Daisy Lou Ramble seemingly has it all. A loving family, loyal friends and the ranch that has been in her family for generations. The only thing missing is a man. But she swore off cowboys for good after getting her heartbroken. That is until her dad hires a new ranch hand. An attractive, adorably charming cowboy who is exactly what she needs to piss off her cheating ex that just rolled back in to town to try and win her back.
Chase “Junior” Coleman is leaving his hometown, and all of its drama, behind for a new start. He didn’t realize this new start would include fake dating a beautiful cowgirl to fend off her stubborn ex but he happily agrees. Tensions are high, attraction is deep and the lines of what is real and fake quickly blur. Can he finally find the home he has always wanted in Rmable Ranch or will his past catch up to him before he can settle in?
✨ ARC Review ✨ 📖 Title: Just My Buckin’ Luck 🤠 Author: Lia Duchaine 📅 Release Date: June 2, 2026 ✨ About the Book ✨ Daisy Lou Ramble has everything she could ever want—except love. After a painful betrayal, she’s sworn off cowboys for good. But when her ex suddenly reappears and a charming new ranch hand enters the picture, she finds herself agreeing to a fake relationship that may not stay fake for long. Chase “Junior” Coleman arrives in Oak Ridge looking for a fresh start and a chance to leave his past behind. Falling for a stubborn, beautiful cowgirl was definitely not part of the plan. As their fake dating arrangement begins to feel a little too real, both Daisy Lou and Chase must decide whether they’re willing to risk their hearts for something genuine. ✨ My Thoughts ✨ This was my first book by Lia Duchaine, and it definitely won’t be my last! From the small-town charm to the ranch setting and lovable characters, this story completely pulled me in. Daisy Lou and Chase had such an easy chemistry together, and I loved watching their relationship develop from a simple arrangement into something deeper. Chase was sweet, dependable, and impossible not to fall for, while Daisy Lou’s strength and vulnerability made her easy to root for. The fake dating trope was done so well, and the witty banter, found family moments, and cozy cowboy romance vibes kept me smiling the entire time. Oak Ridge felt like a place I’d love to visit, and the supporting cast only added to the charm.
Read if you’re a fan of: 🤎 Cowboy/Ranch Romances 🐴 Fake dating 🤎 Small Town 🐴 Closed Door 🤎 Found Family 🐴 Witty Banter
You’ll want to add this one to your TBR immediately. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A sweet, swoony, and heartwarming romance that left me wanting more.
This book was just a lot of not enough…. If that makes sense.
There wasn’t too much of a storyline. The characters had no depth and that made no connection for me to them.
Chase/Junior moves to a new town and becomes a helper on the ranch. He befriends the ranchers daughter, Daisy. She has a crazy boyfriend and asks junior to be her “fake boyfriend” to throw off her ex. He agrees and of course things go off script…. But really nothing else happens. I was waiting for an epic moment these two become real and it doesn’t even happen on the pages! They are flirty/friendly and the next thing the page opens up to “I wake up in juniors arms”. I am not a spicy type reader but I would have loved description of them kissing or whatever. Not just them waking up the next day. I thought I missed some pages but I didn’t!!
Also the end wraps up so quickly with a weird storyline. The author is obviously using the side characters for their own books in the series. A lot of set up going on
Aside from not enough details, the author does have a lot of potential and the writing wasn’t bad. I just needed more!! Unfortunately this book was not for me.
Thank you to Lia Duchaine for sending me this book for my honest review. This is my first book by Lia Duchaine but it won't be my last. I had such a great time with this book and did not want to put it down! Something I really appreciated is that even though this is a shorter book, the characters and romance still felt so fleshed out and developed!
I liked that both Daisy and Junior were struggling with life challenges, but were able to lean on each other and realize that they are enough and their past does not define their future. If you like fake dating tropes that turn real quickly, then this is the one for you, as it did not take long for Daisy and Juniors' feelings for each other to turn from friendship to a relationship, but I loved it! Also, the way that Junior stood up for and tried to protect Daisy (even though she is strong and could handle herself) from her ex, who won't leave her alone, had me swooning.
If you are looking for a new cowboy romance with a series that has so much potential, because I loved the friends in this story as well, so I can't wait to see who book two focuses on, then The Buckin' Series is the one for you!
The CUTEST small town romance for the summer. I am so grateful I read this book. I've been really sad and needed something to help keep my mind off of things and to help me feel more positive. This book was perfect for that. I loved Daisy, the main character so much. She is so strong and admirable. The found family vibes were incredible for the MMC. The romance was great and so was the drama! I'm so impressed!
This was such a sweet and enjoyable read! I loved getting to know Daisy and Junior and watching their relationship grow from a fake dating arrangement into something much deeper. The banter was fun, and the emotional connections between the characters really made this story shine. Junior was such a lovable MMC, and I appreciated how much heart was woven into both his and Daisy’s journeys. One thing I especially loved was that the romance relied on emotional intimacy rather than spice, which made their relationship feel even more meaningful.
Just my buckin' Luck by Lia Duchaine is a beautifully written small town cowboy romance. Daisy and junior, the main leads had this natural chemistry and setting of Ranch was portrayed really well.The plot and narration kept me hooked and I loved reading the cozy atmosphere of Oak ridge.
The trope of Fake dating was really interesting and I enjoyed reading about all the events in the small town. The romance of Daisy and junior was amazing to read and the deep love between them can melt your heart.The tight knit bond of Daisy's family and how they had such healthy relationship among them was heartwarming.
The character of Daisy was loving, caring and selfless. I truly adored her bond with her parents.At times I felt emotional reading their scenes. At the same time, it was heartbreaking to read the backstory of Junior but I loved the way he was accepted by Daisy's family and he truly found his home with her. Their relationship was easy going where they both understood each other and were always there for each other.
The character of Patrick was written so well that I truly hated him and he annoyed me a lot.
The whole gang, Austin, Bella, Jackson , toby were amazing and their friendship truly touched my heart. I want to read the story of Austin and Bella,I am really invested in their story. Jackson was my favorite side character. The setting of Ranch and the way daisy and junior loved their horses was really adorable. The nicknames they gave to each other 'Wildflower' and 'cowboy' was really cute.
Overall I did enjoy reading this story a lot and I would highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys cowboy romance.😊
There's something so comforting about a small-town cowboy romance, and Just My Buckin' Luck reminded me exactly why I keep coming back to them.
What starts as a fake dating arrangement to get an ex off Daisy Lou's back quickly grows into something much deeper. The romance unfolds naturally, with plenty of sweet moments, playful banter, and undeniable chemistry between Daisy and Chase. I loved that their relationship wasn't built on instant declarations of love—it grew through trust, shared experiences, and simply enjoying each other's company.
Daisy is a heroine who knows her worth, even if heartbreak has made her cautious. Watching her slowly lower her guard was one of my favorite parts of the story. Chase, on the other hand, is exactly the kind of cowboy hero that's hard not to fall for. He's kind, dependable, and searching for a place where he truly belongs. His genuine care for Daisy made every romantic moment feel earned.
The ranch setting added so much charm to the story. It felt like more than just a backdrop—it became part of the characters' lives and gave the book a warm, cozy atmosphere that made me want to stay there a little longer. The close-knit community, family dynamics, and everyday ranch life balanced the romance beautifully.
Of course, no fake dating romance would be complete without plenty of moments where the line between pretending and reality starts to disappear. Those scenes were some of my favorites because they captured all the uncertainty, hope, and excitement that make this trope so enjoyable.
If you're looking for a romance that's equal parts heartwarming, funny, and swoony, Just My Buckin' Luck delivers. It's filled with lovable characters, a hero worth rooting for, and a romance that leaves you smiling long after the final page.
I can't wait to see what Lia Duchaine writes next. 🤠💕
Title: Just My Buckin’ Luck Author: @liaduchaineauthor PUB: 06/02/26
✨The Book🐴
Daisy Lou Ramble seemingly has it all. A loving family, loyal friends and the ranch that has been in her family for generations. The only thing missing is a man. But she swore off cowboys for good after getting her heartbroken. That is until her dad hires a new ranch hand. An attractive, adorably charming cowboy who is exactly what she needs to piss off her cheating ex that just rolled back into town to try and win her back. Chase “Junior” Coleman is leaving his hometown, and all of its drama behind for a new start. He didn’t realize this new start would include fake dating a beautiful cowgirl to fend off her stubborn ex but he happily agrees. Tensions are high, attraction is deep and the lines of what is real and fake quickly blur. Can he finally find the home he has always wanted in the little town of Oak Ridge at Ramble Ranch or will his past catch up to him before he can settle in?
✨My Thoughts 💭:
This marks my 3rd @liaduchaineauthor read, and she’s still flawless! Having loved 2 of her previous books, I can confidently say that Just My Buckin’ Luck proves that Lia is incredibly consistent. An incredible debut Cowboy Romance!
I fell hard for Daisy’s and Junior’s characters and deeply felt their struggles. The character depth and realistic conflicts made this an unforgettable read!
@liaduchaineauthor thank you for making Daisy and Junior part of my Cowboy Romance era✨🫶🏼
If you like a small town cowboy romance and fake dating look no further than Just My Buckin’ Luck
What a cute RomCom! The story of Daisy and Junior is a quick and easy read. I read this in less than 48 hours. I loved their instant spark, the fake dating, and the witty banter.
I thoroughly enjoyed Daisy’s friends and family. The scene on the anniversary was incredibly moving. I think a lot of readers can relate to the wisdom Daisy’s Mom gives her.
Junior is such a great MMC. He has the “you touch her, you die” attitude while being a softy at heart too. He’s been through a lot and it’s so great seeing him find a family and group of friends who gladly welcome him.
I couldn’t stand Parker and Lia wrote him so well because you really dislike him. Haha. I loved Jackson, Bella is a hoot, Daisy’s twin brother - Austin, and the rest of the crew. This is the first in The Buckin’ Series and I’m looking forward to more from this group!!!
This is a great read for those who love: Quick and easy reads Wit and banter He protects her Fake dating Found family Tight friend group Rodeos, Roping, Horse Racing Horses Farms Small town romance
There’s mild language and fade to black intimacy. For closed door modifications, I noted Chapters 29 and 34 as ones to note for spice.
I received an ARC of this book. All opinions and comments are my own.
This is such a fun cowboy romance! Daisy & Junior are both super likable and easy to connect with. After a horrible home life Junior heads off to work at a ranch in a nearby town. He has a fast connection with Daisy, the daughter who is running the ranch with her Dad. They begin fake dating after her ex comes back to town and chemistry quickly has other plans. The characters in this story are easy to “get to know” and each friend in the friend group has a unique role and they all have such a great connection. The family bonds and close knit friendships are my favorite things about this story. Well and the part where karma comes to find the jerks in the story too. I also love that Junior is able to experience acceptance, love and family that he only had a taste of when his Grandparents were still alive. I was selected to receive an advanced copy of this book, however this review is all my opinions. I enjoy leaving reviews as it helps me remember what the book was about since I read so many annually. Thank you Liz for this opportunity to be among the first readers to read Daisy and Junior’s story.
For this being the first book of hers I have read, it wasn’t bad! I really enjoyed this book! I was surprised with how things went down in this book. Some of the things that happened were wild.
Junior. Man that poor dude, he had to grow up so fast unfortunately because of his mom and brother. The way he loved Daisy so easily even though he was never loved in that way was great to see. Junior was the best man for Daisy. He helped her learn things about herself and helped her see that she was more than what Parker saw her for. He didn’t deserve the stuff that Parker and his family was doing to him.
Daisy. She is such a hard worker and I understand why she thought she needed to be there after her mom’s accident. I know she thought it was her responsibility to make things easier for her parents after that but she was putting too much pressure on herself. I love that Junior helped her see things differently. Daisy also didn’t deserve what Parker did to her family’s farm and everything.
This is my third book that I read from her and it does not disappoint. I really enjoyed and love the other two books and this one as well. This was her first cowboy Romance and I think she did a great job. I love me a good cowboy Romance and I’m excited to see where the series goes. I really enjoyed getting to know the characters and their struggles. I think being able to see the struggles is what makes me appreciate and love them so much. This book was a fun read with great banter. Of course there’s always gonna be one character that you just wanna punch, but you needed to add to the story. What I appreciate about Lia‘s books is that the spice it’s very closed door. Usually some cowboy romance the spice is very out there, but it wasn’t needed in this book. I think Lia‘s book having the closed door spice just makes their emotional connection stronger not everybody needs spice to be on the page and she really execute it well. That being said the two main characters, Daisy and Junior I love them. If you’re a fan of fake dating, she’s his boss, small town, cute banter then this is the book for you.
There’s just something about a cowboy romance set on a ranch that feels like coming home 🤎
This book was cute, dramatic, flirty, and honestly just really easy to binge. The chemistry between Daisy Lou and Chase was there right from the start, and I loved the whole “pretend relationship that starts feeling a little too real” situation.
Chase “Junior” Coleman was honestly such an easy cowboy book boyfriend to fall for — sweet, dependable, charming, and exactly what Daisy Lou needed after her heartbreak. And honestly… a charming cowboy ranch hand helping her make her cheating ex jealous? Immediate yes from me 🤠
The ranch setting made everything feel warm and immersive, and the chemistry between Daisy Lou and Chase kept me hooked the whole time.
If you love fake dating, cowboy romances, small-town settings, and tension-filled relationships with heart, this one is definitely worth picking up ✨
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
A swoony cowboy-cowgirl romance, with a southern ranch handled by our girl, Daisy lou and Junior, a ranch hand, in an attempt to find a new start, started working together and vow to NEVER fall in love with each other, but you know, this might NOT be the case!
Our FC is a fantastic independent girl, who know how to handle men and even how to make them work!! Our ML is a trustworthy , responsible guy that,for once, chose himself over the responsibilities!!
What happens when they started fake dating in order to get rid of her problems, but slowly, found out that this might be more!!
A solid 3.5 ⭐ for me
why not 5: The story was kinda predictable, and typical. I'm most happy for all the characters working out but seems superficial and somewhat lacks depth. A good backstory for both the leads but it seems that the CONNECTION between them felt rushed.
I was hoping to feel a good connection with them, but lacks in that department.
I love a good cowboy romance, and Just My Buckin’ Luck did not disappoint! From the very beginning, I became invested not only in the main characters but also in the wonderful cast of side characters. Daisy is surrounded by a close-knit group of friends and family, and I can easily see their stories turning into future books that I’d happily read.
Both Daisy and Junior are carrying guilt and past trauma, and I loved watching them find comfort, healing, and strength in one another. Their journey felt heartfelt, and I found myself rooting for them every step of the way. Seeing them grow individually while helping each other move forward is what made me fall in love with this story.
If you enjoy closed-door romance, witty banter, lovable side characters, and a MMC and FMC who discover themselves through love and personal growth, then Just My Buckin’ Luck is definitely a book worth picking up.
"Just My Buckin' Luck" is a cute contemporary rom-com featuring strong FMC Daisy and loyal MMC Junior. Daisy helps run her family's ranch, and when they hire a much-needed ranch hand helper, Junior comes on board. There's a fun meet cute, don't worry, and the two have mutual respect for one another and their jobs.
Junior's got family baggage, but he's trying for a fresh start in a new town. Daisy has relationship baggage, and she's trying to move on from a rotten ex.
Events come together and before we know it, Daisy and Junior have decided to try fake dating, with the trope's classic and beloved caveat: don't fall in love. Challenge accepted! :) We know where that's going!
There's delightful banter, a great friends' group, a little bit of suspense, and of course a happy ending.
And don't forget the playlist filled with country songs perfectly fitting the vibes!
Tropes: cowboy romance, fake dating, closed door, emotional baggage, ex drama
I love me a cowboy romance and this one hit it for me. This book gave me the emotional depth that I get from Lia Duchaine's books. The plot grabbed me from the beginning and held my attention throughout. One thing to know about her books is that the banter is going to be there and was it! I loved the fake dating trope in this one and how they were attracted to each other but also were trying not to do anything. This closed-door romance was cute and sweet. It had me laughing and crying and I loved every moment.
Something I did not quite expect was that not only was the character development was strong and solid, but then there was twist that came up closer to the end. This is a book that you can read in one sitting. This is a shorter read for those who like them short and sweet. I cant wait to see what the next book in this series brings.
Thank you Lia Duchaine for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This is a true romance book with love, heartbreak, drama, and reinvention. The spice wasn’t high but it was tasteful and the perfect amount for this duo.
The book follows Daisy and Junior. Daisy, owner of her family ranch who has a broken heart, and Junior, someone who needs to escape.
They complemented each other so perfectly! I absolutely loved Daisy and her badass energy! She’s definitely not someone to mess with, and I was obsessed with that storyline. And Junior… what an absolute gentleman. I was swooning over him the entire time 🤤 Daisy’s parents were so sweet, and so was her gang of friends. Just… everything… It was perfect.
If you love a found family cowboy romance, look no further, THIS IS IT!!!
I had so much fun reading this one! As a lover of cowboy ranch romances, this book was right up my alley and I absolutely ate it up.
The found family in this story was everything. The ranch crew completely stole my heart, and I loved being part of their world. Daisy Lou and Junior’s romance was incredibly sweet. Their chemistry was there from the very beginning, but what really made their relationship shine was the perfect balance of banter, longing, and tension. Add in a fake dating trope, and it was the ideal combination of so many of my favorite romance elements.
This was such a fun, feel good read that had me smiling the whole way through. Huge thank you to the author for the opportunity to read and review this ARC!
“You don’t have to go off and fight battles on your own anymore.”
When I read that line I melted. 🫠Honestly, this was the perfect palate cleanser after some intense emotional reads. Just My Buckin’ Luck is such a feel good cowboy romance and I ATE IT UP! The main characters are so easy to love. Daisy’s family and friends are so sweet and funny. Oh, and the banter?! I was cracking up. 😂 If you are looking for a fun cowboy romance with found family, fake dating, forced proximity in a small town pick this up!
Junior is the sweetest, hard working cowboy born into unfortunate circumstances. Daisy is a feisty, loyal, and stubborn woman who heads the operation for her family’s ranch. When Junior takes the position as her newest ranch hand the attraction is undeniable. Then when her ex-boyfriend shows up she asks Junior to be her fake boyfriend. Sparks fly. What’s real and what’s not?
Thank you Lia for this arc. This is my honest review.
I really was so surprised that I loved this book this much! I’ve tried several cowboy romance books but they were just ok but this one just hit different! The MMC - Junior (not my favourite name) was such a beautiful soul and he and our FMC - Daisy 🌼 just made my heart skip a little! The way he helped her through the guilt she carried and her self-worth that was shot after a bad relationship was beautiful! In return the way her family just welcomed him into a home life he needed so much! Urgh!! Loved it! Their friend-group had me salivating for the next book!! I really cannot wait for the next instalment!!📕 Thank you Lia Duchaine for entrusting me with this arc in return for an honest review!
Some of my all time fav tropes: Fake Dating, Forced Proximity, Found Family, and Witty Banter!
This is my first cowboy romance and let me tell ya! Daisy and Junior are to die for! The chemistry between these two is just unreal! I was laughing, crying, kicking my feet squeeling. I absolutely love their story and how it ended! Junior is so easy to love instantly, a man that feels lost but finds his way in a new town with an amazing family and friends. And Miss firecracker feisty Daisy Lou who runs and manages her family ranch and isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty and can make a grown man cower in fear🤣🙌🏻 we love her!
If you love characters that you feel connected too, small town romances, and a little fake dating then this one is for you!!
I have not read a cowboy/girl romance before but as soon as i read the first sentence “love is so f***ing stupid.” I knew it was going to be good. This book did not disappoint! I loved the individual struggles and strength to overcome them that the reader got to see from the MCs. This book was about more than finding love, it was about finding oneself.
The banter in this is amazing and got me laughing a few times. All of the characters in the found family that Junior stumbled upon are genuine and kind hearted. This book had me in all the feels.
This was the first book I read from the author but I will be reading more from her! Her writing is well put together and her story was lighthearted and easy to follow along.
*Recieved an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review
I really enjoyed this story. It flowed at a quick pace but allowed you to get to know the characters well.
The banter between all the characters was great. You can see the connection and the care they all have for one another. Daisy and Junior’s relationship moves fast and you get to know them as they learn about one another.
Yes this starts as a fake relationship but turns into found family.
There were minor edits needed that I’m sure will be fixed before the official release.
This would be a great summer read that I would recommend.
Absolutely enjoyed and LOVEd every page of Just my Buckin' Luck! I love cowboy romances but love even more when the FMC is a tough cowgirl who can give all the boys a run for their money - and Daisy Lou does just that! I didn't want to put this book down and stayed up entirely too late too many nights. I'm so glad that Junior, our MMC, saw the error in his ways QUICKLY after the conflict occurs (no spoilers here) and so glad this wasn't drawn out. I really loved the entire Ramble Ranch and Ramble family and cannot wait to continue reading stories in this series - I'm pretty sure we know who the next couple is and I am SO EXCITED for their story!
"Hell if I wouldn't do just about anything to see that smile every day."
Junior is the epitome of book boyfriend. He is perfection even with his sad history and what he sees as flaws. I. Loved. Him.
Daisy Lou was such a fierce FMC that took too much on her own shoulders. Also she is 1000% blind to Austin and Bella. 🤣
This is a yummy slow burn closed door (kissing and the rest is fade to black) with the most thoughtful yummy cowboy and his wildflower. Throw in a cheating psycho ex, horrible family members that stir up trouble, and the found family that has Ramble Ranch's back, and you've got a bingeworthy read on your hands.
This book was such a good time. I actually read this book in one sitting - I couldn’t put it down. Fake dating is one of my favorite tropes so this was a good read for me.
I love a strong FMC and Lou didn’t disappoint. At first I wasn’t sure about her, but the more I read I enjoyed her strong personality.
Junior - I loved his character so much. I really like that he didn’t let his background turn him into a grumpy, moody and broody character.
Fake dating is always a good time especially when the two characters are already into each other. It makes for a fun dynamic.
Highly recommend I’d you’re looking for a quick fun fake dating cowboy romance.
I was lucky enough to be part of the ARC team to read this book before its release, and below are my honest thoughts!.
Rating: 4 🌟
Review: oh my lanta 🥹 Lou snd JR sitting in a tree KISSING not really but this was one of the sweetest most wholesome small town books I’ve read in a minute 🤌🏼 this is such a good “pick me up” book or if you need a cute little “feel good” book. I loved every single character in this (minus Parker) and I hope there’s more books to come because I need the tea on some of these “side” characters 😏😏
Dislikes: I need the tea on Bella & Austin and the fact I have to wait is down right rude 🙃