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Granite Falls, Texas #1
The Cowboy's Kiss
He didn’t know what he had… until she walked away.
She was the one who never left.
Maisie Dawson has never strayed from Granite Falls, Texas. The Yellow Rose Diner is her second home, and loving Beckett Cooper has always felt just as permanent.
She’s the girl who stayed.
The one who answered every late-night knock.
The one who gave him everything.
Her body.
Almost her heart, too.
But Maisie is done being convenient.
Beckett Cooper is ranching royalty. Cattle run in his blood, and so does freedom. He works hard, plays harder, and never makes promises he can’t keep. The women in his bed know the rules.
Cattle. Whiskey. Women
Love? Not a chance.
He never meant to hurt her… but he sure as hell doesn’t plan on losing her.
Now the cowboy who swore he’ll never settle down is about to learn that the only thing hotter than a Texas summer night is the woman walking away from him.
And this time, if Maisie leaves, she won’t be coming back.
Welcome to Granite Falls, Texas–where the cowboys are alpha, the family legacies run deep, and love burns hotter than any bonfire in Hill Country.
She was the one who never left.
Maisie Dawson has never strayed from Granite Falls, Texas. The Yellow Rose Diner is her second home, and loving Beckett Cooper has always felt just as permanent.
She’s the girl who stayed.
The one who answered every late-night knock.
The one who gave him everything.
Her body.
Almost her heart, too.
But Maisie is done being convenient.
Beckett Cooper is ranching royalty. Cattle run in his blood, and so does freedom. He works hard, plays harder, and never makes promises he can’t keep. The women in his bed know the rules.
Cattle. Whiskey. Women
Love? Not a chance.
He never meant to hurt her… but he sure as hell doesn’t plan on losing her.
Now the cowboy who swore he’ll never settle down is about to learn that the only thing hotter than a Texas summer night is the woman walking away from him.
And this time, if Maisie leaves, she won’t be coming back.
Welcome to Granite Falls, Texas–where the cowboys are alpha, the family legacies run deep, and love burns hotter than any bonfire in Hill Country.
172 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 8, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
April 8, 2026
This one definitely had me on the proverbial fence as to whose team I was on. Maisie was sweet and steadfast in her devotion to Beckett for eleven years. I was grumbling at her to wake up and become her own woman. Beckett was frustratingly dense and self focused leading me to want to upside his head throughout. With that being said, the talented author’s writing kept me totally invested in the roller coaster of their love journey. It is a quicker read, and one that will stick to you whether you are team Maisie or team Beckett. Thank you Hayley James and Wordsmith Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 8, 2026
I read this wonderful book, then immediately read it again, a bit slower and determined to savour it a bit more. The first time I was in a rush to see how Maisie and Beckett finally find their way past the hurt, confusion and fear that marked their relationship for so long. At first, Beckett seemed to be just an arrogant player who has little respect or feelings for Maisie, a woman who loved him wholeheartedly. What else can one think when a guy refused to date her, showed up at her place for a booty call, then took his leave? Of course, I was also a tad angry that Maisie, an independent and successful businesswoman, let Beckett treat her so poorly. Then, as their story unfolded, I realized that both loved each other and had for years. Change is something both didn’t handle well or do often.
Maisie had yearned for a husband and a family of her own and the only person she could see a future with is Beckett. It didn’t matter that he was the man who made her feel not good enough to be his partner in public, but made her feel needed and desired in private. The heart wants what it wants, and hers wanted Beckett. Her brain was telling her to put a halt to their relationship and give herself a chance to meet another man who could possibly become her husband and create a family with her. Unfortunately, her heart was loyal and desired only Beckett, overruling her brain time and again. But even her heart became tired of waiting for Beckett to change.
Beckett was indeed arrogant, selfish, far too handsome for his good and far too sure of Maisie. His priority had been the family ranch and keeping it afloat after his parents died. As the oldest, he had felt responsible for both the ranch and his younger brothers. He told himself that he had no time for love and a committed relationship, nor did he want any more responsibility. Still, no other woman interested him, and seeing and being with Maisie soothed his stress, and made him feel ready to handle all his other responsibilities. He saw no reason to change the relationship that he and Maisie had kept for eleven years. Then an incident opened his and Maisie told him that she wanted more than just their casual sex at his will relationship. He didn’t want to lose Maisie, but was he willing to change, to commit and prioritize a relationship with Maisie? Did he love Maisie? He knew one thing…Maisie was done with the status quo and losing her was a real possibility.
These characters drew both my empathy and my attention, it was easy to become immersed in their story and to want a satisfying ending to their story. I loved the advice and the good kick in the pants that Beckett’s brother gave him, and that her friend gave Maisie, This angsty, emotional and perceptive book has my recommendation.
Maisie had yearned for a husband and a family of her own and the only person she could see a future with is Beckett. It didn’t matter that he was the man who made her feel not good enough to be his partner in public, but made her feel needed and desired in private. The heart wants what it wants, and hers wanted Beckett. Her brain was telling her to put a halt to their relationship and give herself a chance to meet another man who could possibly become her husband and create a family with her. Unfortunately, her heart was loyal and desired only Beckett, overruling her brain time and again. But even her heart became tired of waiting for Beckett to change.
Beckett was indeed arrogant, selfish, far too handsome for his good and far too sure of Maisie. His priority had been the family ranch and keeping it afloat after his parents died. As the oldest, he had felt responsible for both the ranch and his younger brothers. He told himself that he had no time for love and a committed relationship, nor did he want any more responsibility. Still, no other woman interested him, and seeing and being with Maisie soothed his stress, and made him feel ready to handle all his other responsibilities. He saw no reason to change the relationship that he and Maisie had kept for eleven years. Then an incident opened his and Maisie told him that she wanted more than just their casual sex at his will relationship. He didn’t want to lose Maisie, but was he willing to change, to commit and prioritize a relationship with Maisie? Did he love Maisie? He knew one thing…Maisie was done with the status quo and losing her was a real possibility.
These characters drew both my empathy and my attention, it was easy to become immersed in their story and to want a satisfying ending to their story. I loved the advice and the good kick in the pants that Beckett’s brother gave him, and that her friend gave Maisie, This angsty, emotional and perceptive book has my recommendation.
Review of advance copy
don’t even know where to start because this book had me in a CHOKEHOLD from page one and did not let up 😩🔥
The Cowboy’s Kiss is the kind of romance that sneaks up on you like a slow burn and then suddenly sets your entire soul on fire. Small town? Check. Messy feelings? Check. A man who absolutely fumbles the woman who’s been right there all along and then proceeds to LOSE HIS MIND when she finally walks away?? YES PLEASE.
Maisie Dawson… that girl had my whole heart. She’s the definition of “I’ve had enough” and watching her finally choose herself after giving everything to Beckett?? It was painful in the best way. You could feel every ounce of her love, every compromise, every moment she stayed when she deserved more. And when she finally said no more?? I was cheering, crying, pacing my room like I personally knew her.
And BECKETT COOPER. Lord help me. This man really thought he could just coast through life with his “no strings, no promises” rulebook like Maisie wasn’t the center of his entire universe. The AUDACITY. But also… the spiral this man goes through when he realizes he’s about to lose her?? Inject it straight into my veins. This is she falls first, he falls harder done EXACTLY right. He doesn’t just fall… he crashes, burns, and rebuilds himself trying to be worthy of her.
The tension??? Off the charts. Every late-night encounter, every look, every almost-confession had me gripping my kindle like it owed me money. It’s that delicious mix of history + longing + unfinished business that just hurts so good.
And the small-town Granite Falls setting?? It wraps around you like heat off a Texas highway. The diner, the ranch life, the family legacy, the gossip humming in the background… it all felt so alive. Like you could walk into the Yellow Rose Diner and immediately hear someone whispering about Beckett screwing things up (again).
But what really got me was the emotional depth. This isn’t just a hot cowboy romance (though TRUST it delivers on that front 🥵), it’s about knowing your worth, about not settling for half-love, and about a man having to unlearn everything he thought he wanted to become the one she actually deserves.
By the end I was a mess. Swooning, teary, fully converted into a Beckett Cooper apologist while also wanting to shake him. The growth?? The grovel?? The payoff?? CHEF’S KISS.
If you love:
• grumpy, stubborn cowboys
• “she’s always been there” angst
• a heroine who finally chooses herself
• a hero who has to EARN her back
• small-town heat and big feelings
this book will ruin you in the best way.
The Cowboy’s Kiss is the kind of romance that sneaks up on you like a slow burn and then suddenly sets your entire soul on fire. Small town? Check. Messy feelings? Check. A man who absolutely fumbles the woman who’s been right there all along and then proceeds to LOSE HIS MIND when she finally walks away?? YES PLEASE.
Maisie Dawson… that girl had my whole heart. She’s the definition of “I’ve had enough” and watching her finally choose herself after giving everything to Beckett?? It was painful in the best way. You could feel every ounce of her love, every compromise, every moment she stayed when she deserved more. And when she finally said no more?? I was cheering, crying, pacing my room like I personally knew her.
And BECKETT COOPER. Lord help me. This man really thought he could just coast through life with his “no strings, no promises” rulebook like Maisie wasn’t the center of his entire universe. The AUDACITY. But also… the spiral this man goes through when he realizes he’s about to lose her?? Inject it straight into my veins. This is she falls first, he falls harder done EXACTLY right. He doesn’t just fall… he crashes, burns, and rebuilds himself trying to be worthy of her.
The tension??? Off the charts. Every late-night encounter, every look, every almost-confession had me gripping my kindle like it owed me money. It’s that delicious mix of history + longing + unfinished business that just hurts so good.
And the small-town Granite Falls setting?? It wraps around you like heat off a Texas highway. The diner, the ranch life, the family legacy, the gossip humming in the background… it all felt so alive. Like you could walk into the Yellow Rose Diner and immediately hear someone whispering about Beckett screwing things up (again).
But what really got me was the emotional depth. This isn’t just a hot cowboy romance (though TRUST it delivers on that front 🥵), it’s about knowing your worth, about not settling for half-love, and about a man having to unlearn everything he thought he wanted to become the one she actually deserves.
By the end I was a mess. Swooning, teary, fully converted into a Beckett Cooper apologist while also wanting to shake him. The growth?? The grovel?? The payoff?? CHEF’S KISS.
If you love:
• grumpy, stubborn cowboys
• “she’s always been there” angst
• a heroine who finally chooses herself
• a hero who has to EARN her back
• small-town heat and big feelings
this book will ruin you in the best way.
April 9, 2026
This one ended up being a 2 ⭐ read for me, but it was definitely a mixed experience.
I’ll be honest, I almost DNFed early on because of Beckett. His behavior toward women, especially Maisie, was really hard to get past. He came across as a full-on womanizer who treated women as interchangeable, like they existed purely for his own pleasure. It was no secret, he was very open about. The way he toyed with Maisie and dismissed her feelings made it difficult to root for him at all. In fact, I was really rooting for either Jordi or Baylor because I thought surely she isn't going to settle for Beckett after how he's treated her for. eleven. years. It was hard to have redeeming qualities after all of that.
On top of that, Maisie staying stuck in that cycle with him for over a decade didn’t sit right with me either. It made me lose respect for both characters pretty early on, and that’s a tough thing for a book to recover from. Once that foundation is shaky, it’s hard to fully invest in the emotional payoff. And you end up really wanting better for both people.
I think what ultimately kept this from being a lower rating is that there were moments of chemistry and glimpses of what their relationship could have been. But for me, Beckett’s redemption arc just didn’t feel strong or convincing enough to balance out how he acted and treated not only Maisie, but women as a whole, for most of the book. They don't even know much about each other. In fact, Beckett makes it known that he doesn't really know much about her or what she likes, other than that she's his preferred middle of the night booty call because she's "convenient". Yeah, he literally says that.
Overall, this had potential, but the character dynamics made it hard to fully enjoy. I really hate that because I always want to support authors and their hard and vulnerable works. But I tried hard with this one, and it just didn't sit right for me personally. If you prefer particularly messy heroes, some toxicity mixed in, and long-term push-pull relationships, you might get more out of it than I did.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I’ll be honest, I almost DNFed early on because of Beckett. His behavior toward women, especially Maisie, was really hard to get past. He came across as a full-on womanizer who treated women as interchangeable, like they existed purely for his own pleasure. It was no secret, he was very open about. The way he toyed with Maisie and dismissed her feelings made it difficult to root for him at all. In fact, I was really rooting for either Jordi or Baylor because I thought surely she isn't going to settle for Beckett after how he's treated her for. eleven. years. It was hard to have redeeming qualities after all of that.
On top of that, Maisie staying stuck in that cycle with him for over a decade didn’t sit right with me either. It made me lose respect for both characters pretty early on, and that’s a tough thing for a book to recover from. Once that foundation is shaky, it’s hard to fully invest in the emotional payoff. And you end up really wanting better for both people.
I think what ultimately kept this from being a lower rating is that there were moments of chemistry and glimpses of what their relationship could have been. But for me, Beckett’s redemption arc just didn’t feel strong or convincing enough to balance out how he acted and treated not only Maisie, but women as a whole, for most of the book. They don't even know much about each other. In fact, Beckett makes it known that he doesn't really know much about her or what she likes, other than that she's his preferred middle of the night booty call because she's "convenient". Yeah, he literally says that.
Overall, this had potential, but the character dynamics made it hard to fully enjoy. I really hate that because I always want to support authors and their hard and vulnerable works. But I tried hard with this one, and it just didn't sit right for me personally. If you prefer particularly messy heroes, some toxicity mixed in, and long-term push-pull relationships, you might get more out of it than I did.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 16, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I will admit this story started off slower than I had hoped, but I love Hayley James’ writing and knew she would come through. And boy did she! The Cowboy’s Kiss is full of tension, yearning, and self realization. The romance between our two MCs unfolds over years of misunderstanding and miscommunication. Hayley brings a level of realness to her characters that make them easy to love and dislike. As the story progresses Hayley keeps readers intrigued as the MCs navigate their way through feelings, history, and what the future holds.
Maise is a strong, independent woman who more than once I wanted to scream at. She has loved the same man for years, but he doesn’t seem to want anymore than the occasional hookup. Although she wants more, she is taking what she can get. Which is what made me squirm. I hoped that she would come to realize how much better she deserves. Finally she decides enough is enough and puts what she wants at the forefront.
Beckett doesn’t seem to realize what he has with Maise. Or maybe he does. He first comes across as selfish, full of himself, and seems to use people for his own gain. However, the more you read about him you come to understand he is holding a lot of responsibility on his shoulders. He doesn’t think he has the time, but he can’t let Maise go fully. No one else interests him the way she does. So when she gives him an ultimatum, he must finally decide how much she is really worth to him.
I knew Hayley would come through and provide an amazing, wonderful story that fully held my attention. I was excited to see how Maise and Beckett would find their way to each other and be loved like they both deserved. I was so proud of Maise for finally standing up for herself and for Beckett to finally realize how much Maise means to him. Hayley gives us so much emotion in this short book and truly pulls at your heartstrings.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🩵Small Town Romance
💋Grumpy x Sunshine
🩵She Falls First
💋He Falls Harder
🩵Situationship to Forever
💋Possessive MMC
🩵Late-Night Hookups
💋Second Chance Romance
I will admit this story started off slower than I had hoped, but I love Hayley James’ writing and knew she would come through. And boy did she! The Cowboy’s Kiss is full of tension, yearning, and self realization. The romance between our two MCs unfolds over years of misunderstanding and miscommunication. Hayley brings a level of realness to her characters that make them easy to love and dislike. As the story progresses Hayley keeps readers intrigued as the MCs navigate their way through feelings, history, and what the future holds.
Maise is a strong, independent woman who more than once I wanted to scream at. She has loved the same man for years, but he doesn’t seem to want anymore than the occasional hookup. Although she wants more, she is taking what she can get. Which is what made me squirm. I hoped that she would come to realize how much better she deserves. Finally she decides enough is enough and puts what she wants at the forefront.
Beckett doesn’t seem to realize what he has with Maise. Or maybe he does. He first comes across as selfish, full of himself, and seems to use people for his own gain. However, the more you read about him you come to understand he is holding a lot of responsibility on his shoulders. He doesn’t think he has the time, but he can’t let Maise go fully. No one else interests him the way she does. So when she gives him an ultimatum, he must finally decide how much she is really worth to him.
I knew Hayley would come through and provide an amazing, wonderful story that fully held my attention. I was excited to see how Maise and Beckett would find their way to each other and be loved like they both deserved. I was so proud of Maise for finally standing up for herself and for Beckett to finally realize how much Maise means to him. Hayley gives us so much emotion in this short book and truly pulls at your heartstrings.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🩵Small Town Romance
💋Grumpy x Sunshine
🩵She Falls First
💋He Falls Harder
🩵Situationship to Forever
💋Possessive MMC
🩵Late-Night Hookups
💋Second Chance Romance
Review of advance copy received from Author
Beckett and Maisie
* Small town romance
* Ranch romance
* She falls first
* Situationship
* Second chance
Oh my lord…. Beckett is absolutely horrible.
“I know every single man in this town thinks about it, wants it, but would never even try it. They’d never step on my toes. She’s not available to anyone but me. Selfishly, Maisie Dawson is mine.
Although I think she’s only warmed my bed a couple of times. It’s mostly me going to her in the twilight hours when I can’t sleep, when I need some relief. And if she’s not available, I’ve got a couple of others I can call.
But I don’t like going anywhere else. Maisie is and will always be my top choice.”
Not ‘the only’… She’s the ‘top choice’…. ugh. Gross.
He’s ‘fooled around’ with her for eleven years, and he knows she’s going to accept it. I felt sorry for her, while also wondering where she put her brain cells….
I was glad that she recognised how badly she was being used, and how weak she was. I just felt said that it took so long. I’m glad his brother confronted him, but I also couldn’t help but think how complicit they were in allowing him to use her.
And Emily… she gives me viper vibes… Ready to jump him, hooks up with his brother, then drags Maisie saying, “If she doesn’t say yes, she’s a fool, Beckett Cooper.”
I was hoping for some actual grovel, but absolutely nothing. He ignored her, focussed on everything else, and then she just accepts his proposal…. Excuse me while I go manufacture a spine for her.
What did I just read?.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
* Small town romance
* Ranch romance
* She falls first
* Situationship
* Second chance
Oh my lord…. Beckett is absolutely horrible.
“I know every single man in this town thinks about it, wants it, but would never even try it. They’d never step on my toes. She’s not available to anyone but me. Selfishly, Maisie Dawson is mine.
Although I think she’s only warmed my bed a couple of times. It’s mostly me going to her in the twilight hours when I can’t sleep, when I need some relief. And if she’s not available, I’ve got a couple of others I can call.
But I don’t like going anywhere else. Maisie is and will always be my top choice.”
Not ‘the only’… She’s the ‘top choice’…. ugh. Gross.
He’s ‘fooled around’ with her for eleven years, and he knows she’s going to accept it. I felt sorry for her, while also wondering where she put her brain cells….
I was glad that she recognised how badly she was being used, and how weak she was. I just felt said that it took so long. I’m glad his brother confronted him, but I also couldn’t help but think how complicit they were in allowing him to use her.
And Emily… she gives me viper vibes… Ready to jump him, hooks up with his brother, then drags Maisie saying, “If she doesn’t say yes, she’s a fool, Beckett Cooper.”
I was hoping for some actual grovel, but absolutely nothing. He ignored her, focussed on everything else, and then she just accepts his proposal…. Excuse me while I go manufacture a spine for her.
What did I just read?.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
The second book in the Granite Falls, Texas series by Hayley James, The Cowboy’s Kiss, is one of those small-town romances that will absolutely divide opinion—and honestly, that’s part of what makes it so compelling.
At the heart of the story is Maisie, a warm, hardworking diner owner who has been quietly, steadfastly in love with rancher Beckett since their school days—eleven years of loving someone who never quite chose her. Beckett, on the other hand, has always kept things firmly in the “no strings” category. His world revolves around the ranch, and settling down was never part of the plan. In his mind, there was an unspoken understanding between them—no promises, no expectations, no heartbreak.
Except… that’s not how love works.
What Beckett fails to recognise—what he never truly sees—is just how deep Maisie’s feelings run. So when she finally reaches her breaking point and walks away, cutting ties completely, it becomes the wake-up call he never knew he needed.
This is where the book will split readers. On one side, you’ll feel the slow-burn ache of unrequited love, the history, the longing, and the hope that maybe—just maybe—he’ll finally realise what he’s about to lose. On the other, you might find yourself questioning how someone as genuinely wonderful as Maisie could wait so long for a man who gave her so little in return.
But that tension? That frustration? That emotional push and pull? It’s exactly what fuels this story.
The Cowboy’s Kiss is messy, emotional, and rooted in real, imperfect love. It explores what happens when comfort and convenience collide with truth and self-worth—and whether love, when it’s finally recognised, is enough to make up for lost time.
A romance that won’t leave you indifferent—whether you’re rooting for Beckett or ready to walk away with Maisie.
At the heart of the story is Maisie, a warm, hardworking diner owner who has been quietly, steadfastly in love with rancher Beckett since their school days—eleven years of loving someone who never quite chose her. Beckett, on the other hand, has always kept things firmly in the “no strings” category. His world revolves around the ranch, and settling down was never part of the plan. In his mind, there was an unspoken understanding between them—no promises, no expectations, no heartbreak.
Except… that’s not how love works.
What Beckett fails to recognise—what he never truly sees—is just how deep Maisie’s feelings run. So when she finally reaches her breaking point and walks away, cutting ties completely, it becomes the wake-up call he never knew he needed.
This is where the book will split readers. On one side, you’ll feel the slow-burn ache of unrequited love, the history, the longing, and the hope that maybe—just maybe—he’ll finally realise what he’s about to lose. On the other, you might find yourself questioning how someone as genuinely wonderful as Maisie could wait so long for a man who gave her so little in return.
But that tension? That frustration? That emotional push and pull? It’s exactly what fuels this story.
The Cowboy’s Kiss is messy, emotional, and rooted in real, imperfect love. It explores what happens when comfort and convenience collide with truth and self-worth—and whether love, when it’s finally recognised, is enough to make up for lost time.
A romance that won’t leave you indifferent—whether you’re rooting for Beckett or ready to walk away with Maisie.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review
⭐3/5
🌶️2/5
I have mixed feelings about this book. More than anything, I feel like Massie deserved more. She deserved groveling, yearning, and a man who would truly fight for her. After eleven years in a situationship with Beckett, I needed her to open her eyes and realize she should never settle for being someone’s “top choice” when she deserves to be the only choice.
I really wanted to see her explore other options. They were in an open situationship, so it would have made sense for her to date other people instead of putting all her eggs in one basket. Especially when Beckett was doing exactly that, seeing other women while being very clear that he would never settle down.
And yes, he was honest about his feelings, and Massie knew where she stood. That is what made it harder to read at times, because she accepted less than she deserved. I found myself wishing she would give Jordan a real chance, just to see that Beckett was not the only man out there for her.
Did Beckett change? He did. But for me, it still felt like it was not enough.
That said, Hayley’s writing was incredibly engaging. She kept me hooked from beginning to end and made me feel every bit of frustration, hope, and heartbreak along the way. It is also a quick read, perfect to finish in just a couple of hours.
Thank you to Hayley and Wordsmith Publicity for this eARC.
⭐3/5
🌶️2/5
I have mixed feelings about this book. More than anything, I feel like Massie deserved more. She deserved groveling, yearning, and a man who would truly fight for her. After eleven years in a situationship with Beckett, I needed her to open her eyes and realize she should never settle for being someone’s “top choice” when she deserves to be the only choice.
I really wanted to see her explore other options. They were in an open situationship, so it would have made sense for her to date other people instead of putting all her eggs in one basket. Especially when Beckett was doing exactly that, seeing other women while being very clear that he would never settle down.
And yes, he was honest about his feelings, and Massie knew where she stood. That is what made it harder to read at times, because she accepted less than she deserved. I found myself wishing she would give Jordan a real chance, just to see that Beckett was not the only man out there for her.
Did Beckett change? He did. But for me, it still felt like it was not enough.
That said, Hayley’s writing was incredibly engaging. She kept me hooked from beginning to end and made me feel every bit of frustration, hope, and heartbreak along the way. It is also a quick read, perfect to finish in just a couple of hours.
Thank you to Hayley and Wordsmith Publicity for this eARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sometimes you pick up a book expecting a fun little romance… and instead you get completely swept away. That was exactly my experience with The Cowboy’s Kiss. I devoured this book in a single day because once I started, there was absolutely no putting it down.
Maisie Dawson absolutely stole my heart. She’s loyal, hardworking, and has spent her whole life loving Beckett Cooper from the sidelines. Watching her finally decide she deserves more than being the convenient girl who’s always there was incredibly satisfying. Her growth throughout the story felt real and empowering, and I loved seeing her choose herself.
And then there’s Beckett. Oh, Beckett. Ranching royalty with a cowboy swagger, a stubborn streak a mile wide, and absolutely zero plans to fall in love. He’s the definition of the emotionally clueless cowboy hero. Watching him slowly realize what he’s about to lose had me equal parts frustrated and swooning. The angst, the tension, the push and pull between them? Perfect.
The emotional highs and lows in this book hit hard, but in the best possible way. Just when you think Beckett might never figure things out, the story keeps building until everything finally clicks. And honestly? I’m so glad Beckett finally got his head out of his ass because Maisie deserved every bit of that realization.
The small-town setting of Granite Falls adds so much charm to the story too. Between the diner, the ranch life, and the deep family roots, it feels like the kind of place you want to visit again and again.
I adored every minute of this story and cannot wait to dive into the rest of the Granite Falls series. I’m completely hooked on this series.
Maisie Dawson absolutely stole my heart. She’s loyal, hardworking, and has spent her whole life loving Beckett Cooper from the sidelines. Watching her finally decide she deserves more than being the convenient girl who’s always there was incredibly satisfying. Her growth throughout the story felt real and empowering, and I loved seeing her choose herself.
And then there’s Beckett. Oh, Beckett. Ranching royalty with a cowboy swagger, a stubborn streak a mile wide, and absolutely zero plans to fall in love. He’s the definition of the emotionally clueless cowboy hero. Watching him slowly realize what he’s about to lose had me equal parts frustrated and swooning. The angst, the tension, the push and pull between them? Perfect.
The emotional highs and lows in this book hit hard, but in the best possible way. Just when you think Beckett might never figure things out, the story keeps building until everything finally clicks. And honestly? I’m so glad Beckett finally got his head out of his ass because Maisie deserved every bit of that realization.
The small-town setting of Granite Falls adds so much charm to the story too. Between the diner, the ranch life, and the deep family roots, it feels like the kind of place you want to visit again and again.
I adored every minute of this story and cannot wait to dive into the rest of the Granite Falls series. I’m completely hooked on this series.
April 8, 2026
The Cowboy’s Kiss by Hayley James is an engaging, emotional rollercoaster.
Maisie has been in love with Beckett for years—completely devoted to a situationship that lasted eleven years. Eleven! Watching her give so much of herself to someone who never truly chose her had me internally screaming for her to stand up for herself and walk away.
And Beckett? Whew. He definitely tested my patience. I kept waiting and begging for him to finally give in and face the feelings he so clearly had for Maisie, and at times his resistance felt frustrating.
That said, I really enjoyed watching that emotional shift. Seeing Beckett slowly realize just how deep Maisie’s love ran, and being forced to confront his own emotions, was satisfying. Their connection felt real, their chemistry was undeniable, and the tension between them kept me invested.
The emotional push and pull, the longing, and the frustration all came together to create a story that felt raw and heartfelt, even if some parts felt drawn out for me.
If you love small-town romance with a grumpy, stubborn cowboy who eventually falls hard, this one is worth checking out.
Thank you to Hayley James and Wordsmith Publishing for the ARC!
Maisie has been in love with Beckett for years—completely devoted to a situationship that lasted eleven years. Eleven! Watching her give so much of herself to someone who never truly chose her had me internally screaming for her to stand up for herself and walk away.
And Beckett? Whew. He definitely tested my patience. I kept waiting and begging for him to finally give in and face the feelings he so clearly had for Maisie, and at times his resistance felt frustrating.
That said, I really enjoyed watching that emotional shift. Seeing Beckett slowly realize just how deep Maisie’s love ran, and being forced to confront his own emotions, was satisfying. Their connection felt real, their chemistry was undeniable, and the tension between them kept me invested.
The emotional push and pull, the longing, and the frustration all came together to create a story that felt raw and heartfelt, even if some parts felt drawn out for me.
If you love small-town romance with a grumpy, stubborn cowboy who eventually falls hard, this one is worth checking out.
Thank you to Hayley James and Wordsmith Publishing for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Maisie has been in love with Beckett for eleven years—but she’s only ever had pieces of him, the version that shows up after dark. Beckett has never wanted more than their quiet nights together, content to keep things exactly as they are. But that shifts when Jordi Ackerman returns to town and sweeps Maisie out on a real date, making Beckett realize he could lose her. His sudden jealousy and refusal to let her go aren’t enough—especially for Maisie, who’s tired of being an afterthought. This time, she walks away, left questioning whether she’s already given the best years of her life to someone who could never choose her. When Jordi later approaches Beckett with an offer to sell his family’s land and home, Beckett seizes the opportunity alongside his brothers. In the process, he’s forced to confront the truth he’s long avoided: he loves Maisie, and he’s running out of time to prove it. Determined to win her back, he plans a grand gesture worthy of everything she means to him. But after so many years of, will Maisie be willing to give him a chance—or has Beckett finally waited too long?
Review of advance copy
All I can say is that Maisie really loved Beckett. Waiting around for eleven years, always hoping to be more than the bed partner he turned to when it suited him, takes a lot of patience—and heart. She kept hoping for more, but it never seemed to come until someone else showed interest in her and Beckett finally got jealous. Even then, he was still a bit cocky, assuming she would always keep opening her door to him. It takes her friend and his brothers to make him truly face his feelings.
Honestly, I’m not sure I would have waited that long while he played the field, and I would’ve liked to see a little more resistance from Maisie. That said, it’s still an engaging read and definitely provokes a strong reaction as a reader. These are two people who genuinely love each other and share real connection and chemistry—it’s just a shame one of them takes so long to realize it.
When Beckett finally gets it together and you’re given a glimpse several years into their future, he does redeem himself. In the end, it’s a story that stays with you, even if it makes you a little frustrated along the way.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Honestly, I’m not sure I would have waited that long while he played the field, and I would’ve liked to see a little more resistance from Maisie. That said, it’s still an engaging read and definitely provokes a strong reaction as a reader. These are two people who genuinely love each other and share real connection and chemistry—it’s just a shame one of them takes so long to realize it.
When Beckett finally gets it together and you’re given a glimpse several years into their future, he does redeem himself. In the end, it’s a story that stays with you, even if it makes you a little frustrated along the way.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 8, 2026
I judged this book by its cover, and its length. The blurb, had I read it, would have let me know what I was getting, or maybe not. Maisie & Beckett gave me an afternoon escape.
I quickly fell for Maisie, she has been in love with Beckett for eleven years. She knew she loved him, but he could not give her more. He gave her the after hours version of him. No commitments, no dates, and content to keep things the way they are.
Maisie is at war with herself, while she knows she should be treated better, her heart belongs to Beckett. Jordan Ackerman is back in town and he asks Maisie out. She accepts.
Beckett seeing Maisie out with Jordan has him seeing red, but will he change his ways? Beckett asks for help from his brothers, is a beginning. Jealousy spurns the grand gesture, but is he too late?
This story is more than what I have described above, and as we dig deeper into the daily lives of our two characters, we get so much more.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
I quickly fell for Maisie, she has been in love with Beckett for eleven years. She knew she loved him, but he could not give her more. He gave her the after hours version of him. No commitments, no dates, and content to keep things the way they are.
Maisie is at war with herself, while she knows she should be treated better, her heart belongs to Beckett. Jordan Ackerman is back in town and he asks Maisie out. She accepts.
Beckett seeing Maisie out with Jordan has him seeing red, but will he change his ways? Beckett asks for help from his brothers, is a beginning. Jealousy spurns the grand gesture, but is he too late?
This story is more than what I have described above, and as we dig deeper into the daily lives of our two characters, we get so much more.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
April 9, 2026
3.5 stars.
I really liked Maisie as a character, I could not believe that she had put up with what she had for as long as she had, she deserved so much more. I wanted to fully like Beckett but I couldn't as there parts of him I just didn't like, I wanted more evidence that he had changed, this grand gesture that he knew she needed didn't match what I think a grand gesture should be personally.
One question that stood out to me reading this is why did it take so long for ANYONE to pull him about how he treated her?? They say you can't help who you love and Maisie showed that in abundance. I have found this book hard personally to review as there were parts I liked and Pat's I didn't, did the end of the book make me feel differently about Beckett, yes it did, do I think that it made up for all that came before that....I'm honestly not sure, which is why I've found this story had to review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really liked Maisie as a character, I could not believe that she had put up with what she had for as long as she had, she deserved so much more. I wanted to fully like Beckett but I couldn't as there parts of him I just didn't like, I wanted more evidence that he had changed, this grand gesture that he knew she needed didn't match what I think a grand gesture should be personally.
One question that stood out to me reading this is why did it take so long for ANYONE to pull him about how he treated her?? They say you can't help who you love and Maisie showed that in abundance. I have found this book hard personally to review as there were parts I liked and Pat's I didn't, did the end of the book make me feel differently about Beckett, yes it did, do I think that it made up for all that came before that....I'm honestly not sure, which is why I've found this story had to review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 15, 2026
ARC Review
Book: The Cowboy’s Kiss
Author:Hayley James
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I enjoyed this book from page one, I couldn’t put it down.
Bennett Cooper and Maisie Dawson have known each other for a really long time and have a no commitment relationship.
Maisie is loyal, hardworking, and has loved Beckett for years. But he has made it clear that he won’t settle down. Then Maisie decides that eleven years of being convenient is enough, and she decides that she deserves better.
When Beckett notices that he might loose Maisie, he opens his eyes and realizes that he’s in love with her and that he can’t loose her.
I love how strong Maisie was and even though she felt that Beckett didn’t love her to choose her, she was always there for him. I also loved how Beckett was able to see the amazing woman that was right in front of him and that she deserved more that what he was offering.
I was so happy that they got the HEA that they deserved.
Book: The Cowboy’s Kiss
Author:Hayley James
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I enjoyed this book from page one, I couldn’t put it down.
Bennett Cooper and Maisie Dawson have known each other for a really long time and have a no commitment relationship.
Maisie is loyal, hardworking, and has loved Beckett for years. But he has made it clear that he won’t settle down. Then Maisie decides that eleven years of being convenient is enough, and she decides that she deserves better.
When Beckett notices that he might loose Maisie, he opens his eyes and realizes that he’s in love with her and that he can’t loose her.
I love how strong Maisie was and even though she felt that Beckett didn’t love her to choose her, she was always there for him. I also loved how Beckett was able to see the amazing woman that was right in front of him and that she deserved more that what he was offering.
I was so happy that they got the HEA that they deserved.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
Wow this book is good and has you in a chokehold the entire time. This is the story of Maisie and Beckett. These two have been a long-term thing. For eleven years. You would think there was a commitment between the two of them but know. He comes around when it suits him. Maisie is a saint because I would have kicked this guy to the curb. But she has been patient and really is madly in love with Beckett. She has been wanting more but has never gotten it. But, when someone else starts showing interest in Maisie, Beckett meet the emotion of jealousy. That's about all I can tell you. You have to find out how this book goes as you read it. It was a great read, and one that I read in one sitting.
Wow this book is good and has you in a chokehold the entire time. This is the story of Maisie and Beckett. These two have been a long-term thing. For eleven years. You would think there was a commitment between the two of them but know. He comes around when it suits him. Maisie is a saint because I would have kicked this guy to the curb. But she has been patient and really is madly in love with Beckett. She has been wanting more but has never gotten it. But, when someone else starts showing interest in Maisie, Beckett meet the emotion of jealousy. That's about all I can tell you. You have to find out how this book goes as you read it. It was a great read, and one that I read in one sitting.
April 11, 2026
Maisie has loved Beckett for years and was willing to accept whatever he would give her believing it was better than nothing. She has gone after what she has wanted in other areas of her life and the time has come for her to pursue the future she wants with Beckett or walk away so that she can pursue her dreams of love and family.
Beckett has only made one commitment in his life and that is to his family ranch. He is content with his single life and doesn’t see why it has to change as any women he has been with knows how he feels. When Maisie makes her intentions clear he must face the feelings he has always had for her and see where they go from here.
I enjoyed seeing the evolution in Maisie as she realizes what she deserves while Beckett realizes that losing Maisie would be the biggest mistake of his life as they take us on a journey that combines romance and emotion.
Beckett has only made one commitment in his life and that is to his family ranch. He is content with his single life and doesn’t see why it has to change as any women he has been with knows how he feels. When Maisie makes her intentions clear he must face the feelings he has always had for her and see where they go from here.
I enjoyed seeing the evolution in Maisie as she realizes what she deserves while Beckett realizes that losing Maisie would be the biggest mistake of his life as they take us on a journey that combines romance and emotion.
April 17, 2026
She is ready to walk away, is he willing to let her
The Cowboy's Kiss is the first book in the new Granite Falls, Texas series by Hayley James. I have read a couple books previously by this author, all in multi-author series, so this is the first in a new series only by her. This story is a wonderful read, perfect for a day on the couch with a blanket and drink close at hand. It is about Maisie Dawson and Beckett Cooper, two people who have had an easy friends with benefits relationship for a long time now. It has worked for them both but Maisie wants more and Beckett is a sworn member of the bachelor club. So when she decides she has had enough and is ready to move on Beckett is going to have to come to terms with just what his heart feels and what he is willing to do about it.
The Cowboy's Kiss is the first book in the new Granite Falls, Texas series by Hayley James. I have read a couple books previously by this author, all in multi-author series, so this is the first in a new series only by her. This story is a wonderful read, perfect for a day on the couch with a blanket and drink close at hand. It is about Maisie Dawson and Beckett Cooper, two people who have had an easy friends with benefits relationship for a long time now. It has worked for them both but Maisie wants more and Beckett is a sworn member of the bachelor club. So when she decides she has had enough and is ready to move on Beckett is going to have to come to terms with just what his heart feels and what he is willing to do about it.
April 22, 2026
Maisie Dawson and Beckett Cooper have been having a years-long one-night stand. She's in love with him, and he knows it. But Beckett is a playboy who does what he wants when he wants. He's also a cowboy working the land to make sure the legacy is intact. But when Maisie finally says enough is enough, knowing he won't settle down, it's time to move on. She changes what she does and how she acts, and she doesn't answer the door. When Beckett finds out that Maisie is moving on, something clicks, and he's not about to let go. However, when you are done being a doormat, can someone convince you their feelings have changed? This is their story and how trust is going to become the biggest obstacle. I love them together, but I wish I could have smacked Beckett upside the head a few times. Can he win her heart for good? Or will someone else win hers?
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Tropes:
-small town romance
-grumpy cowboy alpha
-she falls first, he falls harder
-situationship to forever
-possessive alpha
-late night hookups
-second chance at love
The Cowboy's Kiss is Maisie and Beckett's story.
This is a decent read; Maisie definitely has had feelings for Beckett for a very long time. She's spent eleven years being in a situationship with Beckett, who never just chose her. When she finally decides that enough is enough, that is the wake-up call that Beckett receives to realize he does have feelings for Maisie.
There are definitely tension and chemistry in their story. However, readers may feel divided on rooting for Maisie or longing for their love story.
Releasing April 8, 2026. I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
-small town romance
-grumpy cowboy alpha
-she falls first, he falls harder
-situationship to forever
-possessive alpha
-late night hookups
-second chance at love
The Cowboy's Kiss is Maisie and Beckett's story.
This is a decent read; Maisie definitely has had feelings for Beckett for a very long time. She's spent eleven years being in a situationship with Beckett, who never just chose her. When she finally decides that enough is enough, that is the wake-up call that Beckett receives to realize he does have feelings for Maisie.
There are definitely tension and chemistry in their story. However, readers may feel divided on rooting for Maisie or longing for their love story.
Releasing April 8, 2026. I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 8, 2026
Being casual for a decade is impressive (it would be if both were monogamous) or just foolish. During this time, I hope Maisie's doing check-ups, knowing she isn't the only one with Beckett. She's falling for him, but will I find out what exactly there is to love him for, except for the obvious? Probably not.
What will be the breaking point to lose hope (btw, it's possible to give up on something, to stop waiting), to change for better or worse in their non-relationship? What will make her have self-respect, to love and be loved in return?
Good, I don't have to decide whether to take him back for good so easily or ever.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
What will be the breaking point to lose hope (btw, it's possible to give up on something, to stop waiting), to change for better or worse in their non-relationship? What will make her have self-respect, to love and be loved in return?
Good, I don't have to decide whether to take him back for good so easily or ever.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 27, 2026
Beckett and Maisie have been in a situationship for 11 years now and when another man sets his eyes on her, Beckett finally opens his own and decides to get out of his own way and get his girl.
This book rode a fine line of frustration toward the MCs and cheering them on to their HEA, but Hayley James did a good job of redeeming the story for these two! While as a reader it is easy to say "just leave" or "what is taking these two so long to get together" it's always easier said than done when you aren't really in that situation. I did enjoy how Maisie found her inner strength and wanted a better future for herself and her well being. I also liked when Beckett opened his own eyes and got out of his own darn way. Nothing better than when a man is able to admit he was wrong.
The Cowboy's Kiss was an enjoyable, quick read, and I cannot wait to return to Granite Falls and see what Hayley James writes next.
This book rode a fine line of frustration toward the MCs and cheering them on to their HEA, but Hayley James did a good job of redeeming the story for these two! While as a reader it is easy to say "just leave" or "what is taking these two so long to get together" it's always easier said than done when you aren't really in that situation. I did enjoy how Maisie found her inner strength and wanted a better future for herself and her well being. I also liked when Beckett opened his own eyes and got out of his own darn way. Nothing better than when a man is able to admit he was wrong.
The Cowboy's Kiss was an enjoyable, quick read, and I cannot wait to return to Granite Falls and see what Hayley James writes next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
So good! I read Dear Rodeo first as it is set in Granite Falls and it is a bit of a prelude to this town and its people. But I liked this one so much more! Beckett is the oldest of 4 boys who now run the ranch that has been in their family for generations. Maisie owns the Yellow Rose diner that has been in her family for generations. She is his booty call and has been for 11 years! She is in love and he is comfortable with no commitment. Until someone else wants her! I am looking forward to all the brothers stories! Thank you Hayley James and Wordsmith Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my honest review
Review of advance copy received from Author
Maisie Dawson is at the end of her rope. For eleven years she has been in love with Beckett Cooper and for eleven years he has treated her like an afterthought. Her dreams of building a life with someone - marriage, kids have started drifting away with each year. When an old flame comes back to town, she starts thinking that maybe she should let go and try with someone else. Beckett has always counted on having Maisie in his life. In the back of his mind he knows that he hasn't been fair to her, but with the ranch he doesn't have time for a personal life. Until the day that she walks into the bar with somebody else.
April 8, 2026
The Cowboys Kiss is Maisie Dawson and Beckett Cooper’s entertaining and emotional roller coaster. It takes us to Granite Falls, Texas where small town residents know everything about everyone or do they………
Maisie has loved Beckett for many years but she only ever sees him after dark when no one else is around. Beckett has never wanted more but when a new guy arrives in town it gets him wanting more.
I fell hard and fast for Beckett and his cocky swagger and I adored Maisie but it was getting to know the residents of Granite Falls that took this book to the next level. This is a well written, entertaining and captivating read that left me smiling.
Maisie has loved Beckett for many years but she only ever sees him after dark when no one else is around. Beckett has never wanted more but when a new guy arrives in town it gets him wanting more.
I fell hard and fast for Beckett and his cocky swagger and I adored Maisie but it was getting to know the residents of Granite Falls that took this book to the next level. This is a well written, entertaining and captivating read that left me smiling.
April 9, 2026
This is Book 1 of the Granite Falls, Texas series. And a wonderful start it is! Look forward to more from this world.
'Now the cowboy who swore he’ll never settle down is about to learn that the only thing hotter than a Texas summer night is the woman walking away from him.
And this time, if Maisie leaves, she won’t be coming back.'
The characters were very appealing and likeable and complicated and absolutely perfect together. Plot was intriguing and well paced. World building was solidly drawn and impressive. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
'Now the cowboy who swore he’ll never settle down is about to learn that the only thing hotter than a Texas summer night is the woman walking away from him.
And this time, if Maisie leaves, she won’t be coming back.'
The characters were very appealing and likeable and complicated and absolutely perfect together. Plot was intriguing and well paced. World building was solidly drawn and impressive. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 10, 2026
4 1/2 Star Review. You really feel for Maisey; she really likes Beckett, but it seems like he is only using her and being a bit of a player. Then, when someone shows some interest in Maisey, Beckett doesn't like it. Will Beckett ever realize what he will miss out on if he keeps up being seen with other women? Will Maisey have enough and decide it's time to move on from Beckett and find someone who can make her happy?
I received an arc for my voluntary honest review for NN Book blog. If you love a sweet small-town second-chance romance between a cowboy and a girl from the bakery, then you will love this read.
I received an arc for my voluntary honest review for NN Book blog. If you love a sweet small-town second-chance romance between a cowboy and a girl from the bakery, then you will love this read.
Review of advance copy
This new series from Hayley James is so good. If you want a cowboy who suddenly realizes he needs to stop treating his woman like a hookup, a woman who finally realizes that she has other options, and family that stands by you even when you haven’t been forth coming or thinking straight for most of your adult life you will love this book. We met Harlan in “Dear Rodeo” and he is the closest thing, besides his brothers, that Beckett has to a friend. Start there for the full story to understand how these cowboys think.
April 22, 2026
This was a second chance love story I would say. Both Maisie and Beckett have been having a situationahip for years. What I found the hardest to read was how he treated Maisie. You would think being a strong woman she wouldn’t put up with that. But after you look into it more you realize they both really care for one another. A small town romance with she falls first with a with a grumpy cowboy. Overall a cute story that has me until the end.
I received this ARC through the publisher and I am voluntarily reviewing this book, opinions are my own.
I received this ARC through the publisher and I am voluntarily reviewing this book, opinions are my own.
May 1, 2026
Maisie has loved Beckett for over a decade—quietly, loyally, and at the cost of her own heart. When she finally decides she’s done being the convenient girl who always says yes, the entire dynamic shifts. Beckett is a ranch‑royalty cowboy energy: stubborn, freedom‑obsessed, emotionally clueless, and convinced he doesn’t have room for love. But the moment Maisie walks away, he’s forced to confront what everyone else already sees—she’s the one person he can’t let go. Will he get her to give him another chance?
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