Spicy lessons turn into undeniable chemistry, blurred lines, and broken rules between a reformed cowboy Casanova and the girl he’s secretly pined after for years in this steamy, friends-to-lovers, fake-dating, small-town romance by Ann Einerson.
I wasn’t expecting to bail my little sister’s best friend out of jail.
But what else could I do? I’ve wanted her for far longer than I care to admit. Too bad she thinks I’m a notorious playboy, leaving me firmly in the friend zone. Not that I didn’t earn that reputation once upon a time, but Birdie is the only one I have eyes for now.
Luck is on my side when, after a few too many shots, the girl of my dreams propositions me. Will I be the first one to take her for a roll in the hay and teach her everything I know?
Getting involved with the woman I’ve been yearning for is a bad idea. But it’s one I plan to take for a ride, especially when Birdie becomes my fake girlfriend with benefits.
This might not be my first rodeo, but agreeing to give her spicy lessons blurs the lines between friendship and what lies beyond. If I’m already bending the rules, I’m determined to lasso her heart.
Ann Einerson is the author of enchanting contemporary romance novels that will keep you hooked until the very last page, complete with heroes who fall hard and the heroines who keep them on their toes. She believes sometimes the best family is the one we find, curiosity is good for the soul, and a good book isn’t complete without banter.
You can find Ann surrounded by her ample supply of sticky notes ready for inspiration and ideas. When she’s not writing, Ann enjoys spoiling her chatty pet chickens, listening to her dysfunctional playlists, and going for late-night treadmill runs. She lives in Michigan with her husband.
What to Expect: Small Town Sister's Best Friend Friends to Lovers Fake Dating Spicy Lessons
Ann is back with the next installment of her Silver Saddle Ranch series, and this time it is Birdie's turn for a happily ever after!
This was a cute and easy romance through and through. Birdie is the local animal lover who is willing and able to rescue any stray who needs care. Walker is a deputy sheriff who works with Birdie's dad, the sheriff. Walker has had a crush on Birdie for years, even with his playboy reputation. Birdie has never been kissed before, let alone spent any significant time in bed with a man. When Birdie propositions Walker into being her first, he suggests that they fake date so he can show her all the ways she deserves to be treated.
This book was sweet to its core. The friend group and Walker's family chat were hilarious additions to the story and had me giggling with glee. I loved how much Walker took care of Birdie and how much he did for her family without any recognition or praise. He did it because he wanted to help them out as they were dealing with Birdie's mom's illness in private.
If you are looking for a sweet romance that is low on conflict but full of character and charm, this book is for you! Thank you so much to Ann for the early copy of Lassoed Love!
I think Birdie and Walker have just become my new favourite Ann Einerson couple😩. I am a sucker for the fake dating trope, but one person suggesting fake dating because they are completely head over heels for the other and it’s the only way they can stay in their proximity? Well I mean that is just so much better🤭.
We caught glimpses of Birdie throughout Briars book (Wrangled Love). She is sweet FMC who loves to rescue animals from bad situations and even wants to start a nonprofit some day. Our MMC Walker is Briars brother and while he may work on the ranch part time he is also the volunteer deputy and works along side Birdie’s father.
Birdie has had her fair share of awkward flirting scenarios and after one evening while she is out in the local bar, where Walker also happens to be she plucks up the courage (or most likely it’s the booze giving that courage to her) to ask Walker to become her teacher about all things regarding intimacy, flirting and honestly just men in general
Of course Walker being the gentleman brings Birdie back to her house and stays the night on the floor to ensure she is ok. The next morning he suggests fake dating, if he’s going to be around teaching her they may as well come up as a cover as to why they’ll be spending time with one another. Walker definitely used this to his advantage as he is absolutely head over heels for Birdie and he wants to spend all his time in her vicinity so he will do it in any way he can.
I absolutely loved these two, while Birdie may have thought it was a fake relationship that certainly wasn’t the case for Walker. I loved seeing Walker go above and beyond for Birdie. Whether this was bringing her veggie, meals or ensuring he was always available to support her, nothing was too little when it came to Birdie.
Birdie definitely holds a lot of weight on her shoulders. Her mother was diagnosed with early onset Parkinson’s disease. Her father wanted to keep the diagnosis a secret and as such she had to carry this for years without the support of friends. When Birdie was finally able to open up about this she had the support of Walker and her friends.
From the glimpse that we see of our next couple it will most certainly be interesting and I cannot wait for them.
Thank you to the author who provided this e-arc for my honest thoughts 💭
Ann Einerson pulls through every single time. Lassoed Love was so wholesome and I especially loved all the animals (I mean come on - a chicken named Nugget?). I’m a big fan of the chronic illness rep in this one and the emotional vulnerability overall. Walker & Birdie’s romance was everything, starting off with spicy lessons as “friends” to then evolve into the most trusting and caring relationship was weirdly touching to read. I cannot wait for the next book as I ate up all the Charlie and Heath crumbs in this one.
the vibes ™: - animal rescuer with the cutest animals - cowboy (& sheriff on the side: talking about best of both worlds) - found family - funny banter - parkinson rep - spicy lessons
💌 special thanks to the author for allowing me to read this as an arc
Lassoed Love might be my favourite reads by Ann. This one features Walker and Birdie and honestly Walker is everything. He is the local deputy sheriff and works on the family farm and his sister is Birdie’s best friend. Birdie’s whole life is rescuing neglected animals and supporting her family as they deal with a family member’s illness. This fake dating, friends to lovers small town romance with the most entertaining friendship group was a joy to read. I really enjoyed this one and can’t wait for the next book in the series. Between 4 1/2 & 5 🌟 I received a complementary copy from the author.
₊ ⊹❀ Overall: This is easily my favorite Ann Einerson book to date!! I completely loved being back in Bluebell, Montana, with sweet Birdie and adoring Walker! This story is the perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and heartwarming! 🥰
⋆⟢ Tropes + Vibes: 🩵 friends to lovers 💜 fake dating 🩵 small town 💜 spicy lessons 🩵 best friend’s brother 💜 opposites attract 🩵 he’s obsessed with her
₊ ⊹❀ Bookish Breakdown: I was so obsessed with this story that I read it in less than 24 hours! It’s got literally everything you could want in a love story. It’s sweet, but also spicy, and makes you feel connected to the characters. There are so many strong relationships in this small town and it really makes the characters come to life.
Birdie is an animal-loving, caretaking, sweet, shy gal. She wants to run her own animal sanctuary and always mothers every rescue animal she takes in (and her friends). She’s been strong and doing everything on her own and hasn’t ever wanted to be a bother to anyone around her. She’s also been interested in exploring a relationship, but is always just so dang awkward... endearing, but awkward. All of these traits combined make her so incredibly lovable.
Walker seems to be the only one who really understands how truly lovable Birdie is. He’s been biding his time, yearning, waiting for his opportunity to make Birdie his. He’s comforting, loving, and does all of those sweet, small gestures that really show he’s attentive, genuine, and so incredibly devoted to her. I loved watching how well Walker loved Birdie. He was so gentle and sweet with her, especially while she was gaining more and more confidence in herself.
Watching Birdie come out of her shell, discussing her feelings with not only Walker, but her friends and family, and seeing healthy communication throughout all of the relationships between the characters really sealed the deal to cement this as a 5-star read. I highly recommend everyone pick this one up!
Thank you to Ann Einerson and The Smuthood PR for this ARC.
Guys, to say I’m obsessed with this story is an understatement. I want to say Thank you to Ann Einerson for trusting me to be apart of her team and for the opportunity to get an ARC of this book!
This one was such a cozy, feel-good read with more heart than I expected 🤠💛
Love Lassoed is the second book in the Silver Saddle Ranch series, but you can totally read it on its own. This one follows Birdie and Walker Halstead, and I loved their story so much.
Birdie is quirky and a little awkward, especially when it comes to flirting which honestly just made me love her more.
Walker is her best friend’s older brother, and he’s been into Birdie for years. He never acted on it though, mostly because she always kept him in the friend zone and didn’t think he’d ever go for someone like her. I loved how patient Walker was with her. He takes his time and really shows her what it means to be cared for. The way walker was there for Birdie, and her family was so sweet.
The relationship between Birdie and Walker builds at a slower pace, and I actually loved that. I’m not usually a fan of friends to lovers but I really enjoyed this one. There’s tension, hesitation, and those little moments that slowly add up until everything finally clicks. When it does? SO satisfying.
Also, the girls’ group chat? Absolutely hilarious. And then Briar and her Brothers group chat? Haha .. Those moments added so much fun to the story.
Overall, it’s a heartfelt, easy to get lost in romance with strong emotional beats and a really sweet payoff. Perfect if you’re in the mood for something comforting with just the right amount of swoon.
I was obsessed!! From the very beginning this one had me sucked in! I was so sad to see Walker & Birdie’s story come to an end! This one left me feeling all the things. Laughing, swooning, emotional moments, and absolutely steamy spicy lessons!!
Dare I say this is my favorite by Ann so far?!? 🤭 fake dating is always a fave, but this one just had me loving every second. Small town, friends to lovers, with absolutely hilarious friend group chats, I was sat for this book!!
Birdie is just the sweetest and genuine FMC. Dedicated to rescuing animals and taking care of her family. Walker is a town deputy who works closely with her father, and is harboring some strong feelings for Birdie. When she decided to proposition him for some fake dating and lessons in all things spice & flirting, things definitely heat up and get real with these two!!
You guys are absolutely going to be kicking your feet and obsessing over these two characters!! I couldn’t put this one down & I certainly can’t wait for more from this series!!
Thank you Ann for writing such an amazing story that had me falling in love right along with these two!! 🥹😭🩷
Thanks to The Smuthood and the author for the arc!
I’m a sucker for a good cowboy/small town romance and this did not disappoint. Birdie is inexperienced in dating/relationships and is tired of putting her life on hold and decides her best friend’s brother, Walker, is the best person to give her lessons on how to date. Walker, who’s been pining after Birdie for years, jumps at the chance to be the one to experience all her firsts.
What I loved about this book: - the mutual pining - the spicy lessons - found family - all the animals, especially Nugget! - no third act breakup!!
I adored this book. If you’re in the mood for a small town/best friend’s brother/spicy lessons romance, pick this up!!
Lassoed Love by Ann Einerson is book 2 in the Silver Saddle Ranch series, and I loved going back there for Birdie & Walker.
What can you expect? 🏡 Small-town romance 🤠 Cowboy romance 👫 Friends to lovers 🎭 Fake dating 🪢 Rope play 😍 He’s obsessed with her 🌶️ Spicy lessons 🎭 Role play
⭐ 4.5 | 🌶️ 2.5
Birdie is the best friend of Walker’s sister, Briar, but over the years, she and Walker have developed a close bond of their own. While Walker works on his family ranch and serves as a volunteer deputy for Birdie’s father, the local sheriff, Birdie spends her time rescuing animals and dreaming of expanding her small home sanctuary.
At 27, Birdie is frustrated by her lack of experience and her awkwardness when it comes to flirting. After a few too many tequila shots, she boldly asks Walker to give her some "spicy" lessons. Though the request was made in a drunken moment, Walker doesn't let it slide. The next day, he approaches her with a counter-offer: instead of lessons, they should try fake dating. While the town sees Walker as a notorious playboy, the reputation isn't actually true. In reality, he has been infatuated with Birdie for a long time and has finally found the perfect way to get close to the woman he’s always wanted.
I loved their friendship and how Walker showed Birdie exactly how she deserves to be treated. He was incredibly sweet, taking her on real dates and never making her feel "less than" for her inexperience. Birdie has such a great heart, but she felt so alone carrying a heavy secret: her mother has early-onset Parkinson’s. Dealing with her mother's declining health while her father asked her to keep it a secret was a massive weight to bear.
Walker became her happy place. The more time they spent together, the more her feelings blossomed. Their first kiss was sweet, but those spicy lessons? So hot. Walker has a major dirty mouth and so much patience, which made me both swoon and sweat. That toy scene and the rope play? Yes, please! 🔥
I loved his nickname for her, "Troublemaker." They were perfect for each other. I also had a blast with Earl, the town driver, and that pharmacy scene was hilarious (though I did feel a bit bad for Birdie!). Watching her fit into his family was mesmerizing. Little by little, the lines blurred until "fake" became very real. Walker is the definition of a perfect book boyfriend—from making her the best oat milk lattes to cooking for her and anticipating her every need. He did everything he could to relieve the weight on her shoulders.
The animals were such a highlight—Nugget the chicken and the kittens were so sweet! I also loved the ending where everyone rallied around Birdie. I was swooning nonstop.
On a personal note, I deeply sympathized with Birdie. My own father had Parkinson’s, and watching that decline is never easy. You truly start grieving before they even pass because you see how much everything changes for them. Seeing that represented here was very moving.
If you love cowboy romances and fake dating, I highly recommend this book! It can be read as a standalone, but for the full experience, I recommend reading the series in order. I can’t wait for what’s next!
Thank you so much to Ann and her team for the ARC. This review reflects my honest thoughts.
Book Title: Lassoed Love Author: Anne Einerson Tropes: Friends-to-Lovers, Fake Dating, Small Town Romance, Reformed Playboy, Lessons/Teacher Trope, Mutual Pining, Cowboy Romance Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
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🤩 The Vibe: Sweet, flirty, and heart-melting with just the right amount of spice.
Lassoed Love is one of those books you pick up “just for a few chapters” and suddenly it’s 2am and you’re emotionally attached to everyone. It’s cozy small-town romance meets spicy lessons and years of pining finally coming to a head.
This one is light, fun, and feel-good — the kind of read that lifts your mood and keeps you smiling the entire time. And with release day here? It’s the perfect binge read. 🤠💛
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👩❤️👨 Main Characters:
Walker Reformed cowboy Casanova with a reputation he can’t quite shake — but only one girl has ever mattered. Walker has been down bad for Birdie for YEARS, and watching that play out on page was everything. His internal thoughts? Obsessed. His actions? Even better.
He’s all in from the start, just waiting for his chance — and once he gets it, he does not hesitate. The way he shows up for Birdie, supports her, and slowly blurs the lines between “fake” and real? Swoon.
Birdie Adorable, big-hearted, and impossible not to love. Birdie had me from page one — her love for animals, her softness, and her sincerity made her such an easy character to root for.
She’s figuring things out, stepping outside her comfort zone, and learning to trust both herself and her feelings. Watching her grow while still staying true to who she is was so sweet.
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💕 What I Loved:
• Walker being absolutely down bad from the start • The friends-to-lovers tension with years of pining • Fake dating + “spicy lessons” blurring the lines • Birdie’s love for animals (so wholesome 🥹) • The small-town setting and cozy vibes • The hilarious text message conversations • Birdie’s friend group — elite energy • Walker’s family dynamics • The low-drama, feel-good storyline • The emotional growth without heavy angst
This book just felt GOOD. The pacing was quick, the chemistry was strong, and it was so easy to get lost in their story.
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🩵 What Didn’t Work For Me:
There’s minimal conflict overall, so if you’re looking for heavy angst or high drama, this might feel a little lighter. But for me, that worked — it matched the cozy, heartwarming vibe perfectly.
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🤔 Final Thoughts:
Lassoed Love is the definition of a comfort read. It’s sweet, spicy, and full of heart — with a hero who has been quietly in love for years and finally gets his moment.
Walker and Birdie’s story is soft in the best way. It’s about timing, growth, and realizing that sometimes what you’ve been looking for has been right in front of you all along.
If you love: • Cowboy romance • Friends-to-lovers • Fake dating that turns real • A hero who falls first and HARD • Light, feel-good reads
This one deserves a spot on your TBR — especially if you need a quick, mood-lifting read.
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🎧 Swift Song Pairing: Down Bad - Walk was down bad from the first chapter!
“She’s my sun, brightening every corner of my life, and I’ll never take that for granted.”
✔️cowboy romance ✔️friends to lovers ✔️fake dating ✔️spicy lessons ✔️reformed playboy ✔️small town ✔️no 3rd act breakup
This book is so cute, and I didn’t want to put it down! Two of my favorite romance tropes are friends to lovers and any kind of fake relationship, and this book brings them together perfectly. If you love a MMC who falls first and yearns, I think you’ll like this one. Walker (MMC) and Birdie (FMC) have been in each other’s orbit for a long time because she is his sister’s best friend, and though she has placed him firmly in the friend zone, he is hoping she will finally see who he really is and the feelings he has. However, his former playboy ways have tainted everyone’s opinion of him, and he hasn’t been able to shake that reputation though it’s definitely no longer accurate. When Birdie wants someone to teach her how to be in a relationship (in and out of the bedroom) she asks Walker and he is determined to show her how serious he is about her.
Though this is a light story overall, there is some sadness/heaviness due to Birdie’s mom’s declining health. I love that we get to see Birdie and her mom spending time together and watching Gilmore Girls (I watched it with my mom and it’s now a comfort show for me so I love all of the references), and that her relationship with her parents is an important part of the story. Though there is a secret regarding Birdie’s family that could have caused her relationship with Walker to implode in the third act, I appreciate how rational she is and doesn’t jump to the worst case scenario, these characters are adults who act like adults (and that is something I’ve always appreciated about this author’s writing).
Overall there is solid character development, relationship development, and communication here. Walker never fails to defend the woman he loves, and he is just so swoony. The spice is spicy and the consent is abundant. I love the chaotic farm animal rescue that Birdie has at her house, and though it’s not the most convenient thing for her to do, she will never turn away an animal in need. I am a big fan of this author in general, and I am loving this series. I am so excited (after the little hints throughout the story) about the next book!
*Thank you so much to the author (Ann Einerson) and Luna Literary for the opportunity to ARC read this book! All opinions are my own*
I sat down and didn’t get up because this story had everything. Friends-to-lovers. Fake dating. Yearning so intense it should come with a warning label. And a man who falls first, falls HARD, and stays there…patiently waiting like the emotional support king he is.
Birdie is quirky, soft-hearted, socially awkward in such an endearing way, you instantly fall in love with her adorable unintentionality. But, she’s been carrying a lot—caring for her mom, navigating grief and stress, constantly pouring into everyone else’s cup while hers sits a little empty. So when she FINALLY does something for herself, I was ALL IN. Because Walker.
This man is a walking, talking green flag—cowboy edition. Loyalty, devotion & emotional intelligence, wrapped up in a white t-shirt and Wranglers. Known for being a playboy, he’s secretly been gone for Birdie for years…quietly yearning from the sidelines, respecting their friendship…just waiting, knowing she’s it for him. And when she finally turns to him? Game over.
The fake dating lessons turn into something softer, deeper, and dangerously real. He shows her what it means to be cared for. The small things were devastatingly tender. The man is down bad in the most respectful, heart-melting way. And the way he encourages her to speak her mind and stands beside her— I was unwell.
Beyond the romance, the emotional layers hit just as strong. Birdie’s relationship with her mom, especially as she navigates chronic illness, adds a quiet weight to the story that balances the sweetness. Those moments feel real, tender, and handled with care.
The found family, chaotic group chats (died laughing MULTIPLE times), and the friendships that feel lived-in and loud in the best way added beautiful texture, making the story feel warm and full.
By the end, you’ve got character growth, emotional payoff, and a romance that feels wanted. No unnecessary drama or third act breakups (TYSM), just two people choosing each other in a way that feels honest and real.
*Thank you to Ann Einerson & The Smuthood PR for this arc opportunity.
Love Lassoed is book 2 in the Silver Saddle Ranch Series but can be read as a stand alone. This follows Birdie and Walker Halstead.
Birdie is quirky, a little awkward especially when trying to flirt. She is an animal lover and is running an “unofficial” rescue out of her home. I loved that she wasn’t afraid to go to jail for rescuing animals( even when her dad is the small towns sheriff) Walker is her best friends older brother and he has had feelings for Birdie for a long time but never acted on the since she friend zoned him. She thought he’d never go for someone like her. Tired of always being awkward, and a 25 yr old virgin she decides after getting tipsy to make Walker (someone she trusts) an offer he cannot refuse.. to fake date and give her spicy lessons.
I loved how he took it slow with her, showing her how she should be treated and appreciated. The little things like opening her door, making her special latte, bringing her flowers. He is such a green flag! Aka a cowboy and a sheriffs surety who would literally do anything for Birdie! Swoon! He was head over boots for Birdie.
Birdie gives so much of herself for others whether it’s the animals or caring for her Mom who suffers from Parkinson’s. Ann did a great job with the chronic illness representation in this book. I’m glad she finally gets to have something for herself with Walker. He’s so supportive, more than she even knows.
The girlies group and group texts were hilarious and I loved it!
Perfect amount of spice to plot in my opinion! Walker even brings out some rope 🔥 plenty of spicy scenes and lessons ; ) I love an “Eyes on Me” and “use me” I love the confidence she gains!
There is no third act break up and for the most part they have open communication. The ending was perfect. I really enjoyed this book, it was a quick easy read! I cannot wait for Charlie and Heaths book after the heated exchanges they had in this one! I ate up all those crumbs!
4.5⭐️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes: Cowboy Romance Fake Dating Best Friends Brother Boss’s Daughter Friends to Lovers Spicy Lessons He’s Obsessed Rope Play Chronic Illness Rep
Huge thank you to The Smuthood and Author Ann Einerson for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
Lassoed Love by Anne Einerson 5 ⭐️ | 3 🌶️ Fake dating Friends to lovers Spicy lessons Hes obsessed with her Rope play Cowboy romance.
Thanks to Luna Literary and the author for the ARC provided.
"It’s hard not to swoon when this feels like a scene from a romance novel where the hero’s smallest act of thoughtfulness outshines any grand gesture."
Save a horse, ride the cowboy…Hell yes! Since we read about Birdie and her crazy adventures, trying to save animals, with Briar and Charlie's help, I was hoping her book was next, so I was really happy when this was confirmed, and it was even better when we knew Walker was the MMC. And what a better way to give us their story than some spicy lessons mixed with friends to lovers. Their whole story was so wholesome and sweet.
"You deserve to be swept off your feet. Never settle for anything else." WALKER HALSTEAD, THE MAN YOU ARE! This man is the definition of THE PERFECT BOOK BOYFRIEND. Every single action, every single detail, got me giggling and kicking my feet the whole time.
"There’s something magical about being called beautiful by a rugged cowboy who can turn a simple goodbye into a moment that lingers in my mind all day." BIRDIE MY LOVE, YOU DESERVE THE BEST OF THE BEST IN THE WORLD. I loved Birdies determination to make the world a bit better for animals and for people too. She was so passionate, even when she was struggling with her mom’s situation and her dad’s way to manage it. But I’m happy they managed to find not a solution, but a better way to live with it.
Also, those spicy lessons…if there's something I like is when authors manage to give us not just sex right away, but a connection and understanding between the characters, and Anne wrote it beautifully.
I think I can say this my favorite book by Anne. Walker and Birdie are such a lovely couple, I love to read the net of support they have with the rest of the characters, because there’s nothing better than a nice found family trope, and they make it work perfectly.
My only complaint is that I'd loved to read a bit more about the event that was happening at the end of the book. I felt like the epilogue was cut it a bit abruptly but who knows, maybe were having an extra chapter or some special bonus (please Anne🤞🏻)
With all this said, I CAN’T WAIT FOR HEATH AND CHARLIES BOOK! Those two are gonna be an interesting pair.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This was such a cute, cozy, feel-good romance that was easy to fall into and just enjoy from start to finish.
Birdie is quirky, awkward, and completely endearing, especially when it comes to flirting. She runs an unofficial animal rescue out of her home, cares for her mom who’s living with Parkinson’s, and gives so much of herself to everyone around her. I loved how big her heart was, and honestly, the fact that she wasn’t afraid to go to jail for rescuing animals (even when her dad is the town sheriff) just made me love her even more.
Walker is her best friend’s older brother and a total green flag cowboy hero. He’s been quietly pining for Birdie for years but never acted on it because she friend-zoned him and didn’t think he’d ever go for someone like her. Despite his former playboy reputation, Walker is patient, gentle, and completely devoted. He takes things slow, makes her feel comfortable, and shows her in small ways how much she matters — opening doors, bringing flowers, making her special lattes, and quietly supporting her and her family without expecting anything in return.
When Birdie, tired of always feeling awkward and inexperienced, drunkenly asks Walker for spicy lessons, they decide to fake date, and of course, those lines start to blur. I loved watching Birdie grow into her confidence while Walker supported her every step of the way. Their chemistry was sweet but still had plenty of heat, and yes, the rope definitely made an appearance.
I also loved the small-town charm, the hilarious group chats, and the strong friendships that made the story feel warm and full. The chronic illness representation with Birdie’s mom was handled with care and added an emotional layer without making the story heavy.
Another thing I really appreciated was the lack of unnecessary drama. There’s no third-act breakup, just healthy communication, steady relationship growth, and two people choosing each other in a way that felt genuine and mature. The ending was satisfying, and I’m already excited for Charlie and Heath after those little hints throughout the story.
Overall, this was a quick, easy, sweet-and-spicy romance with a lovable heroine, a devoted cowboy hero, and plenty of cozy small-town charm.
4.5⭐️ Enjoyably read! This book had low angst, low drama, super cute animals, a nosey neighbour, amazing friends and family, great banter, undeniably chemistry and delicious spice. It was a nice palate cleanser from all the darker books I read.
Birdie has her hands full with taking care of all her rescue animals (some obtained illegally), working and helping to take care of her mom for the last 10 years, who has young-onset Parkinson’s disease (which no one knows about) and has never had the time to pursue a romantic relationship….so she always comes off as a bit too quirky and awkward to most. One drunken night she asks Walker if he will teach her how to flirt, help her be more confident talking to men and to, in her words, how to have s€x. Mostly because she trusts him and partly because of his reputation. He takes her up on her offer, while secretly hoping she’ll become his permanently. Because she doesn’t know the true depths of his feelings for her.
No cheating, no OWD, no third act breakup with a HEA
* Friends to Lovers / Best Friend’s Brother * Fake Dating * Quirky FMC * Virg!n FMC * Animal Rescurer Extraordinaire FMC * Reformed Playboy (6 yrs Celibate) * P/T Deputy MMC * Spicy Lessons * Opposites Attract * Ob$essed MMC * He Falls First * Small Town
“As much as I hate this fake bulls**t, I intend to treat it like an actual relationship. Do I have any clue what that looks like? Not even a little—but I’m committing to it regardless because Birdie is important to me.”
“I thought it would be easy for Walker and me to pretend we were dating while keeping things strictly physical, with no strings and no consequences. But the undeniable chemistry brewing between us isn’t following the rules, and it’s obvious things have shifted irreversibly. “
• ARC REVIEW • • LASSOED LOVE: BY ANN EINERSON • • WALKER & BIRDIE• •⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️•
First and foremost I would love to thank Ann and her team for this opportunity! This book was so good! And I was so lucky to be able to Beta and Arc read this book! Their relationship was so sweet, spicy and wholesome. I felt so much emotions reading this book and I was so obsessed!
- Friends to Lovers - Fake Dating - Found Family - Banter - Spicy Lessons - Illness Rep - Cowboy with a side of sheriff - Animal Rescue
Birdie is just perfection! She loves her animals, having her own little animal rescue and all!) and is a little quirky in a good way. She can be a bit shy, but that doesn't stop her sweet and caring nature towards everyone, only wanting the best for those around her. She has such a strong sense of love, not only loving those that mean the most but loving what she does.
Walker is a man on a mission going from town playboy to boy obsessed. He knows what he likes and that is Birdie. His personality is so strong, and he takes notice of all the little things and doing little gestures that make us all swoon. He is so comforting to those around him and isn't afraid to help when he can. He was the perfect teacher for Birdie heheh IYKYK and takes his job very seriously (other than when Birdie is involved IYKYK)
And obviously, you can't forget Nugget, my favourite part of the book! The sassy chicken was such a vibe!
Seeing the whole clan back in this book was so good too! I missed them, their friendships and seeing them all back was so exciting, as well as getting a sneaky suspicion into the next book of the series! The whole book was just full of communication and that is what I loved most!
If you're looking for a book with a great story line, emotions, banter, amazing characters and a couple with amazing chemistry, look no further!
Okay, I had high expectations for this one but I was not prepared to love it this much 🥹 Walker and Birdie completely stole my heart. I need them on my shelves ASAP !
Birdie is one of those characters you just instantly connect with. She’s soft, a little awkward, always putting others first whether it’s her family or all the animals she keeps rescuing (her house is pure chaos and I loved it 😭). But underneath that, she’s carrying so much, and you can really feel the weight of it throughout the story.
And then there’s Walker…I mean The man has been in love with her for YEARS and just quietly waited??? That kind of devotion will always get me. But what I loved the most is how he loves her. He’s patient, he pays attention, and he never once makes her feel like she has to be anything other than herself.
The whole “spicy lessons” and fake dating situation could have been just fun, but it actually felt really meaningful. He takes his time with her, builds her confidence, and shows her what she deserves instead of just telling her.
And the little things??? The way he shows up for her, supports her, takes care of her without making it a big thing… yeah, I melted🫠
Their relationship just felt safe in the best way. No unnecessary drama, no miscommunication that drags on but just two people slowly getting closer until it’s impossible to ignore.
I also loved how the story balances everything. You get the softness, the tension, the spice but also the heavier moments with Birdie’s family, which added so much depth without taking away from the romance.
In simple words ? Go grab it as soon as it’s live ! I really don't want to leave Bluebell but I am so exciting for the next book, Tethered Love 👀
Thank you so much to @authoranneinerson for having me on her team 🩷
The tropes just kept on giving with Birdie and Walker’s story ! Cowboy ? Check! Fake dating? Check! Friends to Lovers ? Check! Nicknames ? The cutest!!
This was such a cute and lighthearted story ! The friends to lovers was written so perfect it was hard not to ship them together . What started as fake and temporary soon became natural . Their feelings started to blur those lines and I was here for it .
Walker was the sweetest and the most patience man. Years of being in love with Bridie he was handed the perfect opportunity. His past was held against him , a constant reminder of the man he once was BUT it was that very past that brought them together . She was the opposite to him. He was calm , she was chaos . He stayed within the laws (he was the deputy sheriff) , she broke the laws! But behind all that were two people that loved hard and had their own secrets to deal with.
I wanted to hug Birdie. From the outside they knew her for her passion for animals and her illegal rescue operations but behind the sunshine and smiles was a young woman trying to hold everything together. She needed comfort and support and she would find that in the arms of Walker.
Ann Einerson? THANK YOU! I love communication! And these two were the perfect example! This is where Walker took control (I loved him for that!!) Feeling sad? Talk it out ! Feeling confused ? Talk it out ! Wanting more than temporary? Talk it out ! They were mature and even with the scary new feelings he made sure she felt safe talking the truth.
Overall, this was a really good read ! If he could give her the world I’m sure he’d make that happen! I am definitely looking forward to Charlie and Heath’s book! That definitely has tension written all over it !!
✨ Thank you Ann Einerson for this arc in return for an honest review ✨
ARC REVIEW- LASSOED LOVE Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Tropes: 🩵Cowboy Romance 🩵Friends to Lovers 🩵Spicy Lessons 🩵Best Friend's Brother 🩵Virgin FMC ________________________ Thanks to Ann Einerson for the ARC! I received an advance copy of the book as part of Ann's permanent ARC team and am leaving an honest review. All opinions are my own. ________________________ There's just something about a man in a cowboy hat and Wranglers that is obsessed with you that hits different. I was so pumped for book 2 in the series. These tropes are a thing of beauty. Friends to Lovers, Best Friend's Brother, Fake Dating and Spicy Lessons? SIGN ME UP.
Birdie is a ray of sunshine. She rescues animals, watches Gilmore Girls with her mom who's medical issues and she's lusting after her best friend's brother. She's also completely awkward and hopeless when it comes to flirting with the opposite sex. In comes Walker, her knight in shining armor who offers to teach her in all things spicy while also worshipping the ground she walks on.
This book was so fun to read. There was small town shenanigans, found family and heart galore. The spicy lessons were hot. And Walker Halsted is one swoony man.
I really enjoyed the plot line with Birdie's mom and dad and how family navigates one of their chronic illnesses as well as grief for what once was normal that will never be again. I loved reading about Birdie and her mom's connection and how hard its been to keep things to herself. Seeing her figure out how to lean on others and ask for help made for a well rounded book.
If you're in the mood for a low angst cowboy romance with swoony men and a fun girl gang, be sure to pick this one up. Ann Einerson always delivers.
I am actually feral over this book. Like… fully gone. 🤠💘
Lassoed Love by Ann Einerson had me kicking my feet, clutching my chest, and straight-up giggling like I was the one getting “spicy lessons” (respectfully… mostly 😌).
Walker??? WALKER. This reformed cowboy Casanova had NO business being this swoony while also low-key wrecking me emotionally. The man has been PINING for years and just quietly suffering in the friend zone while Birdie thinks he’s out here living his best playboy life??? Sir. The restraint. The yearning. The “I’ve only ever wanted you” energy?? I ate it up with a spoon.
And BIRDIE. My girl. She really said “one bad decision coming right up” and accidentally unlocked the most delicious tension ever created. The fake dating? Elite. The friends-to-lovers? Immaculate. The “lessons”? Let’s just say… I was blushing, grinning, and aggressively turning pages at the speed of light. It’s spicy but still wrapped in this soft, emotional, small-town glow that makes everything hit ten times harder.
But what really got me was how the lines blurred so perfectly. One minute it’s “this is just pretend,” and the next it’s stolen looks, loaded touches, and feelings sneaking in like they pay rent. I was screaming internally the entire time. JUST KISS HER PROPERLY WALKER. JUST ADMIT IT BIRDIE. I was unwell.
And can we talk about Nugget??? 🥹 Instant serotonin. I would protect Nugget with my life.
This book feels like a warm sunset over a dusty field with just enough heat simmering underneath to keep your heart racing. It’s messy, tender, flirty, and full of that “we were inevitable all along” magic that hits like a freight train.
Five stars, no notes, I’m emotionally attached to these characters now and I refuse to move on 🫶
This book was so cute and completely pulled me in from the start. Friends to lovers and fake dating in a small-town cowboy romance is already a winning combo for me, but this one just had that extra something that made it really hard to put down.
Walker is the ultimate reformed playboy who falls first and never looks back, and honestly the man was gone for Birdie from day one. The quiet pining, the patience, the way he kept showing up for her had me fully invested in his happiness the entire time. He is the kind of hero who makes you kick your feet a little while reading.
And when Birdie asks him to help her learn how to be in a relationship, including the spicy parts, he takes that responsibility very seriously. The tension and chemistry were so fun, and the spice definitely delivered. But what really made me love this story was how genuine their connection felt underneath it all.
There were also some really tender moments woven into the story, especially with Birdie’s mom and the time they spend together. Those scenes added a lot of heart and made the emotional moments land in a really meaningful way. It kept the story feeling warm and grounded while still being fun and swoony.
Also, can we talk about the fact that there is no third-act breakup? Just communication, growth, and two people choosing each other. That alone deserves five stars in my opinion.
Add in the small-town charm, the chaotic farm animals, and a hero who is completely devoted to the woman he loves, and this was such a satisfying read. I finished it with a big smile and immediately got excited for the next book in the series.
Thank you to The Smuthood and Author Ann Einerson for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
Oh. My. Godddd. I have never kicked my feet so dang much and swooned over a cowboy this harddd. Walker MF Halstead just jumped to the very top of my current book boyfriends! Walker and Birdie have my whole damn heart with this one! I laughed, I swooned and I melted into a whole puddle in the process! Love love love them! 🫶🏼
Walker Halstead. Talk about a man who is obsessed. This man has been pining for our girl for a hot minute and he did everything in his power to make sure she knew it wasn’t fake. I loved the inner monologue of Walker’s possessive side 🤭 that man claimed her has his the moment she walked into the sheriffs office. But when Birdie comes up with a plan he can’t help but say yes to the girl who takes up all his thoughts! 🤍
Birder Matterson. Our sweet sweet animal saving girl. Ugh I have loved Birdie from the first moment we met her in Wrangled Love. But watching her ask for spicy lessons from her best friend’s brother was the topping on the cake! I loved watching her become oh so confident and using her voice. And watching her fall for Walker was oh so precious, i mean that man is a walking green flag!
We all know Ann writes the best spice but hot damn. THIS ONE!? Rent free baby! I loved every single spicy lesson between these two! ❤️🔥 So fun and let’s just say i love me some rope play 🤭🤭
I absolutely cannot wait for Charlie and Heath! They are going to be oh so fun and spicy i can already tell!
♾️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️
💜 Cowboy Romance 🐥 Best Friend’s Brother 💜 Friends To Lovers 🐥 Fake Dating 💜 Virgin FMC 🐥 Spicy Lessons 💜 Small Town 🐥 It’s Always Been You 💜 Rope Play
Thank you Thank you to Ann for allowing me to be apart of her team! I cannot wait for what’s next! 🫶🏼
This book completely stole my heart, I didn’t just read it, I devoured it.
From the very first page, this book wraps you up in this warm, wholesome, small town hug filled with found family, chaotic animal energy (a chicken named Nugget?? say less), and a romance that just hits. Walker and Birdie have that slow burn, friends to lovers tension that feels effortless but loaded especially when you throw in spicy lessons that turn into something so much deeper, softer, and achingly real.
Walker is the definition of falls first and falls harder, and watching him quietly yearn while trying to prove he’s more than his past? Swoon. The way he shows up for Birdie over and over again without hesitation? I am unwell. And Birdie is strong, compassionate, a literal animal rescuer with the biggest heart. She literally balances him perfectly.
What really made this stand out though was the emotional depth. Beneath all the banter, chemistry, and cowboy charm, there’s this layer of vulnerability, family struggles, chronic illness rep, and those heavy, real life moments that make the love story feel even more meaningful. The relationship development feels natural, grounded, and refreshingly mature (no unnecessary drama, we LOVE to see it).
Also… bonus points for: • cowboy and sheriff energy (elite combo) • found family that feels like home • genuinely funny banter • top tier animal chaos • spice + consent done right
I finished this already desperate for the next book because those little crumbs?? I noticed EVERYTHING.
Honestly, this is one of those stories that makes you feel soft and a little bit wrecked in the best way and now I’m questioning all my other 5 star reads because this one just set the bar very high 🤠💛
Thank you for this ARC, Ann you never cease to amaze me.
We are back at the Silver Saddle Ranch, but this time it is Birdie's turn to find her happily ever after!!! However that doesn't mean that there are not any animal shenanigans!
-Small Town Romance -Best friends Sister -Animal Rescue -Fake Dating -Friends to lovers
You get to fall in love with Birdie in book one, but to see her get her happiness in book two was everything i could have hoped for! Birdie works for a local feed store in town when she is not rescuing animals in her spare time. Birdie is as awkward as they come. When it comes to talking to someone of the opposite sex, she tends to let things happen that wouldn't normally happen. One night she decides she is going to go out to the local bar in the hopes to bring someone home for some adult relief, but in comes Walker to the rescue. Walker is Briar's brother, who works the ranch with his family and volunteers at the local Sherriff's department. Walker wants nothing more than to be happy with Birdie, even though he has been stuck in the friend-zone for some time. He goes out of his way to see her smile and to know everything about her. While at the local bar, they decide to do a fake dating situation so that Birdie can build her confidence, but boy did both of them have that wrong.. these two were destined from the get go!
Buckle up for the laughs, the spicy lessons, and the love that these two share! Make sure that you are ready for more animal shenanigans, laughter from the group chats between Walker's family and Birdie's friend group and soo much more.
Thank you for the opprotunity to read this book!! I can't wait for Heath and Charlie's book coming this summer!
Ann Einerson I just wanna talk. Because how are you getting away with this?? It’s literally banger after banger, perfect man after perfect man and I’m tired.
I did not expect to love this as much as I did because friends-to-lovers isn’t usually my thing, but omg Walker and Birdie??? I’m obsessed. They were so soft and sweet. Like the way they just knew each other every tiny detail, how to show up for each other in ways no one else could it made me so giddy.
And WALKER??? I have so many of his lines highlighted it’s actually embarrassing. He’s perfect. And Birdie is just the sweetest, kindest person ever, like you can’t not love her.
they are actually soulmates. I don’t care. The way they understood each other so effortlessly?? I was literally sitting there like “JUST CONFESS ALREADY” the whole time.
And yes, there is spice once they finally get it together 👀 but I liked that it didn’t just end there. They still had to figure out what they wanted from life and what they were willing to risk for each other, which made it feel more real.
Anyway if you’re in the mood for a small-town romance, just read this. I’m not even asking. Just do it.
A huge thanks to Luna Literacy and Ann Einerson for the advanced reader copy of Lassoed Love.
What to Expect 🩵 Small Town 🩵 Fake Dating 🩵 Friends to Lovers 🩵 Man Obssessed 🩵 Cowboy Romance 🩵 Spicy Lessons 🩵 Rope Play 🩵 Interconnected Stand Alone (Silver Saddle Ranch)
When a notorious former playboy, Walker, steps up to bail out his sister’s best friend, Birdie, he finally gets the chance to bridge the gap between long-term pining and the friend zone. Despite her skepticism regarding his reputation, Birdie finds herself turning to him with an unexpected proposition after one too many drinks. What begins as a "fake girlfriend" arrangement quickly escalates into a series of spicy lessons and a complicated "benefits" pact that blurs every platonic boundary they’ve ever set. Determined to prove he is more than his past, Walker navigates their physical chemistry in a calculated attempt to turn their temporary arrangement permanent.
I have read every book Ann has published. I love her books because they’re fast-paced and the characters are likeable. This book however, fell flat. It felt rushed and the ideas and topics didn’t fully develop. Also the sole conflict in the story didn’t feel like a conflict at all?
Nonetheless, I loved Birdie’s heart and dedication to her friends (both human and animal) in the first book of the series, Wrangled Love. However, I enjoyed her more as a side character than a main character. She lacked depth in this story, and it was hard to follow along with her in the story line.
Walker felt like many other MMC’s that I read. He wasn’t incredibly original, but I enjoyed his care and acts of service. He again, was a better side character than main character.
Although the book fell short for me, I can’t wait to read the next in the series. Heath and Charlie are going to hit some of my favorite tropes.
I already knew I was going to be obsessed with Birdie the second she popped up in Wrangled Love. She is pure chaos in the best way, and I laughed so hard in parts I probably scared my neighbors. And don’t even get me started on the animals, the name of her chicken alone had me fighting for my life.
But somehow, underneath all that madness? Birdie is so ridiculously, painfully sweet and innocent it made my heart do backflips. Like… who gave her permission to be that adorable??
And then there’s Walker… this man… 🥹 excuse me while I lose my mind. Sir is not just down bad for Birdie, he’s buried six feet under. When Birdie hits him with the “you can teach me… everything” proposal, I was like YES!!!! Spicy time… and it was… SPICY🥵 but also every single page is basically Walker screaming “I love this woman” without even needing to say it. I just sat there MELTING. And every time he said “Birdie, baby”? I was DONE. Deceased. A puddle. Evaporated.
But then, because apparently I’m not allowed peace…those moments with her mom?? I was full on ugly crying. The kind where you have to pause and stare at the wall for a second. There is nothing like a mother’s love, and it hit way too deep. It had me wishing for just one more day with mine. To curl up, hold her hand and squeeze and say I love you most. Their bond was so beautiful it physically hurt.
And as if that wasn’t enough emotional whiplash, the group chats and friendships swoop in to save you with pure comedic gold. The banter? Elite.
Gahhh…. I love this series!!! I am counting down the days for the next one.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you Smuthood and Ann for the advanced copy to read 🫶
Friends to lovers is one of the most tender tropes, and Walker and Birdie are proof of why it works so well. From the start, it’s clear they were always meant to be.
Walker is completely gone for Birdie in the best way. He has carried feelings for her for years, showing up for her in ways she didn’t even realize she needed. He pays attention to the little things, supports her without hesitation, and proves over and over that she’s his person.
Birdie is impossible not to love. She’s an animal lover, a little clumsy, and has the biggest heart. She’s also dealing with a lot, especially with her mom’s illness, which forces her to take on more responsibility than she should. On top of that, she feels inexperienced when it comes to dating and is ready to change that. So, she turns to Walker for lessons in flirting and confidence… and let’s just say those lessons quickly turn into something much more intense. The chemistry between them is undeniable, and they definitely make the most of it. There was rope involved, so yeah, the spicy lessons did spice.
The friend group is fantastic and adds so much fun to the story, and Walker’s family had me laughing more than once. Their dynamic, especially when it comes to helping Birdie with protecting her animals, made me love them even more.
I had such a great time reading this. If you’re looking for a heartfelt romance with strong friendships, lovable characters, a total green-flag MMC, and plenty of spice, Lassoed Love should absolutely be on your list!
Thank you so much to Ann and The Smuthood for this beautiful ARC!