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Ride or Die
A spicy, small town cowboy romance for fans of Yellowstone and Sons of Anarchy.
I never wanted to be a ranch hand. It wasn’t my goal in life, just something I fell into when I had nothing else. My dream is and always has been bull riding; it’s what I’ve worked for ever since I was a kid. But after a few too many falls, the doctor tells me I need to give it up or risk permanent injury…or worse. But screw it. Ride or die. I ain’t got much else to live for, and I’ve never stopped to worry too much about consequences.
When a pretty blonde with pretty eyes and bruises she’s trying to hide on her pretty skin coasts into town on nothing but fumes, my whole world and everything I thought I knew is flipped upside down.
Clara Turner is on the run. With two small kids, bad luck brings her as far as Summer, Texas before she has to stop to make some more money so she can keep on running. But when her bad luck continues, somehow I’m the one who always seems to be there to make things right.
As Clara and I grow closer, I come to realize that maybe there is something in my life worth living for. And when Clara lets her guard slip, she starts to believe me when I tell her not all men are monsters. But when the secrets we’re running from catch up to us, ain’t nobody safe.
Clara’s running from her past. I’m hiding from my future. But no matter how much you try to avoid the truth, sometimes there’s no escaping fate.
I never wanted to be a ranch hand. It wasn’t my goal in life, just something I fell into when I had nothing else. My dream is and always has been bull riding; it’s what I’ve worked for ever since I was a kid. But after a few too many falls, the doctor tells me I need to give it up or risk permanent injury…or worse. But screw it. Ride or die. I ain’t got much else to live for, and I’ve never stopped to worry too much about consequences.
When a pretty blonde with pretty eyes and bruises she’s trying to hide on her pretty skin coasts into town on nothing but fumes, my whole world and everything I thought I knew is flipped upside down.
Clara Turner is on the run. With two small kids, bad luck brings her as far as Summer, Texas before she has to stop to make some more money so she can keep on running. But when her bad luck continues, somehow I’m the one who always seems to be there to make things right.
As Clara and I grow closer, I come to realize that maybe there is something in my life worth living for. And when Clara lets her guard slip, she starts to believe me when I tell her not all men are monsters. But when the secrets we’re running from catch up to us, ain’t nobody safe.
Clara’s running from her past. I’m hiding from my future. But no matter how much you try to avoid the truth, sometimes there’s no escaping fate.
419 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 6, 2026
About the author
Shann McPherson
13 books279 followersShann McPherson has been writing contemporary romance fiction for as long as she can remember, and she has no plans on stopping any time soon.
Living in sunny Queensland, Australia, when she isn't dreaming up your next book boyfriend, Shann enjoys making memories with her husband and boisterous son, drinking wine and the occasional beer, and singing completely off-key to Taylor Swift.
Living in sunny Queensland, Australia, when she isn't dreaming up your next book boyfriend, Shann enjoys making memories with her husband and boisterous son, drinking wine and the occasional beer, and singing completely off-key to Taylor Swift.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 240 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 stars.
"Ride or Die" by Shann McPherson is such a wonderful book. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this and could not put it down once I got started reading it! It's got a little bit of everything: romance, drama, intrigue, sadness, hope, reinvention, new beginnings, old hurts. I loved Clara (FMC). She was such an interesting FMC, a mother who gives her kids everything even when it means she goes without. Her kids, Tommy and Billie, were so freaking adorable and deserved the world. They have all been through a horrific thing as a family, but her strength takes them away from the bad situation to Summer, Texas, where she meets Cole (MMC). Cole sees her giving back a bunch of groceries she can't afford at the market and decides to buy them for her. Skeptical of men in general and Cole's intentions, she never intended that he would become such a central figure in her new life while she attempts to rebuild their fragile existence. I really, really liked this book. It's a little dark and dangerous, as there is always the looming threat of Clara's ex finding her and her kids. Cole's broody nature softens around Clara and the kids, and they've got him thinking he could have something he never dreamed of wanting. I loved their chemistry with one another. I love how patient Cole was with Clara, Tommy, and Billie, how fiercely he was connected to them, how he wanted to protect them, and how he loved them from the start. I adored Clara getting another chance at happiness. I loved her motherly instincts to protect and do right by her kids. The spicy elements are SO good. I was drawn into this book from the very beginning, and I cannot wait to read more novels from Shann McPherson! Also: bedazzled. That's it.
Thank you to Shann McPherson and Luna Literary for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
"Ride or Die" by Shann McPherson is such a wonderful book. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this and could not put it down once I got started reading it! It's got a little bit of everything: romance, drama, intrigue, sadness, hope, reinvention, new beginnings, old hurts. I loved Clara (FMC). She was such an interesting FMC, a mother who gives her kids everything even when it means she goes without. Her kids, Tommy and Billie, were so freaking adorable and deserved the world. They have all been through a horrific thing as a family, but her strength takes them away from the bad situation to Summer, Texas, where she meets Cole (MMC). Cole sees her giving back a bunch of groceries she can't afford at the market and decides to buy them for her. Skeptical of men in general and Cole's intentions, she never intended that he would become such a central figure in her new life while she attempts to rebuild their fragile existence. I really, really liked this book. It's a little dark and dangerous, as there is always the looming threat of Clara's ex finding her and her kids. Cole's broody nature softens around Clara and the kids, and they've got him thinking he could have something he never dreamed of wanting. I loved their chemistry with one another. I love how patient Cole was with Clara, Tommy, and Billie, how fiercely he was connected to them, how he wanted to protect them, and how he loved them from the start. I adored Clara getting another chance at happiness. I loved her motherly instincts to protect and do right by her kids. The spicy elements are SO good. I was drawn into this book from the very beginning, and I cannot wait to read more novels from Shann McPherson! Also: bedazzled. That's it.
Thank you to Shann McPherson and Luna Literary for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
July 24, 2026
Ok I read this in 2 sittings in 24hours because I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN! I was so hooked from the prologue and that didn’t stop for the whole book.
The perfect small town country texas cowboy romance honestly I read the whole thing in Cole’s cowboy Texas accent because it was just that real DARLIN’
Omg stop this man made me weak in the knees
“I’ll kneel, crawl, bark like a fuckin’ dog if she asks me to” WHAT 🥵🥵🔥🔥
Clara, Billie and Tommy are the most gorgeous little family, those kids deserve the world! The love she has for them shines through the pages.
There are some heavy topics in here so check your trigger warnings but wow it was done so well!
Thank you Shann for letting me Arc read this amazing book I am OBSESSED and can’t wait for more!
The perfect small town country texas cowboy romance honestly I read the whole thing in Cole’s cowboy Texas accent because it was just that real DARLIN’
Omg stop this man made me weak in the knees
“I’ll kneel, crawl, bark like a fuckin’ dog if she asks me to” WHAT 🥵🥵🔥🔥
Clara, Billie and Tommy are the most gorgeous little family, those kids deserve the world! The love she has for them shines through the pages.
There are some heavy topics in here so check your trigger warnings but wow it was done so well!
Thank you Shann for letting me Arc read this amazing book I am OBSESSED and can’t wait for more!
August 6, 2026
✨ARC review✨
this was my first book by Shann and my lord, who doesn’t love a dirty talking, morally gray, tattooed cowboy who will literally do anything for the new single mom in town running from an abusive relationship with 2 of the sweetest, purest kids you ever met. cause i sure do 🥹
the strength that Clara showed throughout this story was so beautiful especially after everything she’s been through. trying to get her babies out of a harmful environment to ensure they will have the best life, but also dealing with them growing up too fast due to their circumstances 😭 but Cole said, i got you and once he did, he tried to never let them down
he had to work through a life decision and determine which direction his life was going to head but always digging his heels in and hanging on to the one thing he ever wanted. but Clara, Tommy and Billie showed up and turn his world upside down and gave them everything they ever wanted, love and safety 🥹🫶🏼
our cowboy is very much touch her and die and with the hottest mouth this side of the mississippi 🙂↔️
this was my first book by Shann and my lord, who doesn’t love a dirty talking, morally gray, tattooed cowboy who will literally do anything for the new single mom in town running from an abusive relationship with 2 of the sweetest, purest kids you ever met. cause i sure do 🥹
the strength that Clara showed throughout this story was so beautiful especially after everything she’s been through. trying to get her babies out of a harmful environment to ensure they will have the best life, but also dealing with them growing up too fast due to their circumstances 😭 but Cole said, i got you and once he did, he tried to never let them down
he had to work through a life decision and determine which direction his life was going to head but always digging his heels in and hanging on to the one thing he ever wanted. but Clara, Tommy and Billie showed up and turn his world upside down and gave them everything they ever wanted, love and safety 🥹🫶🏼
our cowboy is very much touch her and die and with the hottest mouth this side of the mississippi 🙂↔️
August 7, 2026
Let me tell you…I was hooked from the very beginning! I loved this book so much and I could not put it down. Besties, if you love a reverse age gap, single mom, semi-pro bull rider mmc, morally gray cowboys, hurt/comfort, suspenseful romance, then you need to read this!
Clara’s story broke my heart. Not only for her, but her kids as well. I had tears in my eyes when it came to them for a lot of the first half of the book. They had all been through so much. Clara was so strong and brave. She did what she had to do for her kids to keep them safe.
I loved Cole just as much as I loved Clara. He was so sweet to her and her kids. He understood her past and just wanted the best for them. I love how he straight up told her how he felt and took things slowly with her. I feel like he had so much growth from beginning to end, especially when it came to his life and being a bull rider.
These two had so much chemistry and I loved them together. They supported each other through everything. The way Cole loved Tommy and Billie, Clara’s kids, was just so sweet. They also loved Cole just as much. Speaking of the kids, I loved them so much. They were so sweet and I just hated what they had gone through.
I just loved this book so much. It had everything I love in a book. The pacing was great and I loved how we got little bits of suspense throughout. I also loved all but one side characters (iykyk). I cannot wait to read book two. I would 100% recommend this, it was an easy five star read!
Thank you Shann McPherson and Luna Literary Management for the ARC for an honest review!
Clara’s story broke my heart. Not only for her, but her kids as well. I had tears in my eyes when it came to them for a lot of the first half of the book. They had all been through so much. Clara was so strong and brave. She did what she had to do for her kids to keep them safe.
I loved Cole just as much as I loved Clara. He was so sweet to her and her kids. He understood her past and just wanted the best for them. I love how he straight up told her how he felt and took things slowly with her. I feel like he had so much growth from beginning to end, especially when it came to his life and being a bull rider.
These two had so much chemistry and I loved them together. They supported each other through everything. The way Cole loved Tommy and Billie, Clara’s kids, was just so sweet. They also loved Cole just as much. Speaking of the kids, I loved them so much. They were so sweet and I just hated what they had gone through.
I just loved this book so much. It had everything I love in a book. The pacing was great and I loved how we got little bits of suspense throughout. I also loved all but one side characters (iykyk). I cannot wait to read book two. I would 100% recommend this, it was an easy five star read!
Thank you Shann McPherson and Luna Literary Management for the ARC for an honest review!
August 10, 2026
Bull rider x single mom ✔️ morally grey cowboys ✔️ he calls her Darlin’ ✔️ she’s on the run ✔️ he falls in love with her kids too ✔️ he falls first ✔️ hurt x comfort ✔️ she’s scared to love again ✔️ suspense ✔️
HOLY WOW WHERE DO I START? This was my first read of a Shann book, and it won’t be my last. I’ve had a few people in my DMs absolutely gushing about her writing since posting about reading this, and honestly it just makes me so much more excited to read her backlist.
This story though? Cole and Clara? Absolute perfection! Zero notes, all the stars. The prologue was enough to have me on the edge of my seat, rooting for Clara and her kiddos, and I literally couldn’t put it down after that.
Cole is our cowboy, our playboy who has only ever wanted to ride bulls and live life on the edge, 8 seconds at a time. Until a chance encounter with Clara that leaves him wanting to know more about her. This man… was THE biggest green flag walking this earth, if you’ve read it you’ll understand why, bur the way he showed up rime and time again for her and her kiddos.
And Clara, her story had me crying for her, rooting for her and loving her. She was so strong, so fierce and i loved her so much. Seeing her slowly open up to Cole was everything, she came out of her shell and slowly learned she was worthy of love and respect.
Her kiddos, Tommy and Billie, were so cute too, watching their relationship with Cole develop and soar was some of my favorite moments, along with seeing Clara develop her girl gang and also Mama Joy being the mother figure to everyone.
I must take a second to talk about the spice too, the way this man worshipped her, gave her the control he knew she needed whilst also helping her let go and be free. The way he knew what to say to her, how robotic her and when to let her take the lead… the scene in his truck will live in my head rent free.
These characters, this town and this insanely gorgeous group of morally grey cowboys have me hook, line and sinker. I can’t wait to see what Shann has coming next for us. You have a reader for life 🫶
HOLY WOW WHERE DO I START? This was my first read of a Shann book, and it won’t be my last. I’ve had a few people in my DMs absolutely gushing about her writing since posting about reading this, and honestly it just makes me so much more excited to read her backlist.
This story though? Cole and Clara? Absolute perfection! Zero notes, all the stars. The prologue was enough to have me on the edge of my seat, rooting for Clara and her kiddos, and I literally couldn’t put it down after that.
Cole is our cowboy, our playboy who has only ever wanted to ride bulls and live life on the edge, 8 seconds at a time. Until a chance encounter with Clara that leaves him wanting to know more about her. This man… was THE biggest green flag walking this earth, if you’ve read it you’ll understand why, bur the way he showed up rime and time again for her and her kiddos.
And Clara, her story had me crying for her, rooting for her and loving her. She was so strong, so fierce and i loved her so much. Seeing her slowly open up to Cole was everything, she came out of her shell and slowly learned she was worthy of love and respect.
Her kiddos, Tommy and Billie, were so cute too, watching their relationship with Cole develop and soar was some of my favorite moments, along with seeing Clara develop her girl gang and also Mama Joy being the mother figure to everyone.
I must take a second to talk about the spice too, the way this man worshipped her, gave her the control he knew she needed whilst also helping her let go and be free. The way he knew what to say to her, how robotic her and when to let her take the lead… the scene in his truck will live in my head rent free.
These characters, this town and this insanely gorgeous group of morally grey cowboys have me hook, line and sinker. I can’t wait to see what Shann has coming next for us. You have a reader for life 🫶
August 10, 2026
arc review | 4.5 ⭐️
"Ride or die. Fuck it. Ain't got nothin' else to live for."
Mamma miaaaa 🥵 Talk about a ride this was!
Honestly I had my heart in my throat from the get-go, the suspense was insane.
Clara & Cole literally are so good together, especially with how Cole helps Clara deal with her trauma and fears. He loves her the way she deserves and treats her babies like they're his own.
The storytelling in this was topnotch. It was the perfect balance of spice, romance & suspense wrapped up with a little bow. And hello, morally grey, bull-riding, mustache having, Texas cowboy? Sign me tf up!
Save a horse, ride a cowboy and all that. Yeehaw! 🤠
The ending was a nice little cliffhanger which has me very excited for book 2 🙇🏼♀️👀 I'll just wait here patiently.
"Ride or die. Fuck it. Ain't got nothin' else to live for."
Mamma miaaaa 🥵 Talk about a ride this was!
Honestly I had my heart in my throat from the get-go, the suspense was insane.
Clara & Cole literally are so good together, especially with how Cole helps Clara deal with her trauma and fears. He loves her the way she deserves and treats her babies like they're his own.
The storytelling in this was topnotch. It was the perfect balance of spice, romance & suspense wrapped up with a little bow. And hello, morally grey, bull-riding, mustache having, Texas cowboy? Sign me tf up!
Save a horse, ride a cowboy and all that. Yeehaw! 🤠
The ending was a nice little cliffhanger which has me very excited for book 2 🙇🏼♀️👀 I'll just wait here patiently.
August 6, 2026
4.75 ⭐️
2.5 🌶️
This book just reiterates my love for everything Shann writes! I absolutely adore Clara and Cole and could not put this book down. The character development, the relationships, the suspense, the spice...it was all perfection!
Clara is on the run from her abusive ex, but when she runs out of money, she decides to stay for awhile in Summer, TX where she meets bull-rider/ranch hand Cole. Cole is working to become a professional bull rider, but a number of injuries are close to derailing his dream. Neither are looking for a relationship, especially Clara who also has two children and is struggling to build a new life for the three of them. But Cole can see that Clara could use some help, and cannot stay away from her.
I loved the evolution of Clara and Cole's relationship...from Clara's resistance and hesitance, to friends, to lovers, to partners. Cole is so patient with Clara, never pushing her for more than she is ready to give. He is ready and willing to burn the world down for her and her kids. But this man is also FILTHY. And the combination is everything I want in a obsessed, somewhat morally grey book boyfriend.
I also love the relationships Cole forms with Tommy, Clara's ten-year-old son and Billie, her five-year-old daughter. It's both beautiful and realistic. The found family also already has me completely hooked and intrigued. I'm so excited and ready for more books in the Rattlesnake Ranch series!
What to expect:
Reverse Age Gap
Single Mom
Semi Pro Bull Rider
Suspense
Morally Grey Cowboys
Hurt/Comfort
*Thank you to Shann and Luna Literary Management for the opportunity to read an arc of this book.
2.5 🌶️
This book just reiterates my love for everything Shann writes! I absolutely adore Clara and Cole and could not put this book down. The character development, the relationships, the suspense, the spice...it was all perfection!
Clara is on the run from her abusive ex, but when she runs out of money, she decides to stay for awhile in Summer, TX where she meets bull-rider/ranch hand Cole. Cole is working to become a professional bull rider, but a number of injuries are close to derailing his dream. Neither are looking for a relationship, especially Clara who also has two children and is struggling to build a new life for the three of them. But Cole can see that Clara could use some help, and cannot stay away from her.
I loved the evolution of Clara and Cole's relationship...from Clara's resistance and hesitance, to friends, to lovers, to partners. Cole is so patient with Clara, never pushing her for more than she is ready to give. He is ready and willing to burn the world down for her and her kids. But this man is also FILTHY. And the combination is everything I want in a obsessed, somewhat morally grey book boyfriend.
I also love the relationships Cole forms with Tommy, Clara's ten-year-old son and Billie, her five-year-old daughter. It's both beautiful and realistic. The found family also already has me completely hooked and intrigued. I'm so excited and ready for more books in the Rattlesnake Ranch series!
What to expect:
Reverse Age Gap
Single Mom
Semi Pro Bull Rider
Suspense
Morally Grey Cowboys
Hurt/Comfort
*Thank you to Shann and Luna Literary Management for the opportunity to read an arc of this book.
August 6, 2026
This was a cute one.
These two were so cute. They had some baggage to overcome but always lead from a place of goodness.
She was on the run. Running and hiding and trying desperately to keep it all together. Trying to keep her kids spirits up, keep them safe, and still make ends meet.
He’s facing a world where things are rapidly changing. Trying to keep it all together and still find joy on the ranch.
When she comes rolling into town and is clearly trying to hide and keep it together he steps in to help. To help in anyway he can. Something’s draws these two together. It’s that full understanding. The desire to be the one who helps and who makes things better.
These two fall hard and fast while still trying to fight it. They also try to take things slow. I loved that while this boom discussed hard and darker topics it did so with a light at the end of the tunnel. While things are hard accepting help doesn’t make you weak, and getting things done even when hard just leads to better days in the end.
I also loved that there was no third act break up. Where there things took through and fights to overcome. Absolutely but it wasn’t something that either of them were willing to walk away from. So they fought hard for each other and figured out what they needed to in order to stay together. She had a moment where things got hard and she was terrified and thought about running but he saves her in the end.
I really enjoyed this one. Interested to see where the next one goes and how many there will be.
These two were so cute. They had some baggage to overcome but always lead from a place of goodness.
She was on the run. Running and hiding and trying desperately to keep it all together. Trying to keep her kids spirits up, keep them safe, and still make ends meet.
He’s facing a world where things are rapidly changing. Trying to keep it all together and still find joy on the ranch.
When she comes rolling into town and is clearly trying to hide and keep it together he steps in to help. To help in anyway he can. Something’s draws these two together. It’s that full understanding. The desire to be the one who helps and who makes things better.
These two fall hard and fast while still trying to fight it. They also try to take things slow. I loved that while this boom discussed hard and darker topics it did so with a light at the end of the tunnel. While things are hard accepting help doesn’t make you weak, and getting things done even when hard just leads to better days in the end.
I also loved that there was no third act break up. Where there things took through and fights to overcome. Absolutely but it wasn’t something that either of them were willing to walk away from. So they fought hard for each other and figured out what they needed to in order to stay together. She had a moment where things got hard and she was terrified and thought about running but he saves her in the end.
I really enjoyed this one. Interested to see where the next one goes and how many there will be.
July 24, 2026
Brb crying the whole book but in a good way
July 28, 2026
What do I say? We love a men with some facial hair and a bedazzled c*** 🥵 Colt was the perfect MMC for our MFC Clara, so patience and letting her take control. Loved little miss Billie and her fierce protector Tommy. Can’t wait for Bailey’s story and to find out who the hell is pregnant?!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2026
Obsessed
I admit I signed up for this ARC 100% for the cover and didn't look at anything else. Call me Jon Snow 'cause I knew nothing. I always go in blind, but I at least normally peek at the tropes I'm getting myself into. So imagine my delight as I slowly discovered I was dealing with:
🤠 Semi-Pro Bull Rider with possible CTE and concussions
🌸 Single Mom on the run from an abusive husband
🤠 Reverse Age Gap
🌸 Morally Gray Cowboys
🤠 Hurt/Comfort
🌸 He Comes in His Pants
🤠 Found Family
🌸 He Falls First and Harder
🤠 Tattooed and Pierced MMC
🌸 Dirty-Talking MMC
🤠 Suspense
🌸 On-Page DA (not by MMC)
The squeal I squealt at every new discovery because let me tell you...Cole and Clara do not freaking disappoint!
Clara is doing the best she can to give those two sweet baby angels, Billie and Tommy, the best lives she can because they deserve the world. Cole is reaching for everything he thinks he's ever wanted. When their worlds collide, Cole recognizes the life he thought he escaped and steps in to give Clara and those kids what was once given to him, and then some.
Let's talk a little bit about those sweet angels, because I genuinely think Cole fell in love with Billie and Tommy first. 🥹
The way Cole was too scared to move out of Billie's bed after she fell asleep following their bedtime story? Oh, be still my ovaries! 😭 The man was DONE. And then asking Tommy's permission to take Clara on a date?! SWOON.
I would defend those children with my life and THEY AREN'T EVEN REAL. 😂
Billie and Tommy completely stole my heart, and watching Cole fall for them just made me fall even harder for him. The way he stepped into their lives so naturally and cared about them as people rather than just extensions of Clara was everything. Those babies deserved someone like Cole, and Cole deserved them right back. 🥹
I could not put this book down. It says it took me two days to read, but what it doesn't tell you is that I started just before midnight and finished just after midnight, so technically, yes, two days...but it was literally just over 24 hours. 😂
I was reading on my way to work, at work, on my way home, once I got home. If I could be reading, I was reading.
These two had me so completely captivated I was basically unable to move, as if Cole himself had me pinned beneath him with one hand fisted in my hair and the other around my throat. 😏 I was not complaining.
The ex suspense subplot and the whole concussion storyline added another layer to Cole and Clara that really helped round them out. It gave me a deeper understanding of the "why" behind so many of their choices. The unspoken motivations driving their decisions and actions that might otherwise have been harder to understand.
Gosh, I honestly don't know if anyone is going to be able to dethrone these two as my favorite couple on the ranch.
But if anyone can do it, Jagger and/or Austin could do it.
So now I'm freaking excited for books 2 and 3. 😂 Bring. Them. On.
Let's see what you got, Shann!
Thank you, Shann and Luna for the ARC!
I admit I signed up for this ARC 100% for the cover and didn't look at anything else. Call me Jon Snow 'cause I knew nothing. I always go in blind, but I at least normally peek at the tropes I'm getting myself into. So imagine my delight as I slowly discovered I was dealing with:
🤠 Semi-Pro Bull Rider with possible CTE and concussions
🌸 Single Mom on the run from an abusive husband
🤠 Reverse Age Gap
🌸 Morally Gray Cowboys
🤠 Hurt/Comfort
🌸 He Comes in His Pants
🤠 Found Family
🌸 He Falls First and Harder
🤠 Tattooed and Pierced MMC
🌸 Dirty-Talking MMC
🤠 Suspense
🌸 On-Page DA (not by MMC)
The squeal I squealt at every new discovery because let me tell you...Cole and Clara do not freaking disappoint!
Clara is doing the best she can to give those two sweet baby angels, Billie and Tommy, the best lives she can because they deserve the world. Cole is reaching for everything he thinks he's ever wanted. When their worlds collide, Cole recognizes the life he thought he escaped and steps in to give Clara and those kids what was once given to him, and then some.
Let's talk a little bit about those sweet angels, because I genuinely think Cole fell in love with Billie and Tommy first. 🥹
The way Cole was too scared to move out of Billie's bed after she fell asleep following their bedtime story? Oh, be still my ovaries! 😭 The man was DONE. And then asking Tommy's permission to take Clara on a date?! SWOON.
I would defend those children with my life and THEY AREN'T EVEN REAL. 😂
Billie and Tommy completely stole my heart, and watching Cole fall for them just made me fall even harder for him. The way he stepped into their lives so naturally and cared about them as people rather than just extensions of Clara was everything. Those babies deserved someone like Cole, and Cole deserved them right back. 🥹
I could not put this book down. It says it took me two days to read, but what it doesn't tell you is that I started just before midnight and finished just after midnight, so technically, yes, two days...but it was literally just over 24 hours. 😂
I was reading on my way to work, at work, on my way home, once I got home. If I could be reading, I was reading.
These two had me so completely captivated I was basically unable to move, as if Cole himself had me pinned beneath him with one hand fisted in my hair and the other around my throat. 😏 I was not complaining.
The ex suspense subplot and the whole concussion storyline added another layer to Cole and Clara that really helped round them out. It gave me a deeper understanding of the "why" behind so many of their choices. The unspoken motivations driving their decisions and actions that might otherwise have been harder to understand.
Gosh, I honestly don't know if anyone is going to be able to dethrone these two as my favorite couple on the ranch.
But if anyone can do it, Jagger and/or Austin could do it.
So now I'm freaking excited for books 2 and 3. 😂 Bring. Them. On.
Let's see what you got, Shann!
Thank you, Shann and Luna for the ARC!
August 3, 2026
Another 5 star banger from Miss Shann!
Cole Dawson, ladies & gentlemen. One of the greenest flags there ever was. (Also, he may have a ‘bedazzled’ peen.) The way this man was head over heels for Clara the moment he saw her at the Stop & Shop. He was stopping at nothing to make sure her and those two kids were safe & felt safe. His bond he formed with Tommy had my heart so happy that Tommy finally had such a great male figure in his life. & little miss Billie had Cole wrapped around her finger so quick! Growing up in a such a similar way, Cole was doing anything to make sure Clara and those kids didn’t end up the same way. Clara had this big 6 foot bull ridin’ cowboy a giant flustered mess and I loved every second of it.
The prologue man, that will hook you. The way it just draws you in and sets the story up for you. My mama heart broke for Clara and her sweet babies. Clara is brave as hell and a badass woman. Determined to make a better life for her kids. In comes Cole when she least expected it. I loved seeing Clara’s confidence grow throughout the book and finally take her control back. & for Tommy able to trust a man. When he told his mom he liked Cole made her happy? In a puddle . Those sweet baby angels.
I loved the little bit of suspense in this one. I also loved the ranch cowboys, Bailey and especially Mama Joy. I can’t wait to see what else comes to this series. Especially after that epilogue!
•please check your triggers on this one! •
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩:
• single mom
• semi-pro bull rider
• reverse age gap
• suspense
• morally grey cowboys
• hurt/comfort
• badass women
• found family
• touch her and literally d!e
Cole Dawson, ladies & gentlemen. One of the greenest flags there ever was. (Also, he may have a ‘bedazzled’ peen.) The way this man was head over heels for Clara the moment he saw her at the Stop & Shop. He was stopping at nothing to make sure her and those two kids were safe & felt safe. His bond he formed with Tommy had my heart so happy that Tommy finally had such a great male figure in his life. & little miss Billie had Cole wrapped around her finger so quick! Growing up in a such a similar way, Cole was doing anything to make sure Clara and those kids didn’t end up the same way. Clara had this big 6 foot bull ridin’ cowboy a giant flustered mess and I loved every second of it.
The prologue man, that will hook you. The way it just draws you in and sets the story up for you. My mama heart broke for Clara and her sweet babies. Clara is brave as hell and a badass woman. Determined to make a better life for her kids. In comes Cole when she least expected it. I loved seeing Clara’s confidence grow throughout the book and finally take her control back. & for Tommy able to trust a man. When he told his mom he liked Cole made her happy? In a puddle . Those sweet baby angels.
I loved the little bit of suspense in this one. I also loved the ranch cowboys, Bailey and especially Mama Joy. I can’t wait to see what else comes to this series. Especially after that epilogue!
•please check your triggers on this one! •
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩:
• single mom
• semi-pro bull rider
• reverse age gap
• suspense
• morally grey cowboys
• hurt/comfort
• badass women
• found family
• touch her and literally d!e
August 10, 2026
Spice: 3
Tropes:
reverse age gap
single mom
morally grey mmc
bull rider mmc
dark country romance
Dual POV
Trigger Warnings:
domestic abuse
attempted r@pe
unaliving
stalker
child abuse
Wooooo Ride or Die was definitely a ride! I have to admit, the cover on this one is what drew me in, and I figured it was a cowboy romance. I love cowboys. And yes, it was... but while it did have those sweet moments, it also had a darker part to it that I did not guess from the cover! I was surprised and I'm not mad about it hahaha.
Clara is a single mom and she's fled an abusive relationship. She's on the run and ends up in Texas where she meets cowboy Cole. You already know what happens next and where it goes, but I really enjoyed this story. I like how sweet, patient, and understanding Cole was with not only Clara but her two kids too. Then we see this morally grey side of Cole and I won't lie... I'm going to need an Austin book now to go deeper into that rabbit hole lol.
Anyways, I liked the amount of spice there was to this story and I while I could have used more of a slow burn, I think Cole and Clara's instant attraction also worked in this one. I loved all the side characters. There's one in particular (I won't name for spoilers) that I had suspicions about and turns out I was wrong. MAN I love when that happens- and I kinda think I'm going to love this character as the series continues! I'm excited to see where this series goes... Especially after that Epilogue. I have my guesses and I hope I'm right!
*Take Triggers to heart
Tropes:
reverse age gap
single mom
morally grey mmc
bull rider mmc
dark country romance
Dual POV
Trigger Warnings:
domestic abuse
attempted r@pe
unaliving
stalker
child abuse
Wooooo Ride or Die was definitely a ride! I have to admit, the cover on this one is what drew me in, and I figured it was a cowboy romance. I love cowboys. And yes, it was... but while it did have those sweet moments, it also had a darker part to it that I did not guess from the cover! I was surprised and I'm not mad about it hahaha.
Clara is a single mom and she's fled an abusive relationship. She's on the run and ends up in Texas where she meets cowboy Cole. You already know what happens next and where it goes, but I really enjoyed this story. I like how sweet, patient, and understanding Cole was with not only Clara but her two kids too. Then we see this morally grey side of Cole and I won't lie... I'm going to need an Austin book now to go deeper into that rabbit hole lol.
Anyways, I liked the amount of spice there was to this story and I while I could have used more of a slow burn, I think Cole and Clara's instant attraction also worked in this one. I loved all the side characters. There's one in particular (I won't name for spoilers) that I had suspicions about and turns out I was wrong. MAN I love when that happens- and I kinda think I'm going to love this character as the series continues! I'm excited to see where this series goes... Especially after that Epilogue. I have my guesses and I hope I'm right!
*Take Triggers to heart
August 8, 2026
Ok, why was this book so good tho! I was hooked from chapter one and didn’t stop. It was giving Yellowstone meets sons of anarchy vibes. This was my first book by this author and it did not disappoint. You have a dirty talking, morally grey cowboy who will literally do anything for the new single mom in town who’s running from an abusive relationship with her 2 kids. So, you have a reverse age gap and a single mom and she threw in some suspense too let me tell you I ate it up😍
I loved Clara and Cole together so much. The chemistry they had was everything. The strength Clara showed throughout this story was beautifully amazing. She would stop at nothing to make sure her kids were safe and get them out of that environment. Then enters Cole Dawson😮💨and he said don’t worry baby I got you and he did. And let’s just talk about the kids Tommy and Billie. Omg they were the cutest, strongest kids and boy they loved their mama and a Cole so much😭
Cole had me weak in the damn knees🫠”I’ll kneel, crawl, bark like a f***ing dog, if she asks me to” 🥵😮💨I loved this story and can’t wait for book 2! Check your triggers there are some heavier topics but so good!
Thank you to the author and Luna literary for this gifted advanced copy.
4.5⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Bull rider MMC
Single mom
Reverse age gap
Morally grey cowboys
Suspense
Hurt/comfort
I loved Clara and Cole together so much. The chemistry they had was everything. The strength Clara showed throughout this story was beautifully amazing. She would stop at nothing to make sure her kids were safe and get them out of that environment. Then enters Cole Dawson😮💨and he said don’t worry baby I got you and he did. And let’s just talk about the kids Tommy and Billie. Omg they were the cutest, strongest kids and boy they loved their mama and a Cole so much😭
Cole had me weak in the damn knees🫠”I’ll kneel, crawl, bark like a f***ing dog, if she asks me to” 🥵😮💨I loved this story and can’t wait for book 2! Check your triggers there are some heavier topics but so good!
Thank you to the author and Luna literary for this gifted advanced copy.
4.5⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Bull rider MMC
Single mom
Reverse age gap
Morally grey cowboys
Suspense
Hurt/comfort
July 30, 2026
“I don’t know this man. But he’s here. He’s helped me. Twice, now. And, I don’t know, I couldn’t be wrong— I usually am— but I get the feeling he might actually give a damn.”
I’m not sure what Shann put in this, but it was like pure crack, I couldn’t put Cole and Clara down. I devoured this book and I still want more.
I like that this was a bit darker, that these cowboys are a little more morally grey. Cole was not afraid to defend what’s his, no matter the cost. He was cocky and sure of himself, but also sweet and so damn caring. And boy was he whipped. He was so utterly head over heels for Clara.
Clara is such an angel. It starts off with her doing the hard thing to protect herself and kids. She is seriously one big mumma bear, she protects her kids with everything she’s got. She’s so freaking brave throughout the entirety of the book, and watching her bloom once she feels safe enough to do so is beautiful.
“But I’d be lying if I said a bumbling six-foot-something, tattooed cowboy wasn’t one of the most adorable things I’ve ever seen.”
Tommy and Billie were the most precious kids. I love the way they both accepted Cole and loved him. How they both had their different things with Cole to make them feel like kids again.
I can’t wait to see what comes next for Rattlesnake Ranch. There’s to many cowboys I need to see get there happily ever after.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
“It’s confusing and confronting, and all of the things, and I can’t even begin to figure out where it comes from, but I… don’t actually want him to leave.”
I’m not sure what Shann put in this, but it was like pure crack, I couldn’t put Cole and Clara down. I devoured this book and I still want more.
I like that this was a bit darker, that these cowboys are a little more morally grey. Cole was not afraid to defend what’s his, no matter the cost. He was cocky and sure of himself, but also sweet and so damn caring. And boy was he whipped. He was so utterly head over heels for Clara.
Clara is such an angel. It starts off with her doing the hard thing to protect herself and kids. She is seriously one big mumma bear, she protects her kids with everything she’s got. She’s so freaking brave throughout the entirety of the book, and watching her bloom once she feels safe enough to do so is beautiful.
“But I’d be lying if I said a bumbling six-foot-something, tattooed cowboy wasn’t one of the most adorable things I’ve ever seen.”
Tommy and Billie were the most precious kids. I love the way they both accepted Cole and loved him. How they both had their different things with Cole to make them feel like kids again.
I can’t wait to see what comes next for Rattlesnake Ranch. There’s to many cowboys I need to see get there happily ever after.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
“It’s confusing and confronting, and all of the things, and I can’t even begin to figure out where it comes from, but I… don’t actually want him to leave.”
August 16, 2026
Thank you so much to the author and Luna Literary for the eARC of Ride or die!
Honestly, when I started the book, I wasn’t sure I was going to like it. But I decided to push through and wow, did I love this book! It was my first read by Shan and she did not disappoint! I actually really liked her writing style!
I love Clara and Cole’s story! I’m so glad that they were able to help heal each other’s wounds and Cole was such a keeper! They definitely deserved each other and the happiness they found in each other. Cole loved Billie and Tommy like he was their own. I mean heck, he loved them all pretty much the moment he saw her!
Also, the little bit of suspense made the book what it was. I was on my toes at one point and couldn’t put the book down! I genuinely cannot wait for book two!! :)
Honestly, when I started the book, I wasn’t sure I was going to like it. But I decided to push through and wow, did I love this book! It was my first read by Shan and she did not disappoint! I actually really liked her writing style!
I love Clara and Cole’s story! I’m so glad that they were able to help heal each other’s wounds and Cole was such a keeper! They definitely deserved each other and the happiness they found in each other. Cole loved Billie and Tommy like he was their own. I mean heck, he loved them all pretty much the moment he saw her!
Also, the little bit of suspense made the book what it was. I was on my toes at one point and couldn’t put the book down! I genuinely cannot wait for book two!! :)
August 10, 2026
This was my first time reading Shann and I am so excited to of found her and this incredible story. This one had me hooked from the first page and rooting so hard for these characters to get their HEA. This was heartbreakingly beautiful, healing and super HOT!! I mean who doesn't love a dirty talking cowboy
I live for a morally gray cowboys and Cole Dawson has just taken the number one spot!! This man was everything!! I loved the way he was so fiercely protective of Clara, Tommy and Billie from the very start!! He was patient and listened and let Clara set the pace he had me swooning every other page. This man's mouth is beyond dirty and so yummy not to mentioned our guy is bedazzled!! Which we absolutely love🤭😊
Clara my girl!! The way i wanted this wiman to get her happy ending. She deserves to be loved and cherished after the hell she went through!! This woman showed show much strength and was so brave and although her story is heartbreaking it was healing getting to witness her taking back her agency.
I can not recommend this to anyone who loves dirty talking morally gray cowboys who have that touch her and die vibe with a single mom on the run. Seriously can't wait for what to come!
Thank you to Shann and Luna Literary for the arc🫶🏼
I live for a morally gray cowboys and Cole Dawson has just taken the number one spot!! This man was everything!! I loved the way he was so fiercely protective of Clara, Tommy and Billie from the very start!! He was patient and listened and let Clara set the pace he had me swooning every other page. This man's mouth is beyond dirty and so yummy not to mentioned our guy is bedazzled!! Which we absolutely love🤭😊
Clara my girl!! The way i wanted this wiman to get her happy ending. She deserves to be loved and cherished after the hell she went through!! This woman showed show much strength and was so brave and although her story is heartbreaking it was healing getting to witness her taking back her agency.
I can not recommend this to anyone who loves dirty talking morally gray cowboys who have that touch her and die vibe with a single mom on the run. Seriously can't wait for what to come!
Thank you to Shann and Luna Literary for the arc🫶🏼
August 13, 2026
All I can say is: I love Cole, and the kids. ♥️
August 11, 2026
***Read the trigger warnings***
🤠🐎 RIDE OR DIE by Shann McPherson 🐎🤠
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5/5 stars
🌶️🌶️🌶️½ 3.5/5 spice
📖 Rattlesnake Ranch #1
A spicy small-town Texas cowboy romance for fans of Yellowstone and Sons of Anarchy. And honestly… I am OBSESSED. 🤠🔥
I went into Ride or Die expecting a cowboy romance, but what I got was so much more. This book has romance, danger, drama, heartbreak, healing, found family, second chances and just the right amount of spice to keep those pages turning.
And Cole? DARLIN’… 🥵
I swear I read this entire book in Cole’s deep Texas cowboy voice because it was just THAT real.
This man made me weak in the knees.
SAY. LESS. COLE. 😮💨
But underneath all that cowboy swagger is a man who completely melted my heart.
Cole never planned on being a ranch hand. His dream has always been bull riding, but after too many injuries, he's forced to confront a future he never imagined for himself. Then Clara and her two children arrive in Summer, Texas—and suddenly, everything he thought he wanted starts to change.
And I absolutely loved that.
Clara is such a beautifully written FMC. She's strong, fiercely protective and determined to give her children the life they deserve, even when she has almost nothing left for herself.
Clara, Billie and Tommy are the most gorgeous little family. 🥹❤️ Those kids deserve THE WORLD.
Clara has been through something horrific, and she's running from a past she desperately wants to escape. When she arrives in Summer, she's exhausted, broke and understandably wary of men.
Enter Cole.
When Cole sees Clara putting groceries back because she can't afford them, he quietly steps in and buys them for her. And from there, he slowly becomes someone she can rely on.
What I loved most was how patient Cole was with Clara.
He didn't expect her trust. He didn't push her. He simply showed up.
Again.
And again.
And again.
Watching Clara slowly let her guard down while Cole becomes this incredibly protective, devoted presence in her and the kids' lives was EVERYTHING. 🥹
The chemistry between these two was 🔥🔥🔥, but it was the emotional connection that really got me. Cole goes from a broody cowboy who doesn't think he has much to live for to a man who starts discovering that maybe he has something—or other, someone—worth living for.
And Clara getting another chance at happiness? YES. PLEASE. 🥹
There is definitely a darker, more dangerous edge to this story, with the constant threat of Clara's past catching up with her and the kids. There are some heavy topics throughout, so definitely check your trigger warnings before picking this one up.
But WOW. Shann handled those elements so well.
This book pulled me in from the very beginning and I genuinely didn't want to put it down. I loved the combination of small-town cowboy romance + danger + found family + protective MMC + a strong, resilient single mum + seriously good spice.
And can we talk about the spice? 🌶️🌶️🌶️
SO. GOOD.
Also…
Bedazzled.
That's it.
You need to read the book. 😂✨
Ride or Die is the first book in the Rattlesnake Ranch series, and after finishing this one, I am absolutely ready for more from Shann McPherson.
If you love cowboys, small-town romance, protective men, found family, single-mum romance, emotional healing, danger and a whole lot of Texas heat, put this one on your TBR.
Cole has officially ruined cowboy romances for me. 🤠🔥
Thank you to Shann McPherson and Luna Literary for the complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
#RideOrDie #ShannMcPherson #RattlesnakeRanch #BookReview #BookTok #Bookstagram #RomanceBooks #CowboyRomance #SmallTownRomance #TexasRomance #WesternRomance #SpicyRomance #RomanceReader #BookRecommendations #ARCReader #BookReviewers #SingleMomRomance #ProtectiveMMC #FoundFamily #CowboyRomanceBooks #YellowstoneFans #SonsOfAnarchy
🤠🐎 RIDE OR DIE by Shann McPherson 🐎🤠
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5/5 stars
🌶️🌶️🌶️½ 3.5/5 spice
📖 Rattlesnake Ranch #1
A spicy small-town Texas cowboy romance for fans of Yellowstone and Sons of Anarchy. And honestly… I am OBSESSED. 🤠🔥
I went into Ride or Die expecting a cowboy romance, but what I got was so much more. This book has romance, danger, drama, heartbreak, healing, found family, second chances and just the right amount of spice to keep those pages turning.
And Cole? DARLIN’… 🥵
I swear I read this entire book in Cole’s deep Texas cowboy voice because it was just THAT real.
This man made me weak in the knees.
“I’ll kneel, crawl, bark like a fuckin’ dog if she asks me to.” 🥵🔥
SAY. LESS. COLE. 😮💨
But underneath all that cowboy swagger is a man who completely melted my heart.
Cole never planned on being a ranch hand. His dream has always been bull riding, but after too many injuries, he's forced to confront a future he never imagined for himself. Then Clara and her two children arrive in Summer, Texas—and suddenly, everything he thought he wanted starts to change.
And I absolutely loved that.
Clara is such a beautifully written FMC. She's strong, fiercely protective and determined to give her children the life they deserve, even when she has almost nothing left for herself.
Clara, Billie and Tommy are the most gorgeous little family. 🥹❤️ Those kids deserve THE WORLD.
Clara has been through something horrific, and she's running from a past she desperately wants to escape. When she arrives in Summer, she's exhausted, broke and understandably wary of men.
Enter Cole.
When Cole sees Clara putting groceries back because she can't afford them, he quietly steps in and buys them for her. And from there, he slowly becomes someone she can rely on.
What I loved most was how patient Cole was with Clara.
He didn't expect her trust. He didn't push her. He simply showed up.
Again.
And again.
And again.
Watching Clara slowly let her guard down while Cole becomes this incredibly protective, devoted presence in her and the kids' lives was EVERYTHING. 🥹
The chemistry between these two was 🔥🔥🔥, but it was the emotional connection that really got me. Cole goes from a broody cowboy who doesn't think he has much to live for to a man who starts discovering that maybe he has something—or other, someone—worth living for.
And Clara getting another chance at happiness? YES. PLEASE. 🥹
There is definitely a darker, more dangerous edge to this story, with the constant threat of Clara's past catching up with her and the kids. There are some heavy topics throughout, so definitely check your trigger warnings before picking this one up.
But WOW. Shann handled those elements so well.
This book pulled me in from the very beginning and I genuinely didn't want to put it down. I loved the combination of small-town cowboy romance + danger + found family + protective MMC + a strong, resilient single mum + seriously good spice.
And can we talk about the spice? 🌶️🌶️🌶️
SO. GOOD.
Also…
Bedazzled.
That's it.
You need to read the book. 😂✨
Ride or Die is the first book in the Rattlesnake Ranch series, and after finishing this one, I am absolutely ready for more from Shann McPherson.
If you love cowboys, small-town romance, protective men, found family, single-mum romance, emotional healing, danger and a whole lot of Texas heat, put this one on your TBR.
Cole has officially ruined cowboy romances for me. 🤠🔥
Thank you to Shann McPherson and Luna Literary for the complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
#RideOrDie #ShannMcPherson #RattlesnakeRanch #BookReview #BookTok #Bookstagram #RomanceBooks #CowboyRomance #SmallTownRomance #TexasRomance #WesternRomance #SpicyRomance #RomanceReader #BookRecommendations #ARCReader #BookReviewers #SingleMomRomance #ProtectiveMMC #FoundFamily #CowboyRomanceBooks #YellowstoneFans #SonsOfAnarchy
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Ride or Die by Shann McPherson is book 1 in the new Rattlesnake Ranch series, set in the small town of Summer, Texas.
What can you expect?
🤠 Small-town romance
🐂 Semi-pro bull rider
✨ Reverse age-gap
🔎 Suspense
🖤 Morally gray cowboy
🤍 Hurt & comfort
👩👧👦 Single mom
🏡 Found family
❤️ Protective MMC
5 ⭐| 3 🌶️
I loved this book!
Clara escapes an abusive relationship and starts over in a small Texas town with her children, Tom (10) and Billie (5). When Cole, a compassionate semi-pro bull rider facing an uncertain future after multiple concussions, learns they’re in danger, he offers them a safe place to stay. As Clara rebuilds her life, a beautiful friendship slowly turns into something more, and Tom and Billie quickly steal Cole’s heart.
I admired Clara so much. Despite everything she'd been through, she always put her children first. She struggled to accept Cole's help because of her trauma, but Cole showed her that accepting kindness doesn't make you weak.
And Cole... I adored that man. He's only 26, juggling the ranch and his rodeo career, yet he never hesitates to show up for Clara and the kids. He was protective, patient, caring, and fit so naturally into their little family.
Tom and Billie completely stole my heart. No child should ever have to experience what they did. Tom especially broke my heart. At only 10 years old, he carried so much responsibility and maturity that no child should ever have to carry.
I absolutely loved Clara and Cole's relationship. Some readers might think things moved quickly, but I never felt that way. Cole gave Clara the time and space she needed. He never pressured her, and I loved that about him. He wasn't looking for commitment, but once Clara entered his life, he was completely all in.
I was swooning the entire time because Cole was nothing but green flag. Although he kept his doctor's warning to himself at first, even from his best friend Bailey, he was honest with Clara when it mattered. I loved watching him realize that he finally had people worth fighting for. Before, he only had himself. Now he had Clara, Tom, and Billie.
One of my favorite parts was watching Cole and Tom's relationship grow. Tom had never truly had a father figure, and seeing Cole naturally step into that role melted my heart.
I also loved Mama Joy. After Cole's father killed his mother, Mama Joy took him in because he was best friends with her children. She loved him like one of her own, and I loved how she also welcomed Clara and helped with the kids.
Those quiet porch moments between Cole and Clara were some of my favorite scenes because you could see her slowly learning to trust him.
The spice? Amazing. Cole is a dirty talker, and that man was completely obsessed with Clara. What I loved most was how he constantly built her up. Whenever her insecurities surfaced, he never let her tear herself down. Instead, he reminded her how beautiful and worthy she was.
The side characters were amazing, and the found family aspect was one of my favorite parts of the story. The suspense kept me hooked, and I loved seeing Cole's morally gray side come out when it came to protecting the people he loved. I already can't wait for the next book in the series because Bailey and Jager definitely have me intrigued.
This was my first book by Shann McPherson, but it definitely won't be my last. I can't wait to read more of her work.
Thank you to Luna & Shann for the advance copy. This review reflects my honest thoughts.
What can you expect?
🤠 Small-town romance
🐂 Semi-pro bull rider
✨ Reverse age-gap
🔎 Suspense
🖤 Morally gray cowboy
🤍 Hurt & comfort
👩👧👦 Single mom
🏡 Found family
❤️ Protective MMC
5 ⭐| 3 🌶️
I loved this book!
Clara escapes an abusive relationship and starts over in a small Texas town with her children, Tom (10) and Billie (5). When Cole, a compassionate semi-pro bull rider facing an uncertain future after multiple concussions, learns they’re in danger, he offers them a safe place to stay. As Clara rebuilds her life, a beautiful friendship slowly turns into something more, and Tom and Billie quickly steal Cole’s heart.
I admired Clara so much. Despite everything she'd been through, she always put her children first. She struggled to accept Cole's help because of her trauma, but Cole showed her that accepting kindness doesn't make you weak.
And Cole... I adored that man. He's only 26, juggling the ranch and his rodeo career, yet he never hesitates to show up for Clara and the kids. He was protective, patient, caring, and fit so naturally into their little family.
Tom and Billie completely stole my heart. No child should ever have to experience what they did. Tom especially broke my heart. At only 10 years old, he carried so much responsibility and maturity that no child should ever have to carry.
I absolutely loved Clara and Cole's relationship. Some readers might think things moved quickly, but I never felt that way. Cole gave Clara the time and space she needed. He never pressured her, and I loved that about him. He wasn't looking for commitment, but once Clara entered his life, he was completely all in.
I was swooning the entire time because Cole was nothing but green flag. Although he kept his doctor's warning to himself at first, even from his best friend Bailey, he was honest with Clara when it mattered. I loved watching him realize that he finally had people worth fighting for. Before, he only had himself. Now he had Clara, Tom, and Billie.
One of my favorite parts was watching Cole and Tom's relationship grow. Tom had never truly had a father figure, and seeing Cole naturally step into that role melted my heart.
I also loved Mama Joy. After Cole's father killed his mother, Mama Joy took him in because he was best friends with her children. She loved him like one of her own, and I loved how she also welcomed Clara and helped with the kids.
Those quiet porch moments between Cole and Clara were some of my favorite scenes because you could see her slowly learning to trust him.
The spice? Amazing. Cole is a dirty talker, and that man was completely obsessed with Clara. What I loved most was how he constantly built her up. Whenever her insecurities surfaced, he never let her tear herself down. Instead, he reminded her how beautiful and worthy she was.
The side characters were amazing, and the found family aspect was one of my favorite parts of the story. The suspense kept me hooked, and I loved seeing Cole's morally gray side come out when it came to protecting the people he loved. I already can't wait for the next book in the series because Bailey and Jager definitely have me intrigued.
This was my first book by Shann McPherson, but it definitely won't be my last. I can't wait to read more of her work.
Thank you to Luna & Shann for the advance copy. This review reflects my honest thoughts.
August 7, 2026
Rating: 2.5
Thank you to Luna literary for giving me an ARC in exchange for my honest review. I'm super grateful.
I was really excited to get into this book. I found the tropes reverse age gap, small town, and cowboy romance really interesting and right up my alley.
I thought the book was fast paced and exciting. The tension and chemistry between the MCs were definitely there. It was so cute to see the MMC, a tattooed cowboy who comes across as very confident and fully aware of his good looks, turn into a blubbering mess whenever he talked to the FMC.
But unfortunately, it wasn't a complete hit for me. I'm going to mark the rest of this review as a spoiler. It doesn't contain any major spoilers though.
Thank you to Luna literary for giving me an ARC in exchange for my honest review. I'm super grateful.
I was really excited to get into this book. I found the tropes reverse age gap, small town, and cowboy romance really interesting and right up my alley.
I thought the book was fast paced and exciting. The tension and chemistry between the MCs were definitely there. It was so cute to see the MMC, a tattooed cowboy who comes across as very confident and fully aware of his good looks, turn into a blubbering mess whenever he talked to the FMC.
But unfortunately, it wasn't a complete hit for me. I'm going to mark the rest of this review as a spoiler. It doesn't contain any major spoilers though.
August 6, 2026
First of all I want to thank Shann McPherson and Luna Literary for the ARC of Ride or Die :)
I enjoyed reading this book and once I started reading it, I had to know what was going on. Ride or Die has a little bit of everything: romance, suspense, starting over, and hope, just to name a few themes throughout this story
Clara (FMC) is very interesting as well as complex. She's a mom who puts her kids before herself, meaning she makes sure that her children have what they need, even it means so goes without. Tommy and Billie, are so freaking cute and they deserve nothing short than the best. They've been through a horrific thing as a family, but Clara has all the strength one can have to take them away from this particular situation to Summer, Texas, which is where she meets Cole (MMC)
Cole (MMC) meets Clara for the first time at the grocery store where she is giving back a ton of groceries because she can't afford them but Cole decides to buy them for her, how sweet. Cole is a bull rider who has a past that has left some scars. He believes that bull riding and the circuit is all that he has or what he's good at, that's not true though, which he figures out over time. Cole's got some depth/dark to him but the soft side of him because of Clara and her kids shines through
Clara is skeptical men and what Cole's intentions are, little to did she know how big of a role he'd be in their lives especially since she's trying to start over/rebuild her life for Tommy and Billie. Cole shows up for Clara and her kids time and time again which she appreciates or at least learns to throughout the book as well as creates a relationship between these two
I really liked this story. It's a little dark and dangerous... fine by me, I love a romantic suspense book! There's a looming threat of Clara's Ex finding her and her kids... this is where Cole's protective side comes out, and it's a sight to see. On the other hand, Cole's grumpy nature softens around Clara and her kids, which I love. Over time you can see him thinking he could have something that he never dreamed of wanting or thinking he deserves
I loved their chemistry with each other! Cole is very patient with Clara, Tommy, and Billie, and this is from the get go. He's fiercely connected to them because of his own past, which gets shared throughout the book. Again, Cole's protectiveness over Clara and the kids, is something I loved, and this was from the jump
Clara getting another shot at happiness is so well deserved! Her motherly instincts were usually spot on in Ride or Die because all she's thinking about is protecting her children, which is what a good mom should/would do
The spice in this story was so good! Cole was very patient and understanding with Clara in this department. He wanted her to have control and go at her pace given everything that happened with her ex and with men in the past for her. He's exactly who Clara needed and I'm so glad that they ended up together
I was hooked from the beginning with this book and I cannot wait to read more Shann McPherson novels!
Thank you again to Shann McPherson and Luna Literary for the ARC of Ride or Die :) I loved this story and I'm excited to see what's in story for the rest of this series and Rattlesnake Ranch
P.S. Bedazzled... That's all
I enjoyed reading this book and once I started reading it, I had to know what was going on. Ride or Die has a little bit of everything: romance, suspense, starting over, and hope, just to name a few themes throughout this story
Clara (FMC) is very interesting as well as complex. She's a mom who puts her kids before herself, meaning she makes sure that her children have what they need, even it means so goes without. Tommy and Billie, are so freaking cute and they deserve nothing short than the best. They've been through a horrific thing as a family, but Clara has all the strength one can have to take them away from this particular situation to Summer, Texas, which is where she meets Cole (MMC)
Cole (MMC) meets Clara for the first time at the grocery store where she is giving back a ton of groceries because she can't afford them but Cole decides to buy them for her, how sweet. Cole is a bull rider who has a past that has left some scars. He believes that bull riding and the circuit is all that he has or what he's good at, that's not true though, which he figures out over time. Cole's got some depth/dark to him but the soft side of him because of Clara and her kids shines through
Clara is skeptical men and what Cole's intentions are, little to did she know how big of a role he'd be in their lives especially since she's trying to start over/rebuild her life for Tommy and Billie. Cole shows up for Clara and her kids time and time again which she appreciates or at least learns to throughout the book as well as creates a relationship between these two
I really liked this story. It's a little dark and dangerous... fine by me, I love a romantic suspense book! There's a looming threat of Clara's Ex finding her and her kids... this is where Cole's protective side comes out, and it's a sight to see. On the other hand, Cole's grumpy nature softens around Clara and her kids, which I love. Over time you can see him thinking he could have something that he never dreamed of wanting or thinking he deserves
I loved their chemistry with each other! Cole is very patient with Clara, Tommy, and Billie, and this is from the get go. He's fiercely connected to them because of his own past, which gets shared throughout the book. Again, Cole's protectiveness over Clara and the kids, is something I loved, and this was from the jump
Clara getting another shot at happiness is so well deserved! Her motherly instincts were usually spot on in Ride or Die because all she's thinking about is protecting her children, which is what a good mom should/would do
The spice in this story was so good! Cole was very patient and understanding with Clara in this department. He wanted her to have control and go at her pace given everything that happened with her ex and with men in the past for her. He's exactly who Clara needed and I'm so glad that they ended up together
I was hooked from the beginning with this book and I cannot wait to read more Shann McPherson novels!
Thank you again to Shann McPherson and Luna Literary for the ARC of Ride or Die :) I loved this story and I'm excited to see what's in story for the rest of this series and Rattlesnake Ranch
P.S. Bedazzled... That's all
August 11, 2026
ARC Review
⭐5/5
🌶️2.5/5
📌Check TW
I was hooked from the very first chapter and honestly, I did not want to put this book down. It had so many of my favorite tropes all wrapped up in one emotional romance. Reverse age gap, single mom on the run, a semi-pro bull rider, morally gray cowboys, the sweetest kids, and all the emotions of a heroine and her children starting over to build a safer life.
Clara… I think the reason it took me a little longer to finish this book was because of her and her kids. They had to endure so much, and it completely broke my heart. I loved how Shann portrayed their story with so much care, while also making me despise Clara’s ex with every fiber of my being. There were several moments when I had tears in my eyes thinking about everything the three of them had been through. They had already suffered so much, and I admired Clara for how fiercely she protected her children. She was strong, brave, and willing to do whatever it took to keep them safe, and I loved her for that. I just wanted to jump into the book and hug all three of them so fiercely.
Cole was just as easy to fall in love with. Despite being Mr. Grumpy Grump, he was patient, kind, and incredibly respectful of Clara and everything she had been through. I especially loved that he never tried to rush her. He was honest about how he felt, but he also gave her the time and space she needed, which made their relationship feel even more meaningful.
The chemistry between Clara and Cole was undeniable, but what I loved most was the way he helped Clara build her new life from the ground up without ever taking away her independence. Their relationship was built on trust, patience, and genuine care, and I loved watching them slowly find their way to each other.
And the way Cole loved Tommy and Billie absolutely melted my heart. He cared about them as people, not just because they were Clara’s children, and it was so sweet to see how much they loved him in return. Their relationship was honestly one of my favorite parts of the book.
If you’re looking for your next cowboy romance filled with emotional moments that hit you right in the feels, then this is it! There are little bits of suspense woven throughout the story that, despite knowing who the villain is, will keep you wondering what’s coming next. And let me tell you, it definitely has me anticipating the next book in the series, which of course I am already excited about!
So run, don’t walk, and add this book to your TBR!
Thank you so much to Shann and Luna Literary for this amazing eARC!
⭐5/5
🌶️2.5/5
📌Check TW
I was hooked from the very first chapter and honestly, I did not want to put this book down. It had so many of my favorite tropes all wrapped up in one emotional romance. Reverse age gap, single mom on the run, a semi-pro bull rider, morally gray cowboys, the sweetest kids, and all the emotions of a heroine and her children starting over to build a safer life.
Clara… I think the reason it took me a little longer to finish this book was because of her and her kids. They had to endure so much, and it completely broke my heart. I loved how Shann portrayed their story with so much care, while also making me despise Clara’s ex with every fiber of my being. There were several moments when I had tears in my eyes thinking about everything the three of them had been through. They had already suffered so much, and I admired Clara for how fiercely she protected her children. She was strong, brave, and willing to do whatever it took to keep them safe, and I loved her for that. I just wanted to jump into the book and hug all three of them so fiercely.
Cole was just as easy to fall in love with. Despite being Mr. Grumpy Grump, he was patient, kind, and incredibly respectful of Clara and everything she had been through. I especially loved that he never tried to rush her. He was honest about how he felt, but he also gave her the time and space she needed, which made their relationship feel even more meaningful.
The chemistry between Clara and Cole was undeniable, but what I loved most was the way he helped Clara build her new life from the ground up without ever taking away her independence. Their relationship was built on trust, patience, and genuine care, and I loved watching them slowly find their way to each other.
And the way Cole loved Tommy and Billie absolutely melted my heart. He cared about them as people, not just because they were Clara’s children, and it was so sweet to see how much they loved him in return. Their relationship was honestly one of my favorite parts of the book.
If you’re looking for your next cowboy romance filled with emotional moments that hit you right in the feels, then this is it! There are little bits of suspense woven throughout the story that, despite knowing who the villain is, will keep you wondering what’s coming next. And let me tell you, it definitely has me anticipating the next book in the series, which of course I am already excited about!
So run, don’t walk, and add this book to your TBR!
Thank you so much to Shann and Luna Literary for this amazing eARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was so excited to receive an ARC of this book — I'd been following the author's teaser posts that popped up on my feed on Instagram and knew I instantly wanted in.
⚠️ TRIGGER WARNING ⚠️
This book mentions detailed scenes of domestic abuse and violence. Please check the full list of trigger warnings and read at your own risk. See below for my full review.
This was a heavier and more emotional read than I've picked up in a while, but I loved every second of it! One thing worth noting is that the book takes place in a small town in Texas, and the author really leans into it with authentic Southern dialect and lingo for Cole and other local characters throughout the book. While I've read some other cowboy romances in the past, this was the first one I've read that leans so heavily into the dialect itself. It honestly took me a minute to get used to it, especially since I'm from Canada and it's such a stark contrast from what I'm used to. But once I got into a rhythm of the flow of the dialogue, it added another layer to really feeling immersed in this world.
Clara's story is one of survival: trapped in an abusive relationship, she finally finds the courage to leave in order to build a safer life for her kids. Her strength through that journey is genuinely inspiring, and I can't begin to imagine navigating what she goes through while still having to stay strong for her children.
Then there's Cole — a broody, tattooed cowboy who stumbles into Clara's life and can't help but insert himself in it. What starts as wanting to help a struggling single mom slowly turns into something deeper. Cole has his own scars as he grew up in a similar environment, which is why he recognizes himself in her kids and shows up for them in a way no one ever did for him. His patience with Clara — first as a protector, then as something more — is my absolute favorite part of the book.
Cole is also chasing his own dream: going pro as a bull rider, despite injuries that are starting to take a real toll on his body. Watching him go through that internal struggle alongside his growing bond with Clara and the kids adds a whole new layer to the story. I won't spoil how it all plays out, but it's beautifully done.
This was the first book I've read by Shann McPherson, and I was so happy with the experience. I can't wait to dive into more of her books in the future!
⚠️ TRIGGER WARNING ⚠️
This book mentions detailed scenes of domestic abuse and violence. Please check the full list of trigger warnings and read at your own risk. See below for my full review.
This was a heavier and more emotional read than I've picked up in a while, but I loved every second of it! One thing worth noting is that the book takes place in a small town in Texas, and the author really leans into it with authentic Southern dialect and lingo for Cole and other local characters throughout the book. While I've read some other cowboy romances in the past, this was the first one I've read that leans so heavily into the dialect itself. It honestly took me a minute to get used to it, especially since I'm from Canada and it's such a stark contrast from what I'm used to. But once I got into a rhythm of the flow of the dialogue, it added another layer to really feeling immersed in this world.
Clara's story is one of survival: trapped in an abusive relationship, she finally finds the courage to leave in order to build a safer life for her kids. Her strength through that journey is genuinely inspiring, and I can't begin to imagine navigating what she goes through while still having to stay strong for her children.
Then there's Cole — a broody, tattooed cowboy who stumbles into Clara's life and can't help but insert himself in it. What starts as wanting to help a struggling single mom slowly turns into something deeper. Cole has his own scars as he grew up in a similar environment, which is why he recognizes himself in her kids and shows up for them in a way no one ever did for him. His patience with Clara — first as a protector, then as something more — is my absolute favorite part of the book.
Cole is also chasing his own dream: going pro as a bull rider, despite injuries that are starting to take a real toll on his body. Watching him go through that internal struggle alongside his growing bond with Clara and the kids adds a whole new layer to the story. I won't spoil how it all plays out, but it's beautifully done.
This was the first book I've read by Shann McPherson, and I was so happy with the experience. I can't wait to dive into more of her books in the future!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating: 4.5⭐
Spice: 3🌶️
FMC: Clara Turner
MMC: Cole Dawson
This story starts really heavy, and it is pretty intense, but it also is a beautiful love story between a woman who’s on the run and a bull-rider who needs to think about the future. He was not worrying about anything until he met a beautiful blonde and her two children.
Clara is such a strong woman, and from the start, you could tell she had one focus only. Keep her kids safe no matter what. She ends up in Summer, Texas, and meets Cole. He is kind, considerate, and helping her immediately. She doesn’t trust him, but it doesn’t surprises Cole because he knows something is up and he wants to figure it out and help them.
He is intrigued by her right away, and every time they see each other again, his interest grows higher. Clara eventually accepts his help and also starts to get intrigued by him. Her kids, Tommy and Billie, also enjoy having him around, and they even start to develop a relationship.
I loved how the relationship between them goes slow. The chemistry is high, and you really get pulled into their love story. How she starts to trust him more, opens up, and lets him steal her heart bit by bit. But it also happens the other way around. Cole also loses his heart to her more and more. She changes him, and he also starts to worry more about the future and his bull-rider career.
There are heavier subjects being mentioned in this story, and even though I was aware of them, it still hit hard. It’s heavy and intense, and you really feel along with the characters. My heart was pounding during a few parts of the story, and it pulled me in so much. I couldn’t stop reading, and I just wanted to know how it would continue and get to their happy ending.
Thank you, Shann Mcpherson, for the opportunity to read and review their story early. I really appreciated it, and I enjoyed every second of it.
Tropes:
🟣 single mom
🟣 age gap
🟣 small town
🟣 hurt x comfort
🟣 western romance
🟣 found family
🟣 he falls first
🟣 dual first person pov
Quotes:
'I feel a sudden lump form in the back of my throat becausefuck, I think she might be right. I am in love with Clara. Hell, I’d be a goddamn fool to even try and deny it.'
Spice: 3🌶️
FMC: Clara Turner
MMC: Cole Dawson
This story starts really heavy, and it is pretty intense, but it also is a beautiful love story between a woman who’s on the run and a bull-rider who needs to think about the future. He was not worrying about anything until he met a beautiful blonde and her two children.
Clara is such a strong woman, and from the start, you could tell she had one focus only. Keep her kids safe no matter what. She ends up in Summer, Texas, and meets Cole. He is kind, considerate, and helping her immediately. She doesn’t trust him, but it doesn’t surprises Cole because he knows something is up and he wants to figure it out and help them.
He is intrigued by her right away, and every time they see each other again, his interest grows higher. Clara eventually accepts his help and also starts to get intrigued by him. Her kids, Tommy and Billie, also enjoy having him around, and they even start to develop a relationship.
I loved how the relationship between them goes slow. The chemistry is high, and you really get pulled into their love story. How she starts to trust him more, opens up, and lets him steal her heart bit by bit. But it also happens the other way around. Cole also loses his heart to her more and more. She changes him, and he also starts to worry more about the future and his bull-rider career.
There are heavier subjects being mentioned in this story, and even though I was aware of them, it still hit hard. It’s heavy and intense, and you really feel along with the characters. My heart was pounding during a few parts of the story, and it pulled me in so much. I couldn’t stop reading, and I just wanted to know how it would continue and get to their happy ending.
Thank you, Shann Mcpherson, for the opportunity to read and review their story early. I really appreciated it, and I enjoyed every second of it.
Tropes:
🟣 single mom
🟣 age gap
🟣 small town
🟣 hurt x comfort
🟣 western romance
🟣 found family
🟣 he falls first
🟣 dual first person pov
Quotes:
'I feel a sudden lump form in the back of my throat because
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Oof this one got dark - you wouldnt think so with the cover but oof what a ride!
This is my first introduction to Shann (the author). I have heard of her books but have not had the opportunity to read. The tropes and the cover made me sign up for this ARC and I'm very happy I did.
We meet Cole, a grumpy bull rider slash ranch hand who just got the devastating news that he has to quit his dream because of too many concussions. While at a stop at a gas station, he chanced upon a bruised and on-the-run DV victim Clara with her two children in tow. It was an instant connection between Cole and Clara but purely because Cole have recognized the signs and due to his past trauma and experience with DV, he knew he had to help her and her kids. Since that fateful day at the gas station, Cole has become Clara's hero. He was there to help, protect and take care of her and the kids - such a stand up guy. We see their journey progress from strangers to friends to lovers and we also get to witness Clara heal and get her groove back. Of course, the s*itty ex is still very much a problem and is a constant threat to Clara's little family. There's also elements of the mafia, the cartel and more illegal happenings (see it-got-dark comments above).
I love Cole and really appreciate how he stepped up and earned Clara and her kids' trust. Love Billie and Tommy. What an ordeal they had to go through. To see them cultivate the connection with a man who is very different from their dad's was amazing to read. Clara was a very likable FMC. She was strong but also vulnerable. She embodies this do-whatever-she-can for her kids. To see her find love in Cole was so well deserved and I was rooting for their happy ending. I love Mama Joy, Bailey and the ranch hands side characters. Im so looking forward to the next book.
Overall, this a good first introduction and first book from Shann. I got a glimpse of her writing style and I really like it. It was equally romantic, spicy, tension and action filled. A bit chaotic and I did not expect the other elements that made Cole and the ranch activities mysterious but I trust the process.
Thank you to Luna Literary for the advanced copy!
This is my first introduction to Shann (the author). I have heard of her books but have not had the opportunity to read. The tropes and the cover made me sign up for this ARC and I'm very happy I did.
We meet Cole, a grumpy bull rider slash ranch hand who just got the devastating news that he has to quit his dream because of too many concussions. While at a stop at a gas station, he chanced upon a bruised and on-the-run DV victim Clara with her two children in tow. It was an instant connection between Cole and Clara but purely because Cole have recognized the signs and due to his past trauma and experience with DV, he knew he had to help her and her kids. Since that fateful day at the gas station, Cole has become Clara's hero. He was there to help, protect and take care of her and the kids - such a stand up guy. We see their journey progress from strangers to friends to lovers and we also get to witness Clara heal and get her groove back. Of course, the s*itty ex is still very much a problem and is a constant threat to Clara's little family. There's also elements of the mafia, the cartel and more illegal happenings (see it-got-dark comments above).
I love Cole and really appreciate how he stepped up and earned Clara and her kids' trust. Love Billie and Tommy. What an ordeal they had to go through. To see them cultivate the connection with a man who is very different from their dad's was amazing to read. Clara was a very likable FMC. She was strong but also vulnerable. She embodies this do-whatever-she-can for her kids. To see her find love in Cole was so well deserved and I was rooting for their happy ending. I love Mama Joy, Bailey and the ranch hands side characters. Im so looking forward to the next book.
Overall, this a good first introduction and first book from Shann. I got a glimpse of her writing style and I really like it. It was equally romantic, spicy, tension and action filled. A bit chaotic and I did not expect the other elements that made Cole and the ranch activities mysterious but I trust the process.
Thank you to Luna Literary for the advanced copy!
Review of advance copy
Giddy up cowboy! Y’all, this book was so stinkin’ good! Shann had me hooked from the very first page all the way to the last period. It was way better than I could’ve ever expected a cowboy romance to be, and then you add in the drama and a little bit of suspense … lawdddd it just became a five star book and then some! Shann’s books always are so fun to read, and just have that way of sucking you in and keeping your attention in the palm of her hand all the way to the end. This book does shed some light on some very real things, so check the warnings before reading. But know that it just made this book a completely fantastic read.
Cowboy Cole. Enough said! Protective to a T, broody as all get out, and a complete gentleman. And has gotten his bell rung a few too many times riding bulls. But that’s his whole identity and life until Clara and her two kids walk into his small town and slowly taking over his thoughts. When he gets called to their rescue, he can’t help but be their hero and give them a safe place to stay. And he can’t help but slowly fall for the single mom outrunning her past. These two have a slow build relationship blooming, but for good reasons. And because Cole is a true gentleman, he respects her wishes. But when their attraction becomes too much, they cave. And holy moly, yall will need a fan! Cole brings out the sexy side of Clara and makes her feel alive for the first time in a very long time. Their attraction is steamy and flirty and so very sweet. And it’s just an added bonus that he’s so great with her kids.
I said this was a suspense romance, and it’s sprinkled in just enough that it doesn’t take away from the building relationship between Cole and Clara. It’s just enough to keep your spidey senses alert, and has the twists and turns that keep you flipping through the pages faster and faster.
If you’re a fan of Yellowstone or in your cowboy era, I highly recommend this book! It’s an attention grabber and a page turner that you will find yourself reading half the book before you know it. I am very much looking forward to book two!
This was an ARC read for me and these are my honest opinions.
Cowboy Cole. Enough said! Protective to a T, broody as all get out, and a complete gentleman. And has gotten his bell rung a few too many times riding bulls. But that’s his whole identity and life until Clara and her two kids walk into his small town and slowly taking over his thoughts. When he gets called to their rescue, he can’t help but be their hero and give them a safe place to stay. And he can’t help but slowly fall for the single mom outrunning her past. These two have a slow build relationship blooming, but for good reasons. And because Cole is a true gentleman, he respects her wishes. But when their attraction becomes too much, they cave. And holy moly, yall will need a fan! Cole brings out the sexy side of Clara and makes her feel alive for the first time in a very long time. Their attraction is steamy and flirty and so very sweet. And it’s just an added bonus that he’s so great with her kids.
I said this was a suspense romance, and it’s sprinkled in just enough that it doesn’t take away from the building relationship between Cole and Clara. It’s just enough to keep your spidey senses alert, and has the twists and turns that keep you flipping through the pages faster and faster.
If you’re a fan of Yellowstone or in your cowboy era, I highly recommend this book! It’s an attention grabber and a page turner that you will find yourself reading half the book before you know it. I am very much looking forward to book two!
This was an ARC read for me and these are my honest opinions.
Review of advance copy
I was kindly given an ARC of this book, thank you!
This was my first time reading a book by Shann McPherson, and it definitely won't be my last.
I absolutely loved this story. I was hooked from the prologue and immediately found myself rooting for Clara.
I became so attached to Clara from the very first page. I love when an author can make you truly feel a character's fear, hope, and determination. Clara's strength from the very beginning was incredibly moving, and her unwavering love for her children was beautiful to witness. Watching her slowly heal, learn to trust again, and finally let people into her life had me emotional more than once. She deserved every bit of happiness after everything she'd endured.
One thing I especially appreciated was that her healing wasn't rushed. She wasn't magically "fixed," and intimacy wasn't suddenly easy for her. It was a gradual journey, which made it feel so much more authentic. Cole gave nothing but green flags throughout, creating a safe space for Clara to heal at her own pace. Their relationship was handled so beautifully.
Cole completely stole my heart too. He may make a few questionable decisions, but there was never any doubt about how deeply he loved Clara. He didn't just fall for her, he fell for her children too. It honestly felt like love at first sight, not only with Clara but with the whole little family. He was made to love and protect them, and they gave him the reason he needed to finally let go of bull riding and embrace a different future.
And Tommy and Billie..They felt like real children with their own personalities, adding so much warmth, humour, and heart to the story. They weren't just there to move the plot along, they became such an important part of why I fell in love with this family.
I love a cowboy romance with a single-parent storyline, and this one absolutely delivered. It was emotional, heartfelt, full of healing, found family, and so much love. A wonderful read that I'll definitely be recommending.
This was my first time reading a book by Shann McPherson, and it definitely won't be my last.
I absolutely loved this story. I was hooked from the prologue and immediately found myself rooting for Clara.
I became so attached to Clara from the very first page. I love when an author can make you truly feel a character's fear, hope, and determination. Clara's strength from the very beginning was incredibly moving, and her unwavering love for her children was beautiful to witness. Watching her slowly heal, learn to trust again, and finally let people into her life had me emotional more than once. She deserved every bit of happiness after everything she'd endured.
One thing I especially appreciated was that her healing wasn't rushed. She wasn't magically "fixed," and intimacy wasn't suddenly easy for her. It was a gradual journey, which made it feel so much more authentic. Cole gave nothing but green flags throughout, creating a safe space for Clara to heal at her own pace. Their relationship was handled so beautifully.
Cole completely stole my heart too. He may make a few questionable decisions, but there was never any doubt about how deeply he loved Clara. He didn't just fall for her, he fell for her children too. It honestly felt like love at first sight, not only with Clara but with the whole little family. He was made to love and protect them, and they gave him the reason he needed to finally let go of bull riding and embrace a different future.
And Tommy and Billie..They felt like real children with their own personalities, adding so much warmth, humour, and heart to the story. They weren't just there to move the plot along, they became such an important part of why I fell in love with this family.
I love a cowboy romance with a single-parent storyline, and this one absolutely delivered. It was emotional, heartfelt, full of healing, found family, and so much love. A wonderful read that I'll definitely be recommending.
Review of advance copy
I absolutely LOVED this book!! Seriously, what an emotional rollercoaster. Ride or Die had me laughing, tearing up, swooning, and stressing all at the same time. I didn’t want it to end!
Cole completely stole my heart. At first he seems like this reckless cowboy who’s willing to risk everything for bull riding because he doesn’t think he has much left to lose. But then Clara and her kids come into his life, and watching this man slowly find something worth fighting for was so beautiful. The way he stepped up for Clara, Billie, and Tommy without expecting anything in return had my heart absolutely melting. He didn’t just fall in love with Clara, he loved those kids like they mattered just as much, and that made me love him even more.
Clara was such a strong heroine. After everything she’d been through, seeing her slowly learn to trust again was emotional and so rewarding. She just wanted to keep her babies safe, and I was rooting for her from the very first page. Billie and Tommy completely stole every scene they were in. They made this story feel so real, and I adored every interaction they had with Cole.
The chemistry between Cole and Clara was amazing, but it was the emotional connection and the little family they built together that really made this book special. Every protective moment, every sweet scene with the kids, every time Cole showed up exactly when they needed him… my heart couldn’t take it.
There was plenty of suspense with the danger catching up to them, and I was on the edge of my seat wondering how everything would play out. It balanced perfectly with all the romance, heart, and small-town charm.
This book was everything I wanted in a cowboy romance. Protective cowboy, found family, single mum on the run, adorable kids, so much heart, and all the emotions. Cole, Clara, Billie, and Tommy are a family I’ll be thinking about for a long time.
Such an easy five stars. I adored every single page and honestly didn’t want to say goodbye to these characters!
I can not wait to see what happens next
Cole completely stole my heart. At first he seems like this reckless cowboy who’s willing to risk everything for bull riding because he doesn’t think he has much left to lose. But then Clara and her kids come into his life, and watching this man slowly find something worth fighting for was so beautiful. The way he stepped up for Clara, Billie, and Tommy without expecting anything in return had my heart absolutely melting. He didn’t just fall in love with Clara, he loved those kids like they mattered just as much, and that made me love him even more.
Clara was such a strong heroine. After everything she’d been through, seeing her slowly learn to trust again was emotional and so rewarding. She just wanted to keep her babies safe, and I was rooting for her from the very first page. Billie and Tommy completely stole every scene they were in. They made this story feel so real, and I adored every interaction they had with Cole.
The chemistry between Cole and Clara was amazing, but it was the emotional connection and the little family they built together that really made this book special. Every protective moment, every sweet scene with the kids, every time Cole showed up exactly when they needed him… my heart couldn’t take it.
There was plenty of suspense with the danger catching up to them, and I was on the edge of my seat wondering how everything would play out. It balanced perfectly with all the romance, heart, and small-town charm.
This book was everything I wanted in a cowboy romance. Protective cowboy, found family, single mum on the run, adorable kids, so much heart, and all the emotions. Cole, Clara, Billie, and Tommy are a family I’ll be thinking about for a long time.
Such an easy five stars. I adored every single page and honestly didn’t want to say goodbye to these characters!
I can not wait to see what happens next
August 6, 2026
ARC REVIEW
★★★★.5
Don't let this cute cover fool you, I was on the edge of my seat the entire time.
When a book says the MMC is "morally grey," I always wonder how morally grey they'll actually be... and this book definitely delivered. What surprised me even more was how suspenseful it was. From the first line, I was hooked as we were thrown straight into Clara's situation and everything that was at stake, creating an urgency that never really let up.
Cole completely won me over. We love a consent king. With everything Clara has been through, he was so attuned to her feelings, body language and emotional boundaries. He never pushed her physically or emotionally and always let her set the pace of the relationship. At the same time, he's fiercely protective and loves Clara and her children with everything he has. He'll do absolutely anything to keep them safe, even if his moral compass gets a little questionable. His choices aren't always "right," but you understand exactly why he makes them.
Clara was such a strong, resilient, and selfless FMC who never lost sight of what was most important to her: her children. Everything she does is for them, and despite the trauma she's endured, she never stops fighting to give them a better life, even when she's looking over her shoulder the entire time. Watching her make hard decisions and keep moving forward while doing whatever she could to keep her family safe made it impossible not to root for her.
The found family aspect was one of my favourite parts of the story. Seeing Clara and her kids go from constantly being on guard to having people who would stand beside and protect them was so heartwarming. I loved watching them slowly find comfort, build trust and open up to the people around them.
Overall, I was pleasantly surprised by how suspenseful and intense this book was, without taking away from the romance and cute moments, and still giving them a place to shine. This was such an enjoyable read, and I loved the journey it took me on! ❤︎
★★★★.5
Don't let this cute cover fool you, I was on the edge of my seat the entire time.
When a book says the MMC is "morally grey," I always wonder how morally grey they'll actually be... and this book definitely delivered. What surprised me even more was how suspenseful it was. From the first line, I was hooked as we were thrown straight into Clara's situation and everything that was at stake, creating an urgency that never really let up.
Cole completely won me over. We love a consent king. With everything Clara has been through, he was so attuned to her feelings, body language and emotional boundaries. He never pushed her physically or emotionally and always let her set the pace of the relationship. At the same time, he's fiercely protective and loves Clara and her children with everything he has. He'll do absolutely anything to keep them safe, even if his moral compass gets a little questionable. His choices aren't always "right," but you understand exactly why he makes them.
Clara was such a strong, resilient, and selfless FMC who never lost sight of what was most important to her: her children. Everything she does is for them, and despite the trauma she's endured, she never stops fighting to give them a better life, even when she's looking over her shoulder the entire time. Watching her make hard decisions and keep moving forward while doing whatever she could to keep her family safe made it impossible not to root for her.
The found family aspect was one of my favourite parts of the story. Seeing Clara and her kids go from constantly being on guard to having people who would stand beside and protect them was so heartwarming. I loved watching them slowly find comfort, build trust and open up to the people around them.
Overall, I was pleasantly surprised by how suspenseful and intense this book was, without taking away from the romance and cute moments, and still giving them a place to shine. This was such an enjoyable read, and I loved the journey it took me on! ❤︎
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