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Cowboy Up
Not yet published
Expected 3 Feb 26Hadley Jones has spent his whole life in the dirt—fighting bulls, bad luck, and the brutal reality that the only thing standing between his family’s ranch and foreclosure is him. Bull riding is his lifeline, the only way to keep the bank from tearing apart generations of sweat and sacrifice. After a wreck that nearly killed him eighteen months ago, he’s back in the chutes, scarred, hungry, and determined to prove he’s still a contender. A shot at the PBR draft—or a solo championship title—might just save everything he loves… if his body and his demons don’t betray him first.
Maggie Gallagher swore she’d never set foot near a rodeo. It was the arena that stole her father, the world that fed on danger and never gave anything back. She built her photojournalism career around safer stories, cleaner lines, and carefully controlled futures. Until one disastrous mistake sends everything crashing down and forces her into the very life she vowed to avoid. Now she’s stuck on the rodeo circuit with a camera, a deadline, and a heart full of resentment.
Maggie Gallagher swore she’d never set foot near a rodeo. It was the arena that stole her father, the world that fed on danger and never gave anything back. She built her photojournalism career around safer stories, cleaner lines, and carefully controlled futures. Until one disastrous mistake sends everything crashing down and forces her into the very life she vowed to avoid. Now she’s stuck on the rodeo circuit with a camera, a deadline, and a heart full of resentment.
466 pages, Paperback
Expected publication February 3, 2026
39 people are currently reading
122 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Cowboy Up By Alexandra Banks ARC
I was so looking forward to this book and boy was it worth it ! Alexandra Banks for me is an automatic read .
This is the story of Maggie and Hadley, Maggie was a photo journalist who worked on the front line and has PTSD from seeing some horrific things, she ends up being a rodeo photographer and that's where she meets Hadley.
Hadley Jones is a bull rider who works the circuit trying to keep his family farm afloat that's in financial trouble , he works hard to try and get a sponsorship.
I loved this from the 1st sentence , one thing I love about this author is you are thrown straight into the action from the 1st word and I think I want to run away and join the Rodeo circuit now 🤠 😀
Hadley Jones is amazing loyal hardworking and yet humble, I loveeddd the slow burn between these 2 and the Betsy scene nearly finished me off! 🔥
The description of the photos Maggie took of Hadley while in the ring I honestly wish I could see them for real , in my minds eye the are🔥 😄
He falls for Maggie hard but she has her own demons and keeps trying to push him away and honestly that annoyed me ha but also when you read the book you will understand why .
I love the outside characters from Hadleys sisters and mum to the Rodeo team , even Knox who I hated I now to know more about him please say he has his own book 🙏
A five star 🌟 read loved it thank you Alexandra Banks .
I was so looking forward to this book and boy was it worth it ! Alexandra Banks for me is an automatic read .
This is the story of Maggie and Hadley, Maggie was a photo journalist who worked on the front line and has PTSD from seeing some horrific things, she ends up being a rodeo photographer and that's where she meets Hadley.
Hadley Jones is a bull rider who works the circuit trying to keep his family farm afloat that's in financial trouble , he works hard to try and get a sponsorship.
I loved this from the 1st sentence , one thing I love about this author is you are thrown straight into the action from the 1st word and I think I want to run away and join the Rodeo circuit now 🤠 😀
Hadley Jones is amazing loyal hardworking and yet humble, I loveeddd the slow burn between these 2 and the Betsy scene nearly finished me off! 🔥
The description of the photos Maggie took of Hadley while in the ring I honestly wish I could see them for real , in my minds eye the are🔥 😄
He falls for Maggie hard but she has her own demons and keeps trying to push him away and honestly that annoyed me ha but also when you read the book you will understand why .
I love the outside characters from Hadleys sisters and mum to the Rodeo team , even Knox who I hated I now to know more about him please say he has his own book 🙏
A five star 🌟 read loved it thank you Alexandra Banks .
January 23, 2026
This book was beautiful 🥹😍
Right from the start, I physically unable to put it down, because it was so full of action and suspense and dare I say yearning? 🤭
Hadley, the golden retriever of bull riders is definitely one you’ll be adding to the list of book boyfriends because oh my days, this man 😩 he was so sweet and caring and I just wanna wrap this man in a hug so badly.
And Maggie, our fierce photographer - you were so beautiful to watch grow throughout the story.
Cowboy Up was such an easy, enjoyable read with lots of fun and witty banter, plus the filthy mouth of our hard-headed cowboy 🤭 Alexandra Banks has done an incredible job at writing two complex characters and making them mesh together perfectly. Also, as a rodeo goer, Alexandra did an incredible job at writing about all the behind the scenes of the rodeo world! Yipppeeee!
I had so much fun reading this and crave another trip to a rodeo to see the same suspenseful action in real life! Thank you so, so much for allowing me to read this as an ARC, it did not disappoint and very much satisfied all my cowboy daydreams 🩷
Right from the start, I physically unable to put it down, because it was so full of action and suspense and dare I say yearning? 🤭
Hadley, the golden retriever of bull riders is definitely one you’ll be adding to the list of book boyfriends because oh my days, this man 😩 he was so sweet and caring and I just wanna wrap this man in a hug so badly.
And Maggie, our fierce photographer - you were so beautiful to watch grow throughout the story.
Cowboy Up was such an easy, enjoyable read with lots of fun and witty banter, plus the filthy mouth of our hard-headed cowboy 🤭 Alexandra Banks has done an incredible job at writing two complex characters and making them mesh together perfectly. Also, as a rodeo goer, Alexandra did an incredible job at writing about all the behind the scenes of the rodeo world! Yipppeeee!
I had so much fun reading this and crave another trip to a rodeo to see the same suspenseful action in real life! Thank you so, so much for allowing me to read this as an ARC, it did not disappoint and very much satisfied all my cowboy daydreams 🩷
Review of advance copy received from Author
Mr. Hadley. Jones. The Cowboy who carries the world on his shoulders, and Ms Maggie Gallagher the sunshine who brings him from the darkness, they are the perfect duo in this edge of your rodeo seat book.
This book had me all in my feelings, and the filthy mouthed cowboy had me wanting to crawl for more.
When it comes to writing cowboys, Alexandra Banks knows what she is doing.
This book had me all in my feelings, and the filthy mouthed cowboy had me wanting to crawl for more.
When it comes to writing cowboys, Alexandra Banks knows what she is doing.
Review of advance copy received from Author
a hot cowboy who falls first? YES PLEASE! Hadley + Maggie were so sweet! I loved seeing their friendship develop and seeing how much fun they had together. Hadley puts his family first always and is willing to risk everything just to take care of them. Maggie wants Hadley but doesn't want to stick around to see him risk his life on the back of a bull, nor does she want to give up her dreams and career. But she can't give up this cowboy and his ranch either. I can't wait for the rest of the Heartland Cowboys!
As always, I'm so happy to have the opportunity to ARC read for Alexandra Banks! Her books are always perfect to me! I love small town, a little angst, sometimes a bit of suspense. oh and all the cowboys!
As always, I'm so happy to have the opportunity to ARC read for Alexandra Banks! Her books are always perfect to me! I love small town, a little angst, sometimes a bit of suspense. oh and all the cowboys!
Review of advance copy received from Author
One of the best cowboy romances I've read this year. It’s a heartwarming story that I devoured in one sitting. Hadley and Maggie's journey is incredible. From that first chapter I was a goner. All kinds of action from beginning to end. I loved the slow burn too, it was chef's kiss. And there was plenty of swoon worthy moments. I really enjoyed seeing these characters grow throughout this book. Absolutely could not get enough of this amazing read. I highly recommend reading it won't disappoint.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ugh, Hadley and Maggie's story was just utter perfection. Their banter and chemistry had me eating this book up!
From the loathing at the start of their relationship to the incident that see them travelling together in Maggie's camper that sparks the beginning of a friendship that grows quick and burns bright, you will be hooked. Alexandra has some of the best MMCs in the cowboy world. I honestly didnt think the Rawlins could be topped until Hadley came along.
If you're looking for another cowboy romance (because who are we kidding, we can't get enough of t
From the loathing at the start of their relationship to the incident that see them travelling together in Maggie's camper that sparks the beginning of a friendship that grows quick and burns bright, you will be hooked. Alexandra has some of the best MMCs in the cowboy world. I honestly didnt think the Rawlins could be topped until Hadley came along.
If you're looking for another cowboy romance (because who are we kidding, we can't get enough of t
Review of advance copy received from Author
RTC
January 23, 2026
Absolutely devoured.
Tension? Check. Banter? Check. Protective cowboy? Checkkkk.
Hadley and Maggie brought everything to the table and made me finish this book in less than 24 hours. I cannot say I how much I absolutely LOVED this book, especially because it’s based in my home province.
FANTASTIC JOB ALEXANDRA!! (And thank you for the ARC).
Overall: ♾️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Tension? Check. Banter? Check. Protective cowboy? Checkkkk.
Hadley and Maggie brought everything to the table and made me finish this book in less than 24 hours. I cannot say I how much I absolutely LOVED this book, especially because it’s based in my home province.
FANTASTIC JOB ALEXANDRA!! (And thank you for the ARC).
Overall: ♾️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Review of advance copy received from Author
The first two chapters of this book sucked me in so hard. This was a cute, mostly light and engaging read. Cowboy Up is a contemporary Cowboy Romance with adult (30yo) leads. It has Loath to love, Grumpy x sunshine, Slow burn to spice, Forced proximity, PTSD (her), Angst and pining, and he falls first, fast and hard. 330 pages, 1st person, Dual POV & 1st in the series.
Rating: 3.75/4 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. 2.5/3 spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (all at the end!)
Overview: Cowboy Up is about a Canadian based bull rider/rancher in the PBR circuit (Hadley, 30) & a photojournalist with PTSD (Maggie, 30). Hadley is the big brother to 3 girls responsible for the family ranch with his mom. The ranch is in financial distress and he is doing bull riding to make enough money to cover the debts. That and he’s an adrenaline junkie. Maggie grew up in the national forest in Canada with her mom and stepdad. She’s a photo journalist whose last assignment was in Ukraine, and it was tragic. She gets a job as the photo journalist for the PBR circuit for the year before she finds a more serious position. Maggie ends up giving Hadley a ride to all the circuits after his car breaks down, and their loathing turns to burning turns to love. Of course it wouldn’t be a good romance without all the problems that come along with it, but I don’t want to spoil it.
Thoughts: This book was really fun & easy to read. It has all the things you want: leads with character depth & growth, good side characters that are funny, witty banter, emotional grit, relationship adversity, and of course, spice. The writing and editing were great, and plot flow & story lines are intriguing. I want to know who is next in this series! Definitely recommend this as a read.
Con’s: the ending felt like it came up too fast, & and I felt like, for the amount of time these two spent together they didn’t talk about anything too deep or communicate very well. I’d have loved a little bit more depth in their discussions, even if they’re off page.
Rating: 3.75/4 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. 2.5/3 spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (all at the end!)
Overview: Cowboy Up is about a Canadian based bull rider/rancher in the PBR circuit (Hadley, 30) & a photojournalist with PTSD (Maggie, 30). Hadley is the big brother to 3 girls responsible for the family ranch with his mom. The ranch is in financial distress and he is doing bull riding to make enough money to cover the debts. That and he’s an adrenaline junkie. Maggie grew up in the national forest in Canada with her mom and stepdad. She’s a photo journalist whose last assignment was in Ukraine, and it was tragic. She gets a job as the photo journalist for the PBR circuit for the year before she finds a more serious position. Maggie ends up giving Hadley a ride to all the circuits after his car breaks down, and their loathing turns to burning turns to love. Of course it wouldn’t be a good romance without all the problems that come along with it, but I don’t want to spoil it.
Thoughts: This book was really fun & easy to read. It has all the things you want: leads with character depth & growth, good side characters that are funny, witty banter, emotional grit, relationship adversity, and of course, spice. The writing and editing were great, and plot flow & story lines are intriguing. I want to know who is next in this series! Definitely recommend this as a read.
Con’s: the ending felt like it came up too fast, & and I felt like, for the amount of time these two spent together they didn’t talk about anything too deep or communicate very well. I’d have loved a little bit more depth in their discussions, even if they’re off page.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Cowboy Up is everything I hoped for and more. Alexandra Banks honestly never disappoints!! I love all of her books, but her cowboys? They have a very special place in my heart. I have been so excited for this release, and Cowboy Up absolutely DELIVERED.
The grumpy/sunshine dynamic had me hooked from the very start. And while I’ve read cowboy romances with bull riders before, this one felt different because we’re not just following a cowboy, we’re following a bull rider and his team, we are there! The rodeo scenes were incredible. You truly feel like you’re right there, traveling alongside Hadley and the cowboys, experiencing the highs, the risks, and the chaos of competition. It’s the full rodeo experience, and I was so here for it.
Hadley was everything! intense, driven, and layered and I loved getting to know his family too. His younger sister especially and some of the rodeo crew brought so much humor and heart to the story. But can we talk about Knox for a second? Because I know there’s a story there. He gives major “bad guy” vibes, except… he’s definitely not. Secrets, depth, mystery I’m calling it now, his story had to be coming and I am here for it!!
Maggie completely stole my heart. She’s been through so much trauma, losing her dad and what she experienced in her previous job and falling for a cowboy!? was never part of her plan. Especially not a bull rider. But she’s kind, sweet, passionate, and determined, and watching her journey alongside Hadley was beautiful. Their connection felt natural, emotional, and impossible to resist.
This book had heart, tension, laughs, and that addictive cowboy charm Alexandra Banks does so well. I devoured it and now I’m sitting here impatiently waiting to see what’s next.
If you’re in your cowboy romance era (or desperately want to be), this one is absolutely not to be missed!!
The grumpy/sunshine dynamic had me hooked from the very start. And while I’ve read cowboy romances with bull riders before, this one felt different because we’re not just following a cowboy, we’re following a bull rider and his team, we are there! The rodeo scenes were incredible. You truly feel like you’re right there, traveling alongside Hadley and the cowboys, experiencing the highs, the risks, and the chaos of competition. It’s the full rodeo experience, and I was so here for it.
Hadley was everything! intense, driven, and layered and I loved getting to know his family too. His younger sister especially and some of the rodeo crew brought so much humor and heart to the story. But can we talk about Knox for a second? Because I know there’s a story there. He gives major “bad guy” vibes, except… he’s definitely not. Secrets, depth, mystery I’m calling it now, his story had to be coming and I am here for it!!
Maggie completely stole my heart. She’s been through so much trauma, losing her dad and what she experienced in her previous job and falling for a cowboy!? was never part of her plan. Especially not a bull rider. But she’s kind, sweet, passionate, and determined, and watching her journey alongside Hadley was beautiful. Their connection felt natural, emotional, and impossible to resist.
This book had heart, tension, laughs, and that addictive cowboy charm Alexandra Banks does so well. I devoured it and now I’m sitting here impatiently waiting to see what’s next.
If you’re in your cowboy romance era (or desperately want to be), this one is absolutely not to be missed!!
January 26, 2026
Okay now this is the kinda book I was needing in my life.
Hadley Jones is EVERYTHING. He had to grow up too fast and took on the responsibility of help raising his younger siblings when his dad walked out on them, look after his mum and all while maintaining the ranch. He has the weight of the world on his shoulders and although some may have crumbled under that weight, Hadley did not. He fought with everything to survive and make sure his family did too.
Maggie is trying to make a difference in the world with one photograph at a time. She throws her heart and soul into her photojournalism, so much so it’s nearly cost her life. After a traumatic experience, she’s slowly finding her way out of the pit of grief and unknowingly facing some of her fears.
I really enjoyed this story. I like the characters and their chemistry, their push and pull, the tension and the side characters.
Maggie and Hadley’s journey isn’t quick and it isn’t simple but the best things in life never are. What starts out rocky turns into a budding friendship the slowly crosses the like and into deep love territory. I was here for all of it. I was so cheering them on from the stands 🤣
Alex did a fantastic job with this book. It’s well written, it flows and leaves the reader wanting more. I was completely engaged and didn’t want to put it down. I cannot wait for the next one.
Thank you to Alex for allowing me to ARC read in exchange for an honest review.
‘Happiness is a well-fed woman in the company of a man who looks at her the way Hadley Jones looks at me.’ - Maggie.
Hadley Jones is EVERYTHING. He had to grow up too fast and took on the responsibility of help raising his younger siblings when his dad walked out on them, look after his mum and all while maintaining the ranch. He has the weight of the world on his shoulders and although some may have crumbled under that weight, Hadley did not. He fought with everything to survive and make sure his family did too.
Maggie is trying to make a difference in the world with one photograph at a time. She throws her heart and soul into her photojournalism, so much so it’s nearly cost her life. After a traumatic experience, she’s slowly finding her way out of the pit of grief and unknowingly facing some of her fears.
I really enjoyed this story. I like the characters and their chemistry, their push and pull, the tension and the side characters.
Maggie and Hadley’s journey isn’t quick and it isn’t simple but the best things in life never are. What starts out rocky turns into a budding friendship the slowly crosses the like and into deep love territory. I was here for all of it. I was so cheering them on from the stands 🤣
Alex did a fantastic job with this book. It’s well written, it flows and leaves the reader wanting more. I was completely engaged and didn’t want to put it down. I cannot wait for the next one.
Thank you to Alex for allowing me to ARC read in exchange for an honest review.
‘Happiness is a well-fed woman in the company of a man who looks at her the way Hadley Jones looks at me.’ - Maggie.
January 25, 2026
Alexandra Banks has done it again. Be still my heart…because she’s gone and given us Hadley Jones… this breathtaking, incredible, bull riding man who has completely consumed me. I am so hopelessly in love with him. The way he loves. The way he protects. The way he puts his family above everything…fierce, selfless, unwavering. After all the pain he’s carried and every battle he’s survived, he still shows up with his whole heart, still gives every last piece of himself just to care for the people he loves. 🥹❤️
And Maggie… she has her reasons for keeping those walls sky high. Her past, her experiences, they haunt her, and with good reason. I just wanted to mend both of their hearts.
“It’s alright, Sunshine, I’ve got you. Go on and break my heart, baby.”
……um EXCUSE ME?! 😭
The snot and tears overfloweth. The WAY I CRIED was unholy. I didn’t just want to hug him, I wanted to cradle this man with my whole being. To tell him he’s enough, that he’s worthy of being stayed for, and to take even a fraction of the weight he carries just to give him a moment of peace. My heart could not handle it. Absolutely, completely wrecked. 😭❤️
This was emotional, spicy, and breathtakingly beautiful and the banter between these two? It had no business being that ridiculously adorable 🤗 I devoured every single page. My heart laughed, swooned, shattered, and healed all at once. I am so ready for more from this series! I need it immediately. 🙌
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Thank you Alexandra for the advanced copy to read 🫶
And Maggie… she has her reasons for keeping those walls sky high. Her past, her experiences, they haunt her, and with good reason. I just wanted to mend both of their hearts.
“It’s alright, Sunshine, I’ve got you. Go on and break my heart, baby.”
……um EXCUSE ME?! 😭
The snot and tears overfloweth. The WAY I CRIED was unholy. I didn’t just want to hug him, I wanted to cradle this man with my whole being. To tell him he’s enough, that he’s worthy of being stayed for, and to take even a fraction of the weight he carries just to give him a moment of peace. My heart could not handle it. Absolutely, completely wrecked. 😭❤️
This was emotional, spicy, and breathtakingly beautiful and the banter between these two? It had no business being that ridiculously adorable 🤗 I devoured every single page. My heart laughed, swooned, shattered, and healed all at once. I am so ready for more from this series! I need it immediately. 🙌
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Thank you Alexandra for the advanced copy to read 🫶
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another day, another cowboy romance for this utterly obsessed book girly, and wow, this one was an absolute stunner. 10/10, Perfectly executed.
This story had me hooked from page one. Gripping, gritty, emotional, and impossible to put down, it throws you straight into the lives of Hadley Jones and Maggie Gallagher, two characters carrying some seriously heavy emotional baggage. Hadley is fighting for his family’s ranch with everything he has, even if it means risking his already broken body, while Maggie is confronting a world she swore she’d never return to after losing her father and some heavy PTSD. The slow collision between them was addictive.
The pacing is perfection. I was fully seated for the entire Hadley and Maggie show, turning pages like my life depended on it. The spice was woven in seamlessly, intense when it needed to be, but never at the expense of the story. It’s a reminder that intimacy isn’t always about how explicit a story gets, but how deeply the characters resonate.
This is my first Alexandra Banks book and honestly… I’m embarrassed it took me this long. This was so good, and I’ve clearly been missing out. If you’re after a cowboy romance that actually hurts a little before it heals, this delivers.
I was lucky enough to read an early copy, all opinions are my own.
This story had me hooked from page one. Gripping, gritty, emotional, and impossible to put down, it throws you straight into the lives of Hadley Jones and Maggie Gallagher, two characters carrying some seriously heavy emotional baggage. Hadley is fighting for his family’s ranch with everything he has, even if it means risking his already broken body, while Maggie is confronting a world she swore she’d never return to after losing her father and some heavy PTSD. The slow collision between them was addictive.
The pacing is perfection. I was fully seated for the entire Hadley and Maggie show, turning pages like my life depended on it. The spice was woven in seamlessly, intense when it needed to be, but never at the expense of the story. It’s a reminder that intimacy isn’t always about how explicit a story gets, but how deeply the characters resonate.
This is my first Alexandra Banks book and honestly… I’m embarrassed it took me this long. This was so good, and I’ve clearly been missing out. If you’re after a cowboy romance that actually hurts a little before it heals, this delivers.
I was lucky enough to read an early copy, all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy
***I received this as and ARC, and the is my ARC review***
Maggie Gallagher is a photojournalist rebuilding her life after a traumatic accident in Ukraine. Her body may have healed, but the PTSD is still very real. Waning to get back into photojournalism she takes a job as a PBR photographer which forces her back into a world she never wanted to return to after losing her father—but Maggie is strong, independent, and determined to chase her dreams and do whatever it takes to get there.
Enter bull rider Hadley Jones—protective, loyal, and carrying the weight of his entire family on his shoulders. Between a ranch going further into the red, caring for his mum and sisters, and the constant injuries that come with bull riding, Hadley has no room for distractions… until Maggie.
She might fall first, but he definitely falls harder 🖤
I loved Maggie’s strength and the honest portrayal of PTSD—how it shapes her without defining her. The message that you don’t have to give up your career or happiness for love was powerful and refreshing.
The bull riding details felt authentic (from getting set on the bull, to what goes on behind the chutes and even the protection clowns), the spice was just right 🌶️, and the story left me needing the next book in the series.
Maggie Gallagher is a photojournalist rebuilding her life after a traumatic accident in Ukraine. Her body may have healed, but the PTSD is still very real. Waning to get back into photojournalism she takes a job as a PBR photographer which forces her back into a world she never wanted to return to after losing her father—but Maggie is strong, independent, and determined to chase her dreams and do whatever it takes to get there.
Enter bull rider Hadley Jones—protective, loyal, and carrying the weight of his entire family on his shoulders. Between a ranch going further into the red, caring for his mum and sisters, and the constant injuries that come with bull riding, Hadley has no room for distractions… until Maggie.
She might fall first, but he definitely falls harder 🖤
I loved Maggie’s strength and the honest portrayal of PTSD—how it shapes her without defining her. The message that you don’t have to give up your career or happiness for love was powerful and refreshing.
The bull riding details felt authentic (from getting set on the bull, to what goes on behind the chutes and even the protection clowns), the spice was just right 🌶️, and the story left me needing the next book in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Where do I start? I received this book as an arc and I absolutely loved it. Maggie is a journalist who is restarting her life after a tragic experience in Ukraine. She is suffering from PTSD. She is really in need of a job. The one job she tries her hardest to stay away from but pulls her back into the rodeo life as a photographer. She vowed never to get mixed up with rodeo after it took her father from her. Maggie is a strong and independent woman who will always fight for what she wants. Hadley is a bullrider who has suffered his fair share of injuries. He very protective and doing everything he can to provide fir his mom and three sisters. Including trying to save there ranch. He doesn’t have room in his life for distractions until he meet Maggie. He falls hard for the fierce independent woman. Maggie tries so hard to fight her feeling for Hadley, because she couldn’t bare to go down that path once again. For reasons Maggie and Hadley find there self spending a lot time together, even riding together to the next bull riding event made there feeling grow even more. If you loved the movie 8 seconds you will love this book. Who wouldn’t fall for a protective and caring bullrider who would do anything for you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🩵💚💚🩵 ARC Review - had the privilege of another sneak peek into my favourite authors new Cowboy Romance series this week. What can I say, this ‘HOT’ new series in the Alexandra Banks universe has bolted out the gate full steam; Introducing the ‘Heartland Cowboys Series’. Both FMC and MMC were absolutely delightful in every way; their paths crossed over perfectly and I just couldn’t get enough of their insane chemistry. This book is full of energy a reader would expect when the focus is bull riding. It’s pure magic when a handsome grumpy tall bull rider is forced into a confined space of a VW Kombi bus with his instant crush found behind a lens cover. I just wanted to bottle up the delicious attraction Hadley and Maggie had for one another, it was an absolute perfect read 💯. I cannot wait for the next instalment of the ‘Heartland Cowboy Series’ 🫶🏻, I have my list of cowboys I’m hoping to read more about as this series unfolds.
All the ticks and more.
🩵 Grumpy ‘HOT’ bull rider 🤠
💚 Stunning photojournalist 📸
🩵 He falls first 🥹
💚 Close proximity 🚐
🩵 Grumpy x Sunshine 😤😊
💚 Strong family 🤠👩🏻👱🏻♀️👱🏻♀️👱🏻♀️👱🏻♀️
🩵 SPICE 🌶️🌶️🌶️
💚 STEAM 🥴😮💨
🩵 Cowboy gets the girl at the end of the book = HEA 🫶🏻
All the ticks and more.
🩵 Grumpy ‘HOT’ bull rider 🤠
💚 Stunning photojournalist 📸
🩵 He falls first 🥹
💚 Close proximity 🚐
🩵 Grumpy x Sunshine 😤😊
💚 Strong family 🤠👩🏻👱🏻♀️👱🏻♀️👱🏻♀️👱🏻♀️
🩵 SPICE 🌶️🌶️🌶️
💚 STEAM 🥴😮💨
🩵 Cowboy gets the girl at the end of the book = HEA 🫶🏻
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
After reading the first two sentances of this book, I knew I wasn’t going to be able to put it down, emotions ran high and my heart tried to escape out of my chest!!
This book is the epitome of cowboy romances,
Hadley Jones, he’s a bullrider and a rancher and wears his heart on his sleeve who will do anything for his family.
Maggie, she’s been through a lot and has been sworn off bullriders, she’s a career girl and nothing scares her more than being in the circuit.
Sparks fly and their friendship is fun with all the banter, he’s protective in all ways a great MMC should be. I loved that Hadley was the one to fall first and he fell hard, he’s one determined cowboy in and out of the circuit. The Characters in this story were great, I’m praying there’s going to be stories for the rest of the team, especially Knox, I’m pretty sure there’s a hell of a lot more to that man than the snippets we got. Alexandra definitely captured the world building in a way you could see it in your own eyes, the descriptions of Maggies photographs were mesmerising. And of course the spice was burning hot, I cannot wait for the rest of this series.
This book is the epitome of cowboy romances,
Hadley Jones, he’s a bullrider and a rancher and wears his heart on his sleeve who will do anything for his family.
Maggie, she’s been through a lot and has been sworn off bullriders, she’s a career girl and nothing scares her more than being in the circuit.
Sparks fly and their friendship is fun with all the banter, he’s protective in all ways a great MMC should be. I loved that Hadley was the one to fall first and he fell hard, he’s one determined cowboy in and out of the circuit. The Characters in this story were great, I’m praying there’s going to be stories for the rest of the team, especially Knox, I’m pretty sure there’s a hell of a lot more to that man than the snippets we got. Alexandra definitely captured the world building in a way you could see it in your own eyes, the descriptions of Maggies photographs were mesmerising. And of course the spice was burning hot, I cannot wait for the rest of this series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another five-star read by Alexandra Banks in Cowboy Up. This is a forced proximity story with a loath-to-love dynamic featuring a grumpy hero and a sunshine heroine. The hero falls first. The story includes PTSD representation for the heroine, who is a photojournalist. There is definitely some spice, and they go on a road trip together.
Hadley Jones is a slightly down on his luck bull rider struggling to save his family's ranch. He sounds absolutely divine, and you will fall hard and fast for him. Maggie Gallagher is the photojournalist who has returned to Canada after experiencing trauma in Ukraine. She has promised an army captain that she will make something of herself. Between jobs, she is persuaded to become the photographer for the PBR, where she meets Hadley.
Their forced proximity begins when Hadley’s car breaks down and he cannot afford the repairs, so they end up road-tripping together. There is incredible chemistry between the two of them. Maggie has reasons not to want to fall for a bull rider, but of course, she does. It is a brilliant read. Thank you so much, Alex, for this incredible ARC.
Hadley Jones is a slightly down on his luck bull rider struggling to save his family's ranch. He sounds absolutely divine, and you will fall hard and fast for him. Maggie Gallagher is the photojournalist who has returned to Canada after experiencing trauma in Ukraine. She has promised an army captain that she will make something of herself. Between jobs, she is persuaded to become the photographer for the PBR, where she meets Hadley.
Their forced proximity begins when Hadley’s car breaks down and he cannot afford the repairs, so they end up road-tripping together. There is incredible chemistry between the two of them. Maggie has reasons not to want to fall for a bull rider, but of course, she does. It is a brilliant read. Thank you so much, Alex, for this incredible ARC.
January 25, 2026
Okay I don’t think I’ll ever be over the brown hair brown eyed grumpy cowboy that is Hadley 🥵
Hadley ; rough around the edges, emotionally guarded, family man but when he falls he FALLS.
Maggie; sweet, innocent, career driven and has sworn herself off cowboys and bull riders..
That is until HAD-LEY JONES turns her world upside down.
This was a slowww burn that you have to have on your shelves. From the first page I knew this was going to be a book that hooks me from the get go. Every chapter I was like right they need to KISS!!
Hadleys relationship with his family and the determination he has to keep his family ranch a float and will do absolutely anything to do so is just everything. Maggie being so career driven and knowing what she wants in life is the ambition and motivation we all need!
My heart was in my mouth during those bull rides feeling like I was right there in the stands with the descriptive writing throughout you just loose yourself in the ranch and bull riding world.
Thank you for gifting me this book and allowing me to read this early before release!
Hadley ; rough around the edges, emotionally guarded, family man but when he falls he FALLS.
Maggie; sweet, innocent, career driven and has sworn herself off cowboys and bull riders..
That is until HAD-LEY JONES turns her world upside down.
This was a slowww burn that you have to have on your shelves. From the first page I knew this was going to be a book that hooks me from the get go. Every chapter I was like right they need to KISS!!
Hadleys relationship with his family and the determination he has to keep his family ranch a float and will do absolutely anything to do so is just everything. Maggie being so career driven and knowing what she wants in life is the ambition and motivation we all need!
My heart was in my mouth during those bull rides feeling like I was right there in the stands with the descriptive writing throughout you just loose yourself in the ranch and bull riding world.
Thank you for gifting me this book and allowing me to read this early before release!
January 26, 2026
I love a spicy cowboy romance and Cowboy up did not disappoint!
Maggie has promised herself not to fall for a bull rider, but finds herself doing just that.
Hadley has told himself that he doesn’t have time for a relationship, his focus are on his mom and three sisters, and keeping their ranch afloat.
When Maggie ends up as the photographer for the PBR, she and Hadley meet, and their first encounter is not very friendly.
As time passes, they become friends and travel companions, and soon they find it hard to stay away from each other. Before they know it, they have both started to develop deep feelings for each other.
One thing I really enjoyed was getting a behind-the-scenes look into the PBR world, which isn’t something I’ve come across in other books before. While I’ve never been to a rodeo, Alexandra describes it so vividly that I almost felt like I was there, standing outside the rails and watching the bull riders.
This was a sweet and spicy read that is perfect for cowboy romance lovers!
Maggie has promised herself not to fall for a bull rider, but finds herself doing just that.
Hadley has told himself that he doesn’t have time for a relationship, his focus are on his mom and three sisters, and keeping their ranch afloat.
When Maggie ends up as the photographer for the PBR, she and Hadley meet, and their first encounter is not very friendly.
As time passes, they become friends and travel companions, and soon they find it hard to stay away from each other. Before they know it, they have both started to develop deep feelings for each other.
One thing I really enjoyed was getting a behind-the-scenes look into the PBR world, which isn’t something I’ve come across in other books before. While I’ve never been to a rodeo, Alexandra describes it so vividly that I almost felt like I was there, standing outside the rails and watching the bull riders.
This was a sweet and spicy read that is perfect for cowboy romance lovers!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Firstly, thank you to Alexandra Banks for the advance copy of this book. I received a digital copy. The book is due to be published on 3rd February and if you love a cowboy romance then I'd really recommend this book. Not an author I had read any books by, but they are definitely now on my list!
I love a cowboy romance and Alexandra Banks did not let me down.
This was a slow burn but not in a boring, get on with it way, the tension between Maggie and Hadley was something else! 🥵
Hadley has this grumpy persona, but literally would do anything for his mum and sisters. Maggie suffers with PTSD and you really feel for her.Both were very likeable characters and both have gone through some horrible life experiences.
Lots of emotions felt during this book. Descriptions of things were well written and you could really imagine you were there. Loved the behind the scenes at the rodeos too
And I can't write a review without mentioning the spice. This has just the right amount 🌶
I love a cowboy romance and Alexandra Banks did not let me down.
This was a slow burn but not in a boring, get on with it way, the tension between Maggie and Hadley was something else! 🥵
Hadley has this grumpy persona, but literally would do anything for his mum and sisters. Maggie suffers with PTSD and you really feel for her.Both were very likeable characters and both have gone through some horrible life experiences.
Lots of emotions felt during this book. Descriptions of things were well written and you could really imagine you were there. Loved the behind the scenes at the rodeos too
And I can't write a review without mentioning the spice. This has just the right amount 🌶
January 25, 2026
Who knew that the missing piece of my life was a stirring cowboy/bull rider romance?
Hadley Jones—a seasoned bull rider who's doing everything he can to keep his family's ranch afloat. This guy is selfless, hardworking, and determined—truly a man you can't help but fall head over heels for!
Then there's Maggie, a brave photojournalist working on the front lines in Ukraine. After witnessing the heart-wrenching chaos of war, she faces her own battle with PTSD. When Maggie returns home without a job, all she wants to do is jump back into the action she loves. Lucky for her, a chance to work on the PBR circuit comes her way. Though she felt hesitant about going, Maggie committed herself for a year.
Alexandra Banks pulls you in from the very first page, and if I could give infinity stars on this book, I absolutely would!
A huge thank you to Alexandra for allowing me to read Cowboy Up as an ARC. This has quickly become one of my favourite reads of 2026!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4⭐️
I just love these cowboys who are written by Alexandra Banks like the mouths on these men 🥵🥵 the spice is done well the you have a story done well! Hadley the MMC is just 🤌🏼 and not just like any other rich ranch owning cowboy! You get the struggle of owning a ranch and keeping it going and risking his beck literally from bull riding to bring in the extra money. Maggie our FMC photographer her backstory and how she got PTSD and why she doesnt want to be with a bullrider is understandable and well explained!
Troupes
Photographer X cowboy/bullrider
Grumpy X sunshine
He falls first
Forced proximity
PTSD (her)
Spice 🌶️🌶️
(Always check content/trigger warnings when reading if a book has them)
I just love these cowboys who are written by Alexandra Banks like the mouths on these men 🥵🥵 the spice is done well the you have a story done well! Hadley the MMC is just 🤌🏼 and not just like any other rich ranch owning cowboy! You get the struggle of owning a ranch and keeping it going and risking his beck literally from bull riding to bring in the extra money. Maggie our FMC photographer her backstory and how she got PTSD and why she doesnt want to be with a bullrider is understandable and well explained!
Troupes
Photographer X cowboy/bullrider
Grumpy X sunshine
He falls first
Forced proximity
PTSD (her)
Spice 🌶️🌶️
(Always check content/trigger warnings when reading if a book has them)
January 25, 2026
How can I experience so many emotions? Hadley had my heart going out to him, upset for him not taking better care of himself and getting all hot and bothered with how this man talks. I mean, c’mon why can’t men like this be real?
That’s ok, at least we have amazing book boyfriends and Hadley Jones is right up there with the best of them!
Hadley and Maggie start off on the wrong foot. Creating one of my favorite tropes, enemies to lovers. Even though these two are attracted to each other they just don’t get along. But spending months at a time together & even carpooling allows them to see the good in other another. And the sparks fly with these two. The path may be a rough one for these two but it pays off big time!
That’s ok, at least we have amazing book boyfriends and Hadley Jones is right up there with the best of them!
Hadley and Maggie start off on the wrong foot. Creating one of my favorite tropes, enemies to lovers. Even though these two are attracted to each other they just don’t get along. But spending months at a time together & even carpooling allows them to see the good in other another. And the sparks fly with these two. The path may be a rough one for these two but it pays off big time!
January 24, 2026
COWBOY UP completely stole my heart!!!
I’m ABSOLUTELY over the moon about Hadley.
What a man! — grumpy, protective, thoughtful, and soooo undeniably HOT! 😮💨🔥
What I loved most is that this story isn’t just about attraction and heat (even though the chemistry between Hadley and Maggie is amazing!). It also explores trauma, fear, and the way we sometimes push people away to protect ourselves from future loss. In trying not to get hurt, we end up losing parts of ourselves — and this book handles that theme beautifully.
It made me laugh, gave me butterflies, and absolutely hit me in the feels!!
Read this if you love cowboys, tension, and MMCs who fall HARD!
I’m ABSOLUTELY over the moon about Hadley.
What a man! — grumpy, protective, thoughtful, and soooo undeniably HOT! 😮💨🔥
What I loved most is that this story isn’t just about attraction and heat (even though the chemistry between Hadley and Maggie is amazing!). It also explores trauma, fear, and the way we sometimes push people away to protect ourselves from future loss. In trying not to get hurt, we end up losing parts of ourselves — and this book handles that theme beautifully.
It made me laugh, gave me butterflies, and absolutely hit me in the feels!!
Read this if you love cowboys, tension, and MMCs who fall HARD!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I devoured this book. I was hooked from the start and instantly fell in love with Hadley and Maggie. Maggie swears she will never love a bull rider, and Hadley is trying to break down all her walls and win over the woman he's instantly head over heels for. There are lots of near misses with Hadley in the ring, and OMG, it gets intense and keeps you on the edge of your seat. It is a slow burn, but once the spice starts, it quickly picks up, and the sexual tension between these two is off the charts. Hadley is a loving big brother who just wants to help save his ranch and give his sister the best life he can. I really loved this book and will definitely be adding it to my physical bookshelf.
January 26, 2026
Absolutely DEVOURED!! Soo in love with Hadley Jones 😍 Alexandra sure knows how to write a mans!
Photojournalist Maggie is dealing with PTSD when she takes on a temporary gig photographing the bull riders on the PBR circuit… enter one Mr. Hadley Jones ….
This one was so much fun to read. I adored the banter and friendship between the MCs and they had me rooting for them right from the get go.
Didn’t realize I was THAT girlie… but boy did these PBR riders do something for me 🔥 I loved the vibes, energy and camaraderie and totally can’t wait to see which rodeo legend will be the next leading man in this series!!
Thank you, Alexandra so so much for the ARC! I absolutely LOVED this one 😍
Photojournalist Maggie is dealing with PTSD when she takes on a temporary gig photographing the bull riders on the PBR circuit… enter one Mr. Hadley Jones ….
This one was so much fun to read. I adored the banter and friendship between the MCs and they had me rooting for them right from the get go.
Didn’t realize I was THAT girlie… but boy did these PBR riders do something for me 🔥 I loved the vibes, energy and camaraderie and totally can’t wait to see which rodeo legend will be the next leading man in this series!!
Thank you, Alexandra so so much for the ARC! I absolutely LOVED this one 😍
January 24, 2026
I’m a sucker for a cowboy romance, and this one didn’t disappoint. One thing I truly enjoyed was the more behind the scenes look into the bull riders journeys and the preparation and stress they feel through the season. The banter between not just the main characters but also Hadley’s sisters and the bull riding family was my favorite.
There is the tension and angst, but also past trauma which brings fear of the future. I will say the last 25% of the book had me anxious, at the edge of my seat, biting my nails and I love when a book can do that!
There is the tension and angst, but also past trauma which brings fear of the future. I will say the last 25% of the book had me anxious, at the edge of my seat, biting my nails and I love when a book can do that!
Review of advance copy received from Author
HOLY SMOKES!!!! Hadley and Maggie are to die for!! I love when I can relate to a book, it draws me in deeper to the story. It is so hard to love after loss, and having to open yourself to more heartbreak. It’s takes a lot of time and sometimes you question if it’s even worth it. Love is always worth it, especially with the right person. I read this book in one sitting, and I can guarantee that you will too!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you’re in the mood for a cinnamon roll bull rider and a black cat photojournalist, this is your book.
I don’t think I’ve ever read a bull rider character as sweet as Hadley Jones. That man unapologetically wears his heart on his sleeve, and he is down bad for Maggie.
They have both lived through some trauma, and while there are some bumps along the way, they eventually figure it out. One thing they didn’t have to figure out was the spice. These two are hot, hot, hot!
I don’t think I’ve ever read a bull rider character as sweet as Hadley Jones. That man unapologetically wears his heart on his sleeve, and he is down bad for Maggie.
They have both lived through some trauma, and while there are some bumps along the way, they eventually figure it out. One thing they didn’t have to figure out was the spice. These two are hot, hot, hot!
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