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Moran Sisters #2
Trying Not to Need You
Not yet published
Expected 22 Sep 26
NYT and USA Today Bestselling author Kaylee Ryan brings you a new standalone series surrounding the Moran Sisters of Magnolia Ridge, Tennessee.
The Moran Sisters Series is a collection of interconnected small-town romances about love, loss, and the pull of coming home, and the people who make it impossible to leave. From the fiercely loyal older sister who swore off love, to the free spirit running from her past, the quiet heart who’s always lingered on the sidelines, and the firecracker who masks fear with laughter, each sister is about to fall hard for the last man she ever expected.
More details and official blurb coming soon.
The Moran Sisters Series is a collection of interconnected small-town romances about love, loss, and the pull of coming home, and the people who make it impossible to leave. From the fiercely loyal older sister who swore off love, to the free spirit running from her past, the quiet heart who’s always lingered on the sidelines, and the firecracker who masks fear with laughter, each sister is about to fall hard for the last man she ever expected.
More details and official blurb coming soon.
251 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication September 22, 2026
About the author
Kaylee Ryan
103 books6,569 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kaylee Ryan has earned the affectionate title of “Queen of Swoon” from her devoted readers. With over sixty romance novels to her name, Kaylee has built a beloved catalog of heartfelt stories that celebrate love in all its tender, emotional, and undeniably swoony forms. Her signature blend of charm, chemistry, and genuine happily-ever-afters has captivated readers around the world.
When she’s not crafting new love stories or dreaming up her next unforgettable couple, Kaylee can usually be found with a book in hand, fueling her creativity as a lifelong reader. She cherishes the time spent with her family and friends, embracing the moments that inspire the heart of her stories.
When she’s not crafting new love stories or dreaming up her next unforgettable couple, Kaylee can usually be found with a book in hand, fueling her creativity as a lifelong reader. She cherishes the time spent with her family and friends, embracing the moments that inspire the heart of her stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
September 17, 2026
Thank you to Kaylee and her team for the ARC and ALC!
"I want all of her dances, and she can have all of mine."
I binged this book in one sitting and let me tell you, Macklin is the standard! He’s the definition of “if he wanted to, he would.” Poor Baylor had her heart broken by her ex and was coming home to start fresh and be with her sisters. Macklin had loved her for a long time but the timing was never right. When she comes back home and is single, he sees his opportunity. And Macklin pulls out all the stops to show Baylor how much she means to him and how important she is. I adored them both individually and as a couple. Their banter was cute and the spice was perfect (the mechanical bull scene 🔥👀). The sisters and friend group have the best dynamic. They have all the banter and teasing but show up for each other. I could go on and on about how much I loved this book! I can’t wait for the next one, 𝑻𝒓𝒚𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝑲𝒊𝒔𝒔 𝒀𝒐𝒖.
"I want all of her dances, and she can have all of mine."
I binged this book in one sitting and let me tell you, Macklin is the standard! He’s the definition of “if he wanted to, he would.” Poor Baylor had her heart broken by her ex and was coming home to start fresh and be with her sisters. Macklin had loved her for a long time but the timing was never right. When she comes back home and is single, he sees his opportunity. And Macklin pulls out all the stops to show Baylor how much she means to him and how important she is. I adored them both individually and as a couple. Their banter was cute and the spice was perfect (the mechanical bull scene 🔥👀). The sisters and friend group have the best dynamic. They have all the banter and teasing but show up for each other. I could go on and on about how much I loved this book! I can’t wait for the next one, 𝑻𝒓𝒚𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝑲𝒊𝒔𝒔 𝒀𝒐𝒖.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Kaylee can do no wrong, and I am absolutely obsessed with this new series and the Moran Sisters! 🥹❤️
Let me start with our MMC, Macklin. This man is THE man. I was probably just as obsessed with him as he was with Baylor. 😂 Seriously, this man waited YEARS for Baylor and was so incredibly patient and caring with her. He never pressured her and simply waited until she was ready to give them a chance.
A man who cooks for you and dances with you in the kitchen?! I was absolutely SWOONING. 😍 Macklin was 1000% all in, and I loved that he showed Baylor how he felt through his actions instead of just telling her.
I loved the relationship these two had, not just romantically but as friends, too. Their friendship made their romance even sweeter, and of course, I absolutely adored the found family aspect that you’ll find in all of Kaylee’s books.
Honestly, I found myself smiling ear to ear throughout this entire book because it was just the sweetest, swooniest romance. 🥹❤️
Oh, and we cannot forget the bull scene…I won’t give anything away, but… Macklin. 🥵🔥
I cannot wait to see which couple is next in this series!
Thank you so much, Kaylee and team, for the ARC in return for my honest review! ❤️
Let me start with our MMC, Macklin. This man is THE man. I was probably just as obsessed with him as he was with Baylor. 😂 Seriously, this man waited YEARS for Baylor and was so incredibly patient and caring with her. He never pressured her and simply waited until she was ready to give them a chance.
A man who cooks for you and dances with you in the kitchen?! I was absolutely SWOONING. 😍 Macklin was 1000% all in, and I loved that he showed Baylor how he felt through his actions instead of just telling her.
I loved the relationship these two had, not just romantically but as friends, too. Their friendship made their romance even sweeter, and of course, I absolutely adored the found family aspect that you’ll find in all of Kaylee’s books.
Honestly, I found myself smiling ear to ear throughout this entire book because it was just the sweetest, swooniest romance. 🥹❤️
Oh, and we cannot forget the bull scene…I won’t give anything away, but… Macklin. 🥵🔥
I cannot wait to see which couple is next in this series!
Thank you so much, Kaylee and team, for the ARC in return for my honest review! ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was so excited for Baylor and Macklin's story and it did not disappoint! Macklin had been in love with Baylor for a long time. With him being 5 years older than her, he wanted to wait until she was out of college to pursue anything with her. He quit the rodeo to move back home so he could be close to her, but then she started dating someone and moved to New York.
When Baylor discovers her boyfriend had a vasectomy after they had talked about having a family she was fed up. She broke things off and moved back home. When Macklin told Baylor about his feelings and plans, she couldn't believe that he felt that way about her and waited for her. I loved watching them fall in love. Macklin treated Baylor the way she always deserved to be treated. Macklin is the ultimate swoon worthy cowboy and I absolutely adored him! I can't wait to see what is next for the Moran sisters!
When Baylor discovers her boyfriend had a vasectomy after they had talked about having a family she was fed up. She broke things off and moved back home. When Macklin told Baylor about his feelings and plans, she couldn't believe that he felt that way about her and waited for her. I loved watching them fall in love. Macklin treated Baylor the way she always deserved to be treated. Macklin is the ultimate swoon worthy cowboy and I absolutely adored him! I can't wait to see what is next for the Moran sisters!
Review of advance copy
𝚃𝚛𝚢𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝙽𝚘𝚝 𝚝𝚘 𝙽𝚎𝚎𝚍 𝚈𝚘𝚞
𝙰𝚁𝙲 𝚁𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠
4.5/5 ⭐️
↓↓
Kaylee Ryan just knows how to write a super sweet low angsty read.
Baylor and Macklin absolutely stole my heart. I loved their connection. Macklin was so patient and the perfect man for Baylor. He showed up and was there which is exactly what Bay needed to be able to move on and love again after her toxic ex.
The Moran sisters, such an incredible bond and connection they all have. I LOVED seeing them altogether and the amount of love they have for each other.
Ok but Courtlynn and Bowen??? That tension and bickering, I neeeeeeeed them to be a pair and the next in the series!
𝚆𝙷𝙰𝚃 𝚃𝙾 𝙴𝚇𝙿𝙴𝙲𝚃
💚 Retired bull rider
💚 Opposites attract
💚 Childhood crush
💚 Blue Collar
💚 Small Town
💚 He falls first
𝙰𝚁𝙲 𝚁𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠
4.5/5 ⭐️
↓↓
Kaylee Ryan just knows how to write a super sweet low angsty read.
Baylor and Macklin absolutely stole my heart. I loved their connection. Macklin was so patient and the perfect man for Baylor. He showed up and was there which is exactly what Bay needed to be able to move on and love again after her toxic ex.
The Moran sisters, such an incredible bond and connection they all have. I LOVED seeing them altogether and the amount of love they have for each other.
Ok but Courtlynn and Bowen??? That tension and bickering, I neeeeeeeed them to be a pair and the next in the series!
𝚆𝙷𝙰𝚃 𝚃𝙾 𝙴𝚇𝙿𝙴𝙲𝚃
💚 Retired bull rider
💚 Opposites attract
💚 Childhood crush
💚 Blue Collar
💚 Small Town
💚 He falls first
September 13, 2026
ALC/ARC review coming soon but let’s just say this book was Epic..🔥🔥🔥
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved Baylor and Macklin's love story. Macklin is the kind of man that I love to swoon over. He kept his promises and not only said what was going to do to get Baylor to trust him and fall for him but he also backed that up with his actions as well. I loved seeing Baylor's character grow in this book. It really pulled at my heart strings seeing her become herself again and happy. Kaylee Ryan's writing just keeps getting better and better with each book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Trying Not to Need You by Kaylee Ryan is absolutely incredible! It is a wonderful he falls first/childhood crush/opposites attract love story and is the second book in her Moran Sisters series. Kaylee Ryan is an amazing storyteller and is a must read; one click author for me. I was hooked from the first few pages, it was impossible to put Trying Not to Need You down, and I loved every moment on every page. It filled me with a rollercoaster of emotions. It is the most enjoyable books that I have read recently. Who does not love hot sexy men, strong females, loving families, and friends, who always support one another? I love how Kaylee Ryan always manages to create the "perfect" heroine, who is a strong woman on her own, to balance out the sexy, swoon worthy men. Trying Not to Need You is the story of Baylor “Bay” Moran, accountant and her childhood crush, Macklin “Mac” McBride, retired professional bull rider, who currently manages the stables at Magnolia Manor as well training horses at his own stables. Baylor discovers a medical bill for her live-in-boyfriend of five years, Todd and confronts him regarding the procedure. She immediately breaks up with Todd, resigns from her job in New York, and decides to return home to Magnolia Ridge. Baylor tells her sister that she broke up with Todd and was moving home for good. Baylor had a crush on Macklin when she was younger, he was friends with Ellison and Copeland. Macklin had feelings for Baylor, but their age gap prevented Macklin from pursuing a relationship with her, then life’s events got in the way. Since Baylor is home, she is able to attend Ellison’s co-ed baby shower in person and Macklin is there. Baylor’s relationship with her sisters is one of my favorite parts of the story, especially their sisters time, and cuddle time with Ellison’s daughter, Lainey. Ellison reveals what their late mother did with the letters Copeland wrote to her while he was in the Marines. After what happened with Todd, Baylor is not sure she can trust Macklin, since she is not sure that she will be enough once he gets to know the adult version of her. Baylor takes on the accounting duties at the Magnolia Manor from Ellison, since Ellison will be going on maternity leave. As Baylor and Macklin spend time together with Baylor’s visits to the stables, things quickly heat up between them. I love the chemistry between Bay and Mac, their conversation flows so easily, with innuendos and playful banter, and Macklin constantly flirting with Baylor. Mac starts calling her “Baby”, and Baylor calls Mac, “cowboy.” I love all the little things that they do together and for each other. I love all the changes that both Bay and Mac are willing to make in their lives to have a life with one another. I love the Christmas gift that Macklin gives to Baylor and the significance of the gift. One of my favorite parts of the story are the heart-to-heart conversations between Bay and Mac, when Macklin shares that he had feelings for her since her high school graduation, but their timing was never right. Baylor shares what really happened with Todd. The text streams are another favorite part of the story. I love all the surprises that happen in Trying Not to Need You. Another favorite part is when Macklin’s purchase pregnancy tests to confirm their surprise pregnancy. My favorite part is how Baylor discovers a photo album in Macklin’s duffle. They are pictures of her that he took with him on the rodeo circuit. It leads to Baylor proposing to Macklin and then Macklin proposes to Baylor with their friends and they announce that Baylor is pregnant. They quickly get married at the Magnolia Manor. I love their wedding and the description of the wedding setting. Another favorite part are the epilogues one told from Macklin’s perspective, the other from Baylor’s perspectives, the gender reveal, the birth of their babies, and how it goes above a happily ever after. Another favorite part was the bonus scene shown from Macklin’s perspective and how the it incorporates the title of the book; it is the perfect ending of their love story. I really enjoy how the book is told in the first person from the perspective of the main characters. I love getting the insight and feelings from the different characters. I love that the dialogue that Kaylee Ryan chooses perfectly fits her characters. My favorite part of the book is how Kaylee Ryan incorporates the title of the book and the picture on the cover into the love story. This page turner is filled with heartbreaking, heartwarming, poignant, and bittersweet moments as well as plot twists and surprises, as well as all the moments that make me laugh that I have come to love and expect in a love story and was not disappointed with Kaylee Ryan’s delivery of those things. I love the characters and the family dynamic in Trying Not to Need You. The characters feel like family and friends, especially Baylor’s relationship with her sisters: Ellison, Leighton, and Courtlynn, her best friend, Sophia and her sisters’ best friends. I love that their friendships feel like family. I enjoyed all the interactions between all the Moran sisters and Macklin and his friends it feels like real family love and makes me laugh at their teasing. I love the descriptions of the Magnolia Ridge, TN location. Who does not love family and friends that always have each other’s backs? This book had my interest from the start, and I fell in love with the story. I thoroughly enjoyed Trying Not to Need You who does not love an age gap/he falls first/surprise pregnancy love story. Highly recommend this incredible love story. Received an advanced copy from the author.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Sometimes the love you never saw coming is the love that was quietly waiting for you all along… ❤️
It’s no secret that I’m a HUGE Kaylee Ryan fan, and with the launch of her Moran Sisters series, she has once again proved why she is at the top of her game when it comes to delivering emotional, heartfelt and utterly swoon-worthy stories.
Book one stole my heart, but Trying Not to Need You somehow found a way to bury itself even deeper. 🥹❤️
Kaylee Ryan has this exceptional ability to create characters you don’t simply read about—you feel them. She pulls you so completely into the world she creates that you become invested in the characters, their relationships and, perhaps most importantly, the people who surround them.
And the Moran sisters? Their bond is everything. Their connection, their loyalty and the way they rally around each other brings so much heart to this series. You can genuinely feel their love for one another on every page, and it makes Magnolia Ridge feel like somewhere you’ve become part of too.
This time, it’s Baylor’s story.
The only Moran sister who moved away from Magnolia Ridge, Baylor returns home heartbroken after the life she thought she was building completely shatters. She didn’t come home looking for love. She came home to heal.
To find herself again.
To be surrounded by the sisters she left behind.
And, as the weeks pass, she begins to realise that maybe she missed Magnolia Ridge—and the people in it—far more than she ever allowed herself to admit.
Including Macklin. 🤠❤️
The retired bull rider has been secretly in love with Baylor for years, and now she’s finally back. Macklin knows this could be their time, but what I absolutely loved about him is that he never pushes her.
He is patient.
He gives her space.
He lets her heal.
But he also makes it very clear that he’s there.
And it’s those little things that completely got me. The sweet gestures. The quiet moments. The way he supports her without trying to overpower her. The way their chemistry slowly builds until you can practically feel the tension coming off the page.
Because this isn’t an instant romance.
It’s watching two people who have always had something between them finally get the opportunity to discover what that something could become.
And then there’s the mechanical bull scene…
🌡️ Seriously, get the chilled water ready for this one. 🥵🔥
But beneath the heat is something even better—the tenderness, the patience and the emotional connection that makes their romance feel so incredibly real.
I loved watching Baylor slowly find her way back to herself and seeing Macklin quietly become the person standing beside her while she does it. He doesn’t try to fix her. He simply gives her somewhere safe to land.
And that, for me, is what made this romance so special.
There’s heartbreak, healing, family, sisterhood, slow-building chemistry, swoony moments and a hero who has waited years for his chance—but is willing to wait a little longer for the woman he loves to be ready.
Kaylee Ryan has once again delivered a story that made me laugh, ache, swoon and fall completely in love.
Trying Not to Need You didn’t just steal my heart… it found a way to make itself permanently at home there. ❤️
And now I’m already counting down until the next Moran sister gets her story because I’m absolutely not ready to leave Magnolia Ridge yet. 🥹
It’s no secret that I’m a HUGE Kaylee Ryan fan, and with the launch of her Moran Sisters series, she has once again proved why she is at the top of her game when it comes to delivering emotional, heartfelt and utterly swoon-worthy stories.
Book one stole my heart, but Trying Not to Need You somehow found a way to bury itself even deeper. 🥹❤️
Kaylee Ryan has this exceptional ability to create characters you don’t simply read about—you feel them. She pulls you so completely into the world she creates that you become invested in the characters, their relationships and, perhaps most importantly, the people who surround them.
And the Moran sisters? Their bond is everything. Their connection, their loyalty and the way they rally around each other brings so much heart to this series. You can genuinely feel their love for one another on every page, and it makes Magnolia Ridge feel like somewhere you’ve become part of too.
This time, it’s Baylor’s story.
The only Moran sister who moved away from Magnolia Ridge, Baylor returns home heartbroken after the life she thought she was building completely shatters. She didn’t come home looking for love. She came home to heal.
To find herself again.
To be surrounded by the sisters she left behind.
And, as the weeks pass, she begins to realise that maybe she missed Magnolia Ridge—and the people in it—far more than she ever allowed herself to admit.
Including Macklin. 🤠❤️
The retired bull rider has been secretly in love with Baylor for years, and now she’s finally back. Macklin knows this could be their time, but what I absolutely loved about him is that he never pushes her.
He is patient.
He gives her space.
He lets her heal.
But he also makes it very clear that he’s there.
And it’s those little things that completely got me. The sweet gestures. The quiet moments. The way he supports her without trying to overpower her. The way their chemistry slowly builds until you can practically feel the tension coming off the page.
Because this isn’t an instant romance.
It’s watching two people who have always had something between them finally get the opportunity to discover what that something could become.
And then there’s the mechanical bull scene…
🌡️ Seriously, get the chilled water ready for this one. 🥵🔥
But beneath the heat is something even better—the tenderness, the patience and the emotional connection that makes their romance feel so incredibly real.
I loved watching Baylor slowly find her way back to herself and seeing Macklin quietly become the person standing beside her while she does it. He doesn’t try to fix her. He simply gives her somewhere safe to land.
And that, for me, is what made this romance so special.
There’s heartbreak, healing, family, sisterhood, slow-building chemistry, swoony moments and a hero who has waited years for his chance—but is willing to wait a little longer for the woman he loves to be ready.
Kaylee Ryan has once again delivered a story that made me laugh, ache, swoon and fall completely in love.
Trying Not to Need You didn’t just steal my heart… it found a way to make itself permanently at home there. ❤️
And now I’m already counting down until the next Moran sister gets her story because I’m absolutely not ready to leave Magnolia Ridge yet. 🥹
Review of advance copy received from Author
Great Story & Narration🎧 Heartfelt & Delightful!
Trying Not to Need You
Moran Sisters, Book 2
By: Kaylee Ryan
Narrated by: Erin Mallon, Stephen Dexter
Kaylee Ryan does it again, penning another wonderfully entertaining novel set in her “Moran Sisters” series, and it is a beauty of a romance, one that warms your heart and makes it swoon. I am loving my visits to Magnolia Ridge, Tennessee, and the Moran sisters and the bond they share. Each book in the series stands on its own, featuring a different sister, but I recommend enjoying them in the order written, each book is just as wonderful as the other, and characters crossover into each other’s books and knowing their backstory add depth, plus seeing them again is like seeing an old friend. This second book is Baylor’s story, the sister who moved away to the city and lives with her boyfriend, Todd. Todd, a junior lawyer in the firm he works for, has been putting all his focus on work, hoping to make partner, and their relationship is hurting because of it. Baylor was getting fed up with his lack of effort and attention, but something he did behind her back was the final straw, and she upped and left after confronting him. Baylor was going home for Ellison’s shower anyway, and her sisters were ecstatic to learn she was moving back home, and they were not the only ones who were. Macklin McBride, a retired champion bull-rider, has wanted Baylor for years, but missed his chance and has been pining over her since. And now that Baylor is back in town, it is his time to win over her heart and her love. Baylor’s failed relationship left her with some insecurities, but Macklin is right there for her to build her back up and show her she is worthy of love and that Todd did not deserve her. Macklin is such a sweetheart, a patient man giving her the space she needed, while sticking close in case she needed something. I thought these two were perfect together and for each other, and it was great watching their relationship grow into something so much more. This fabulously crafted, multi-layered story has the perfect balance of drama, a touch of angst, charming and heartwarming moments, heartfelt emotions, and steamy romance. As always, Ryan’s writing, plot, and world-building are fantastic, as are the character growth and development. Thank you for another fabulous story and emotional rollercoaster ride
🎧📚🎧 Kaylee Ryan chose the perfect cast to bring her characters to life, and the wonderfully talented Erin Mallon and Stephen Dexter deliver a fabulous performance doing so. I loved how they took each role and made it their own, sounding believable and just as I pictured the characters would sound. Mallon’s take on Baylor was spot-on, grasping every facet of her personality, from her vulnerabilities to her strength and determination. Dexter nailed it as Macklin, playing the swoon-worthy golden retriever perfectly, a dedicated man in love. Both were fantastic performing the roles of the side/secondary characters, giving each a voice that was fitting. Their expressive delivery conveys all the characters’ emotions, making you feel each one. These two are an ideal pairing, with voices that complement each other and an entertaining performance that keeps you hooked to the dialogue and the story.
Trying Not to Need You
Moran Sisters, Book 2
By: Kaylee Ryan
Narrated by: Erin Mallon, Stephen Dexter
Kaylee Ryan does it again, penning another wonderfully entertaining novel set in her “Moran Sisters” series, and it is a beauty of a romance, one that warms your heart and makes it swoon. I am loving my visits to Magnolia Ridge, Tennessee, and the Moran sisters and the bond they share. Each book in the series stands on its own, featuring a different sister, but I recommend enjoying them in the order written, each book is just as wonderful as the other, and characters crossover into each other’s books and knowing their backstory add depth, plus seeing them again is like seeing an old friend. This second book is Baylor’s story, the sister who moved away to the city and lives with her boyfriend, Todd. Todd, a junior lawyer in the firm he works for, has been putting all his focus on work, hoping to make partner, and their relationship is hurting because of it. Baylor was getting fed up with his lack of effort and attention, but something he did behind her back was the final straw, and she upped and left after confronting him. Baylor was going home for Ellison’s shower anyway, and her sisters were ecstatic to learn she was moving back home, and they were not the only ones who were. Macklin McBride, a retired champion bull-rider, has wanted Baylor for years, but missed his chance and has been pining over her since. And now that Baylor is back in town, it is his time to win over her heart and her love. Baylor’s failed relationship left her with some insecurities, but Macklin is right there for her to build her back up and show her she is worthy of love and that Todd did not deserve her. Macklin is such a sweetheart, a patient man giving her the space she needed, while sticking close in case she needed something. I thought these two were perfect together and for each other, and it was great watching their relationship grow into something so much more. This fabulously crafted, multi-layered story has the perfect balance of drama, a touch of angst, charming and heartwarming moments, heartfelt emotions, and steamy romance. As always, Ryan’s writing, plot, and world-building are fantastic, as are the character growth and development. Thank you for another fabulous story and emotional rollercoaster ride
🎧📚🎧 Kaylee Ryan chose the perfect cast to bring her characters to life, and the wonderfully talented Erin Mallon and Stephen Dexter deliver a fabulous performance doing so. I loved how they took each role and made it their own, sounding believable and just as I pictured the characters would sound. Mallon’s take on Baylor was spot-on, grasping every facet of her personality, from her vulnerabilities to her strength and determination. Dexter nailed it as Macklin, playing the swoon-worthy golden retriever perfectly, a dedicated man in love. Both were fantastic performing the roles of the side/secondary characters, giving each a voice that was fitting. Their expressive delivery conveys all the characters’ emotions, making you feel each one. These two are an ideal pairing, with voices that complement each other and an entertaining performance that keeps you hooked to the dialogue and the story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh Kaylee!!!! There is something about a childhood crush finally turning into the real thing that gets me every single time and Baylor and Macklin’s story delivered ALL the feelings. This was emotional, romantic, funny, steamy, and filled with the kind of family dynamics that make a series impossible to put down, they I literally stayed up until 2 am to finish 🫢
Baylor comes home after realizing that the life she built in New York isn’t the life she actually wants. Returning to Magnolia Ridge gives her a chance to reconnect with the people who have always been her safe place…including the boy she once had a massive crush on.
And Macklin? 🥵 HELLO, COWBOY.
A former bull rider, completely devoted, incredibly patient, and absolutely determined to show Baylor that she has always been the one for him. His feelings for her ran so much deeper than she ever realized, and watching him finally get his chance with her was EVERYTHING. This man!!!! This man was down bad for her and I ate every minute of it up!
What I loved most was that their relationship felt like it had a real history behind it. The friendship, teasing, chemistry, stolen moments, and years of unspoken feelings made their romance feel natural rather than rushed. And when they finally stopped fighting what was between them…🔥🔥🔥
But the romance wasn’t the only thing I loved.
The Moran family dynamic continues to be one of my favorite parts of this series. The sisters, friendships, inside jokes, support system, and all the little moments between the characters made Magnolia Ridge feel like a place I wanted to visit. I especially loved seeing Baylor find her way back to her family and begin healing from everything she had been carrying. I love seeing the family grow, with the husbands and now the kids.
There were so many moments that made me smile, a few that absolutely squeezed my heart, and plenty that had me fanning myself. 🥵 Bull ride anyone?! The surprises along the way kept me turning pages, and I loved seeing Baylor and Macklin build something that was truly theirs.
And that ending? PERFECTION. 💗
Kaylee Ryan has created another couple that is ridiculously easy to root for, and I am officially even more invested in the Moran Sisters series. I kinda have a thought who the next couple will be and if I am right, then we might be in for a wild ride 🤭
Childhood crush ✔️
He falls first ✔️
Cowboy ✔️
Small-town romance ✔️
Family drama ✔️
Second chances ✔️
Spicy chemistry ✔️
All the feels ✔️✔️✔️
If you love emotional small-town romance with a swoony hero, a strong heroine, plenty of family love, and a romance that has been years in the making, put this one on your TBR! 💕📚
Thank you Kaylee and team for allowing me to have an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
Baylor comes home after realizing that the life she built in New York isn’t the life she actually wants. Returning to Magnolia Ridge gives her a chance to reconnect with the people who have always been her safe place…including the boy she once had a massive crush on.
And Macklin? 🥵 HELLO, COWBOY.
A former bull rider, completely devoted, incredibly patient, and absolutely determined to show Baylor that she has always been the one for him. His feelings for her ran so much deeper than she ever realized, and watching him finally get his chance with her was EVERYTHING. This man!!!! This man was down bad for her and I ate every minute of it up!
What I loved most was that their relationship felt like it had a real history behind it. The friendship, teasing, chemistry, stolen moments, and years of unspoken feelings made their romance feel natural rather than rushed. And when they finally stopped fighting what was between them…🔥🔥🔥
But the romance wasn’t the only thing I loved.
The Moran family dynamic continues to be one of my favorite parts of this series. The sisters, friendships, inside jokes, support system, and all the little moments between the characters made Magnolia Ridge feel like a place I wanted to visit. I especially loved seeing Baylor find her way back to her family and begin healing from everything she had been carrying. I love seeing the family grow, with the husbands and now the kids.
There were so many moments that made me smile, a few that absolutely squeezed my heart, and plenty that had me fanning myself. 🥵 Bull ride anyone?! The surprises along the way kept me turning pages, and I loved seeing Baylor and Macklin build something that was truly theirs.
And that ending? PERFECTION. 💗
Kaylee Ryan has created another couple that is ridiculously easy to root for, and I am officially even more invested in the Moran Sisters series. I kinda have a thought who the next couple will be and if I am right, then we might be in for a wild ride 🤭
Childhood crush ✔️
He falls first ✔️
Cowboy ✔️
Small-town romance ✔️
Family drama ✔️
Second chances ✔️
Spicy chemistry ✔️
All the feels ✔️✔️✔️
If you love emotional small-town romance with a swoony hero, a strong heroine, plenty of family love, and a romance that has been years in the making, put this one on your TBR! 💕📚
Thank you Kaylee and team for allowing me to have an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 Stars
I know I probably sound like a broken record, but Kaylee Ryan has become one of my favorite authors.
I just finished Trying Not to Need You, Book 2 in the Morgan Sisters series, and I couldn't put it down. In fact, I texted the author when I was about three-quarters of the way through the book to tell her how sad I was that I was getting close to the end and didn't have the next story waiting for me.
So, what did I love so much about this book? A better question would be: What didn't I love?
Baylor and Macklin together = perfection.
Baylor is the second-oldest Morgan sister. After graduating from college, she left Magnolia Falls for New York and started a career in accounting. She wanted to build a successful life for herself and experience living in the city. There, she met Todd, and the two were in a relationship for nearly five years. Unfortunately, it became clear that Todd was far more invested in his career than in building a future and family with Baylor. Without giving away spoilers, a rude awakening finally leads Baylor to realize it's time to return home to Magnolia Falls.
Back in Magnolia Falls, we meet Macklin, a good friend of Cooper and the Morgan sisters. A former bull rider, Macklin is now retired and enjoying a quieter life in town. He's always had a crush on Baylor, but the timing was never right. Until now.
One of the things I appreciated most was that the author didn't have Baylor immediately jump from one relationship into another. Baylor recognizes that she needs time to rediscover herself and figure out what she wants for her future. Of course, it wouldn't be a romance novel without the male main character being persistent and making his intentions known. What I loved about Macklin was that he gave Baylor the space she needed while also showing her exactly who he was, how he felt about her, and what they could be together.
This is such a beautiful romance, and I especially loved the symbolism surrounding the pregnancy storyline. It reinforced the idea that the mind and the heart need to be aligned before moving forward.
Finally, I absolutely adore the sass, strength, and unique personalities of each of the Morgan sisters. They add so much charm and heart to the story. I can't wait for the next book, although I think I may already have a pretty good guess about whose story is coming next.
Thank you, Kaylee Ryan, for another fantastic book.
"I've been sitting in the shadows, waiting for you." ❤️
I know I probably sound like a broken record, but Kaylee Ryan has become one of my favorite authors.
I just finished Trying Not to Need You, Book 2 in the Morgan Sisters series, and I couldn't put it down. In fact, I texted the author when I was about three-quarters of the way through the book to tell her how sad I was that I was getting close to the end and didn't have the next story waiting for me.
So, what did I love so much about this book? A better question would be: What didn't I love?
Baylor and Macklin together = perfection.
Baylor is the second-oldest Morgan sister. After graduating from college, she left Magnolia Falls for New York and started a career in accounting. She wanted to build a successful life for herself and experience living in the city. There, she met Todd, and the two were in a relationship for nearly five years. Unfortunately, it became clear that Todd was far more invested in his career than in building a future and family with Baylor. Without giving away spoilers, a rude awakening finally leads Baylor to realize it's time to return home to Magnolia Falls.
Back in Magnolia Falls, we meet Macklin, a good friend of Cooper and the Morgan sisters. A former bull rider, Macklin is now retired and enjoying a quieter life in town. He's always had a crush on Baylor, but the timing was never right. Until now.
One of the things I appreciated most was that the author didn't have Baylor immediately jump from one relationship into another. Baylor recognizes that she needs time to rediscover herself and figure out what she wants for her future. Of course, it wouldn't be a romance novel without the male main character being persistent and making his intentions known. What I loved about Macklin was that he gave Baylor the space she needed while also showing her exactly who he was, how he felt about her, and what they could be together.
This is such a beautiful romance, and I especially loved the symbolism surrounding the pregnancy storyline. It reinforced the idea that the mind and the heart need to be aligned before moving forward.
Finally, I absolutely adore the sass, strength, and unique personalities of each of the Morgan sisters. They add so much charm and heart to the story. I can't wait for the next book, although I think I may already have a pretty good guess about whose story is coming next.
Thank you, Kaylee Ryan, for another fantastic book.
"I've been sitting in the shadows, waiting for you." ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
💫Title: Trying Not to Need You 📚Series: Moran Sisters, Book 2
✍🏻Author: Kaylee Ryan 🗣️Narrators: Stephen Dexter and Erin Mallin
👩❤️👨Main Characters: Macklin and Baylor 🗒️P. 251
📱Book Type Reviewed: E-Book 🗓️Release Date: 09/22/2026
🔹Tropes: Romance, Small Town, Opposites Attract, He Falls First, Retired Bull Rider, Childhood Crush
🌟Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
So romantic and swoony. Where Copeland and Ellison’s story tore at your heart, Macklin and Baylor should make you smile. Macklin is the definition of romance.
The Moran Sisters, Ellison, Baylor, Leighton, and Courtlynn, were all young when their lives changed forever. They have stayed very close and tight but as they got older, three of them stayed in their small town and Baylor left for NY. She needed a different life…so she thought. After several years in NY, Baylor’s life isn’t going quite as she expected and decides to head back home to the love and support of her friends and family.
Macklin and his friends, Copeland, Dixon, and Bowen, have been friends since childhood. Add in the Moran sisters and a few others and he has a great group to hang around with. After school, Macklin was a pro bull rider for many years but that took a toll on his body and is now retired. Copeland was the first to settle down amongst them, and Macklin is thrilled for his friend, as Copeland had loved Ellison his whole life and they are finally together. (Book 1) But Macklin wants what Copeland and Ellison have, someone to spend his life with, and he already has that person picked out. None of his friends know that he has been pining after Baylor for years. Now Baylor is home and Macklin has to take his shot. And he will do anything to get Baylor to fall in love with him.
Ahh…so freaking sweet. Macklin is a dream. Everything a woman should want. Caring, a good listener, thoughtful, protective, and there, no matter what. And as Baylor finds her new life back in Magnolia Ridge, Macklin is kind and patient and will wait however long to get his girl. But he will not stand on the sidelines any longer. He will prove how much he loves her. So good! So sweet! So romantic!
Series:
1- Trying Not to Love You- Copeland & Ellison
2- Trying Not to Need You- Macklin & Baylor
3- Trying Not to Kiss You- (11/2026)
4- Trying Not to Hate You- (02/2027)
❣️Thank you to #KayleeRyan for this book. All reviews and opinions are my own.
✍🏻Author: Kaylee Ryan 🗣️Narrators: Stephen Dexter and Erin Mallin
👩❤️👨Main Characters: Macklin and Baylor 🗒️P. 251
📱Book Type Reviewed: E-Book 🗓️Release Date: 09/22/2026
🔹Tropes: Romance, Small Town, Opposites Attract, He Falls First, Retired Bull Rider, Childhood Crush
🌟Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
So romantic and swoony. Where Copeland and Ellison’s story tore at your heart, Macklin and Baylor should make you smile. Macklin is the definition of romance.
The Moran Sisters, Ellison, Baylor, Leighton, and Courtlynn, were all young when their lives changed forever. They have stayed very close and tight but as they got older, three of them stayed in their small town and Baylor left for NY. She needed a different life…so she thought. After several years in NY, Baylor’s life isn’t going quite as she expected and decides to head back home to the love and support of her friends and family.
Macklin and his friends, Copeland, Dixon, and Bowen, have been friends since childhood. Add in the Moran sisters and a few others and he has a great group to hang around with. After school, Macklin was a pro bull rider for many years but that took a toll on his body and is now retired. Copeland was the first to settle down amongst them, and Macklin is thrilled for his friend, as Copeland had loved Ellison his whole life and they are finally together. (Book 1) But Macklin wants what Copeland and Ellison have, someone to spend his life with, and he already has that person picked out. None of his friends know that he has been pining after Baylor for years. Now Baylor is home and Macklin has to take his shot. And he will do anything to get Baylor to fall in love with him.
Ahh…so freaking sweet. Macklin is a dream. Everything a woman should want. Caring, a good listener, thoughtful, protective, and there, no matter what. And as Baylor finds her new life back in Magnolia Ridge, Macklin is kind and patient and will wait however long to get his girl. But he will not stand on the sidelines any longer. He will prove how much he loves her. So good! So sweet! So romantic!
Series:
1- Trying Not to Love You- Copeland & Ellison
2- Trying Not to Need You- Macklin & Baylor
3- Trying Not to Kiss You- (11/2026)
4- Trying Not to Hate You- (02/2027)
❣️Thank you to #KayleeRyan for this book. All reviews and opinions are my own.
September 16, 2026
I adored the first book in Kaylee Ryan’s Moran Sisters series, so I was ridiculously excited to head back to Magnolia Ridge for Baylor and Macklin’s story. And yep — I’m officially really enjoying this new to me author because Trying Not to Need You was so good.
Baylor comes home after walking away from a five year relationship and the future she thought she was building. She needs time to heal, figure out what she wants, and find herself again. And Macklin? That man is not fucking around. He has loved Baylor for years, and now that she’s finally back in Magnolia Ridge, he isn’t interested in rushing her or taking advantage of her broken heart. Instead, he’s patient. Steady. Strong. He gives her the space she needs while making it abundantly clear that he’s there, he adores her, and he isn’t going anywhere.
I loved that balance so much. Macklin knows exactly what he wants, but Baylor still gets the time and space to heal from her breakup rather than immediately jumping into something new. He just keeps showing her through his actions that when she’s ready, he’s the man who will be there.
And of course, there’s plenty of chemistry along the way. This was sweet, steamy, heartfelt, and fun, with all of the small town and family elements I enjoyed so much in the first book. I’m already invested in the Moran sisters and very happy I found this series.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Erin Mallon and Stephen Dexter, who are both longtime favorites of mine. They’re two of my OG romance narrator loves, and at this point I will happily pick up basically anything with either of their names attached. Unsurprisingly, they were fantastic here. They brought so much warmth, emotion, and chemistry to Baylor and Macklin and made an already enjoyable romance even better on audio.
Two books into the Moran Sisters series and Kaylee Ryan is quickly becoming an author I’m very happy to have discovered.
Perfect for readers who love:
* 🤠 Retired bull rider heroes
* 💘 He falls first, and has been waiting forever
* 🏡 Smalltown romance
* 👯♀️ Close knit sister dynamics
* 🩹 Healing after heartbreak
* 🥹 Patient, steady heroes who SHOW UP
* 🔥 Sweet + steamy romance
* 🎧 Dual narrated audiobooks
Review of advance copy received from Author
Omg, this book was SOOOOO good! 🩷 Trying Not to Need You by Kaylee Ryan is book two in the Moran Sisters series, and Macklin? THIS MAN IS PURE SWOONWORTHY. 😍 This one just hit my heart SO HARD. The way these two loved each other so purely, so fully, and with so much vulnerability absolutely wrecked me in the best way. Their love felt deep, genuine, and just so damn beautiful. This series is absolutely addicting, and if you haven’t started it yet, it is a definite must-read!
Macklin is the definition of patience and yearning. This man had loved Baylor for years, waiting for the timing to finally be right, and now that she’s home, he is DONE waiting. He knows what he wants, and he is determined to prove to Baylor that he’s not going anywhere. The way he showed up for her, gave her the time she needed, and patiently earned her trust... IT AND HE WAS EVERYTHING!
Baylor.. She’s strong, she’s so loving and caring and this girl deserves it all. She knows what she wants, she’s brave enough to go after it. Coming back home to the Inn and her sisters was everything she needed. And so healing! And watching her get past the fear and insecurities of being left and letting someone in was beautiful.
Imagine, he was your crush when you were 13. He was 5 years older, a successful, sexy bull rider. AND little did you know, HE’S been in love with you for years! Their friendship, chemistry, and slow-burning connection made their romance feel so much deeper. Their passion, the barn scene, IYKYK!! …These two were just pure fire!
The sisterhood in this book is so perfect, the banter and close friendships bring so much to this series. All the guys, the way this group loves and supports is everything!
This book was so emotional, soooo swoony, an adorable small town romantic story. I just loved these two, their vulnerability and just pure love was everything! Kaylee did it again, this series is so good. You need this one now! And I can’t wait for who’s next! Two more sisters to go and I know who I want them with 😉
Rate: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
🦋THANK YOU Kaylee Ryan for my arc and being a part of your influencer team!
Macklin is the definition of patience and yearning. This man had loved Baylor for years, waiting for the timing to finally be right, and now that she’s home, he is DONE waiting. He knows what he wants, and he is determined to prove to Baylor that he’s not going anywhere. The way he showed up for her, gave her the time she needed, and patiently earned her trust... IT AND HE WAS EVERYTHING!
Baylor.. She’s strong, she’s so loving and caring and this girl deserves it all. She knows what she wants, she’s brave enough to go after it. Coming back home to the Inn and her sisters was everything she needed. And so healing! And watching her get past the fear and insecurities of being left and letting someone in was beautiful.
Imagine, he was your crush when you were 13. He was 5 years older, a successful, sexy bull rider. AND little did you know, HE’S been in love with you for years! Their friendship, chemistry, and slow-burning connection made their romance feel so much deeper. Their passion, the barn scene, IYKYK!! …These two were just pure fire!
The sisterhood in this book is so perfect, the banter and close friendships bring so much to this series. All the guys, the way this group loves and supports is everything!
This book was so emotional, soooo swoony, an adorable small town romantic story. I just loved these two, their vulnerability and just pure love was everything! Kaylee did it again, this series is so good. You need this one now! And I can’t wait for who’s next! Two more sisters to go and I know who I want them with 😉
Rate: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
🦋THANK YOU Kaylee Ryan for my arc and being a part of your influencer team!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a gifted alc/arc of this novel via the author and I’m voluntarily submitting this review. TRYING NOT TO NEED YOU is the second book in THE MORAN SISTERS series by Kaylee Ryan. After leaving NYC and a failed relationship, Baylor returns to her hometown of Magnolia Ridge. Retired bull rider, Macklin, waits patiently for her to heal, having silently loved her for years and unwilling to miss another chance at happiness. This is a spicy, open door, first person, dual POV, contemporary romance with tropes that include small town romance, childhood crush, love after heartbreak, family saga, retired bull rider, he falls first, and opposites attract. I really liked this story. Baylor returns to her hometown, feeling discouraged that she had wasted five years of her life with a man who didn’t care about her feelings. The last thing she expected was her childhood crush to put himself forward as the alternative. Macklin was one hundred percent confident of his desire to have a life and a family with Baylor, but he had kept his feelings very close to the vest. No one was expecting his interest. His conviction was intoxicating after the relationship that Baylor had just left, but she had to learn to trust him. Macklin was a typical MMC for this author. Once he made the decision that he wanted Baylor, he approached his campaign to woo her with mindless determination. Her heroes often jump in with both feet, just as Macklin does. It was great to see Baylor’s comfort and confidence in Macklin grow as he went out of his way to be whatever she needed. I really love the relationship between the four Moran sisters and look forward to the stories for the two younger sisters. The narrators, Stephen Dexter and Erin Mallon, delivered a heartfelt performance that made this novel even more appealing. They used a range of voices to identify the characters and the recording worked well at a variety of speeds, I recommend this book for readers/listeners who enjoy small town, romance with heroes who will do whatever it takes to woo their women.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Trying Not To Need You had me giggling and kicking my feet pretty much the entire time. I loved this book so much, and it was exactly the kind of romance that left me smiling at my book and making way too many reader noises. 😂
I absolutely loved Baylor and Macklin together. There was something so sweet about watching Macklin be patient with Baylor while she worked through everything she was carrying. I especially loved watching him slowly break down the walls she had put up around herself. The fact that he had cared about her for so long made their relationship even sweeter, and I really enjoyed seeing their story finally get its chance.
I also loved being back with the Moran sisters! Getting to spend more time with this family and see Ellison and Copeland again was such a fun part of the book for me. I always love when a series gives you the chance to check in with characters from previous books, and being back in Magnolia Ridge made this feel like coming home to a group of characters I already cared about.
Of course, I had to start making predictions about who might be next. 😂 I definitely have a few theories about some potential future couples, so now I’m going to be watching closely to see if I end up being right. There was one character I wasn’t a huge fan of, but thankfully that didn’t take away from how much I enjoyed the rest of the story.
And that ending? It made me so happy. ❤️ After getting to watch Baylor and Macklin find their way toward each other, I loved seeing how everything came together for them.
Overall, Trying Not To Need You was such a sweet, feel-good small-town romance. I loved Baylor and Macklin, loved being back with the Moran sisters, and had an absolute blast reading this one. Kaylee Ryan continues to be an author I know I can turn to when I want a romance that leaves me smiling.
Spice: Chapters 12, 14, 17
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this ARC!
I absolutely loved Baylor and Macklin together. There was something so sweet about watching Macklin be patient with Baylor while she worked through everything she was carrying. I especially loved watching him slowly break down the walls she had put up around herself. The fact that he had cared about her for so long made their relationship even sweeter, and I really enjoyed seeing their story finally get its chance.
I also loved being back with the Moran sisters! Getting to spend more time with this family and see Ellison and Copeland again was such a fun part of the book for me. I always love when a series gives you the chance to check in with characters from previous books, and being back in Magnolia Ridge made this feel like coming home to a group of characters I already cared about.
Of course, I had to start making predictions about who might be next. 😂 I definitely have a few theories about some potential future couples, so now I’m going to be watching closely to see if I end up being right. There was one character I wasn’t a huge fan of, but thankfully that didn’t take away from how much I enjoyed the rest of the story.
And that ending? It made me so happy. ❤️ After getting to watch Baylor and Macklin find their way toward each other, I loved seeing how everything came together for them.
Overall, Trying Not To Need You was such a sweet, feel-good small-town romance. I loved Baylor and Macklin, loved being back with the Moran sisters, and had an absolute blast reading this one. Kaylee Ryan continues to be an author I know I can turn to when I want a romance that leaves me smiling.
Spice: Chapters 12, 14, 17
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh, Baylor. I have been wondering what made Baylor return to Magnolia Ridge since I finished Trying Not to Love You. We get the answers right away.
I love how both Macklin and Baylor both had crushes on the other but didn’t know. Macklin! Omg. This guy. He had a whole plan. When he first realized his feelings, he knew that age gap might make it difficult. So, he waited. He held his tongue and let Baylor go live her life. Plus, he was deep in the bull riding circuit and knew time would be in his side. I just love that about Macklin. He really is a cinnamon roll. Macklin even would have moved to NYC for Baylor if he had the chance. He is patient and lets his actions speak for themselves. He gives Baylor the chance to see how much he really cares.
Stephen Dexter narrating as Macklin. Yes! I just enjoy his narration. He adds extra oomph when narrating. For example, he literally added a “Bing!” Sound during one line that had me laughing. He brings out a lot of empathy as well when narrating. The raw emotion at one section almost made me cry.
My heart just smiles whenever the sisters are all together. From Ellie’s baby shower to all the sister nights, these women have such a great sisterly dynamic. All the personalities balance the group. Erin Mallon narrates with such ease as Baylor, all the other Moran sisters, and female characters in this book. She always brings such a pep into the characters.
Trying Not to Need You will make you swoon in all the best ways. You will fall in love with Baylor and Macklin. Trying Not to Need You is not only a love story but a story of sisterhood. You will remember why these Moran sisters are the best.
Thank you Kaylee Ryan for the advance reader copy. I reviewed advance copies (ARC & ALC) of this book freely and voluntarily. I received no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.
I love how both Macklin and Baylor both had crushes on the other but didn’t know. Macklin! Omg. This guy. He had a whole plan. When he first realized his feelings, he knew that age gap might make it difficult. So, he waited. He held his tongue and let Baylor go live her life. Plus, he was deep in the bull riding circuit and knew time would be in his side. I just love that about Macklin. He really is a cinnamon roll. Macklin even would have moved to NYC for Baylor if he had the chance. He is patient and lets his actions speak for themselves. He gives Baylor the chance to see how much he really cares.
Stephen Dexter narrating as Macklin. Yes! I just enjoy his narration. He adds extra oomph when narrating. For example, he literally added a “Bing!” Sound during one line that had me laughing. He brings out a lot of empathy as well when narrating. The raw emotion at one section almost made me cry.
My heart just smiles whenever the sisters are all together. From Ellie’s baby shower to all the sister nights, these women have such a great sisterly dynamic. All the personalities balance the group. Erin Mallon narrates with such ease as Baylor, all the other Moran sisters, and female characters in this book. She always brings such a pep into the characters.
Trying Not to Need You will make you swoon in all the best ways. You will fall in love with Baylor and Macklin. Trying Not to Need You is not only a love story but a story of sisterhood. You will remember why these Moran sisters are the best.
Thank you Kaylee Ryan for the advance reader copy. I reviewed advance copies (ARC & ALC) of this book freely and voluntarily. I received no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved the first book in the series and the characters. It was so emotional and I loved the family dynamics. Hearing and seeing glimpses of sister Baylor, I was intrigued. I was pleasantly rewarded when she was the focus of book two.
We knew from the first book that Baylor left home after college and began a relationship with Todd. Her sisters don’t care for him or think that he was treating her right. It took a while but a discovery leads Baylor to quit her job, pack up and head home. Not sure where her life will take her, she just wants time to heal while reconnecting with her sisters and helping the family business while Ellison is on maternity leave.
Enter Ellison and Copeland’s friend, Macklin McBride. Retired rodeo star who now trains horses. Unbeknownst to all,
he has been in love with Baylor for years. This is his chance finally after so many opportunities slipped through his fingers and he is determined. Baylor crushed on Mac as a teen. But right now she’s trying not to need him or anyone. She’s not sure she can trust her heart after her past relationship.
Macklin was by far the most perfect book boyfriend I have seen. He was patient, caring, supportive, always putting her needs first to be everything she needed.
What I love about the relationships in Kaylee Ryan’s books is that the couples work on their relationships. They communicate, they work through their issues. They support each other. They love unconditionally. It was a beautiful love story as slowly Mac shows her through actions he’s what she needs.
The epilogues and bonus scenes were everything I wanted. I’m hoping that we have Courtlynn and Bowen next, I think they are going to scorch up the pages.
Thank you Kaylee for another beautiful love story and great series!
📚smalltown romance
📚teenage crush
📚retired bull ride
📚he falls hard first
We knew from the first book that Baylor left home after college and began a relationship with Todd. Her sisters don’t care for him or think that he was treating her right. It took a while but a discovery leads Baylor to quit her job, pack up and head home. Not sure where her life will take her, she just wants time to heal while reconnecting with her sisters and helping the family business while Ellison is on maternity leave.
Enter Ellison and Copeland’s friend, Macklin McBride. Retired rodeo star who now trains horses. Unbeknownst to all,
he has been in love with Baylor for years. This is his chance finally after so many opportunities slipped through his fingers and he is determined. Baylor crushed on Mac as a teen. But right now she’s trying not to need him or anyone. She’s not sure she can trust her heart after her past relationship.
Macklin was by far the most perfect book boyfriend I have seen. He was patient, caring, supportive, always putting her needs first to be everything she needed.
What I love about the relationships in Kaylee Ryan’s books is that the couples work on their relationships. They communicate, they work through their issues. They support each other. They love unconditionally. It was a beautiful love story as slowly Mac shows her through actions he’s what she needs.
The epilogues and bonus scenes were everything I wanted. I’m hoping that we have Courtlynn and Bowen next, I think they are going to scorch up the pages.
Thank you Kaylee for another beautiful love story and great series!
📚smalltown romance
📚teenage crush
📚retired bull ride
📚he falls hard first
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tropes:
💚Opposites Attract
🩶Small Town
💚Retired Bull Rider
🩶He Falls First
💚Childhood Crush
🩶Golden Retriever MMC
💚Return to Hometown
🩶Duet Narration/ Dual PoV
Trying Not to Need you is book two in The Moran Sisters series from Kaylee Ryan. This gives us the story of Baylor Moran and Macklin McBride. Baylor and Macklin's story was so swoony worthy i absolutely devoured it.
Baylor has just returned home from New York and ended her career and her relationship, she had enough. Macklin is a retired rodeo bull rider who has been pining for Baylor since she was a teenager ( he’s 5 years older).
This man pulled out all the stops to win her over. Dinners, presents, protective, had her back no matter what… all check. Add in the fact he’s just a super swoony golden retriever man who goes after what he wants… double check. He never gave up on Baylor and it’s high time she knows. And let’s not forget to mention the photos ugggh swoon
Their story had me in my feelings and rooting for them. All the emotion. There wasn’t a lot of tension or push n pull but I loved it nonetheless. Such a sweet story.
Erin Mallon and Stephen Dexter perform this audiobook in duet style narration, and these two were great together. Erin's tone captured Baylor in her emotional stages as well as making sure the excitement n giddy moments came through with her performance. StephenDexter is always such a fun listen. And his portrayal of Macklin was no different . He showed us a vast range of emotions in this character including his vulnerability. The chemistry between them was fun to listen to and makes you smile as you listen.
If you are a fan of a small town, emotional, romances with found family vibes then give this one a listen.
Tropes:
💚Opposites Attract
🩶Small Town
💚Retired Bull Rider
🩶He Falls First
💚Childhood Crush
🩶Golden Retriever MMC
💚Return to Hometown
🩶Duet Narration/ Dual PoV
Trying Not to Need you is book two in The Moran Sisters series from Kaylee Ryan. This gives us the story of Baylor Moran and Macklin McBride. Baylor and Macklin's story was so swoony worthy i absolutely devoured it.
Baylor has just returned home from New York and ended her career and her relationship, she had enough. Macklin is a retired rodeo bull rider who has been pining for Baylor since she was a teenager ( he’s 5 years older).
This man pulled out all the stops to win her over. Dinners, presents, protective, had her back no matter what… all check. Add in the fact he’s just a super swoony golden retriever man who goes after what he wants… double check. He never gave up on Baylor and it’s high time she knows. And let’s not forget to mention the photos ugggh swoon
Their story had me in my feelings and rooting for them. All the emotion. There wasn’t a lot of tension or push n pull but I loved it nonetheless. Such a sweet story.
Erin Mallon and Stephen Dexter perform this audiobook in duet style narration, and these two were great together. Erin's tone captured Baylor in her emotional stages as well as making sure the excitement n giddy moments came through with her performance. StephenDexter is always such a fun listen. And his portrayal of Macklin was no different . He showed us a vast range of emotions in this character including his vulnerability. The chemistry between them was fun to listen to and makes you smile as you listen.
If you are a fan of a small town, emotional, romances with found family vibes then give this one a listen.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🌸 Trying Not to Need You - ARC & ALC Review 🌸
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
@kaylee_ryan_author , YOU DID IT AGAIN! 🥹 I had the biggest smile on my face while reading this one!
Baylor and Macklin completely stole my heart. There was something so special about watching these two finally get their chance after years of feelings, missed timing, and everything life threw at them. And Macklin?! THIS MAN IS THE ULTIMATE GREEN FLAG. He was so patient, caring, supportive, and just completely devoted to Baylor. I loved how he gave her the space she needed while still making sure she knew exactly how he felt. The way he showed up for her, reassured her, and never made her feel like she had to be anything other than herself?! MY HEART. 🥹 Their chemistry, banter, and all those little moments had me giggling andswooning. And that bull ride scene?! 🥵 I LOVED IT!
But once again, the Moran sisters were one of my favorite parts! Their bond, the teasing, the support, and the way they always show up for each other brought so much heart to the story. I loved getting to spend more time with everyone from book one too, it really felt like coming back to people I already cared about.
And because I experienced this one as both an ARC and an ALC, I have to mention Erin Mallon and Stephen Dexter! Their performances brought Baylor and Macklin to life so perfectly, and their chemistry made all those emotional, funny, and swoony moments even better. I loved experiencing their story in both formats!
Kaylee has officially made Magnolia Ridge a place I don't want to leave, and now I'm already ready for the next sister! 👀
Thank you so much @kaylee_ryan_author for having me on your team and for the ARC/ALC! 🥰
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
@kaylee_ryan_author , YOU DID IT AGAIN! 🥹 I had the biggest smile on my face while reading this one!
Baylor and Macklin completely stole my heart. There was something so special about watching these two finally get their chance after years of feelings, missed timing, and everything life threw at them. And Macklin?! THIS MAN IS THE ULTIMATE GREEN FLAG. He was so patient, caring, supportive, and just completely devoted to Baylor. I loved how he gave her the space she needed while still making sure she knew exactly how he felt. The way he showed up for her, reassured her, and never made her feel like she had to be anything other than herself?! MY HEART. 🥹 Their chemistry, banter, and all those little moments had me giggling andswooning. And that bull ride scene?! 🥵 I LOVED IT!
But once again, the Moran sisters were one of my favorite parts! Their bond, the teasing, the support, and the way they always show up for each other brought so much heart to the story. I loved getting to spend more time with everyone from book one too, it really felt like coming back to people I already cared about.
And because I experienced this one as both an ARC and an ALC, I have to mention Erin Mallon and Stephen Dexter! Their performances brought Baylor and Macklin to life so perfectly, and their chemistry made all those emotional, funny, and swoony moments even better. I loved experiencing their story in both formats!
Kaylee has officially made Magnolia Ridge a place I don't want to leave, and now I'm already ready for the next sister! 👀
Thank you so much @kaylee_ryan_author for having me on your team and for the ARC/ALC! 🥰
Review of advance copy received from Author
"I want to be valued. I want to be appreciated. I want to be needed. I want to be loved." - Baylor
Baylor Moran just wants genuine love and her previous boyfriend fell extremely short. She knows what love looks like because her grandparents had it, her parents and her older sister too. It isn't wrong to want a love like that. Enter Macklin McBride....he understands the assignment!
Macklin has loved Baylor silently from a distance for years. He is not letting her slip away from him this time. I was not prepared for how adorable his character was going to be. This man is charming in all the right ways. He isn't shy about how he feels about her, he lays it all out there for her from the beginning. He is persistent yet still has the utmost respect for Baylor and what she wants. His hope is that he will ultimately be what she wants and needs. He knows her as well as she knows herself after years of biding his time. This girl's heart never even stood a chance against him and his charm, good looks and loving heart where she is concerned.
These two get the HEA they deserve and have longed for even if Macklin was not who Baylor thought she would find it with. That man will do anything for her. Them together takes zero effort, it is as easy as breathing.
********AUDIO REVIEW********
Erin Mallon and Stephen Dexter are so perfect as Baylor and Macklin. Both are such talented narrators and they sounded amazing together. Erin always seems to slide perfectly into a role and I swear Stephen amplified Macklin's adorableness with a boyish charm in his voice. The audio was over entirely too soon.
Baylor Moran just wants genuine love and her previous boyfriend fell extremely short. She knows what love looks like because her grandparents had it, her parents and her older sister too. It isn't wrong to want a love like that. Enter Macklin McBride....he understands the assignment!
Macklin has loved Baylor silently from a distance for years. He is not letting her slip away from him this time. I was not prepared for how adorable his character was going to be. This man is charming in all the right ways. He isn't shy about how he feels about her, he lays it all out there for her from the beginning. He is persistent yet still has the utmost respect for Baylor and what she wants. His hope is that he will ultimately be what she wants and needs. He knows her as well as she knows herself after years of biding his time. This girl's heart never even stood a chance against him and his charm, good looks and loving heart where she is concerned.
These two get the HEA they deserve and have longed for even if Macklin was not who Baylor thought she would find it with. That man will do anything for her. Them together takes zero effort, it is as easy as breathing.
********AUDIO REVIEW********
Erin Mallon and Stephen Dexter are so perfect as Baylor and Macklin. Both are such talented narrators and they sounded amazing together. Erin always seems to slide perfectly into a role and I swear Stephen amplified Macklin's adorableness with a boyish charm in his voice. The audio was over entirely too soon.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Trying Not to Need You is Baylor ( Bay) Moran and Macklin (Mac) McBride’s he falls first, childhood crush journey. It’s book two in the Moran Sisters and this beautifully written love story touched me on so many levels. I was drawn in from the first chapter and there was no putting down until the final line was read and even then I wanted more from Baylor and Mac.
Baylor is only meant to be coming home to Magnolia Ridge for her sister’s baby shower but her boyfriend lied to her and it made her realise she needs to go home alone for good. Growing up in a small town means everyone knows each other and she crushed on Mac when she was a teenager but when she meets him at her sisters shower she finds out a lot more about the man she thought had no interest in her…….
Mac is a retired bull rider and his heart has only ever belonged to one woman but every-time he tried to tell her, something got in the way, could it finally be their time. He is determined to prove to Baylor that he will always be by her side but he knows she won’t give her heart easily, so how can he show her that he would never break her heart if she just takes a leap of faith with him.
This story has so many layers and it has amazing characters that I fell hard and fast for. I smiled, I swooned and at times I held my breath as I cheered Bay and Mac on but what took this book to another level was watching a man put his heart and his soul on the line for the woman he has loved all his life. This is a well written love story that I won’t forget.
Baylor is only meant to be coming home to Magnolia Ridge for her sister’s baby shower but her boyfriend lied to her and it made her realise she needs to go home alone for good. Growing up in a small town means everyone knows each other and she crushed on Mac when she was a teenager but when she meets him at her sisters shower she finds out a lot more about the man she thought had no interest in her…….
Mac is a retired bull rider and his heart has only ever belonged to one woman but every-time he tried to tell her, something got in the way, could it finally be their time. He is determined to prove to Baylor that he will always be by her side but he knows she won’t give her heart easily, so how can he show her that he would never break her heart if she just takes a leap of faith with him.
This story has so many layers and it has amazing characters that I fell hard and fast for. I smiled, I swooned and at times I held my breath as I cheered Bay and Mac on but what took this book to another level was watching a man put his heart and his soul on the line for the woman he has loved all his life. This is a well written love story that I won’t forget.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Trying Not to Need You by Kaylee Ryan
⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5)
I really enjoyed Baylor and Macklin's small-town childhood crush romance.
My heart went out to Baylor. Any time you lose a long-term relationship, you mourn either the relationship itself or what you expected it to be. Five years is a long time to invest in a future with another person, and it was super relatable that she would be gun-shy about jumping into anything in the aftermath of her breakup. I love that, despite her struggles to trust in words, she is still open to giving Macklin a chance.
Macklin is ten toes down for Baylor. He has yearned for her for more than a decade, believing that he lost his chance with her. I am obsessed with his pursuit of her; he makes sure he is always in her orbit, but he doesn't push her to move any faster than she wants. He is so freaking respectful in the streets, with a dirty mouth in the sheets. I melt for this man, and I don't know how Baylor managed to hold out as long as she did.
The chemistry between Baylor and Macklin is off the charts. They have a foundation of friendship and enough sexual tension to choke a horse—the perfect blend for a healthy relationship. I really love that they share visions of the same future. It's all a recipe for the forever kind of love they both crave.
Another fantastic entry in the Moran Sisters series, though I've come to expect that from Kaylee Ryan. I can't wait to see which sister will find love next.
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC.
⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5)
I really enjoyed Baylor and Macklin's small-town childhood crush romance.
My heart went out to Baylor. Any time you lose a long-term relationship, you mourn either the relationship itself or what you expected it to be. Five years is a long time to invest in a future with another person, and it was super relatable that she would be gun-shy about jumping into anything in the aftermath of her breakup. I love that, despite her struggles to trust in words, she is still open to giving Macklin a chance.
Macklin is ten toes down for Baylor. He has yearned for her for more than a decade, believing that he lost his chance with her. I am obsessed with his pursuit of her; he makes sure he is always in her orbit, but he doesn't push her to move any faster than she wants. He is so freaking respectful in the streets, with a dirty mouth in the sheets. I melt for this man, and I don't know how Baylor managed to hold out as long as she did.
The chemistry between Baylor and Macklin is off the charts. They have a foundation of friendship and enough sexual tension to choke a horse—the perfect blend for a healthy relationship. I really love that they share visions of the same future. It's all a recipe for the forever kind of love they both crave.
Another fantastic entry in the Moran Sisters series, though I've come to expect that from Kaylee Ryan. I can't wait to see which sister will find love next.
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC.
September 7, 2026
4.75 ⭐️
2 🌶️
Macklin McBride just might be the greenest green flag cowboy ever! This man is just the epitome of swoon. And the way he’s yearned for Baylor…🥹😭 I was just absolutely obsessed.
Baylor Moran has returned to Magnolia Ridge after she ends her five-year long relationship to a complete DUD. Now that Baylor is back home AND single, Macklin decides it’s time to finally shoot his shot with her.
I loved how earnest and genuine Macklin was with his intentions and communication. He wanted to give Baylor the time she needed to recover from her recent breakup, but he also wanted to make his intentions and hopes clear. I just love when healthy, adult communication plays such an important role in the couple’s relationship. It grounds the relationship in reality and Macklin and Baylor had such beautiful, open conversations from the very beginning. And while this book isn’t overly spicy, when the spice does hit, it hits! 🔥 Mechanical bull anyone…?! (ifykyk 🤭😉🥵)
The found family and relationship between the Moran sisters is so beautiful and I just love this sweet group of friends and family! I also ate up every bit of Copeland and Ellison we got in this book. I’m still not over them from book one! 🥹😍
Can’t wait to return to Magnolia Ridge for book 3!
What to Expect:
Retired Bull Rider
Opposites Attract
Country Boy
He Falls First
Childhood Crush
Yearning/Pining
She Upgrades
Small Town
*Thank you to Kaylee and her team for the opportunity to read an arc of this book. 🫶🏼
2 🌶️
Macklin McBride just might be the greenest green flag cowboy ever! This man is just the epitome of swoon. And the way he’s yearned for Baylor…🥹😭 I was just absolutely obsessed.
Baylor Moran has returned to Magnolia Ridge after she ends her five-year long relationship to a complete DUD. Now that Baylor is back home AND single, Macklin decides it’s time to finally shoot his shot with her.
I loved how earnest and genuine Macklin was with his intentions and communication. He wanted to give Baylor the time she needed to recover from her recent breakup, but he also wanted to make his intentions and hopes clear. I just love when healthy, adult communication plays such an important role in the couple’s relationship. It grounds the relationship in reality and Macklin and Baylor had such beautiful, open conversations from the very beginning. And while this book isn’t overly spicy, when the spice does hit, it hits! 🔥 Mechanical bull anyone…?! (ifykyk 🤭😉🥵)
The found family and relationship between the Moran sisters is so beautiful and I just love this sweet group of friends and family! I also ate up every bit of Copeland and Ellison we got in this book. I’m still not over them from book one! 🥹😍
Can’t wait to return to Magnolia Ridge for book 3!
What to Expect:
Retired Bull Rider
Opposites Attract
Country Boy
He Falls First
Childhood Crush
Yearning/Pining
She Upgrades
Small Town
*Thank you to Kaylee and her team for the opportunity to read an arc of this book. 🫶🏼
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨ ARC/ ALC REVIEW ✨
Macklin & Baylor
🤍He Falls First
🤍Childhood Crush
🤍Small Town
🤍Opposites Attract
🤍Retired Bull Rider
🤍Blue Collar
Y’all I was hooked on this book from chapter 2! No joke Macklin absolutely made this book!! He had me swooning that early on and honestly kept me smiling throughout the whole book! I loved it so much!!
Baylor leaves a 5 year relationship and returns to her hometown after being away for 10 years. Wanting to focus on herself and her 3 sisters, the last thing on her mind is starting a new relationship. Wanting a family, she understands that she’ll need to start dating soon but she just isn’t there yet.
Macklin is a retired bull rider that has been pining after Baylor for the last 10 years. Every time she’s come home, he’s thought it would be his chance but something always got in the way. Now she’s finally home for good and he isn’t letting her get away this time. She’s no longer one of his best friend’s little sister, she’s the one he can see forever with. He just needs to convince Baylor to take a chance on him.
To think the main character in Trying Not to Love You set the bar high, Macklin came in and set that bar even higher in Trying Not to Need You. I love Kaylee Ryan’s books and can’t wait to see what else she has in store for the Moran Sisters! 🤗
Thank you Kaylee Ryan for letting me be apart of the ARC/ALC TEAM. It did not disappoint one bit!! 😍
Macklin & Baylor
🤍He Falls First
🤍Childhood Crush
🤍Small Town
🤍Opposites Attract
🤍Retired Bull Rider
🤍Blue Collar
Y’all I was hooked on this book from chapter 2! No joke Macklin absolutely made this book!! He had me swooning that early on and honestly kept me smiling throughout the whole book! I loved it so much!!
Baylor leaves a 5 year relationship and returns to her hometown after being away for 10 years. Wanting to focus on herself and her 3 sisters, the last thing on her mind is starting a new relationship. Wanting a family, she understands that she’ll need to start dating soon but she just isn’t there yet.
Macklin is a retired bull rider that has been pining after Baylor for the last 10 years. Every time she’s come home, he’s thought it would be his chance but something always got in the way. Now she’s finally home for good and he isn’t letting her get away this time. She’s no longer one of his best friend’s little sister, she’s the one he can see forever with. He just needs to convince Baylor to take a chance on him.
To think the main character in Trying Not to Love You set the bar high, Macklin came in and set that bar even higher in Trying Not to Need You. I love Kaylee Ryan’s books and can’t wait to see what else she has in store for the Moran Sisters! 🤗
Thank you Kaylee Ryan for letting me be apart of the ARC/ALC TEAM. It did not disappoint one bit!! 😍
Review of advance copy received from Author
BOOKED EMINA former The Romantic Bosnian
*ARC Read *3.75 Stars
I am going to keep this short since as you can see I did not favor this book in this series. We have a FMC the sister in this series that lives outside of their little town all the way in NY who is successful and has been in a relationship with a man for 5 years. The MMC is the local boy who is 5 years older than the FMC and is a retired bull rider who now still lives in town and works there. These two did not give me the vibe I was expecting, I am not sure because it made me a little cringe on their story or if it was the MMC vibe. Either way I was not able to connect to this book, I don't mind insta-love and the HEA I crave it...but this one I just could not get on board as to the HOW and WHY. I don't do spoilers so I will stop here. If you're reading this and have read this book and say that you LOVED it, absolutely okay because everyone has their styles. This is my opinion and while I didn't go into details as to my why, this doesn't mean this book isn't for you or for me to tell you not to try it.
This is a first for me with this author and I have read every single one of her books and loved them. Breaks my heart but I am an honest reviewer. I am happy that this sister got a very sweet HEA because she deserved it, well to be honest the MMC finally had his turn.
If you are a BOOKSTAGRAMMER let's be friends -> CLICK HERE
*ARC Read *3.75 Stars
I am going to keep this short since as you can see I did not favor this book in this series. We have a FMC the sister in this series that lives outside of their little town all the way in NY who is successful and has been in a relationship with a man for 5 years. The MMC is the local boy who is 5 years older than the FMC and is a retired bull rider who now still lives in town and works there. These two did not give me the vibe I was expecting, I am not sure because it made me a little cringe on their story or if it was the MMC vibe. Either way I was not able to connect to this book, I don't mind insta-love and the HEA I crave it...but this one I just could not get on board as to the HOW and WHY. I don't do spoilers so I will stop here. If you're reading this and have read this book and say that you LOVED it, absolutely okay because everyone has their styles. This is my opinion and while I didn't go into details as to my why, this doesn't mean this book isn't for you or for me to tell you not to try it.
This is a first for me with this author and I have read every single one of her books and loved them. Breaks my heart but I am an honest reviewer. I am happy that this sister got a very sweet HEA because she deserved it, well to be honest the MMC finally had his turn.
If you are a BOOKSTAGRAMMER let's be friends -> CLICK HERE
Review of advance copy received from Author
Trying Not to Need You is the 2nd book in the Moran Sisters series by Kaylee Ryan.
I love small town romance and we are returning to Magnolia Ridge along with Baylor Moran who returns home after living in New York. Baylor learned of a betrayal by her ex-boyfriend of 5 years which led her to returning home heartbroken and uncertain of her future. She is not alone with her sisters, grandparents and friends rallying around her along with Macklin McBride.
Macklin has a been harboring a secret and since it appears that the stars are aligned with both of them home and single it gives him the opening to speak his truth and show through his actions what she has always meant to him. He is a definite swoon-worthy book boyfriend that has literally waited years for Baylor. Let's not forget he is also a sexy retired bull rider that fills a pair a sweatpants that's not for the faint of heart. He has a plan of action which he implements and openly tells Baylor of his intentions to have her fall in love with him. Will she be able to trust Macklin after her recent heartbreak and maybe find that her greatest love was always waiting for her at home?
There is plenty of family bonding, funny moments, sizzling chemistry, age gap, an hot and spicy adventure on a mechanical bull, sassy banter, and a love that finally gets it happily ever after.
I want to thank Kaylee Ryan for an early copy and I'm sharing my voluntary opinion.
I love small town romance and we are returning to Magnolia Ridge along with Baylor Moran who returns home after living in New York. Baylor learned of a betrayal by her ex-boyfriend of 5 years which led her to returning home heartbroken and uncertain of her future. She is not alone with her sisters, grandparents and friends rallying around her along with Macklin McBride.
Macklin has a been harboring a secret and since it appears that the stars are aligned with both of them home and single it gives him the opening to speak his truth and show through his actions what she has always meant to him. He is a definite swoon-worthy book boyfriend that has literally waited years for Baylor. Let's not forget he is also a sexy retired bull rider that fills a pair a sweatpants that's not for the faint of heart. He has a plan of action which he implements and openly tells Baylor of his intentions to have her fall in love with him. Will she be able to trust Macklin after her recent heartbreak and maybe find that her greatest love was always waiting for her at home?
There is plenty of family bonding, funny moments, sizzling chemistry, age gap, an hot and spicy adventure on a mechanical bull, sassy banter, and a love that finally gets it happily ever after.
I want to thank Kaylee Ryan for an early copy and I'm sharing my voluntary opinion.
September 10, 2026
I'm really loving this series. This book gives us Baylor's story. I thought it was wonderfully narrated in duet by Stephen Dexter and Erin Mallon. I loved Baylor and Macklin's love story.
Baylor realized her relationship was done when her boyfriend ended their chances of having a family without ever even telling her. So, she was done with him and New York. She packed everything she needed and moved back home to Tennessee. Being back home with her sister's will definitely be good for her heart and soul. She wasn't planning on falling for anyone, but Macklin is there and the crush she had on him so long ago is rising to the surface again.
Macklin has had a thing for Baylor since she turned 18. But it was never the right time. Every time he was going to make his move, something happened to show him the time wasn't right. He was even willing to move to New York to be with her and figure out what he would do with his life there, but then she showed up with her boyfriend. Now she's back in Tennessee and she doesn't have a boyfriend anymore. Macklin isn't going to let his chance pass him by this time.
I absolutely loved how much Macklin cared for Baylor. He was willing to take as long as it needed to for Baylor to see how much he cared for her and that he was in this forever. That he wanted all the things she wanted for her life. These two were so perfect together. I love these sister's so much and look forward to the next story.
Baylor realized her relationship was done when her boyfriend ended their chances of having a family without ever even telling her. So, she was done with him and New York. She packed everything she needed and moved back home to Tennessee. Being back home with her sister's will definitely be good for her heart and soul. She wasn't planning on falling for anyone, but Macklin is there and the crush she had on him so long ago is rising to the surface again.
Macklin has had a thing for Baylor since she turned 18. But it was never the right time. Every time he was going to make his move, something happened to show him the time wasn't right. He was even willing to move to New York to be with her and figure out what he would do with his life there, but then she showed up with her boyfriend. Now she's back in Tennessee and she doesn't have a boyfriend anymore. Macklin isn't going to let his chance pass him by this time.
I absolutely loved how much Macklin cared for Baylor. He was willing to take as long as it needed to for Baylor to see how much he cared for her and that he was in this forever. That he wanted all the things she wanted for her life. These two were so perfect together. I love these sister's so much and look forward to the next story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Trying Not to Need You by Kaylee Ryan is a heartfelt, small-town romance that launches the Moran Sisters series with a deeply emotional, he-falls-first, opposites-attract love story.
The plot follows Baylor Moran, a woman who returns home to Magnolia Ridge to regroup with her sisters after walking away from a five-year relationship in New York that ultimately left her with a bruised heart and a shattered plan.
Enter Macklin, a retired bull rider who has secretly loved Baylor for years and is more than ready to prove he isn't going anywhere. While Baylor navigates her mistrust of men and tries hard not to need anyone, Macklin exhibits the patience of a saint, quietly showing up, earning her trust, and demonstrating that he is the ultimate devoted hero.
The narrative balances emotional depth with delightful pacing, seamless world-building, and plenty of swoon-worthy moments—including an unforgettable barn scene that delivers on the heat.
Through strong character arcs, Macklin’s steadfast devotion, and Baylor’s inspiring resilience, the story captures the powerful pull of coming home and finding love where you least expect it.
Elevated by fantastic duet narration from Erin Mallon and Stephen Dexter—who bring emotional depth, strength, and power to the characters—this engaging and romantic page-turner is an absolute treat for fans of cozy small-town romance.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The plot follows Baylor Moran, a woman who returns home to Magnolia Ridge to regroup with her sisters after walking away from a five-year relationship in New York that ultimately left her with a bruised heart and a shattered plan.
Enter Macklin, a retired bull rider who has secretly loved Baylor for years and is more than ready to prove he isn't going anywhere. While Baylor navigates her mistrust of men and tries hard not to need anyone, Macklin exhibits the patience of a saint, quietly showing up, earning her trust, and demonstrating that he is the ultimate devoted hero.
The narrative balances emotional depth with delightful pacing, seamless world-building, and plenty of swoon-worthy moments—including an unforgettable barn scene that delivers on the heat.
Through strong character arcs, Macklin’s steadfast devotion, and Baylor’s inspiring resilience, the story captures the powerful pull of coming home and finding love where you least expect it.
Elevated by fantastic duet narration from Erin Mallon and Stephen Dexter—who bring emotional depth, strength, and power to the characters—this engaging and romantic page-turner is an absolute treat for fans of cozy small-town romance.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
-Small Town
-He Falls First
-Retired Bull Rider
-Childhood Crush
-Opposites Attract
I did not think the first book could be topped, but it was. The way Macklin loves Baylor before she even realizes it is really sweet. This book gave me the cozy vibes. You truly brought the small town love story to life. Baylor is going through a horrible break up where she feels she can no longer trust a man. Macklin struts in and changes everything !
Baylor is truly such a closed off, loyal, and ambitious woman. She moves to New York after her parents die to try to start a new life for herself. But one thing leads to another and she is back living with her sisters. She has sworn off love and doesn’t think she will ever trust a man. Until fate has other ideas.
Macklin is sweet, a natural caretaker, and a truly gentleman. He would walk to the end of the earth for Baylor. He is swoony, obsessed, and so protective. He will stop at nothing to ensure that Baylor is taken care of, loved, and sees what it is like to be with a real man.
I thought that Copeland was down bad in the first book. He has nothing on Macklin. You want to talk about a sweet obsession mixed with some pinning. Macklin is determined to have his happily ever after with Baylor. You will have to read to find out if that happens and I promise the ride will be worth it !
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read this advanced readers copy! I can’t wait for the next book !!
-He Falls First
-Retired Bull Rider
-Childhood Crush
-Opposites Attract
I did not think the first book could be topped, but it was. The way Macklin loves Baylor before she even realizes it is really sweet. This book gave me the cozy vibes. You truly brought the small town love story to life. Baylor is going through a horrible break up where she feels she can no longer trust a man. Macklin struts in and changes everything !
Baylor is truly such a closed off, loyal, and ambitious woman. She moves to New York after her parents die to try to start a new life for herself. But one thing leads to another and she is back living with her sisters. She has sworn off love and doesn’t think she will ever trust a man. Until fate has other ideas.
Macklin is sweet, a natural caretaker, and a truly gentleman. He would walk to the end of the earth for Baylor. He is swoony, obsessed, and so protective. He will stop at nothing to ensure that Baylor is taken care of, loved, and sees what it is like to be with a real man.
I thought that Copeland was down bad in the first book. He has nothing on Macklin. You want to talk about a sweet obsession mixed with some pinning. Macklin is determined to have his happily ever after with Baylor. You will have to read to find out if that happens and I promise the ride will be worth it !
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read this advanced readers copy! I can’t wait for the next book !!
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