Ironwood Ranch

by Sunday J. Wilder

Jovie Leonard thought she was getting her happily ever after.
Instead, she got a text message.

Days before her wedding, Jovie discovers her fiancé has been cheating on her for months. Heartbroken and desperate to escape, she heads to Montana hoping distance will help her find herself again.

What she finds is Ironwood Ranch.
And Carter Duke.

A gruff ranch owner with a guarded heart, Carter has no interest in saving another broken woman. But when Jovie forms an unexpected bond with Marley, the ranch's most stubborn rescue horse, staying away from her becomes harder than either of them expected.

Under Montana skies and surrounded by a town that feels more like home than anywhere she's ever known, Jovie must decide whether she's willing to let go of the life she planned for the life she's always deserved.

Ironwood Ranch is a heartfelt contemporary western romance filled with emotional healing, found family, unforgettable chemistry, and a guaranteed happily ever after.

Perfect for readers who love:
• Small-town romance
• Cowboys and ranch life
• Emotional healing journeys
• Found family
• Slow-burn tension
• Protective MMC
• Guaranteed happily ever afters

Genres: Cowboy Romance

262 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 4, 2026

About the author

Hi, I’m Sunday.

I’m a romance author, twin mom, firefighter’s wife, and lifelong believer that the best love stories aren’t about perfection—they’re about finding the person who feels like home.

I write contemporary romance full of heart, humor, emotional tension, and characters who spend far too long pretending they don’t belong together.

If you love small towns, yearning, found family, road trips, cowboys, football players, and men absolutely obsessed with their women, you’re in the right place.

When I’m not writing, you’ll find me chasing twins, drinking coffee that’s gone cold three times, and dreaming up new stories from Red Hollow, Montana.

Thanks for being here. I hope you find a story that feels like home.

Follow my author journey on Instagram @sundayjwilderwrites

Reviews

[Sunday Wilder · Rating 5 out of 5]

i can’t believe carter duke had the audacity to exist only in my head before this.

rude, honestly. thankfully i fixed the problem.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love how fast the story hooks you and does not stop. I read this in day and was ready for more! The relationships and friendships were so well done. There was humor, trust and fun banter. Just good vibes and they all felt like people I’d want to hang out with in real life.

There was definitely a lot of longing and tension, and having both the POV of Jovie and Carter was really enjoyable to see what one another is thinking. It was so refreshing to see a romance where the main characters actually communicate when there are conflicts.

Also, I love a book where you can see the potential sequels, and this is definitely one of those. Excited to see what comes next on Ironwood Ranch!

[Alyssa Snyder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ironwood Ranch is a remarkable debut novel written by Sunday J. Wilder! The slow-burn small town romance is set in wild Montana (with horses!!!), where the dynamic between a rugged cowboy and a sophisticated city girl creates irresistible tension. The personal and emotional connection I had with the main characters, Carter and Jovie, made me love them even more. Their struggles and triumphs resonated deeply with me, making me invested in their journey as they seek healing, true love, and the strength to trust again.

[Hayley smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This romantic country novel is a sweet and heartfelt read that captures the warmth of small-town life. The story brings the countryside to life with a cozy, welcoming feel and a gentle romance at its center. It’s an easy, comforting read that leaves you feeling hopeful—perfect for anyone who loves a simple love story in a country setting.

[Michelle Swanwick · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Dramatic Romance Story

I found this book to be a
creative story with interesting characters and filled with passion.

It is woven with the inspiration from classical romance styles, and the author was able to portray a very emotional core.

Those who enjoy a bolder, more dramatic romance might really connect with the author’s writing style and passion.

[Britney Chavez · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a lovely and beautiful wholesome love story between two people who have been hurt and broken from previous relationships.

Carter and Jovie were definitely meant to be.

Now I need to read Jace and Mae’s book, just know that one is going be such a fun book to read!

[olivia · Rating 4 out of 5]

a sweet cowboy romance

[Sidney Yates · Rating 5 out of 5]

10/10

this book was so freaking good. definitely had me in a hook, line, and sinker! already can’t wait to read the next! so proud of you 🫶🏼

[Alex Z Ellis · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute but very middle of the pack for me