour in one sitting with a grin on your face. It's a fun book that you'll gobble up in a couple of hours!! Perfect amount of sweet, spice moments, drama and romance. Definitely a big fan of author and definitely be reading more books this year!! Definitely a favourite of 2026 so far!! Happy reading
This book delivers exactly what it promises: romcom vibes, high heat, and a story you'll devour in one sitting with a grin on your face. It's a fun book that you'll gobble up in a couple of hours!! Perfect amount of sweet, spice moments, drama and romance. Definitely a big fan of author and definitely be reading more books this year!! Definitely a favourite of 2026 so far!! Happy reading
March 5, 2026
A nice little read from one of my favorite authors. Harlan is that grumpy/sunshine cowboy we all secretly need in our lives and Lola Mae is the girl looking to change her life. While she takes a job with Harlan, they have major chemistry. Fighting it does no one any good. This story is part of a group of books from different authors, which I can’t wait to read as well.
I received this ARC through the publisher and I am voluntarily reviewing this book, opinions are my own.
I received this ARC through the publisher and I am voluntarily reviewing this book, opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy
I loved reading this book! I couldn't put it down. I was hooked from start to finish. This book is definitely a page turner. I couldn't tell what was going to happen next. The relationship between Harlan and Lola-Mae is a special one. I could feel their love from the start. I highly recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews