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The Bunkhouse #4
Down in Flames
The man I’ve agreed to marry is perfect on paper.
He’s sweet. The ring fits. My dad hasn’t threatened to castrate him.
What more could a girl want?
Now that I’m back in West Texas, I have everything I need—a veterinary degree, a closer relationship with my dad, and high hopes that my new engagement will heal old wounds.
All that’s left is learning to live with the truth that some things are better left behind.
Slamming the door on my past doesn’t mean it won’t come knocking, though. Heston Landry pounds his brutish fist on it every chance he gets.
I never thought our whirlwind of passionate obsession would come crashing down. But somehow, I left with my heart still in Heston’s hands on that ranch two summers ago. Loving him was intoxicating and brutal. Losing him was something I didn’t think I’d survive.
He was a master of quiet restraint, and I refused to chase after a stubborn cowboy. Silence stretched into years of no contact, and I thought he’d moved on.
That assumption could not have been more wrong.
Each time our paths cross, I sense a dangerous unraveling. If I don’t walk away soon, chasing closure might be the most reckless mistake I’ve ever made.
I’m crossing my fingers that the chips will fall, preferably softly, where they may.
But Heston is down to his last cigarette, and the look in his eye promises anything but surrender.
This was never going to end quietly.
Down in Flames is a second chance cowboy romance novel and the fourth and final book in Lainey Lawson’s series, The Bunkhouse.
He’s sweet. The ring fits. My dad hasn’t threatened to castrate him.
What more could a girl want?
Now that I’m back in West Texas, I have everything I need—a veterinary degree, a closer relationship with my dad, and high hopes that my new engagement will heal old wounds.
All that’s left is learning to live with the truth that some things are better left behind.
Slamming the door on my past doesn’t mean it won’t come knocking, though. Heston Landry pounds his brutish fist on it every chance he gets.
I never thought our whirlwind of passionate obsession would come crashing down. But somehow, I left with my heart still in Heston’s hands on that ranch two summers ago. Loving him was intoxicating and brutal. Losing him was something I didn’t think I’d survive.
He was a master of quiet restraint, and I refused to chase after a stubborn cowboy. Silence stretched into years of no contact, and I thought he’d moved on.
That assumption could not have been more wrong.
Each time our paths cross, I sense a dangerous unraveling. If I don’t walk away soon, chasing closure might be the most reckless mistake I’ve ever made.
I’m crossing my fingers that the chips will fall, preferably softly, where they may.
But Heston is down to his last cigarette, and the look in his eye promises anything but surrender.
This was never going to end quietly.
Down in Flames is a second chance cowboy romance novel and the fourth and final book in Lainey Lawson’s series, The Bunkhouse.
392 pages, Paperback
Published April 28, 2026
About the author
Lainey Lawson
6 books428 followersLainey Lawson is a romance author living in a small southern town with her two kids and husband of ten years. She writes rural setting love stories, usually with a flair of suspense, and always with heartwarming found family and friendship.
Follow Lainey on her Amazon author page, Instagram @laineylawsonromance, and check out her website and newsletter to stay up to date on new releases!
Follow Lainey on her Amazon author page, Instagram @laineylawsonromance, and check out her website and newsletter to stay up to date on new releases!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
April 29, 2026
Ok Lainey Lawson, that thing you did at 90%… not cool 😭😭😭
The bunkhouse boys have come to an end.
Our last big quiet cowboy, Heston, bites the dust.
Rancher & ex steer wrestler
Saved my favorite type of MMC for last.
Former bad boy
He’s always loved her
Hattie Jo
She’s a vet
And a true blue cowgirl
She’s a little younger
Daddy’s girl
Second chance x they dated
She’s engaged now
There’s some suspense aspects and these cowboys aren’t afraid of a little gray.
Such a solid cowboy romance.
Actual cowboys!
Arc review ✨
The bunkhouse boys have come to an end.
Our last big quiet cowboy, Heston, bites the dust.
Rancher & ex steer wrestler
Saved my favorite type of MMC for last.
Former bad boy
He’s always loved her
Hattie Jo
She’s a vet
And a true blue cowgirl
She’s a little younger
Daddy’s girl
Second chance x they dated
She’s engaged now
There’s some suspense aspects and these cowboys aren’t afraid of a little gray.
Such a solid cowboy romance.
Actual cowboys!
Arc review ✨
May 8, 2026
I really wanted to connect with Down in Flames, especially with the emotional setup of a second-chance cowboy romance set in West Texas 🤠🔥. The story followed a woman returning home with a veterinary degree, a “perfect” fiancé, and hopes of finally moving on from the heartbreak Heston Landry left behind years ago. Their past relationship was supposed to feel messy, passionate, and impossible to forget… but unfortunately, the execution just didn’t work for me.
The biggest issue was how disconnected the chapters felt 😔. Moments that seemed important would happen, and then they were barely acknowledged afterward. It constantly felt like pieces of the story were missing, which made it hard to stay emotionally invested.
I also struggled a lot with the dual POV format. There were multiple times where I genuinely couldn’t tell who was narrating 🥲. I kept having to flip back and reread sections just to understand the context of conversations or scenes, and after a while it became exhausting instead of enjoyable.
The chemistry between the characters had potential, and I could see what the story was aiming for with the angst, unresolved feelings, and explosive reconnection ❤️🔥🚬. But because I felt so lost while reading, I never fully connected to Heston or the romance itself.
✨ Tropes & vibes:
🤠 Second chance romance
🔥 Cowboy romance
💔 Lost love & unresolved feelings
🚬 Broody cowboy hero
🏡 Small town / ranch setting
⚡ Emotional angst
💍 Engagement complications
This might work better for readers who enjoy messy, dramatic second-chance romances with emotionally intense cowboy vibes. Unfortunately, this one just wasn’t for me.
Thank you to Lainey Lawson and Beyond The Books for the ARC opportunity.
The biggest issue was how disconnected the chapters felt 😔. Moments that seemed important would happen, and then they were barely acknowledged afterward. It constantly felt like pieces of the story were missing, which made it hard to stay emotionally invested.
I also struggled a lot with the dual POV format. There were multiple times where I genuinely couldn’t tell who was narrating 🥲. I kept having to flip back and reread sections just to understand the context of conversations or scenes, and after a while it became exhausting instead of enjoyable.
The chemistry between the characters had potential, and I could see what the story was aiming for with the angst, unresolved feelings, and explosive reconnection ❤️🔥🚬. But because I felt so lost while reading, I never fully connected to Heston or the romance itself.
✨ Tropes & vibes:
🤠 Second chance romance
🔥 Cowboy romance
💔 Lost love & unresolved feelings
🚬 Broody cowboy hero
🏡 Small town / ranch setting
⚡ Emotional angst
💍 Engagement complications
This might work better for readers who enjoy messy, dramatic second-chance romances with emotionally intense cowboy vibes. Unfortunately, this one just wasn’t for me.
Thank you to Lainey Lawson and Beyond The Books for the ARC opportunity.
May 5, 2026
4.5⭐️!
I was lucky enough to receive a copy of this through Beyond the Books PR and I am so happy because I LOVED this book!
It was definitely my favourite of the series and I really enjoyed finding out the backstory and history of Heston and Hattie after the suspense of not knowing details from the first 3 books!
I adore a second chance romance anyway and I think this one was so well done I did feel more connected to the characters in this book than I did to the couples in the first few books so I think that’s why it is my favourite and I’m so glad that Heston and Hattie got their second chance🥹
Special mention to Granger as well who quickly became one of the best characters in my opinion 😍
Sad that this series is now over but I’m glad that it ended on a high!
P.S. the covers of these books are SO cute and some of my favourite romance covers ever
I was lucky enough to receive a copy of this through Beyond the Books PR and I am so happy because I LOVED this book!
It was definitely my favourite of the series and I really enjoyed finding out the backstory and history of Heston and Hattie after the suspense of not knowing details from the first 3 books!
I adore a second chance romance anyway and I think this one was so well done I did feel more connected to the characters in this book than I did to the couples in the first few books so I think that’s why it is my favourite and I’m so glad that Heston and Hattie got their second chance🥹
Special mention to Granger as well who quickly became one of the best characters in my opinion 😍
Sad that this series is now over but I’m glad that it ended on a high!
P.S. the covers of these books are SO cute and some of my favourite romance covers ever
May 10, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
It’s the end of the Bunkhouse 😭 literally and that wasn’t cool.
The yearning Heston did for Hattie when they weren't even together made me want to scream into my pillow every night. The struggles of Heston not being able to express his thoughts & feelings to Hattie & overcoming those struggles melted my heart.
Tropes:
✨Veterinarian X Cowboy
✨Second Chance
✨Small Town
✨Grumpy MMC
I highly recommend this whole series so please read it 🫶🏼🤍
It’s the end of the Bunkhouse 😭 literally and that wasn’t cool.
The yearning Heston did for Hattie when they weren't even together made me want to scream into my pillow every night. The struggles of Heston not being able to express his thoughts & feelings to Hattie & overcoming those struggles melted my heart.
Tropes:
✨Veterinarian X Cowboy
✨Second Chance
✨Small Town
✨Grumpy MMC
I highly recommend this whole series so please read it 🫶🏼🤍
April 28, 2026
I am so so lucky to have been sent an advanced copy of Down in Flames by Lainey Lawson
thanks to Beyond The Books PR
What an amazing ending to one of my favourite series - the most perfect second chance, small town romance ever 😩😩
Hattie & Heston deserve the WORLD, fact ✔️ The story is set between both of their perspectives and across a dual timeline of then/now and it worked seamlessly. It was devastatingly beautiful!
This is everything I could want in a cowboy romance and I’m so sad that this is potentially the end of the bunkhouse series🥺🥺
If you havent read this series - you have to!!! KU Girlies, no excuses!!!!☺️
thanks to Beyond The Books PR
What an amazing ending to one of my favourite series - the most perfect second chance, small town romance ever 😩😩
Hattie & Heston deserve the WORLD, fact ✔️ The story is set between both of their perspectives and across a dual timeline of then/now and it worked seamlessly. It was devastatingly beautiful!
This is everything I could want in a cowboy romance and I’m so sad that this is potentially the end of the bunkhouse series🥺🥺
If you havent read this series - you have to!!! KU Girlies, no excuses!!!!☺️
May 23, 2026
I liked Heston and Hattie a lot, but I felt like they were underdeveloped. The conflict, although usually a bit wild in this series, seemed really weak with the "fiance."
April 29, 2026
Thank you Lainey Lawson + Beyond The Books PR for my copy of Down In Flames. 🤍 I received this book for review, all opinions are my own and given freely.
Let me start by saying, I never want to leave The Bunkhouse. 😭 This entire series has a permanent spot in my heart.. + hopefully my shelf soon. The way I’ve loved this series! Lainey’s writing is so comforting to me. Every book draws me in and I find the characters so relatable and down right lovable. Truly unforgettable really. If I could jump into any fictional space, it would be this one. I want to be a part of their girl gang!! The found family trope is done so well in this series. If any book could wrap you in a warm hug, it would be Lainey’s.
Down In Flames is the book I’ve been anticipating since the beginning actually! Something about Heston has always caught my attention and boyyyyy what a ride this book took me on. I wasn’t sure about Hattie up until I heard her side (as things typically go) but oh my word. I love this girl. These two main characters could not be more perfect for one another. I love Heston so, so much and Hattie is truly his match. My heart broke and burst throughout this book, I felt so many emotions and loved every single second.
I know this series will be a top re-read for me continuously. I love Lainey so much + can’t wait to see what’s next for her!! Down In Flames is infinity starts for me, as is the rest of this series. ♾️⭐️
Down In Flames releases 04/29.
Let me start by saying, I never want to leave The Bunkhouse. 😭 This entire series has a permanent spot in my heart.. + hopefully my shelf soon. The way I’ve loved this series! Lainey’s writing is so comforting to me. Every book draws me in and I find the characters so relatable and down right lovable. Truly unforgettable really. If I could jump into any fictional space, it would be this one. I want to be a part of their girl gang!! The found family trope is done so well in this series. If any book could wrap you in a warm hug, it would be Lainey’s.
Down In Flames is the book I’ve been anticipating since the beginning actually! Something about Heston has always caught my attention and boyyyyy what a ride this book took me on. I wasn’t sure about Hattie up until I heard her side (as things typically go) but oh my word. I love this girl. These two main characters could not be more perfect for one another. I love Heston so, so much and Hattie is truly his match. My heart broke and burst throughout this book, I felt so many emotions and loved every single second.
I know this series will be a top re-read for me continuously. I love Lainey so much + can’t wait to see what’s next for her!! Down In Flames is infinity starts for me, as is the rest of this series. ♾️⭐️
Down In Flames releases 04/29.
April 25, 2026
What to Expect:
- cowboy x veterinarian
- second chance
- small town
- "it's always been you"
- age gap
- former bad boy
- found family
4.5 ⭐️
this may be the fourth installment in the bunkhouse series but it also my first book in the series as well as my first time reading a lainey lawson book 🫣
and yes i need to go and read every single one after finishing this book because it was absolutely incredible! i am 100% hooked on her writing style and i love all the characters in this book. so i can't wait to go read the other couple's stories.
this one is hattie and heston's book. and let me tell you, heston the mmc in this is hands down my favorite man. he is the definition of being only soft for her and it had me swooning like crazy. and it doesnt help that he is a cowboy too, man i need to get me a cowboy 😂
if you are looking for your next cowboy romance, man do i have the perfect one for you! go check this book as soon as it releases or even preorder it now because you arent going to want to put this one down 😍
thank you so much beyondthebookspr and lainey lawson for giving me this opportunity to read and review this arc!!
- cowboy x veterinarian
- second chance
- small town
- "it's always been you"
- age gap
- former bad boy
- found family
4.5 ⭐️
this may be the fourth installment in the bunkhouse series but it also my first book in the series as well as my first time reading a lainey lawson book 🫣
and yes i need to go and read every single one after finishing this book because it was absolutely incredible! i am 100% hooked on her writing style and i love all the characters in this book. so i can't wait to go read the other couple's stories.
this one is hattie and heston's book. and let me tell you, heston the mmc in this is hands down my favorite man. he is the definition of being only soft for her and it had me swooning like crazy. and it doesnt help that he is a cowboy too, man i need to get me a cowboy 😂
if you are looking for your next cowboy romance, man do i have the perfect one for you! go check this book as soon as it releases or even preorder it now because you arent going to want to put this one down 😍
thank you so much beyondthebookspr and lainey lawson for giving me this opportunity to read and review this arc!!
April 29, 2026
I can’t believe this series is over. The Bunkhouse Series has been such a joy. I’ve loved these characters so much, and Lainey wrapped it up wonderfully.
I think I can say everyone has been waiting for Heston’s story. This is a second chance romance and my god him & Hattie…These two…🥹
My heart broke for both of them at different points. Hattie is in such an impossible situation, and keeping everything to herself just makes it harder. I really loved seeing her get to a point where she could speak up and realise people actually cared and wanted to help.
And Heston… he has the biggest heart, but really struggles to put his feelings into words. I loved that Hattie understood that about him - she gave him space, but was also somewhere he felt safe enough to open up.
I don’t even want to say too much about the rest because this one just needs to be soaked up. There were so many moments I loved, moments that hurt a little and A LOT, and ones that really stayed with me.
And getting all the characters we’ve loved (and some new ones) just made it even better. I’m really going to miss this series.
Thank you the author and team for allowing me to read this arc, I am truly grateful💕
I think I can say everyone has been waiting for Heston’s story. This is a second chance romance and my god him & Hattie…These two…🥹
My heart broke for both of them at different points. Hattie is in such an impossible situation, and keeping everything to herself just makes it harder. I really loved seeing her get to a point where she could speak up and realise people actually cared and wanted to help.
And Heston… he has the biggest heart, but really struggles to put his feelings into words. I loved that Hattie understood that about him - she gave him space, but was also somewhere he felt safe enough to open up.
I don’t even want to say too much about the rest because this one just needs to be soaked up. There were so many moments I loved, moments that hurt a little and A LOT, and ones that really stayed with me.
And getting all the characters we’ve loved (and some new ones) just made it even better. I’m really going to miss this series.
Thank you the author and team for allowing me to read this arc, I am truly grateful💕
April 30, 2026
✨ARC Review✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes to expect:
- Cowboy (ex rodeo) x Veterinarian
- Second chance
- Age gap
- “It’s always been you”
- Groveling looots and looooots of groveling
Lainey Lawson’s last book Up in Smoke had me on such a bad reading slump because it was just toooooooo good. Now I’m afraid she’s done again! I don’t think I’ll be anle to pick up another romance book that will have me feeling the same as this.
I laughed, I giggled, I swoooooooned because of Heston and his inner monologue. The amount of yearning in this book will make you want to say “Ugh why just Hattie?”
Hattie and Heston’s romance was for me a “Love at first sight” thing because there’s chemistry and longing fron the beginning. Their romance didn’t felt forced, it felt organic.
Heston is now my favorite grumpy cowboy. I relate so much to him, not wanting to talk about or say a lot of things, afraid of saying the wrong things.
Lucky and Tripp are my fave side characters and Kid (IYKYK) was the trigger the made me love Heston even more.
-Special Thanks to Beyond the Book PR and Lainey Lawson for this amazing book!-
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes to expect:
- Cowboy (ex rodeo) x Veterinarian
- Second chance
- Age gap
- “It’s always been you”
- Groveling looots and looooots of groveling
Lainey Lawson’s last book Up in Smoke had me on such a bad reading slump because it was just toooooooo good. Now I’m afraid she’s done again! I don’t think I’ll be anle to pick up another romance book that will have me feeling the same as this.
I laughed, I giggled, I swoooooooned because of Heston and his inner monologue. The amount of yearning in this book will make you want to say “Ugh why just Hattie?”
Hattie and Heston’s romance was for me a “Love at first sight” thing because there’s chemistry and longing fron the beginning. Their romance didn’t felt forced, it felt organic.
Heston is now my favorite grumpy cowboy. I relate so much to him, not wanting to talk about or say a lot of things, afraid of saying the wrong things.
Lucky and Tripp are my fave side characters and Kid (IYKYK) was the trigger the made me love Heston even more.
-Special Thanks to Beyond the Book PR and Lainey Lawson for this amazing book!-
May 1, 2026
THE ROMANTIC BOSNIAN BLOG REVIEW
*ARC review
*New to me author
*4.5 Stars
This was a new to me author and I signed up for the book based on the tropes and the cover was so so cute! Now I did not expect the writing style to be a little different than I am used to so it did take me a tiny bit to get used to it. The FMC & MMC share history as even after two years their connection did not break. But the FMC comes back engaged and the MMC has his work cut out for him. Their path started off rocky and hard, and now that they are back around one another they have to navigate not only regarding their feeling for one another still but also the lies and have better communication. I think characters who grow together end up so beautiful! I enjoyed watching them reach the road together.
I am glad I gave this a chance and am thankful for my arc, I also saw at the end that this is the last book so I have added the others on my TBR to get to because this girl is curious.
COME HANG OUT WITH ME ON MY bookstagram
*ARC review
*New to me author
*4.5 Stars
This was a new to me author and I signed up for the book based on the tropes and the cover was so so cute! Now I did not expect the writing style to be a little different than I am used to so it did take me a tiny bit to get used to it. The FMC & MMC share history as even after two years their connection did not break. But the FMC comes back engaged and the MMC has his work cut out for him. Their path started off rocky and hard, and now that they are back around one another they have to navigate not only regarding their feeling for one another still but also the lies and have better communication. I think characters who grow together end up so beautiful! I enjoyed watching them reach the road together.
I am glad I gave this a chance and am thankful for my arc, I also saw at the end that this is the last book so I have added the others on my TBR to get to because this girl is curious.
COME HANG OUT WITH ME ON MY bookstagram
May 4, 2026
THIS. BOOK. RIGHT. HERE. my heart😭
I was so excited to finally get to read about Heston & Hattie Jo’s story, and it did not disappoint one bit. If you love a good yearning, grumpy cowboy, this one’s for you!
This book had me laughing, crying, yelling, ALL OF THE ABOVE!! The yearning Heston did for Hattie when they weren’t even together made me want to scream into my pillow every night. I mean, what’s better than a cowboy who would let everything go down in flames just to be with you?😭😭
The struggles of Heston not being able to express his thoughts & feelings to Hattie & overcoming those struggles was something I absolutely ADORED in this book. It showed Hestons soft side for Hattie and how he’d overcome anything to be with her. I loved the dual timelines, and getting to hear about the hardships that Hattie had to face. I just wanted to give her a big hug.
I can’t wait to see what Lainey does next, but for now my time with Bunkhouse Boys has come to an end. Forever thankful for this amazing series!!!🥹🤍🤍
I was so excited to finally get to read about Heston & Hattie Jo’s story, and it did not disappoint one bit. If you love a good yearning, grumpy cowboy, this one’s for you!
This book had me laughing, crying, yelling, ALL OF THE ABOVE!! The yearning Heston did for Hattie when they weren’t even together made me want to scream into my pillow every night. I mean, what’s better than a cowboy who would let everything go down in flames just to be with you?😭😭
The struggles of Heston not being able to express his thoughts & feelings to Hattie & overcoming those struggles was something I absolutely ADORED in this book. It showed Hestons soft side for Hattie and how he’d overcome anything to be with her. I loved the dual timelines, and getting to hear about the hardships that Hattie had to face. I just wanted to give her a big hug.
I can’t wait to see what Lainey does next, but for now my time with Bunkhouse Boys has come to an end. Forever thankful for this amazing series!!!🥹🤍🤍
April 22, 2026
Thank you to Beyond the Books PR for this ARC 🫶🏻
I can’t believe the bunkhouse series has ended 😭 Hattie and Heston had a journey to find their way back to each other!
Hattie is a veterinarian and newly engaged to Marcus. She doesn’t really want to get married to him, but feels obligated. When she’s face to face with Heston, her ex, she’s conflicted about her choices. They never had closure.
Heston regrets his and Hattie’s relationship ending, but seeing her engaged makes it feel final. But when they start trying to clear the air, they still have feelings for each other.
While Hattie navigates her feelings for Heston while deciding to end her engagement, there are a lot of factors to consider. There’s also a cute pup and spicy scenes! These two defeat the odds and are able to have their happy ending!
I’ve enjoyed this cowboy series and hope to see more from this author 🤠
I can’t believe the bunkhouse series has ended 😭 Hattie and Heston had a journey to find their way back to each other!
Hattie is a veterinarian and newly engaged to Marcus. She doesn’t really want to get married to him, but feels obligated. When she’s face to face with Heston, her ex, she’s conflicted about her choices. They never had closure.
Heston regrets his and Hattie’s relationship ending, but seeing her engaged makes it feel final. But when they start trying to clear the air, they still have feelings for each other.
While Hattie navigates her feelings for Heston while deciding to end her engagement, there are a lot of factors to consider. There’s also a cute pup and spicy scenes! These two defeat the odds and are able to have their happy ending!
I’ve enjoyed this cowboy series and hope to see more from this author 🤠
May 1, 2026
Honestly if you’ve read the rest of this series and you didn’t give this book 5 stars, you’re wrong.
I stumbled across this series on pure accident - I thought the covers were cute and listened to book 1 and I think that was my first intro into romantic suspense and I just remember thinking it was something I needed in my life. I enjoyed book 2 & 3 but this book, I was not prepared for Heston & Hattie Jo to suck me on the way they did. I finished this book in 12 hours.
I am always a fan of second chance but these 2 were something special, they had that spark that you just few - spark, no pun intended.
I’m not going to lie, I shed some tears, I wasn’t prepared for how Lainey wrapped this up, bringing the series to an end in such a devastating way but also so dang bittersweet. I love my bunkhouse books and I feel like I said so long to my friends!
I stumbled across this series on pure accident - I thought the covers were cute and listened to book 1 and I think that was my first intro into romantic suspense and I just remember thinking it was something I needed in my life. I enjoyed book 2 & 3 but this book, I was not prepared for Heston & Hattie Jo to suck me on the way they did. I finished this book in 12 hours.
I am always a fan of second chance but these 2 were something special, they had that spark that you just few - spark, no pun intended.
I’m not going to lie, I shed some tears, I wasn’t prepared for how Lainey wrapped this up, bringing the series to an end in such a devastating way but also so dang bittersweet. I love my bunkhouse books and I feel like I said so long to my friends!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 10, 2026
This Texas girl really enjoyed this book! I definitely need to go back and read the others in the Bunkhouse Series now.
First off Granger! Love him! Easily my favorite character! Heston was a true Texas cowboy even down to the trouble he has expressing his feelings. I adored him though! If I were in Hattie's shoes I don't think I could resist him either.
I liked how this switched between then and now a lot. Also I appreciated that this second chance felt more grown up because I'm in my 40's and sometimes second chance romance stories are hard for me to relate to because they feel so young. Lainey's writing and storytelling was beautiful as well!
Thank you to @beyondthebookspr and @laineylawsonromance for sending me a copy of this book to read and review!
First off Granger! Love him! Easily my favorite character! Heston was a true Texas cowboy even down to the trouble he has expressing his feelings. I adored him though! If I were in Hattie's shoes I don't think I could resist him either.
I liked how this switched between then and now a lot. Also I appreciated that this second chance felt more grown up because I'm in my 40's and sometimes second chance romance stories are hard for me to relate to because they feel so young. Lainey's writing and storytelling was beautiful as well!
Thank you to @beyondthebookspr and @laineylawsonromance for sending me a copy of this book to read and review!
May 10, 2026
Everything you want in a cowboy romance. I’m so sad The Bunkhouse Boys series is over! Dual POV, second chance romance with plenty of spice, a sprinkle of suspense and the best found family.
I was rooting for Heston and Hattie the entire way through, it was such a heartfelt story and Lainey’s writing keeps you hooked, plays with your emotions (in the best way) and delivers one hell of a punch.
Grumpy x Sunshine is always a soft spot for me and this one was no different, Heston was written so well and I would have folded a lot sooner if I were Hattie 😂
Definitely pick up this entire series if you haven’t already! Thank you so much to Beyond the Books PR for the eARC ❤️
I was rooting for Heston and Hattie the entire way through, it was such a heartfelt story and Lainey’s writing keeps you hooked, plays with your emotions (in the best way) and delivers one hell of a punch.
Grumpy x Sunshine is always a soft spot for me and this one was no different, Heston was written so well and I would have folded a lot sooner if I were Hattie 😂
Definitely pick up this entire series if you haven’t already! Thank you so much to Beyond the Books PR for the eARC ❤️
April 23, 2026
I’ve been waiting for Heston’s story since I wrapped up book one and it didn’t disappoint! This book was the perfect wrap up of the original bunkhouse guys. Thank you Lainey for creating this humorous, cowboy world!
May 17, 2026
'When it comes to her, the words I've left unspoken hold more power to destroy than anything.'
Our last visit to the Bunkhouse - and what a bittersweet ending. I knew from the get-go that this would be good, because second-chance and age gap? Yes, please 🛐
Firstly, a huge thank you to the author and Beyond the Books PR for sending me an early copy of this book and trusting me with her work. I binge-read the other three books in the series last summer, so I was stoked when book four was announced - tropes and all - and even more thrilled when I got accepted onto the ARC team.
When we first learn of Hattie Jo in Smoking Gun, she doesn't make the best of impressions 👀 … but as we all know, there's often more to a person than what others perceive - especially when they don't have the full story. I, for one, loved her sunny personality and her patience with Heston 🌻
Heston, on the other hand, has always given off broody, tortured-hero vibes - and he absolutely is that, no point denying it 😅 But he's also incredibly sweet, with a good heart that he only reveals to those he truly cares about. That, plus his protectiveness being hot as hell 🔥, and he soon became my favourite Bunkhouse boy.
Heston and Hattie were meant to be - we know it, as do they - but this story is really about their journey of healing and forgiveness. The dual timeline works perfectly, as we get to see glimpses into their shared past and learn what makes them tick. There is so much pain and heartbreak in their past, which makes the little moments between them feel all the more tender and meaningful.
His reaction to getting the invite 😭 My poor boy!! And Lucky? She's the absolute cutest 🐶
This is by far my favourite book of Lainey's yet and the perfect way to wrap up the series 💜 I can't wait to see what awaits us next!!
4.5 ⭐️ ARC Review
Our last visit to the Bunkhouse - and what a bittersweet ending. I knew from the get-go that this would be good, because second-chance and age gap? Yes, please 🛐
Firstly, a huge thank you to the author and Beyond the Books PR for sending me an early copy of this book and trusting me with her work. I binge-read the other three books in the series last summer, so I was stoked when book four was announced - tropes and all - and even more thrilled when I got accepted onto the ARC team.
When we first learn of Hattie Jo in Smoking Gun, she doesn't make the best of impressions 👀 … but as we all know, there's often more to a person than what others perceive - especially when they don't have the full story. I, for one, loved her sunny personality and her patience with Heston 🌻
Heston, on the other hand, has always given off broody, tortured-hero vibes - and he absolutely is that, no point denying it 😅 But he's also incredibly sweet, with a good heart that he only reveals to those he truly cares about. That, plus his protectiveness being hot as hell 🔥, and he soon became my favourite Bunkhouse boy.
Heston and Hattie were meant to be - we know it, as do they - but this story is really about their journey of healing and forgiveness. The dual timeline works perfectly, as we get to see glimpses into their shared past and learn what makes them tick. There is so much pain and heartbreak in their past, which makes the little moments between them feel all the more tender and meaningful.
His reaction to getting the invite 😭 My poor boy!! And Lucky? She's the absolute cutest 🐶
This is by far my favourite book of Lainey's yet and the perfect way to wrap up the series 💜 I can't wait to see what awaits us next!!
4.5 ⭐️ ARC Review
April 27, 2026
What an emotional rollercoaster—this is exactly how second-chance romance should be done ❤️🔥
This is easily my favourite in the series. I absolutely loved Hattie and Heston; their connection is undeniable, but beyond that, they’re just so enjoyable to read.
I’ve adored the Bunkhouse series from the start and have followed it closely—I was even lucky enough to be an ARC reader for Up in Smoke and Down in Flames.
There’s something so special about Lainey’s writing—it’s always joyful, always engaging, and each book brings something fresh. This one had such great suspense; you could tell Marcus was trouble from the beginning. I also loved how the bunkhouse girls rallied around Hattie, and how the boys never stopped rooting for Hattie and Heston to find their way back to each other.
And a big shoutout to Hattie’s dad—what a gem! His little messages and thoughtful plan added so much heart to the story.
I can’t believe the series is over. So many of my favourites are wrapping up this year, and it’s definitely leaving me a little lost. Still, I can’t wait to see what Lainey does next—she’s such a talented author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
This is easily my favourite in the series. I absolutely loved Hattie and Heston; their connection is undeniable, but beyond that, they’re just so enjoyable to read.
I’ve adored the Bunkhouse series from the start and have followed it closely—I was even lucky enough to be an ARC reader for Up in Smoke and Down in Flames.
There’s something so special about Lainey’s writing—it’s always joyful, always engaging, and each book brings something fresh. This one had such great suspense; you could tell Marcus was trouble from the beginning. I also loved how the bunkhouse girls rallied around Hattie, and how the boys never stopped rooting for Hattie and Heston to find their way back to each other.
And a big shoutout to Hattie’s dad—what a gem! His little messages and thoughtful plan added so much heart to the story.
I can’t believe the series is over. So many of my favourites are wrapping up this year, and it’s definitely leaving me a little lost. Still, I can’t wait to see what Lainey does next—she’s such a talented author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
May 3, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️.5
PERFECTION LIKE ALWAYS
Full review to come!!!
🌶️.5
PERFECTION LIKE ALWAYS
Full review to come!!!
May 3, 2026
4.5 stars rounded up
This is the final book of the Bunkhouse series and this was such a hard and yet mature ending for the boys!
This book follows Heston Landry, ex rodeo king and ex of the one and only Hattie Jo Murdoch. Hattie is a vet that has come back to her hometown with a new engagement that might be biting her in the ass. When Heston gets an invite to the wedding, things go awry which causes Hattie and Heston to see each other for the first time in 3 years. With new circumstances and a whole lotta love, these two have to figure out how they fit into each others lives and if there is still something here worth saving!
I THROUGHLY enjoyed this book because with second chance romance sometimes I feel that they just jump back into being in love and it's weird. Hattie struggled with her feelings and Heston was very clear on his feelings. He loved her and she didn't want to love him. They mentioned a couple times that they still had things to work through and that's true. You don't see every conversation they have to fix their trust so I'm glad it wasn't cut and dry they are just in love again after some angst. This book felt a lot more grown up. You could tell what Rafe was hinting at or in support of as he chats with Hattie and I loved his involvement. Heston wanted to handle everything without guns because he wanted to be a grown up about it all. AND THE KID!! Granger my darling and favorite guy! I pray he gets a book and we get to see our Bunkhouse family grow. Granger brought out the best in Heston and fiercely protected Hattie because they're literally mom and dad!
Thank you so much to Lainey Lawson and Beyond the Books PR for allowing me to read this eARC in exchange for an honest review!
This is the final book of the Bunkhouse series and this was such a hard and yet mature ending for the boys!
This book follows Heston Landry, ex rodeo king and ex of the one and only Hattie Jo Murdoch. Hattie is a vet that has come back to her hometown with a new engagement that might be biting her in the ass. When Heston gets an invite to the wedding, things go awry which causes Hattie and Heston to see each other for the first time in 3 years. With new circumstances and a whole lotta love, these two have to figure out how they fit into each others lives and if there is still something here worth saving!
I THROUGHLY enjoyed this book because with second chance romance sometimes I feel that they just jump back into being in love and it's weird. Hattie struggled with her feelings and Heston was very clear on his feelings. He loved her and she didn't want to love him. They mentioned a couple times that they still had things to work through and that's true. You don't see every conversation they have to fix their trust so I'm glad it wasn't cut and dry they are just in love again after some angst. This book felt a lot more grown up. You could tell what Rafe was hinting at or in support of as he chats with Hattie and I loved his involvement. Heston wanted to handle everything without guns because he wanted to be a grown up about it all. AND THE KID!! Granger my darling and favorite guy! I pray he gets a book and we get to see our Bunkhouse family grow. Granger brought out the best in Heston and fiercely protected Hattie because they're literally mom and dad!
Thank you so much to Lainey Lawson and Beyond the Books PR for allowing me to read this eARC in exchange for an honest review!
May 22, 2026
3.25⭐️ Probably my least favorite in the series, but not a horrible read! I’m not a fan of second chance romances but this one wasn’t the worst. Heston yearned for Hattie Jo for 2.5 years and he really meant “I want her or no one”. Once they got over what happened in the past, I enjoyed them as a couple! I also liked how the author put in parts of the past to fully get the connection and reason for separation. Boo Marcus and slay Granger! Overall, a good ending to the series!
May 2, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
Read this book for:
🐴 Age Gap (8 years)
🐾 Second Chance
🐴 Groveling
🐾 It’s Always Been You
🐴 Reformed Bad Boy
🐾 Cowboy x Veterinarian
Synopsis
The man she’s about to marry is everything she’s supposed to want—kind, dependable, and safe. After years of chasing a love that nearly destroyed her, choosing stability feels like the right decision.
Coming home to West Texas was meant to be a fresh start. With her veterinary degree in hand and her relationship with her father finally on solid ground, she’s ready to build a future that makes sense.
Until Heston Landry walks back into it.
He’s the past she tried to bury, the one man who ever truly owned her heart. Their love was intense, consuming, and impossible to forget. Walking away from him was the hardest thing she’s ever done, but she survived it.
Or at least, she thought she did.
Now, every encounter threatens to unravel the life she’s carefully pieced together. Old feelings resurface, questions demand answers, and closure becomes a dangerous temptation.
Because some loves don’t fade with time.
And choosing between the life she planned and the love she never got over might cost her everything.
My Thoughts
The final book in the Bunkhouse series was such an emotional ride, and wow, I still cannot believe this is the end. I have to say, I am honestly not okay with what happened to the bunkhouse itself. Lainey, how could you do this to us? After everything, it was so hard to say goodbye, and I was definitely in my feelings by the end.
That being said, I absolutely adored Hattie Jo and Heston together. Their chemistry was amazing from the very start, and their love story had me smiling so much. It was definitely insta-love, but in the best possible way. What made their story even more emotional was Heston’s sacrifice. The fact that he ended things because he thought he was protecting Hattie completely broke my heart, but it also made their reunion so much sweeter. Watching them find their way back to each other was romantic, emotional, and honestly just melted my heart. Their story was so beautifully written.
Hattie Jo was such a sweetheart and such an easy FMC to love. She was kind, caring, and had such a beautiful heart. The scene with the little girl and the cow was beyond adorable and truly showed how special she was. She had such a gentle spirit, and I loved her so much.
Marcus, on the other hand, was absolutely awful. The way he manipulated Hattie and made her feel trapped was so frustrating and heartbreaking. I hated seeing her feel like she had to go through with an engagement she did not truly want. But thankfully, with the support of her amazing girls and the always dependable Bunkhouse cowboys plus her dad, she was finally able to stand up for herself and break free. Seeing everyone rally around her was so satisfying and reminded me why I love this series so much.
One of my absolute favorite surprises was the secret tattoo. I did not expect that at all, and it made Hattie and Heston’s bond feel even deeper and more meaningful. It was such a sweet and memorable detail that made me love their connection even more.
Also, Granger absolutely stole some scenes for me. I loved him so much, and now I desperately need his story. Lainey, if you decide to continue this world, please give Granger his own book because we absolutely need more Bunkhouse cowboys.
Overall, this book was such a beautiful, heartwarming, and emotional way to end the series. It had love, heartbreak, healing, friendship, and all the cowboy charm I could ask for. I am so sad to say goodbye, but I loved every second of this journey and cannot wait to see what Lainey gives us next.
Read this book for:
🐴 Age Gap (8 years)
🐾 Second Chance
🐴 Groveling
🐾 It’s Always Been You
🐴 Reformed Bad Boy
🐾 Cowboy x Veterinarian
Synopsis
The man she’s about to marry is everything she’s supposed to want—kind, dependable, and safe. After years of chasing a love that nearly destroyed her, choosing stability feels like the right decision.
Coming home to West Texas was meant to be a fresh start. With her veterinary degree in hand and her relationship with her father finally on solid ground, she’s ready to build a future that makes sense.
Until Heston Landry walks back into it.
He’s the past she tried to bury, the one man who ever truly owned her heart. Their love was intense, consuming, and impossible to forget. Walking away from him was the hardest thing she’s ever done, but she survived it.
Or at least, she thought she did.
Now, every encounter threatens to unravel the life she’s carefully pieced together. Old feelings resurface, questions demand answers, and closure becomes a dangerous temptation.
Because some loves don’t fade with time.
And choosing between the life she planned and the love she never got over might cost her everything.
My Thoughts
The final book in the Bunkhouse series was such an emotional ride, and wow, I still cannot believe this is the end. I have to say, I am honestly not okay with what happened to the bunkhouse itself. Lainey, how could you do this to us? After everything, it was so hard to say goodbye, and I was definitely in my feelings by the end.
That being said, I absolutely adored Hattie Jo and Heston together. Their chemistry was amazing from the very start, and their love story had me smiling so much. It was definitely insta-love, but in the best possible way. What made their story even more emotional was Heston’s sacrifice. The fact that he ended things because he thought he was protecting Hattie completely broke my heart, but it also made their reunion so much sweeter. Watching them find their way back to each other was romantic, emotional, and honestly just melted my heart. Their story was so beautifully written.
Hattie Jo was such a sweetheart and such an easy FMC to love. She was kind, caring, and had such a beautiful heart. The scene with the little girl and the cow was beyond adorable and truly showed how special she was. She had such a gentle spirit, and I loved her so much.
Marcus, on the other hand, was absolutely awful. The way he manipulated Hattie and made her feel trapped was so frustrating and heartbreaking. I hated seeing her feel like she had to go through with an engagement she did not truly want. But thankfully, with the support of her amazing girls and the always dependable Bunkhouse cowboys plus her dad, she was finally able to stand up for herself and break free. Seeing everyone rally around her was so satisfying and reminded me why I love this series so much.
One of my absolute favorite surprises was the secret tattoo. I did not expect that at all, and it made Hattie and Heston’s bond feel even deeper and more meaningful. It was such a sweet and memorable detail that made me love their connection even more.
Also, Granger absolutely stole some scenes for me. I loved him so much, and now I desperately need his story. Lainey, if you decide to continue this world, please give Granger his own book because we absolutely need more Bunkhouse cowboys.
Overall, this book was such a beautiful, heartwarming, and emotional way to end the series. It had love, heartbreak, healing, friendship, and all the cowboy charm I could ask for. I am so sad to say goodbye, but I loved every second of this journey and cannot wait to see what Lainey gives us next.
May 15, 2026
Down In Flames is a small town, second chance, found family, cowboy x veterinarian, age gap romance. Book 4 in the Bunkhouse Series. And I’m kind of mad I didn’t start this series sooner.
This story follows Hattie Jo and Heston. Down in Flames is the last story in this series and Lainey did not disappoint with the bittersweet ending of this series. The journey alone that we are taken on of our MCs having to dig deep to what they really want and who they want that with. It isn't an easy road to their overall happiness, but it is entertaining and I couldn't stop reading.
Hattie started to be friendly with her dad’s account of the farm and what she never expected was an engagement on the day of her father’s birthday party…. But the other bad part is, she didn’t want to say yes but she won’t be the reason that her dad’s party is left in crickets either. So she says yes and can decide later what she truly wants. To bad she’s still in love with her ex boyfriend. From reading this I found out that the reasoning behind their breakup was not a good one and Heston was pushed into ending the relationship because Rafe, Hattie’s dad saw what was happening between them and she didn’t want Hattie to give up her dreams for a love that could end like it did with his. He wanted her to stand on her own, which I can see but I also feel like he should have let her make that decision not leave it to Heston to make that chose for them both. That’s the most heartbreaking of the why they aren’t together anymore. But have no fear Rafe redeems himself after that chose he made for his daughter.
Heston yearned and pinned for Hattie Jo for the 2.5 years that they weren’t together and this man said I want her or no one. I love him for this. He knew what he was offering her wasn’t what she deserved in the long run and wanted her to chase her dreams. I second a feeling he knew they would end up together again. But I don’t think he thought he would ever get an invitation to her wedding to another man. But it sets the tone and all the feelings that they be have been harboring finally come to light. They are it. And Heston will do whatever he needs to do to get her and keep her this time. While along the way he finds himself in a way he didn’t think he would with the help from Granger and the found family he has with the other three bunkhouse men.
Hattie lost herself in the years she and Heston were apart. Her story was about getting her spark back.
Her grief was woven so beautifully into the story. I cried multiple times. You could feel the heaviness she carried with these major losses in her life. As someone who's lost a sibling, I could feel her sadness in those small moments that her grief would come to the surface, and also in those times that it was a low hum in the background. My heart broke for her.
I really enjoyed how the author threw in parts of the past to fully get the connection and love they shared for one another. Their interactions from the beginning to end were completely different, they went from tension filled to acting like no time had passed at all.
But I will say one thing. Marcus, we don’t like bullies and what you pulled you got everything you deserved and then some. How dare you try to pull that from little innocent Hattie and the payback you try to get in the most sickening way. My god my heart broke almost, if the ending would have been different and Granger wouldn’t have been there or Lucky.
You'll LOVE this book if you enjoy:
💜 cowboy x veterinarian
🔥 second chance
💜 groveling
🔥 “it's always been you”
💜 age gap
🔥 former bad boy
#cowboyromance #smalltownromance
This story follows Hattie Jo and Heston. Down in Flames is the last story in this series and Lainey did not disappoint with the bittersweet ending of this series. The journey alone that we are taken on of our MCs having to dig deep to what they really want and who they want that with. It isn't an easy road to their overall happiness, but it is entertaining and I couldn't stop reading.
Hattie started to be friendly with her dad’s account of the farm and what she never expected was an engagement on the day of her father’s birthday party…. But the other bad part is, she didn’t want to say yes but she won’t be the reason that her dad’s party is left in crickets either. So she says yes and can decide later what she truly wants. To bad she’s still in love with her ex boyfriend. From reading this I found out that the reasoning behind their breakup was not a good one and Heston was pushed into ending the relationship because Rafe, Hattie’s dad saw what was happening between them and she didn’t want Hattie to give up her dreams for a love that could end like it did with his. He wanted her to stand on her own, which I can see but I also feel like he should have let her make that decision not leave it to Heston to make that chose for them both. That’s the most heartbreaking of the why they aren’t together anymore. But have no fear Rafe redeems himself after that chose he made for his daughter.
Heston yearned and pinned for Hattie Jo for the 2.5 years that they weren’t together and this man said I want her or no one. I love him for this. He knew what he was offering her wasn’t what she deserved in the long run and wanted her to chase her dreams. I second a feeling he knew they would end up together again. But I don’t think he thought he would ever get an invitation to her wedding to another man. But it sets the tone and all the feelings that they be have been harboring finally come to light. They are it. And Heston will do whatever he needs to do to get her and keep her this time. While along the way he finds himself in a way he didn’t think he would with the help from Granger and the found family he has with the other three bunkhouse men.
Hattie lost herself in the years she and Heston were apart. Her story was about getting her spark back.
Her grief was woven so beautifully into the story. I cried multiple times. You could feel the heaviness she carried with these major losses in her life. As someone who's lost a sibling, I could feel her sadness in those small moments that her grief would come to the surface, and also in those times that it was a low hum in the background. My heart broke for her.
I really enjoyed how the author threw in parts of the past to fully get the connection and love they shared for one another. Their interactions from the beginning to end were completely different, they went from tension filled to acting like no time had passed at all.
But I will say one thing. Marcus, we don’t like bullies and what you pulled you got everything you deserved and then some. How dare you try to pull that from little innocent Hattie and the payback you try to get in the most sickening way. My god my heart broke almost, if the ending would have been different and Granger wouldn’t have been there or Lucky.
You'll LOVE this book if you enjoy:
💜 cowboy x veterinarian
🔥 second chance
💜 groveling
🔥 “it's always been you”
💜 age gap
🔥 former bad boy
#cowboyromance #smalltownromance
May 8, 2026
I am so sad the Bunkhouse series is over, but this was a fitting end for the boys.
I have been chomping at the bit for Heston's book since he was first introduced, and getting to know him more throughout the series caused my expectations to be sky high. While I still love him, his book did leave me wanting by the end.
The running theme, and one of my absolute favorite parts, of this series has been the friendship between Gage, Warren, Tripp, and Heston. Found family is one of my favorite tropes, and these boys have stuck together through thick and thin. They're ride or die for each other, and I have loved every second of it. Gage is the protective one. Warren is the charming one. Tripp is the playful one. And Heston is the stoic one. And each of the bunkhouse boys got to find their perfect match.
This book had it's cute moments, like Heston working with Granger. And it's swoony moments, like Heston and Hattie outside the bar. It also has the cutest companion, Lucky girl. And horses with some intersting names, looking at you Bob From Accounting and Dr. Mike. I love that all the ranch girls got matching jewelry, showing their connection separate from the boys.
As with every book, there were a few things I didn't like. We are told throughout the entire book that Hattie and Heston had a big blow up about 2.5 years ago, during the one summer they dated, but we never get to see this fight. There are several time jumps where we get to see them meeting, their first weekend together, and when Hattie gives Heston a special gift. But we never see what led to them not speak for over two years. This is an issue for me since it was alluded to multiple times by many characters. Hattie tells the girls a summary of what happened, and Heston reminisces about the incident, but we are never given a front row seat. Because of this, the miscommunication trope is featured heavily, and that is the absolute worst trope.
And that fateful night brings us to now, where Hattie is engaged to another man while Heston has been pining away for years. After they do finally talk, I don't feel like they resolved anything. Mostly, they talked around the main issue just enough to get back together. I felt their connection in the flashbacks, and in the scene at Solana Bluffs where she discovers his secret. But beyond that, I just needed more from the romance.
I feel like this story falls somewhere in the messy grey area because there is technically cheating but it's also not. I keep hopping over the fence on this one.
Overall, I enjoyed the story and it ended the series with enough closure that I can move on from the bunkhouse with happy memories.
3/5 stars.
Thank you to Beyond the Books PR for the ARC of this title.
I have been chomping at the bit for Heston's book since he was first introduced, and getting to know him more throughout the series caused my expectations to be sky high. While I still love him, his book did leave me wanting by the end.
The running theme, and one of my absolute favorite parts, of this series has been the friendship between Gage, Warren, Tripp, and Heston. Found family is one of my favorite tropes, and these boys have stuck together through thick and thin. They're ride or die for each other, and I have loved every second of it. Gage is the protective one. Warren is the charming one. Tripp is the playful one. And Heston is the stoic one. And each of the bunkhouse boys got to find their perfect match.
This book had it's cute moments, like Heston working with Granger. And it's swoony moments, like Heston and Hattie outside the bar. It also has the cutest companion, Lucky girl. And horses with some intersting names, looking at you Bob From Accounting and Dr. Mike. I love that all the ranch girls got matching jewelry, showing their connection separate from the boys.
As with every book, there were a few things I didn't like. We are told throughout the entire book that Hattie and Heston had a big blow up about 2.5 years ago, during the one summer they dated, but we never get to see this fight. There are several time jumps where we get to see them meeting, their first weekend together, and when Hattie gives Heston a special gift. But we never see what led to them not speak for over two years. This is an issue for me since it was alluded to multiple times by many characters. Hattie tells the girls a summary of what happened, and Heston reminisces about the incident, but we are never given a front row seat. Because of this, the miscommunication trope is featured heavily, and that is the absolute worst trope.
And that fateful night brings us to now, where Hattie is engaged to another man while Heston has been pining away for years. After they do finally talk, I don't feel like they resolved anything. Mostly, they talked around the main issue just enough to get back together. I felt their connection in the flashbacks, and in the scene at Solana Bluffs where she discovers his secret. But beyond that, I just needed more from the romance.
I feel like this story falls somewhere in the messy grey area because there is technically cheating but it's also not. I keep hopping over the fence on this one.
Overall, I enjoyed the story and it ended the series with enough closure that I can move on from the bunkhouse with happy memories.
3/5 stars.
Thank you to Beyond the Books PR for the ARC of this title.
April 30, 2026
I can't believe this was my last time at the bunkhouse! Down in Flames totally delivered - it was the perfect, emotional send-off to the Bunkhouse series. Lainey saved the best for last and tied everything I loved about this series together while completely wrecking me in the best way <3
My heart belongs to Heston<3 This man OMG! Ain't nothing I love more than a man pines and yearns so hard for his woman, even when she's not his anymore. The things he did for her while they were apart absolutely melted me! I love that he was such a rough and grumpy cowboy on the outside, and would only show Hattie his soft side. His hesitation to speak his mind and the struggles he faced with speech added such a raw and vulnerable layer to his character. Watching him work so hard through his challenges to find his voice, and be able to express his thoughts and feelings to Hattie was such a powerful part of both his journey and their path together.
Hattie lost herself in the years she and Heston were apart. Her story was about getting her spark back. Her grief was woven so beautifully into the story. I cried multiple times. You could feel the heaviness she carried with these major losses in her life. As someone who's lost a sibling, I could feel her sadness in those small moments that her grief would come to the surface, and also in those times that it was a low hum in the background. My heart broke for her.
I really enjoyed the bits of the past we got, they really amplified the love story for me. All of their interactions were filled with tension and I was begging them to have the conversations they needed to. When they finally give in, the heat is explosive.
Getting to see lots of the other Bunkhouse couples was such a great part of this story too. And I loved Granger! He was an unexpected addition to the crew. The guys closing out this story was the sweetest thing ever<3
Read if you love...
*a bit of romantic suspense
*a second chance where neither of them really ever moved on
*a grumpy, ex-bad boy MMC who's yearning can't be matched
*a veterinarian FMC who's struggling with grief and has lost herself
*the FMC is engaged to a loser and her ex gets invited
*a ranch with 3 other hot cowboys (they're taken!) and serious found family vibes
This was a story about the things that were left unsaid, longing, healing, and a love that never goes away. I'm so sad to see this series end but what a ride it's been!
My heart belongs to Heston<3 This man OMG! Ain't nothing I love more than a man pines and yearns so hard for his woman, even when she's not his anymore. The things he did for her while they were apart absolutely melted me! I love that he was such a rough and grumpy cowboy on the outside, and would only show Hattie his soft side. His hesitation to speak his mind and the struggles he faced with speech added such a raw and vulnerable layer to his character. Watching him work so hard through his challenges to find his voice, and be able to express his thoughts and feelings to Hattie was such a powerful part of both his journey and their path together.
Hattie lost herself in the years she and Heston were apart. Her story was about getting her spark back. Her grief was woven so beautifully into the story. I cried multiple times. You could feel the heaviness she carried with these major losses in her life. As someone who's lost a sibling, I could feel her sadness in those small moments that her grief would come to the surface, and also in those times that it was a low hum in the background. My heart broke for her.
I really enjoyed the bits of the past we got, they really amplified the love story for me. All of their interactions were filled with tension and I was begging them to have the conversations they needed to. When they finally give in, the heat is explosive.
Getting to see lots of the other Bunkhouse couples was such a great part of this story too. And I loved Granger! He was an unexpected addition to the crew. The guys closing out this story was the sweetest thing ever<3
Read if you love...
*a bit of romantic suspense
*a second chance where neither of them really ever moved on
*a grumpy, ex-bad boy MMC who's yearning can't be matched
*a veterinarian FMC who's struggling with grief and has lost herself
*the FMC is engaged to a loser and her ex gets invited
*a ranch with 3 other hot cowboys (they're taken!) and serious found family vibes
This was a story about the things that were left unsaid, longing, healing, and a love that never goes away. I'm so sad to see this series end but what a ride it's been!
May 10, 2026
★★★★ “I don’t want fucking closure. I just want you.”🌶️ 2/5 📱𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐥𝐞
𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭📋:
Yearning
Age gap
Second chance romance
Grumpy x sunshine
He falls first
Man & Dog duo
𝐌𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬🤎
This was super cute, the yearning from Hes was honestly unmatched. The way this entire group show up for each other it was such a great ending to the series the way it all tied together I’m going to miss the bunkhouse boys so much!!
𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬 ✨
- the tension between these two already
- Instant chemistry
- Right Marcus is a DOG ew
- The message went through 😭😭
- “I’ll always listen” I can’t that’s too cute Heston the quiet boy just needed understanding
- The yearning from hes hurts my soul
- Found family vibes warming my heart
- Yeah you go Sav
- “No but he probably will” Tripp will always be the best character in these books he’s so funny
- wtf a forced wedding
- “Nobody move they spook easily” Tripp is actually hilarious, the way the group reacted to them back together
- Their groupchat🤣🤣🤣
- “Where are you?” Outside. THIS KIND OF MAN
- “Sucks in bed. Five on it.”
- The phone call between Hes & Rafe
- Solana Buffs😍
- THE FIRE, the way Lainey has tied up this series is so good that epilogue was adorable
- Granger needs a book
𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐚 𝐟𝐚𝐧👀
Every single time I thought Marcus was sorted he came right on back that by the 3rd time that marriage one was just stupid needed to be more of the drama but the ending bought that back.
𝐐𝐮𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬:
~
𝙀𝙢𝙤𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡💔
“I’d never break a promise to you, Hattie. I never will.”
“Referring to her as your wife again will be the last thing to ever come out of your mouth before a jaw reconstruction.”
“I’m gonna marry you, Hattie Jo. Plans don’t get any bigger than that.”
𝙎𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙮🔥
“I step back, just enough to get out of her way and watch her put her money where her mouth is. I’d like to put my tongue where her mouth is, but we literally met a week ago”
“Careful, If you start calling me your girl, I’ll act accordingly.”
“Fuck. Promise?”
“I know you’re old, so maybe your reflexes are just slow. But I think when a girl tells you that she missed you, the appropriate response would be to kiss her.”
“Nothing about what I want to do is appropriate, honey.”
𝙁𝙪𝙣𝙣𝙮🤣
“How did you know it was tequila?”
“My tongue’s been in your mouth,”
“Oh yeah.”
“Glad no one’s overreacting,”
“Nobody. Move. They spook easily.”
𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠🏅:
𝐓𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐨𝐨 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐨✍🏼:
𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭📋:
Yearning
Age gap
Second chance romance
Grumpy x sunshine
He falls first
Man & Dog duo
𝐌𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬🤎
This was super cute, the yearning from Hes was honestly unmatched. The way this entire group show up for each other it was such a great ending to the series the way it all tied together I’m going to miss the bunkhouse boys so much!!
𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬 ✨
- the tension between these two already
- Instant chemistry
- Right Marcus is a DOG ew
- The message went through 😭😭
- “I’ll always listen” I can’t that’s too cute Heston the quiet boy just needed understanding
- The yearning from hes hurts my soul
- Found family vibes warming my heart
- Yeah you go Sav
- “No but he probably will” Tripp will always be the best character in these books he’s so funny
- wtf a forced wedding
- “Nobody move they spook easily” Tripp is actually hilarious, the way the group reacted to them back together
- Their groupchat🤣🤣🤣
- “Where are you?” Outside. THIS KIND OF MAN
- “Sucks in bed. Five on it.”
- The phone call between Hes & Rafe
- Solana Buffs😍
- THE FIRE, the way Lainey has tied up this series is so good that epilogue was adorable
- Granger needs a book
𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐚 𝐟𝐚𝐧👀
Every single time I thought Marcus was sorted he came right on back that by the 3rd time that marriage one was just stupid needed to be more of the drama but the ending bought that back.
𝐐𝐮𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬:
~
𝙀𝙢𝙤𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡💔
“I’d never break a promise to you, Hattie. I never will.”
“Referring to her as your wife again will be the last thing to ever come out of your mouth before a jaw reconstruction.”
“I’m gonna marry you, Hattie Jo. Plans don’t get any bigger than that.”
𝙎𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙮🔥
“I step back, just enough to get out of her way and watch her put her money where her mouth is. I’d like to put my tongue where her mouth is, but we literally met a week ago”
“Careful, If you start calling me your girl, I’ll act accordingly.”
“Fuck. Promise?”
“I know you’re old, so maybe your reflexes are just slow. But I think when a girl tells you that she missed you, the appropriate response would be to kiss her.”
“Nothing about what I want to do is appropriate, honey.”
𝙁𝙪𝙣𝙣𝙮🤣
“How did you know it was tequila?”
“My tongue’s been in your mouth,”
“Oh yeah.”
“Glad no one’s overreacting,”
“Nobody. Move. They spook easily.”
𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠🏅:
𝐓𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐨𝐨 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐨✍🏼:
April 30, 2026
Hattie Jo has agreed to marry a man who is perfect on paper. Their engagement will help heal old wounds. Except Heston keeps popping up every chance he gets. When Hattie left the ranch two summers ago, she left her heart between Heston’s hands. As time has passed with no contact, she believes that Heston has moved on… but that assumption couldn’t have been more wrong.
DOWN IN FLAMES marks the fourth and final book in The Bunkhouse series. I can’t believe we’re already here! This series is made up of interconnected standalones, each with a new couple featured and their common connection is that the men share the bunkhouse as a home on a ranch in West Texas. I’ve fallen in love alongside each of these characters and its bittersweet knowing there will be no more stories to come from The Bunkhouse.
Heston and Hattie Jo are the fourth and final couple to have their story told. Both have been featured in the previous novels so they’re not entirely fresh faces. Heston is a former steer wrestler and a rancher. He’s a broody, tortured soul, and a man of few words. He’s also loyal to a fault. Hattie Jo is a veterinarian. She’s down to earth, a Daddy’s girl, and has a sunny personality. They’ve both been through difficult times and have come out stronger because of it.
Their romance is told in dual timelines, with the past timeline showcasing the relationship they had two years ago, and solidifying the history, chemistry, and passion they share. I adored their romance and they make such a complementary couple, each bringing out the best in the other.
A special mention of Lucky — the cutest dog around! I loved catching up with the previous couples too. As with Lawson’s previous novels, there’s always a brush of suspense that has me reading with bated breath, fearing the worst. Truly well done 👏🏻.
An excellent ending to this series. I can’t wait to see what she writes next!
I would like to thank Beyond the Books PR and the author of this advanced digital copy for the opportunity to read this novel in exchange for an honest review! All opinions expressed are my own.
DOWN IN FLAMES marks the fourth and final book in The Bunkhouse series. I can’t believe we’re already here! This series is made up of interconnected standalones, each with a new couple featured and their common connection is that the men share the bunkhouse as a home on a ranch in West Texas. I’ve fallen in love alongside each of these characters and its bittersweet knowing there will be no more stories to come from The Bunkhouse.
Heston and Hattie Jo are the fourth and final couple to have their story told. Both have been featured in the previous novels so they’re not entirely fresh faces. Heston is a former steer wrestler and a rancher. He’s a broody, tortured soul, and a man of few words. He’s also loyal to a fault. Hattie Jo is a veterinarian. She’s down to earth, a Daddy’s girl, and has a sunny personality. They’ve both been through difficult times and have come out stronger because of it.
Their romance is told in dual timelines, with the past timeline showcasing the relationship they had two years ago, and solidifying the history, chemistry, and passion they share. I adored their romance and they make such a complementary couple, each bringing out the best in the other.
A special mention of Lucky — the cutest dog around! I loved catching up with the previous couples too. As with Lawson’s previous novels, there’s always a brush of suspense that has me reading with bated breath, fearing the worst. Truly well done 👏🏻.
An excellent ending to this series. I can’t wait to see what she writes next!
I would like to thank Beyond the Books PR and the author of this advanced digital copy for the opportunity to read this novel in exchange for an honest review! All opinions expressed are my own.
April 30, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Lainey Lawson has ended her Bunkhouse series with an amazing book. This entire series has been a joy to read, with each story bringing characters to life in a way that you want to return to again and again. Down in Flames is the last story in this series and Lainey did not disappoint with the bittersweet ending of said series. We are taken on a journey of our MCs having to dig deep to what they really want and who they want that with. It isn’t an easy road to their overall happiness, but it is entertaining and I couldn’t stop reading.
Hattie doesn’t expect an engagement to happen at her father’s birthday party. She also doesn’t want to say yes, but won’t be the reason her dad’s party is left with a sour note. So she says yes. The only trouble is, she still loves her ex. While they may have not ended on the nicest note, she has never been able to move on fully from him and this surprise question solidifies what she has always known. But now what? When her past comes looking for answers, she has to decide if staying true to her heart is more important than saving the feelings of other people.
Heston really didn’t think he would receive a wedding invitation to his ex’s wedding. He is not happy about it at all and decides to confront Hattie, because really? This is how they are going to truly end things? He isn’t sure what he is going to say to her, but he knows he can’t lose her. The emotion that follows pulls Hattie’s heart in two different directions, but she finally makes her choice, not everyone is left happy.
Lainey allows us one more chance to visit with characters that we have come to love over the course of this series. It was fun catching up with old friends while getting to know others on a deeper level and learning what truly makes the tick. This cowboy romance series is an amazing read and each book is beautifully written. I can’t wait to see what Lainey writes next and the characters that I will come to love.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🐴Cowboy Romance
🥼Cowboy MMC
🐴Veterinarian FMC
🥼Second Chance Romance
🐴Groveling
🥼Age Gap Romance
🐴Former Bad Boy
🥼It’s Always Been You
Lainey Lawson has ended her Bunkhouse series with an amazing book. This entire series has been a joy to read, with each story bringing characters to life in a way that you want to return to again and again. Down in Flames is the last story in this series and Lainey did not disappoint with the bittersweet ending of said series. We are taken on a journey of our MCs having to dig deep to what they really want and who they want that with. It isn’t an easy road to their overall happiness, but it is entertaining and I couldn’t stop reading.
Hattie doesn’t expect an engagement to happen at her father’s birthday party. She also doesn’t want to say yes, but won’t be the reason her dad’s party is left with a sour note. So she says yes. The only trouble is, she still loves her ex. While they may have not ended on the nicest note, she has never been able to move on fully from him and this surprise question solidifies what she has always known. But now what? When her past comes looking for answers, she has to decide if staying true to her heart is more important than saving the feelings of other people.
Heston really didn’t think he would receive a wedding invitation to his ex’s wedding. He is not happy about it at all and decides to confront Hattie, because really? This is how they are going to truly end things? He isn’t sure what he is going to say to her, but he knows he can’t lose her. The emotion that follows pulls Hattie’s heart in two different directions, but she finally makes her choice, not everyone is left happy.
Lainey allows us one more chance to visit with characters that we have come to love over the course of this series. It was fun catching up with old friends while getting to know others on a deeper level and learning what truly makes the tick. This cowboy romance series is an amazing read and each book is beautifully written. I can’t wait to see what Lainey writes next and the characters that I will come to love.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🐴Cowboy Romance
🥼Cowboy MMC
🐴Veterinarian FMC
🥼Second Chance Romance
🐴Groveling
🥼Age Gap Romance
🐴Former Bad Boy
🥼It’s Always Been You
May 7, 2026
3.75🌟
Down in Flames marks the end of The Bunkhouse series. This series means something really special to me.
The second book of the series was my first indie read and also my first ARC on bookstagram. It made me find a new love for small town cowboy romances, so seeing it come to an end feels bittersweet.
Down in Flames was definitely different to the other books. One thing that stood out immediately was how much the writing has evolved with each release. Lainey’s writing just keeps getting stronger and I love the way she captures emotions so vividly that you feel everything alongside the characters.
This story took on a heavier emotional tone as most second chance romances do. It explored grief, forgiveness, found family, and healing in such a heartfelt way.
There was a lot of drama throughout the story and at times I felt it overshadowed the romance a bit. I would’ve loved to see more of Heston and Hattie especially in the flashback chapters as I really wanted a deeper insight into their history before everything fell apart.
However, when the romance was there, it was front and center and incredibly sweet. Heston is a man of few words but every time he spoke, it carried weight and left an impression. Him and Hattie just made sense together.
I also loved how the author gave us an insight into his struggles with communicating which gave him more depth.
The first half was a little slow for me but the second half absolutely made up for it. As expected with Lainey’s books, it became action packed and impossible to put down. And chapter 43?! It felt like I was reading a scene from a horror movie. I was STRESSED.
One of my favorite parts was seeing all the characters from the series come together again for the thing that connected them all. It felt like the perfect full circle moment and such a fitting way to conclude the series.
Down in Flames marks the end of The Bunkhouse series. This series means something really special to me.
The second book of the series was my first indie read and also my first ARC on bookstagram. It made me find a new love for small town cowboy romances, so seeing it come to an end feels bittersweet.
Down in Flames was definitely different to the other books. One thing that stood out immediately was how much the writing has evolved with each release. Lainey’s writing just keeps getting stronger and I love the way she captures emotions so vividly that you feel everything alongside the characters.
This story took on a heavier emotional tone as most second chance romances do. It explored grief, forgiveness, found family, and healing in such a heartfelt way.
There was a lot of drama throughout the story and at times I felt it overshadowed the romance a bit. I would’ve loved to see more of Heston and Hattie especially in the flashback chapters as I really wanted a deeper insight into their history before everything fell apart.
However, when the romance was there, it was front and center and incredibly sweet. Heston is a man of few words but every time he spoke, it carried weight and left an impression. Him and Hattie just made sense together.
I also loved how the author gave us an insight into his struggles with communicating which gave him more depth.
The first half was a little slow for me but the second half absolutely made up for it. As expected with Lainey’s books, it became action packed and impossible to put down. And chapter 43?! It felt like I was reading a scene from a horror movie. I was STRESSED.
One of my favorite parts was seeing all the characters from the series come together again for the thing that connected them all. It felt like the perfect full circle moment and such a fitting way to conclude the series.
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