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Blackwell Bulls #1
Down to Ride
I joined the Hunt to save my daughter.
It took years to find the courage to leave my wealthy, sadistic ex.
But escaping him wasn't enough: he's fighting for custody — and I've uncovered secrets that put my little girl in unimaginable danger.
The Hunt is my only chance.
If I'm caught, I expect to be stripped, chained, used.
What I don't expect are the three men who claim me as prey.
Ridge is the scarred builder who burns down every wall I've built.
Holden is younger, impossible to resist, determined to seize every moment — and take me with him.
And Graham: older and as steady as the mountains surrounding his family ranch, he's spent a lifetime protecting what's his through any means necessary — legal or otherwise.
The Blackwell Bulls are motorcycle-riding ranchers, ruthless smugglers, and fiercely possessive lone wolves.
Now they’ve made my business their business — and they won’t let go until I belong to them.
It took years to find the courage to leave my wealthy, sadistic ex.
But escaping him wasn't enough: he's fighting for custody — and I've uncovered secrets that put my little girl in unimaginable danger.
The Hunt is my only chance.
If I'm caught, I expect to be stripped, chained, used.
What I don't expect are the three men who claim me as prey.
Ridge is the scarred builder who burns down every wall I've built.
Holden is younger, impossible to resist, determined to seize every moment — and take me with him.
And Graham: older and as steady as the mountains surrounding his family ranch, he's spent a lifetime protecting what's his through any means necessary — legal or otherwise.
The Blackwell Bulls are motorcycle-riding ranchers, ruthless smugglers, and fiercely possessive lone wolves.
Now they’ve made my business their business — and they won’t let go until I belong to them.
- GenresWhy Choose
396 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 29, 2026
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October 1, 2026
5 STARS DOESN’T FEEL LIKE ENOUGH FOR THIS ONE.
Due to my INTENSE reaction to this story, this review may be a little lengthy… but trust me, I have A LOT to say!
Down to Ride by Sadie Hunt is hands down one of my all-time favorite Sadie Hunt books and I honestly don’t know how to put into words just how much I loved it. I went into this expecting the danger, the masked men, the Hunt, the cowboy-bikers, the tension, the chemistry and the spice, but what I wasn’t prepared for was the emotion. This story hit hard.
Audrey’s journey became incredibly personal for me. She has spent years surviving an abusive ex, but everything she does is ultimately about protecting her daughter, Ella. She joins the Hunt because she is willing to risk everything to keep her safe. As a mother myself, I could relate to that part of Audrey so deeply. I know without a doubt that I would do anything to protect my daughter, and feeling that fierce, unwavering love through Audrey made her story resonate with me on another level. What made Audrey so powerful was that she never stopped fighting for herself or her daughter. She was scared, vulnerable and carrying so much, but she kept moving forward. Watching her slowly find her strength, reclaim pieces of herself and realize that she didn’t have to carry everything alone was incredibly meaningful. She didn’t need someone to save her—she needed people who would stand beside her, believe in her, and fight with her.
And then there are Graham, Ridge, and Holden. These three men were absolutely everything. Each brought something completely different to the story, but together they were an explosive combination of danger, intensity, possessiveness, chemistry and heat. The tension between them and Audrey was phenomenal and yes, the spice was definitely there, but what really got me was watching their feelings for Audrey and Ella grow into something fiercely protective. They entered the Hunt thinking they knew exactly what they were going to win, but what they ultimately found was something far more meaningful. Watching these dangerous men become so invested in Audrey and Ella, protect them, stand up for them and become a source of strength for Audrey was one of my favorite parts of the story.
Sadie Hunt managed to give me the dark, addictive romance I came for while also giving me an emotional journey I wasn’t expecting. That combination is what made this book unforgettable for me. I read it in one sitting because once I started, there was absolutely no stopping me. You couldn’t tear me away from this book if you tried. I was completely absorbed in Audrey’s story and needed to know what would happen next. By the time I reached the end, I was already invested beyond words…and then Sadie Hunt dropped THAT CLIFFHANGER.
I swear, I finished that final moment and just FROZE. My mouth was literally GAPING and my brain needed a minute to process what I had just read. And that man? I LOATHE HIM. After everything Audrey has already survived, everything she has sacrificed and everything she has done to protect Ella, what he has done made me want to SCREAM. I wanted to reach through the pages and do something…anything…because the second I finished that ending, I knew Sadie was about to make us suffer. Whatever comes next is going to hurt and I am absolutely NOT PREPARED.
And as a mother, that makes it even harder to shake. Audrey and Ella had already completely captured my heart, so knowing where this story could go has me desperate for answers. Sadie, you didn’t just leave me wanting book two…you left me staring at that ending thinking, WHAT THE HELL AM I SUPPOSED TO DO NOW?!
I was DOWN TO RIDE… but after that cliffhanger? NOW I AM READY TO STRIKE THE MATCH. Because if Down to Ride was the spark, I have a feeling Strike the Match is going to set the whole damn world on fire.
Sadie Hunt, YOU FREAKING GENIUS. You delivered everything I love…danger, darkness, HOLY HOTNESS , obsession, incredible chemistry, unforgettable characters and an emotional story that completely pulled me in…and then you capped it off with an ending that left me desperate for more. I already know what an extraordinary writer you are, but this book? A MASTERPIECE., This beginning to the Blackwell Bulls trilogy is beyond EXCELLENCE and a story I will not be forgetting anytime soon.
And now I NEED BOOK TWO.
Due to my INTENSE reaction to this story, this review may be a little lengthy… but trust me, I have A LOT to say!
Down to Ride by Sadie Hunt is hands down one of my all-time favorite Sadie Hunt books and I honestly don’t know how to put into words just how much I loved it. I went into this expecting the danger, the masked men, the Hunt, the cowboy-bikers, the tension, the chemistry and the spice, but what I wasn’t prepared for was the emotion. This story hit hard.
Audrey’s journey became incredibly personal for me. She has spent years surviving an abusive ex, but everything she does is ultimately about protecting her daughter, Ella. She joins the Hunt because she is willing to risk everything to keep her safe. As a mother myself, I could relate to that part of Audrey so deeply. I know without a doubt that I would do anything to protect my daughter, and feeling that fierce, unwavering love through Audrey made her story resonate with me on another level. What made Audrey so powerful was that she never stopped fighting for herself or her daughter. She was scared, vulnerable and carrying so much, but she kept moving forward. Watching her slowly find her strength, reclaim pieces of herself and realize that she didn’t have to carry everything alone was incredibly meaningful. She didn’t need someone to save her—she needed people who would stand beside her, believe in her, and fight with her.
And then there are Graham, Ridge, and Holden. These three men were absolutely everything. Each brought something completely different to the story, but together they were an explosive combination of danger, intensity, possessiveness, chemistry and heat. The tension between them and Audrey was phenomenal and yes, the spice was definitely there, but what really got me was watching their feelings for Audrey and Ella grow into something fiercely protective. They entered the Hunt thinking they knew exactly what they were going to win, but what they ultimately found was something far more meaningful. Watching these dangerous men become so invested in Audrey and Ella, protect them, stand up for them and become a source of strength for Audrey was one of my favorite parts of the story.
Sadie Hunt managed to give me the dark, addictive romance I came for while also giving me an emotional journey I wasn’t expecting. That combination is what made this book unforgettable for me. I read it in one sitting because once I started, there was absolutely no stopping me. You couldn’t tear me away from this book if you tried. I was completely absorbed in Audrey’s story and needed to know what would happen next. By the time I reached the end, I was already invested beyond words…and then Sadie Hunt dropped THAT CLIFFHANGER.
I swear, I finished that final moment and just FROZE. My mouth was literally GAPING and my brain needed a minute to process what I had just read. And that man? I LOATHE HIM. After everything Audrey has already survived, everything she has sacrificed and everything she has done to protect Ella, what he has done made me want to SCREAM. I wanted to reach through the pages and do something…anything…because the second I finished that ending, I knew Sadie was about to make us suffer. Whatever comes next is going to hurt and I am absolutely NOT PREPARED.
And as a mother, that makes it even harder to shake. Audrey and Ella had already completely captured my heart, so knowing where this story could go has me desperate for answers. Sadie, you didn’t just leave me wanting book two…you left me staring at that ending thinking, WHAT THE HELL AM I SUPPOSED TO DO NOW?!
I was DOWN TO RIDE… but after that cliffhanger? NOW I AM READY TO STRIKE THE MATCH. Because if Down to Ride was the spark, I have a feeling Strike the Match is going to set the whole damn world on fire.
Sadie Hunt, YOU FREAKING GENIUS. You delivered everything I love…danger, darkness, HOLY HOTNESS , obsession, incredible chemistry, unforgettable characters and an emotional story that completely pulled me in…and then you capped it off with an ending that left me desperate for more. I already know what an extraordinary writer you are, but this book? A MASTERPIECE., This beginning to the Blackwell Bulls trilogy is beyond EXCELLENCE and a story I will not be forgetting anytime soon.
And now I NEED BOOK TWO.
September 30, 2026
Hey Besties! We are back in the tunnels under Blackwell Falls and the hunters have some new tricks up their sleeves! This time we are falling for The Blackwell Bulls - who doesn’t love a cowboy ( or3 ) am I right?? Before you head to the ranch, take a trip back to Aventine U and start there if you haven’t already, because while each series can stand on its own, there is some shady stuff happening around the falls, and it all starts to unravel with the Kings
Since the Hawks found Cassie, they have turned The Hunt over to the Blackwell Bulls. Graham- a silver fox rancher continuing his family’s legacy, Ridge- a hottie who works with his hands, and Holden- a young pup with a short fuse run the Calloway Ranch by day and guns by night; and when it’s time, they run the tunnels under Blackwell Falls. When Audrey signs up to play? They know they have to mark her as theirs.
Audrey is an ER doctor and a single mom trying to keep her daughter safe. Her ex- husband has abused her physically and emotionally, and she suspects he is into something much worse. He comes from a powerful family with ties to law enforcement in town, so what can she do? She enters the hunt hoping to win the prize- someone to eliminate the threat he represents to her and her daughter… maybe.
Audrey is amazed to see the beauty that exists just outside the city limits as she enters Calloway Ranch. Claimed by the Bulls, this will be her home for the next 90 days- part time in the main house with them, and in a cottage on the property when she has Ella. She quickly finds herself falling in love with the peace of the ranch- and the ranchers who own it. Her top priority has to be her daughter’s safety, but now? She’s not alone.
The characters in this series are just a little older, a little wiser, and a little more experienced, and I am here for it! I mean- a silver fox? Yes please! A strong woman who knows her worth? Get it girl! The guys definitely fall on the morally gray scale, and our leading lady is dealing with some pretty dark stuff. Add in a working dog who forgets his job when a particularly cute little girl is around and more of Reva’s questionable cooking, and it’s a win! Grab a cold one and saddle up!
This is the first book in the series- it’s a why chose, it’s spicy 🌶️ and it ends ( as always) on a cliffhanger- so keep your eyes open for book 2 coming soon 😘
Since the Hawks found Cassie, they have turned The Hunt over to the Blackwell Bulls. Graham- a silver fox rancher continuing his family’s legacy, Ridge- a hottie who works with his hands, and Holden- a young pup with a short fuse run the Calloway Ranch by day and guns by night; and when it’s time, they run the tunnels under Blackwell Falls. When Audrey signs up to play? They know they have to mark her as theirs.
Audrey is an ER doctor and a single mom trying to keep her daughter safe. Her ex- husband has abused her physically and emotionally, and she suspects he is into something much worse. He comes from a powerful family with ties to law enforcement in town, so what can she do? She enters the hunt hoping to win the prize- someone to eliminate the threat he represents to her and her daughter… maybe.
Audrey is amazed to see the beauty that exists just outside the city limits as she enters Calloway Ranch. Claimed by the Bulls, this will be her home for the next 90 days- part time in the main house with them, and in a cottage on the property when she has Ella. She quickly finds herself falling in love with the peace of the ranch- and the ranchers who own it. Her top priority has to be her daughter’s safety, but now? She’s not alone.
The characters in this series are just a little older, a little wiser, and a little more experienced, and I am here for it! I mean- a silver fox? Yes please! A strong woman who knows her worth? Get it girl! The guys definitely fall on the morally gray scale, and our leading lady is dealing with some pretty dark stuff. Add in a working dog who forgets his job when a particularly cute little girl is around and more of Reva’s questionable cooking, and it’s a win! Grab a cold one and saddle up!
This is the first book in the series- it’s a why chose, it’s spicy 🌶️ and it ends ( as always) on a cliffhanger- so keep your eyes open for book 2 coming soon 😘
October 2, 2026
*Down to Ride* felt different from the previous Blackwell Falls books, but it was no less compelling or intriguing. The FMC is older than the heroines we’ve met before, previously married, and a mother—which brings an entirely different perspective to the story. The age gap between the men is also much larger.
These aren’t men who grew up together, bonded in school, or formed their connection through shared hardship. They came together by chance, working in the same place, and somehow built a family of their own. I really enjoyed that dynamic and the different kind of bond it created.
This story resonated with me because the FMC is dealing with an abusive ex-husband. Sadie captured the dread and emotional weight that comes with having to interact with someone who hurt you, even when you have no choice but to do so. It felt raw, believable, and deeply uncomfortable in the way it was meant to.
Having the FMC’s child involved also raises the stakes in a completely different way. For anyone who already has children, the thought of something happening to them is terrifying. This book captures that fear so well and makes the reader feel every bit of it alongside her.
And that ending… it hurt. I knew there would be a cliffhanger—these books always leave us hanging—but this one still got me. Now I’ll be suffering until the next book comes out.
Amazing story, as always. I literally cannot wait for the next one.
These aren’t men who grew up together, bonded in school, or formed their connection through shared hardship. They came together by chance, working in the same place, and somehow built a family of their own. I really enjoyed that dynamic and the different kind of bond it created.
This story resonated with me because the FMC is dealing with an abusive ex-husband. Sadie captured the dread and emotional weight that comes with having to interact with someone who hurt you, even when you have no choice but to do so. It felt raw, believable, and deeply uncomfortable in the way it was meant to.
Having the FMC’s child involved also raises the stakes in a completely different way. For anyone who already has children, the thought of something happening to them is terrifying. This book captures that fear so well and makes the reader feel every bit of it alongside her.
And that ending… it hurt. I knew there would be a cliffhanger—these books always leave us hanging—but this one still got me. Now I’ll be suffering until the next book comes out.
Amazing story, as always. I literally cannot wait for the next one.
September 29, 2026
I was not prepared for how much I was going to love Audrey and the three bulls. This first book was so addictive. Audrey is such a relatable character. As for Ridge, Holden and Graham, they maybe morally charcoal grey criminals but were easy to get attached to. I have never been disappointed in a Sadie Hunt book they’re always amazing but this was far above what I had been anticipating. This book will live rent free in my head until book two is released. Don’t miss out on this one! Thank you author Sadie Hunt for my ARC of this book.
September 30, 2026
Audrey is a desperate mother who is willing to do whatever it takes to save her child. I love the Bulls a lot more than I thought I would, they're cowboys mixed with some illegal activities to keep Graham's family ranch running but they are complex people who are obsessed with Aubrey and eventually her little girl Ella. The stories are heartbreaking but the relationship that starts to form is emotional and hot as hell. I desperately need to know what happens next; trigger warning of DV and a major cliffhanger.
October 3, 2026
*Reverse Harem
*Contemporary
*Multi-1st-PoV
*Dark Themes - Triggers
*Single Mum
*Masked Men
*Morally grey cowboys
*Established Harem (3)
*Insta-lust
*Fast Burn
*Book 1 / 3
Ride that bull girlfriend!
Audrey is our FMC in this book and it is clear she will do anything she can to protect her little girl and she always puts her first…including leaving behind her abusive ex and seeking help in the hunt! She’s fiercely independent and has lost a bit of herself but these men sure show her she’s more and provide a sense of safety in which she can finally relax ☺️ Although there’s not a huge amount of depth to them at this stage you get to pick up the guys characteristics pretty quick - Graham the older reserved leader of the trio; Holden the young puppy dog wildcard and Ridge steadfast anchor to the group. They lust after our gal pretty quick, expect the spice scenes to hit soon an hard :p but it’s clear there’s significant connections being built to. 🥰 The major drama is from Audrey’s ex and the issues he’s causing, it’s hinted at that he’s connected he may be connected to the wider storyline that’s been plaguing Blackwell so will be interesting to see how that plays out! But oh my gosh you have to hate him for that cliffhanger and I hope Audrey’s cowboys really sort him out 😡
*Contemporary
*Multi-1st-PoV
*Dark Themes - Triggers
*Single Mum
*Masked Men
*Morally grey cowboys
*Established Harem (3)
*Insta-lust
*Fast Burn
*Book 1 / 3
Ride that bull girlfriend!
Audrey is our FMC in this book and it is clear she will do anything she can to protect her little girl and she always puts her first…including leaving behind her abusive ex and seeking help in the hunt! She’s fiercely independent and has lost a bit of herself but these men sure show her she’s more and provide a sense of safety in which she can finally relax ☺️ Although there’s not a huge amount of depth to them at this stage you get to pick up the guys characteristics pretty quick - Graham the older reserved leader of the trio; Holden the young puppy dog wildcard and Ridge steadfast anchor to the group. They lust after our gal pretty quick, expect the spice scenes to hit soon an hard :p but it’s clear there’s significant connections being built to. 🥰 The major drama is from Audrey’s ex and the issues he’s causing, it’s hinted at that he’s connected he may be connected to the wider storyline that’s been plaguing Blackwell so will be interesting to see how that plays out! But oh my gosh you have to hate him for that cliffhanger and I hope Audrey’s cowboys really sort him out 😡
October 4, 2026
Intensely Good 👍
My favorite author ✍️….. Sadie Hunt keeps blowing me away with her writing skills……. Another total must read in the Blackwell Falls world……. A sexy thrill ride and suspenseful plot….
My favorite author ✍️….. Sadie Hunt keeps blowing me away with her writing skills……. Another total must read in the Blackwell Falls world……. A sexy thrill ride and suspenseful plot….
October 4, 2026
Down to Ride had me hooked! I loved how different Ridge, Holden, and Graham were, while each brought exactly what she needed in their own way.
Protective, possessive, emotional, and seriously spicy, with plenty of danger and suspense mixed in. The Blackwell Bulls definitely left me wanting more!
Protective, possessive, emotional, and seriously spicy, with plenty of danger and suspense mixed in. The Blackwell Bulls definitely left me wanting more!
September 29, 2026
Oh Sadie
Sadie kills it again and I literally can't wait for book 2... Check your triggers but if your already a Sadie fan you already know!
Sadie kills it again and I literally can't wait for book 2... Check your triggers but if your already a Sadie fan you already know!
October 13, 2026
I have been eagerly waiting for this series to begin. This saga has honestly been really enjoyable for me and Sadie Hunt has created a world that I keep returning to every single time. It has honestly been pretty healing to read and I feel so at peace when I pick up her books.
This book is slightly different than previous trilogies in this saga, mostly because it involves a bigger age gap between FMC and MMC, and it involves a single mother. I. Am. Here. For. It.
The book follows Audrey, a single mother who is juggling her job as a doctor, her time with her daughter, and her dangerous ex-husband that she managed to escape but is trying to find a way to keep her daughter safe from. When she feels no other option, she goes against everything that she believes in and she joins the hunt.
It is during the hunt that she is captured by Ridge, an ex con who is very good with building things and working with wood, Holden, who is Audrey’s not so secret admirer and a little pyro, and Graham, older, steady and distant from his experiences with life. The Blackwell Bulls live on the ranch that Graham owns that he fought very hard to be able to keep. He will protect his legacy by any means necessary, even if those means are not always legal…
Although these men are very different, they all work very well together and tend to avoid complicated situations… until Audrey joins the hunt. Despite their reservations, given Audrey’s issues with her ex and the fact that she has a young daughter, they accommodate her and her daughter and are very understanding and kind to the two of them. We love morally grey men who can be soft when needed!! They treat Audrey with respect and give her the privacy she needs when she has her daughter with her. When they find out that her ex-husband is threatening and hurting her, despite her losing the hunt, they make it their business to protect her. Unfortunately, Audrey is struggling with her morals and her desire to keep her and her daughter safe while not hurting her by taking her father away.
Meanwhile, despite their hesitation to get close to the doctor, they are having a hard time remembering that she wouldn’t fit into their world permanently. They want her in a way that they haven’t experienced in a long time, but Graham is holding back and I suspect that a woman from his past hurt him and made him more reserved and distant. Still, Audrey manages to even burrow under his tough skin.
When the bulls decide to send her ex-husband a message, he decides to get revenge and frame them for a horrible crime. The book ends with Audrey watching the only men she feels safe with be taken away from her. I honestly haven’t had to experience the cliff hangers for too long because every series I have read by Sadie Hunt have been completed and I could just pick up the next book… now I have to wait and I am ITCHING for the next one!
The cliff hanger was emotional and intense. Audrey has a hard time leaning on people and trusting people. Her ex-husband badly damaged her and he is so dangerous for their daughter that she is constantly on edge and they helped her feel safe and protected for the first time in a very long time. So, to lose them was the ultimate punishment and she is not safe with them behind bars. I want to see how she is able to get them out and how she is able to put her ex in his place. I also hope that the bulls are not going to pull away from her afterward. I understand their desire to keep the ranch safe, but they also can’t deny the desires they have for Audrey.
One of my favorite parts of the book is when Audrey is caught during the hunt and the bulls have her take a little ride. I refuse to give too many details but I was shocked and so was she… but it’s safe to say, she very much enjoyed it as well.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I cannot wait to see what happens next. This is my first book that involves cowboys and I can’t say I am disappointed. In all honesty, if you like why choose romances with morally grey men and a touch of darkness, this book is worth giving a shot. It is spicy, emotional, heartfelt and suspenseful which gives me the ultimate rush when flying through the pages.
This book is slightly different than previous trilogies in this saga, mostly because it involves a bigger age gap between FMC and MMC, and it involves a single mother. I. Am. Here. For. It.
The book follows Audrey, a single mother who is juggling her job as a doctor, her time with her daughter, and her dangerous ex-husband that she managed to escape but is trying to find a way to keep her daughter safe from. When she feels no other option, she goes against everything that she believes in and she joins the hunt.
It is during the hunt that she is captured by Ridge, an ex con who is very good with building things and working with wood, Holden, who is Audrey’s not so secret admirer and a little pyro, and Graham, older, steady and distant from his experiences with life. The Blackwell Bulls live on the ranch that Graham owns that he fought very hard to be able to keep. He will protect his legacy by any means necessary, even if those means are not always legal…
Although these men are very different, they all work very well together and tend to avoid complicated situations… until Audrey joins the hunt. Despite their reservations, given Audrey’s issues with her ex and the fact that she has a young daughter, they accommodate her and her daughter and are very understanding and kind to the two of them. We love morally grey men who can be soft when needed!! They treat Audrey with respect and give her the privacy she needs when she has her daughter with her. When they find out that her ex-husband is threatening and hurting her, despite her losing the hunt, they make it their business to protect her. Unfortunately, Audrey is struggling with her morals and her desire to keep her and her daughter safe while not hurting her by taking her father away.
Meanwhile, despite their hesitation to get close to the doctor, they are having a hard time remembering that she wouldn’t fit into their world permanently. They want her in a way that they haven’t experienced in a long time, but Graham is holding back and I suspect that a woman from his past hurt him and made him more reserved and distant. Still, Audrey manages to even burrow under his tough skin.
When the bulls decide to send her ex-husband a message, he decides to get revenge and frame them for a horrible crime. The book ends with Audrey watching the only men she feels safe with be taken away from her. I honestly haven’t had to experience the cliff hangers for too long because every series I have read by Sadie Hunt have been completed and I could just pick up the next book… now I have to wait and I am ITCHING for the next one!
The cliff hanger was emotional and intense. Audrey has a hard time leaning on people and trusting people. Her ex-husband badly damaged her and he is so dangerous for their daughter that she is constantly on edge and they helped her feel safe and protected for the first time in a very long time. So, to lose them was the ultimate punishment and she is not safe with them behind bars. I want to see how she is able to get them out and how she is able to put her ex in his place. I also hope that the bulls are not going to pull away from her afterward. I understand their desire to keep the ranch safe, but they also can’t deny the desires they have for Audrey.
One of my favorite parts of the book is when Audrey is caught during the hunt and the bulls have her take a little ride. I refuse to give too many details but I was shocked and so was she… but it’s safe to say, she very much enjoyed it as well.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I cannot wait to see what happens next. This is my first book that involves cowboys and I can’t say I am disappointed. In all honesty, if you like why choose romances with morally grey men and a touch of darkness, this book is worth giving a shot. It is spicy, emotional, heartfelt and suspenseful which gives me the ultimate rush when flying through the pages.
October 6, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Apparently Sadie Hunt looked at my already questionable taste in fictional men and said, “You know what she needs? Three ranchers.” And unfortunately, she was correct. **Down to Ride** hooked me with the Blackwell Falls mystery, but what kept me reading was this completely unexpected combination of danger, found family, emotional baggage, and three very different men slowly making themselves impossible not to love.
**Tropes:**
🖤 Why Choose / Reverse Harem
🤠 Rancher MMCs
🏠 Forced Proximity
🔪 Morally Gray Men
🔥 Age Gap / Different-Age MMCs
Also, I need to admit something.
I did **not** know I was an age-gap romance person.
Apparently I just hadn't met the right fictional rancher yet.
And can we please talk about how refreshing it is to have an FMC in her **30s**? A grown woman. A mom. Someone who already has a life, responsibilities, baggage, and enough experience to know that adding three complicated men to the situation is probably a terrible idea.
Naturally, we do it anyway.
I loved that she felt like an actual adult woman instead of someone whose entire identity begins the second the MMCs walk into the story.
What I really loved about this one is that the relationship never felt like three interchangeable men orbiting one FMC. Graham, Ridge, and Holden each bring something completely different to the story and to her life. Graham has that older, quietly dangerous energy. Ridge is the steady one who makes you think maybe trusting these people isn't the worst idea she's ever had. And Holden is basically chaos with good cheekbones and absolutely no business being as entertaining as he is.
Obviously I have a favorite.
No, I'm not telling you.
Okay, I'm probably going to tell you eventually.
But underneath all of the spice and the very valid reasons to become emotionally attached to fictional ranchers, there is actually a lot going on here. She's a mother who walked into the Hunt trying to save her daughter, and I loved that Sadie didn't make that part of her disappear once the romance started. Her reasons for doing what she does matter. Her fear matters. And watching these men decide that her problems are now collectively **their** problems hit me directly in my favorite “you don't have to do this alone anymore” trope-loving heart.
And because this is Blackwell Falls, of course nothing can ever just be normal.
There are secrets. There are dangerous people. There are questions I've been carrying around from the other books. There are new questions I did NOT request. And every time I think Sadie Hunt is finally going to give me a nice neat answer, she basically pats me on the head and hands me another mystery.
Rude.
The spice is absolutely spicing, but what sold this book for me was the balance between that heat and the growing connection between the four of them. The quieter moments mattered just as much as the wild ones, and by the end I wasn't just invested in who ended up in whose bed. I was invested in this little disaster family becoming a family.
Five stars because I came for three dangerous ranchers and somehow left emotionally invested in their feelings.
Also because apparently I live in Blackwell Falls now.
I don't make the rules.
And after that ending? **Strike the Match needs to get here immediately.**
Apparently Sadie Hunt looked at my already questionable taste in fictional men and said, “You know what she needs? Three ranchers.” And unfortunately, she was correct. **Down to Ride** hooked me with the Blackwell Falls mystery, but what kept me reading was this completely unexpected combination of danger, found family, emotional baggage, and three very different men slowly making themselves impossible not to love.
**Tropes:**
🖤 Why Choose / Reverse Harem
🤠 Rancher MMCs
🏠 Forced Proximity
🔪 Morally Gray Men
🔥 Age Gap / Different-Age MMCs
Also, I need to admit something.
I did **not** know I was an age-gap romance person.
Apparently I just hadn't met the right fictional rancher yet.
And can we please talk about how refreshing it is to have an FMC in her **30s**? A grown woman. A mom. Someone who already has a life, responsibilities, baggage, and enough experience to know that adding three complicated men to the situation is probably a terrible idea.
Naturally, we do it anyway.
I loved that she felt like an actual adult woman instead of someone whose entire identity begins the second the MMCs walk into the story.
What I really loved about this one is that the relationship never felt like three interchangeable men orbiting one FMC. Graham, Ridge, and Holden each bring something completely different to the story and to her life. Graham has that older, quietly dangerous energy. Ridge is the steady one who makes you think maybe trusting these people isn't the worst idea she's ever had. And Holden is basically chaos with good cheekbones and absolutely no business being as entertaining as he is.
Obviously I have a favorite.
No, I'm not telling you.
Okay, I'm probably going to tell you eventually.
But underneath all of the spice and the very valid reasons to become emotionally attached to fictional ranchers, there is actually a lot going on here. She's a mother who walked into the Hunt trying to save her daughter, and I loved that Sadie didn't make that part of her disappear once the romance started. Her reasons for doing what she does matter. Her fear matters. And watching these men decide that her problems are now collectively **their** problems hit me directly in my favorite “you don't have to do this alone anymore” trope-loving heart.
And because this is Blackwell Falls, of course nothing can ever just be normal.
There are secrets. There are dangerous people. There are questions I've been carrying around from the other books. There are new questions I did NOT request. And every time I think Sadie Hunt is finally going to give me a nice neat answer, she basically pats me on the head and hands me another mystery.
Rude.
The spice is absolutely spicing, but what sold this book for me was the balance between that heat and the growing connection between the four of them. The quieter moments mattered just as much as the wild ones, and by the end I wasn't just invested in who ended up in whose bed. I was invested in this little disaster family becoming a family.
Five stars because I came for three dangerous ranchers and somehow left emotionally invested in their feelings.
Also because apparently I live in Blackwell Falls now.
I don't make the rules.
And after that ending? **Strike the Match needs to get here immediately.**
October 1, 2026
✨💜 An emotional start to the series 💜✨
𝓕𝓸𝓻 𝓮𝓿𝓮𝓻𝔂 𝓫𝓸𝓸𝓴 𝓰𝓲𝓻𝓵𝓲𝓮 𝔀𝓱𝓸’𝓼 𝓷𝓮𝓮𝓭𝓮𝓭 𝓯𝓻𝓮𝓼𝓱 𝓪𝓲𝓻 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓷 𝓼𝓹𝓪𝓬𝓮𝓼, 𝓪 𝓼𝓪𝓯𝓮 𝓹𝓵𝓪𝓬𝓮 𝓽𝓸 𝓼𝓽𝓪𝓻𝓽 𝓸𝓿𝓮𝓻, 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓼𝓸𝓶𝓮𝓸𝓷𝓮 𝓽𝓸 𝓽𝓮𝓵𝓵 𝔂𝓸𝓾, “𝓘𝓽’𝓼 𝓰𝓸𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓽𝓸 𝓫𝓮 𝓸𝓴𝓪𝔂.” 𝓣𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓸𝓷𝓮’𝓼 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝔂𝓸𝓾. 𝓘𝓽’𝓼 𝓰𝓸𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓽𝓸 𝓫𝓮 𝓸𝓴𝓪𝔂. 𝓢𝓗
Get comfortable because this is a long one.
This one hit on a very personal level for me. As someone who has been through DV, so much of what I read was painfully on point. Unfortunately.
It’s not something we always like to talk about, but this book brings so many things to light that people who haven’t experienced it may never think about. Those chilling moments when you feel like it’s the end. The fear behind certain movements (you just know it's coming). The fear for your children. The conflicting feelings about the father of your kids. You wish he would disappear, but shouldn't your kids have their father? And that constant thought of, How do I keep him happy so he doesn’t make my life even more difficult?
Then there’s the control that can continue even after the divorce is final.
At some point, it finally clicks that you cannot control the outcome. You can’t control what they do, how they react, or what they choose to use against you. But you can control how you deal with it.
You learn that they will always try to control you through whatever leverage they have, if you let them. So stop trying to keep them happy. Stop carrying the weight of their actions. Focus on your healing. Focus on your children. Focus on getting your life back.
This book is eye opening for people who haven’t experienced DV, but for those of us who have, I'm speaking to you love - you are not alone 🫂
All of that said, it's not ONLY about DV. There are some seriously hot SMEXY moments with tons of chemistry between them all! She's realizing she's 𝑛𝑜𝑡 𝑜𝑛𝑙𝑦 𝑎 𝑚𝑜𝑡𝘩𝑒𝑟 𝑡𝑟𝑦𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑡𝑜 𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑣𝑖𝑣𝑒. 𝑆𝘩𝑒'𝑠 𝑎 𝑤𝑜𝑚𝑎𝑛 𝑤𝑖𝑡𝘩 𝑛𝑒𝑒𝑑𝑠 🫦
Her little girl, Ella is absolutely adorable 🥰. There is an age gap in this one. Audrey is 35, Graham is mid-fifties, Ridge is 36, and Holden is mid-twenties. Somehow it all works for them. I only mention that because it didn't really apply in the previous hunt series... So this is refreshing for an older woman like me 👌
𝐻𝑒𝑎𝑑𝑠 𝑢𝑝, 𝑡𝘩𝑖𝑠 𝑖𝑠 𝑎 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑢𝑜𝑢𝑠 𝑠𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑒𝑠, 𝑤𝘩𝑖𝑐𝘩 𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑛𝑠 𝑡𝘩𝑖𝑠 𝑏𝑜𝑜𝑘 𝟷 𝑜𝑓 𝟹 𝑤𝑖𝑙𝑙 𝘩𝑎𝑣𝑒 𝑎 𝑐𝑙𝑖𝑓𝑓𝘩𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒𝑟. 𝐵𝑢𝑡 𝑤𝑜𝑟𝑟𝑦 𝑛𝑜𝑡, 𝑆𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑒 𝑤𝑖𝑙𝑙 𝘩𝑎𝑣𝑒 𝑡𝘩𝑒 𝑛𝑒𝑥𝑡 𝟸 𝑏𝑜𝑜𝑘𝑠 𝑜𝑢𝑡 𝑤𝑖𝑡𝘩𝑖𝑛 𝟸 𝑚𝑜𝑛𝑡𝘩𝑠 👍
A few excerpts:
“𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒗𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒍𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈.ᐣ” “‘𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒍𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈’ 𝒊𝒔 𝒂 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒅,” 𝑯𝒐𝒍𝒅𝒆𝒏 𝒔𝒂𝒊𝒅. “𝑰’𝒗𝒆 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒇𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒐𝒘𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒂𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅 𝒂 𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒍𝒆.” - 𝑯𝒐𝒍𝒅𝒆𝒏
"𝑹𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝑰'𝒎 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝒍𝒐𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝑰 𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅𝒏'𝒕, 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒅𝒄𝒂𝒕." - 𝑮𝒓𝒂𝒉𝒂𝒎
“𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒕𝒂𝒍𝒌 𝒎𝒖𝒄𝒉 𝒅𝒐 𝒚𝒐𝒖.ᐣ” “𝑻𝒂𝒍𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒔𝒏’𝒕 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕’𝒔 𝒐𝒏 𝒎𝒚 𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒏𝒐𝒘, 𝑨𝒖𝒅𝒓𝒆𝒚.” - 𝑹𝒊𝒅𝒈𝒆
𝓕𝓸𝓻 𝓮𝓿𝓮𝓻𝔂 𝓫𝓸𝓸𝓴 𝓰𝓲𝓻𝓵𝓲𝓮 𝔀𝓱𝓸’𝓼 𝓷𝓮𝓮𝓭𝓮𝓭 𝓯𝓻𝓮𝓼𝓱 𝓪𝓲𝓻 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓷 𝓼𝓹𝓪𝓬𝓮𝓼, 𝓪 𝓼𝓪𝓯𝓮 𝓹𝓵𝓪𝓬𝓮 𝓽𝓸 𝓼𝓽𝓪𝓻𝓽 𝓸𝓿𝓮𝓻, 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓼𝓸𝓶𝓮𝓸𝓷𝓮 𝓽𝓸 𝓽𝓮𝓵𝓵 𝔂𝓸𝓾, “𝓘𝓽’𝓼 𝓰𝓸𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓽𝓸 𝓫𝓮 𝓸𝓴𝓪𝔂.” 𝓣𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓸𝓷𝓮’𝓼 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝔂𝓸𝓾. 𝓘𝓽’𝓼 𝓰𝓸𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓽𝓸 𝓫𝓮 𝓸𝓴𝓪𝔂. 𝓢𝓗
Get comfortable because this is a long one.
This one hit on a very personal level for me. As someone who has been through DV, so much of what I read was painfully on point. Unfortunately.
It’s not something we always like to talk about, but this book brings so many things to light that people who haven’t experienced it may never think about. Those chilling moments when you feel like it’s the end. The fear behind certain movements (you just know it's coming). The fear for your children. The conflicting feelings about the father of your kids. You wish he would disappear, but shouldn't your kids have their father? And that constant thought of, How do I keep him happy so he doesn’t make my life even more difficult?
Then there’s the control that can continue even after the divorce is final.
At some point, it finally clicks that you cannot control the outcome. You can’t control what they do, how they react, or what they choose to use against you. But you can control how you deal with it.
You learn that they will always try to control you through whatever leverage they have, if you let them. So stop trying to keep them happy. Stop carrying the weight of their actions. Focus on your healing. Focus on your children. Focus on getting your life back.
This book is eye opening for people who haven’t experienced DV, but for those of us who have, I'm speaking to you love - you are not alone 🫂
All of that said, it's not ONLY about DV. There are some seriously hot SMEXY moments with tons of chemistry between them all! She's realizing she's 𝑛𝑜𝑡 𝑜𝑛𝑙𝑦 𝑎 𝑚𝑜𝑡𝘩𝑒𝑟 𝑡𝑟𝑦𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑡𝑜 𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑣𝑖𝑣𝑒. 𝑆𝘩𝑒'𝑠 𝑎 𝑤𝑜𝑚𝑎𝑛 𝑤𝑖𝑡𝘩 𝑛𝑒𝑒𝑑𝑠 🫦
Her little girl, Ella is absolutely adorable 🥰. There is an age gap in this one. Audrey is 35, Graham is mid-fifties, Ridge is 36, and Holden is mid-twenties. Somehow it all works for them. I only mention that because it didn't really apply in the previous hunt series... So this is refreshing for an older woman like me 👌
𝐻𝑒𝑎𝑑𝑠 𝑢𝑝, 𝑡𝘩𝑖𝑠 𝑖𝑠 𝑎 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑢𝑜𝑢𝑠 𝑠𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑒𝑠, 𝑤𝘩𝑖𝑐𝘩 𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑛𝑠 𝑡𝘩𝑖𝑠 𝑏𝑜𝑜𝑘 𝟷 𝑜𝑓 𝟹 𝑤𝑖𝑙𝑙 𝘩𝑎𝑣𝑒 𝑎 𝑐𝑙𝑖𝑓𝑓𝘩𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒𝑟. 𝐵𝑢𝑡 𝑤𝑜𝑟𝑟𝑦 𝑛𝑜𝑡, 𝑆𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑒 𝑤𝑖𝑙𝑙 𝘩𝑎𝑣𝑒 𝑡𝘩𝑒 𝑛𝑒𝑥𝑡 𝟸 𝑏𝑜𝑜𝑘𝑠 𝑜𝑢𝑡 𝑤𝑖𝑡𝘩𝑖𝑛 𝟸 𝑚𝑜𝑛𝑡𝘩𝑠 👍
A few excerpts:
“𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒗𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒍𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈.ᐣ” “‘𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒍𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈’ 𝒊𝒔 𝒂 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒅,” 𝑯𝒐𝒍𝒅𝒆𝒏 𝒔𝒂𝒊𝒅. “𝑰’𝒗𝒆 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒇𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒐𝒘𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒂𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅 𝒂 𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒍𝒆.” - 𝑯𝒐𝒍𝒅𝒆𝒏
"𝑹𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝑰'𝒎 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝒍𝒐𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝑰 𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅𝒏'𝒕, 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒅𝒄𝒂𝒕." - 𝑮𝒓𝒂𝒉𝒂𝒎
“𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒕𝒂𝒍𝒌 𝒎𝒖𝒄𝒉 𝒅𝒐 𝒚𝒐𝒖.ᐣ” “𝑻𝒂𝒍𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒔𝒏’𝒕 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕’𝒔 𝒐𝒏 𝒎𝒚 𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒏𝒐𝒘, 𝑨𝒖𝒅𝒓𝒆𝒚.” - 𝑹𝒊𝒅𝒈𝒆
October 6, 2026
Well… apparently I was, in fact, Down to Ride. 😏
Sadie Hunt has once again dropped me straight into Blackwell Falls, handed me three men covered in tattoos and red flags, added danger, questionable life choices, enough spice to make me rethink my standards, and somehow still managed to make the emotional part of the story hit just as hard.
Audrey was the part of this book that really got me.
She isn’t walking into this story looking to be rescued. She’s a woman who has survived, protected her daughter, and kept moving forward even when life gave her every reason not to. Watching her slowly begin to trust Graham, Ridge, and Holden—and watching these three dangerous men become fiercely protective of both Audrey and Ella—was probably my favorite part.
And the Bulls?
Sir.
SIRS.
Graham with the silver beard and commanding energy.
Ridge quietly working his way into your heart.
And Holden…well, Holden apparently believes fire is both a personality trait and a love language. 😂🔥
Completely reasonable fictional men to become attached to.
Nothing concerning here.
The chemistry was fantastic, the spice was SPICING 🌶️, but I loved that underneath all of that there was actually heart. The found-family element, Audrey’s strength, and the way these men begin making her battles their battles gave the story so much more depth than I expected.
And then…
THE ENDING.
Sadie.
Ma’am.
What exactly were we supposed to do after THAT?!
Because apparently closing the Kindle and calmly continuing with my evening was not one of the available options.
So now I’m sitting here emotionally inconvenienced and waiting for Strike the Match because clearly I have made excellent life choices and intend to return to Blackwell Falls immediately.
⭐️ 5/5
🌶️ 5/5
🚩 Red flags: abundant
🔥 Bad decisions: encouraged in fiction only
📚 Will I continue the series? Obviously.
Another Sadie Hunt book added to the list of reasons my standards for fictional men are becoming completely unreasonable.
And frankly?
I regret nothing. 🖤🔥
Sadie Hunt has once again dropped me straight into Blackwell Falls, handed me three men covered in tattoos and red flags, added danger, questionable life choices, enough spice to make me rethink my standards, and somehow still managed to make the emotional part of the story hit just as hard.
Audrey was the part of this book that really got me.
She isn’t walking into this story looking to be rescued. She’s a woman who has survived, protected her daughter, and kept moving forward even when life gave her every reason not to. Watching her slowly begin to trust Graham, Ridge, and Holden—and watching these three dangerous men become fiercely protective of both Audrey and Ella—was probably my favorite part.
And the Bulls?
Sir.
SIRS.
Graham with the silver beard and commanding energy.
Ridge quietly working his way into your heart.
And Holden…well, Holden apparently believes fire is both a personality trait and a love language. 😂🔥
Completely reasonable fictional men to become attached to.
Nothing concerning here.
The chemistry was fantastic, the spice was SPICING 🌶️, but I loved that underneath all of that there was actually heart. The found-family element, Audrey’s strength, and the way these men begin making her battles their battles gave the story so much more depth than I expected.
And then…
THE ENDING.
Sadie.
Ma’am.
What exactly were we supposed to do after THAT?!
Because apparently closing the Kindle and calmly continuing with my evening was not one of the available options.
So now I’m sitting here emotionally inconvenienced and waiting for Strike the Match because clearly I have made excellent life choices and intend to return to Blackwell Falls immediately.
⭐️ 5/5
🌶️ 5/5
🚩 Red flags: abundant
🔥 Bad decisions: encouraged in fiction only
📚 Will I continue the series? Obviously.
Another Sadie Hunt book added to the list of reasons my standards for fictional men are becoming completely unreasonable.
And frankly?
I regret nothing. 🖤🔥
October 1, 2026
Sadie, Sadie, Sadie….You’ve got to be kidding me? That cliffy ending was not what I was expecting! You know how you read a gazillion different books & you kind of build in your mind how the ending could go? Yeah, nah! It wouldn’t be a Sadie Hunt book if there wasn’t a twist. Honestly though, I love how Sadie writes these stories & I get so caught up in them that I can’t put them down. I love her simple descriptions that manage to paint a huge picture that my visual brain soaks up. She doesn’t over detail things but writes the perfect amount so your mind creates its own world with her guidance!
The Bulls.. Lordy 🔥 I say that each new trio of Blackwell men is my favourite but I am seriously crushing on these 3! Holden, the sparky, stalking, big puppy & Ridge - the gentle soul who I want to make me some farm animals 😜but then there’s Graham… I don’t know what it is about him but I definitely need to know more!
Our FMC - Audrey, is divine. How much do I love this amazing heroine. Stacks! While all of Sadies FMC’s are awesome, there’s something about Audrey that makes this story even better. I don’t know if it’s because she’s a little older than the other FMC’s or just has a different perspective being a mum but she totally rocks & the way she comes alive along the storyline is pure gold!
Overall I really enjoyed this book. The overall theme that has run through all the Blackwell Falls Books - (not going to give a spoiler here sorry!) is surfacing but not overwhelming to the storyline. I really suggest starting the adventure with the Aventine series but it’s certainly not a requirement so far, you could read this as a standalone. (However do yourself a favour & enjoy the other Blackwell peeps)
Spice ✔️🔥🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Storyline ✔️
Well written & flows easily ✔️
Solid characters ✔️ 😜
Older characters/age gap ✔️ Which I really love - (not everyone is in their 20’s! - readers & characters)
Alt POV ✔️
Interesting story with intrigue! ✔️
Yep, pretty much in love with these 4 or should I say 5! ❤️ Can’t wait for the next book - Sadie that wasn’t fair! 😂
The Bulls.. Lordy 🔥 I say that each new trio of Blackwell men is my favourite but I am seriously crushing on these 3! Holden, the sparky, stalking, big puppy & Ridge - the gentle soul who I want to make me some farm animals 😜but then there’s Graham… I don’t know what it is about him but I definitely need to know more!
Our FMC - Audrey, is divine. How much do I love this amazing heroine. Stacks! While all of Sadies FMC’s are awesome, there’s something about Audrey that makes this story even better. I don’t know if it’s because she’s a little older than the other FMC’s or just has a different perspective being a mum but she totally rocks & the way she comes alive along the storyline is pure gold!
Overall I really enjoyed this book. The overall theme that has run through all the Blackwell Falls Books - (not going to give a spoiler here sorry!) is surfacing but not overwhelming to the storyline. I really suggest starting the adventure with the Aventine series but it’s certainly not a requirement so far, you could read this as a standalone. (However do yourself a favour & enjoy the other Blackwell peeps)
Spice ✔️🔥🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Storyline ✔️
Well written & flows easily ✔️
Solid characters ✔️ 😜
Older characters/age gap ✔️ Which I really love - (not everyone is in their 20’s! - readers & characters)
Alt POV ✔️
Interesting story with intrigue! ✔️
Yep, pretty much in love with these 4 or should I say 5! ❤️ Can’t wait for the next book - Sadie that wasn’t fair! 😂
October 7, 2026
Ms. Hunt, idk how you do it, but, I swear, with every book I read of yours, you manage to freaking knock me off my axis and own me with your words. I'm absolutely blown away by Down to Ride. Just. Flipping. Wow!
My heart seriously goes out to Audrey and all she has to endure having been married to Dean. That man is an abusive POS, who, even though they're divorced, thinks he still owns and can control her, using threats involving their daughter, Ella, as his method of controlling her. Audrey entered the Hunt because she feared for Ella, especially when it's possible Dean has some very dark secrets that could ultimately put Ella in serious danger. And up until she entered the Hunt, Audrey was alone in dealing with him. Enter the Bulls, Graham, Ridge and Holden, who she has to live with on Graham's ranch for 3 mos after losing the Hunt. This girl right here fell head over heels for the trio. I mean, how could you not? They are straight up spice on legs with filthy mouths and beautiful hearts.
The chemistry between these three incredible men and Audrey is deliciously explosive, and they, after realizing Audrey is something more to them, make her business theirs. They become not only a shield for Audrey and Ella, but they, and the ranch, start to feel like a safe haven, like home.
Audrey and the Bulls are put smack dab in the middle of the mystery surrounding the missing girls in Blackwell Falls, having discovered some shocking revelations, and I can't wait to see how it all comes to light, with Sadie Hunt putting a wrap to the series. All I know is, despite the ending causing me to yell at my tablet, however Sadie lays it all out, it's going to be absolute literary perfection! I can't wait for Strike the Match. It will, no doubt, be a masterpiece, as is everything Sadie writes. This work of art deserves ALLLL the stars!!
My heart seriously goes out to Audrey and all she has to endure having been married to Dean. That man is an abusive POS, who, even though they're divorced, thinks he still owns and can control her, using threats involving their daughter, Ella, as his method of controlling her. Audrey entered the Hunt because she feared for Ella, especially when it's possible Dean has some very dark secrets that could ultimately put Ella in serious danger. And up until she entered the Hunt, Audrey was alone in dealing with him. Enter the Bulls, Graham, Ridge and Holden, who she has to live with on Graham's ranch for 3 mos after losing the Hunt. This girl right here fell head over heels for the trio. I mean, how could you not? They are straight up spice on legs with filthy mouths and beautiful hearts.
The chemistry between these three incredible men and Audrey is deliciously explosive, and they, after realizing Audrey is something more to them, make her business theirs. They become not only a shield for Audrey and Ella, but they, and the ranch, start to feel like a safe haven, like home.
Audrey and the Bulls are put smack dab in the middle of the mystery surrounding the missing girls in Blackwell Falls, having discovered some shocking revelations, and I can't wait to see how it all comes to light, with Sadie Hunt putting a wrap to the series. All I know is, despite the ending causing me to yell at my tablet, however Sadie lays it all out, it's going to be absolute literary perfection! I can't wait for Strike the Match. It will, no doubt, be a masterpiece, as is everything Sadie writes. This work of art deserves ALLLL the stars!!
October 6, 2026
Some books are a good time. Some books hit a little too close to home. And then there are the books that somehow manage to do BOTH while giving you three ridiculously hot men to distract you. Down to Ride is absolutely a 5-star read for me, and honestly, I expect nothing less from one of my top 5-star authors. Sadie Hunt just delivers.
Audrey was SO relatable. I loved that she wasn't written as some fearless, untouched-by-life heroine. She's a woman who has been through things, is trying to protect her daughter, and is still figuring out who she is underneath everything she's had to survive. The portrayal of the lingering effects of domestic violence really got to me. The fear, second-guessing, hypervigilance, guilt, and that constant calculation of how someone else's reaction might affect you all felt incredibly real. And I loved watching Audrey slowly realize that surviving isn't the same thing as living.
Then... enter the Bulls.
Let's just say Sadie Hunt clearly understood the assignment. These men are VERY different from each other, but somehow that combination works ridiculously well. The chemistry? The protectiveness? The spice? Ma'am. I was trying to read here but my glasses are steamy.
There's action, mystery, found family, plenty of heat, and twists that kept me turning pages. And then Sadie decided to end the book with THAT cliffhanger.
Ma'am.
I just want to talk.
Needless to say, I will be impatiently waiting for the next book because I have QUESTIONS.
If you love why choose, protective men, strong-but-human FMCs, suspense, found family, and a whole lot of spice, add this one to your TBR.
Thank you to Sadie Hunt for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own
Audrey was SO relatable. I loved that she wasn't written as some fearless, untouched-by-life heroine. She's a woman who has been through things, is trying to protect her daughter, and is still figuring out who she is underneath everything she's had to survive. The portrayal of the lingering effects of domestic violence really got to me. The fear, second-guessing, hypervigilance, guilt, and that constant calculation of how someone else's reaction might affect you all felt incredibly real. And I loved watching Audrey slowly realize that surviving isn't the same thing as living.
Then... enter the Bulls.
Let's just say Sadie Hunt clearly understood the assignment. These men are VERY different from each other, but somehow that combination works ridiculously well. The chemistry? The protectiveness? The spice? Ma'am. I was trying to read here but my glasses are steamy.
There's action, mystery, found family, plenty of heat, and twists that kept me turning pages. And then Sadie decided to end the book with THAT cliffhanger.
Ma'am.
I just want to talk.
Needless to say, I will be impatiently waiting for the next book because I have QUESTIONS.
If you love why choose, protective men, strong-but-human FMCs, suspense, found family, and a whole lot of spice, add this one to your TBR.
Thank you to Sadie Hunt for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own
October 3, 2026
Down to Ride is the first book in the latest Blackwell Falls series of novels by Sadie Hunt. Reading the previous novels will definitely help with recognizing some of the characters' names, town locations, and Easter eggs mentioned throughout this book, but it can be read as a standalone. I’ve only read two of the Blackwell Falls series prior to this one, and I didn’t feel lost but am definitely going back to read the remainder before the next book in this series is released.
Audrey joined The Hunt in hopes of having someone help her unalive her abusive ex if she wins. The Bulls own the hunt and plan to claim a bedmate for three months if they win. I don’t think I’ll be revealing any state secrets to say the Bulls win, but Audrey does get some help with the ex from her very protective, very possessive lovers.
This book was a quick read. I couldn’t put it down and finished it in one day. It was full of drama, angst, and a healthy dash of spicy group spice! There were also cute, heartwarming, and even funny moments as well. It’s said that actors should never work with kids or animals. Ella and Blue (“He’s a working dog!”) steal a number of scenes as well as a number of hearts! I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a why choose, primal, morally gray romance.
The book does end with a cliffhanger but thank goodness book 2 is set to be released soon, so not too long to wait!
There is a theme of prior DV throughout the book, so please be sure to read the trigger warnings/message from the author before jumping in.
Audrey joined The Hunt in hopes of having someone help her unalive her abusive ex if she wins. The Bulls own the hunt and plan to claim a bedmate for three months if they win. I don’t think I’ll be revealing any state secrets to say the Bulls win, but Audrey does get some help with the ex from her very protective, very possessive lovers.
This book was a quick read. I couldn’t put it down and finished it in one day. It was full of drama, angst, and a healthy dash of spicy group spice! There were also cute, heartwarming, and even funny moments as well. It’s said that actors should never work with kids or animals. Ella and Blue (“He’s a working dog!”) steal a number of scenes as well as a number of hearts! I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a why choose, primal, morally gray romance.
The book does end with a cliffhanger but thank goodness book 2 is set to be released soon, so not too long to wait!
There is a theme of prior DV throughout the book, so please be sure to read the trigger warnings/message from the author before jumping in.
October 5, 2026
Men enter The Hunt for a chance to chase and "own" a woman for 90 days. Women enter The Hunt for a chance to win a favor of their choosing. Audrey entered The Hunt for a chance to save her daughter, but she was caught by The Bulls. Now she has to find a way to balance her life as single mother, her job as an ER doctor, and her 3 months living with the three Cowboys who caught her. Graham, Ridge and Holden are trying to decide how much they want to get involved in her life but it gets more and more difficult once they learn what her ex-husband is involved in. How involved do they get to keep Audrey and her daughter safe?
I have read all of Sadie Hunt’s Blackwell Falls series so far. I couldn’t wait to read about the Bulls. This series has a lot of my fav tropes: Why Choose, Primal Play, Forced Proximity and Masked Men! This is Book 1 of the Blackwell Bulls series so there is a cliffhanger. There is plenty of spice, action, suspense, and big, protective, sexy alpha Cowboys. I am so happy this is a Why Choose situation because I can't pick between Ridge, Graham, or Holden.
This is a DARK Romance, so please check all the trigger warnings before reading. But this book is well worth the read. So are all the Blackwell Falls series. I hope these Blackwell Falls books never stop!
Overall Rating: 5/5
Spice Rating: 3/5
Tropes: Dark Romance, Why Choose/Reverse Harem, MFMM, Primal Play, Masked Men, Age Gap/ Reverse Age Gap, Single Mom, Forced Proximity, Cowboys
I was a member of the ARC Team and this is my honest review.
I have read all of Sadie Hunt’s Blackwell Falls series so far. I couldn’t wait to read about the Bulls. This series has a lot of my fav tropes: Why Choose, Primal Play, Forced Proximity and Masked Men! This is Book 1 of the Blackwell Bulls series so there is a cliffhanger. There is plenty of spice, action, suspense, and big, protective, sexy alpha Cowboys. I am so happy this is a Why Choose situation because I can't pick between Ridge, Graham, or Holden.
This is a DARK Romance, so please check all the trigger warnings before reading. But this book is well worth the read. So are all the Blackwell Falls series. I hope these Blackwell Falls books never stop!
Overall Rating: 5/5
Spice Rating: 3/5
Tropes: Dark Romance, Why Choose/Reverse Harem, MFMM, Primal Play, Masked Men, Age Gap/ Reverse Age Gap, Single Mom, Forced Proximity, Cowboys
I was a member of the ARC Team and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dark RH Cowboy Romance
Omg Yes!!!! What a great read. This book held my attention from the very beginning until I was kicked off the cliff….. rude!!!!
This had some heart pounding suspense (during the Hunt and later), the perfect amount of angst, delicious spice that was worth the wait and MMCs to die for….. the tension and chemistry between Audrey and the Bulls was off the charts.
This is the Bulls 2nd Hunt and have taken over for the Hawks and let me tell you…..they’ve made a few interesting changes 😏
Now Audrey is on the ranch for 3 months but she (unknowingly) comes with her 6 year old daughter …. So they make some concessions ….. but this doesn’t feel like the first hunt… The Bulls are intrigued and it just became ‘messy’…… and even more so when they learn about her ex.
“Right now I’m wanting a lot of things I shouldn’t, wildcat.”
I have soooo many questions that I know I’ll get before the end of this series. I can’t wait for more background on the Bulls…..I absolutely love them and I cannot choose a favourite…… and I absolutely love their relationship with Ella
No cheating, no OWD …….. thrown off a cliff……. Until book 2 that I need immediately
* The Hunt
* MC Riding Masked MMCs
* Single Mom
* Abusive Ex
* Age Gap
* Reverse Age Gap
* Mechanical Bull
* Tatted Cowboys / Ranchers
* “Following Her Around a Little”
* Reva’s Cooking & BBQ Sauce
Omg Yes!!!! What a great read. This book held my attention from the very beginning until I was kicked off the cliff….. rude!!!!
This had some heart pounding suspense (during the Hunt and later), the perfect amount of angst, delicious spice that was worth the wait and MMCs to die for….. the tension and chemistry between Audrey and the Bulls was off the charts.
This is the Bulls 2nd Hunt and have taken over for the Hawks and let me tell you…..they’ve made a few interesting changes 😏
Now Audrey is on the ranch for 3 months but she (unknowingly) comes with her 6 year old daughter …. So they make some concessions ….. but this doesn’t feel like the first hunt… The Bulls are intrigued and it just became ‘messy’…… and even more so when they learn about her ex.
“Right now I’m wanting a lot of things I shouldn’t, wildcat.”
I have soooo many questions that I know I’ll get before the end of this series. I can’t wait for more background on the Bulls…..I absolutely love them and I cannot choose a favourite…… and I absolutely love their relationship with Ella
No cheating, no OWD …….. thrown off a cliff……. Until book 2 that I need immediately
* The Hunt
* MC Riding Masked MMCs
* Single Mom
* Abusive Ex
* Age Gap
* Reverse Age Gap
* Mechanical Bull
* Tatted Cowboys / Ranchers
* “Following Her Around a Little”
* Reva’s Cooking & BBQ Sauce
October 5, 2026
Here we are back in the Hunt. This time the Bulls are in charge and ready to Hunt the older blonde women who showed up for this hunt.
Audrey, who is in her thirties, has joined the hunt. She is still questioning herself that if she makes it through the hunt could she ask the men to take care of her abusive ex-husband since she is a doctor and swore to do no harm. She also doesn’t want to take her daughter’s father from her but also fears him.
“I went to him because it’s what I wanted. They were what I wanted.”
Holden who is in his twenty’s blue eyes, black and grey tattoos. He has been secretly stalking her since she stitched him up in the ER.
Ridge in his thirties tall with green eyes and works with his hands, carving wood figures and making furniture.
Graham the silver fox rancher in his fifties. He has a massive oak tree tattoo on his chest and stomach. He’s the one who is in charge and has a tough time having a woman on the ranch.
“They both lit me on fire, awakening desire in my body that I’d thought was long dead.”
Ella is about to wrap these three cowboy bikers around her tiny finger. From the beginning these guys are feeling different about Audrey and her mini me. I am just loving this story and cannot wait to see what happens. And buckle up there is a cliffhanger.
“Damn, Reva’s meatloaf is the bomb.”
I spit my water out reading this line.
Audrey, who is in her thirties, has joined the hunt. She is still questioning herself that if she makes it through the hunt could she ask the men to take care of her abusive ex-husband since she is a doctor and swore to do no harm. She also doesn’t want to take her daughter’s father from her but also fears him.
“I went to him because it’s what I wanted. They were what I wanted.”
Holden who is in his twenty’s blue eyes, black and grey tattoos. He has been secretly stalking her since she stitched him up in the ER.
Ridge in his thirties tall with green eyes and works with his hands, carving wood figures and making furniture.
Graham the silver fox rancher in his fifties. He has a massive oak tree tattoo on his chest and stomach. He’s the one who is in charge and has a tough time having a woman on the ranch.
“They both lit me on fire, awakening desire in my body that I’d thought was long dead.”
Ella is about to wrap these three cowboy bikers around her tiny finger. From the beginning these guys are feeling different about Audrey and her mini me. I am just loving this story and cannot wait to see what happens. And buckle up there is a cliffhanger.
“Damn, Reva’s meatloaf is the bomb.”
I spit my water out reading this line.
October 6, 2026
As a 44-year-old reader, I really appreciated getting older characters in this new Blackwell Bulls series. There’s something refreshing about reading characters who already have some life behind them—history, baggage, established personalities—and still getting all the intensity, obsession, chaos, and heat I want from a Sadie Hunt book.
I’ve also always wanted to live on a farm, so the ranch setting was basically designed to get me. And apparently my fictional kryptonite is a calm, steady man who can take control without becoming an insufferable misogynistic jerk. Ridge, Holden, and Graham each bring something completely different to the relationship, and I loved how well their personalities worked together rather than feeling interchangeable.
What really sold me, though, was the larger dynamic beginning to form around them. There’s danger and possessiveness, but also the beginnings of this strange little found family—or tribe—that I’m already ridiculously invested in. The slightly feral “you’re ours now” energy certainly didn’t hurt either.
We’re only one book into the series, so I’m trying not to make any reckless declarations yet, but between the characters, ranch setting, relationships, and overall atmosphere, this has serious potential to become my favorite Sadie Hunt series.
And that ending???
Sadie. Ma’am.
That was mean. 😂😭
I need the next book immediately.
I’ve also always wanted to live on a farm, so the ranch setting was basically designed to get me. And apparently my fictional kryptonite is a calm, steady man who can take control without becoming an insufferable misogynistic jerk. Ridge, Holden, and Graham each bring something completely different to the relationship, and I loved how well their personalities worked together rather than feeling interchangeable.
What really sold me, though, was the larger dynamic beginning to form around them. There’s danger and possessiveness, but also the beginnings of this strange little found family—or tribe—that I’m already ridiculously invested in. The slightly feral “you’re ours now” energy certainly didn’t hurt either.
We’re only one book into the series, so I’m trying not to make any reckless declarations yet, but between the characters, ranch setting, relationships, and overall atmosphere, this has serious potential to become my favorite Sadie Hunt series.
And that ending???
Sadie. Ma’am.
That was mean. 😂😭
I need the next book immediately.
September 30, 2026
Sadie has done it again! So Real and Down To Earth!
SH started off strong with the dedication that hit me right in the feels. She didn’t let up once throughout this book. This story and setting just felt so real and down to earth. I absolutely loved it.
I know I say this with each new trilogy, but this is already turning into a favorite! Each group just has something that the others don’t that just consumes me and I just can’t let them go. I love each trio and their lady for different reasons.
Audrey is strong, smart, a great mom, and just so real with real problems that she handles herself because she’s always had to. Her guys come charging in (pun intended) to help take that burden. Graham is the strong silent type that is thrown all kinds of out of sorts. Ridge is steady, ready, and completely enthralled with her. Holden is the golden retriever with a dark side that is already attached. All three are protective and ready to take Audrey and her problem by the horns (again, pun intended lol) and give her and her daughter a safe place.
That ending was just as nail biting as I have come to expect and I am so ready for book 2!
Also, I will never look at a mechanical bull the same way again! IYKYK
SH started off strong with the dedication that hit me right in the feels. She didn’t let up once throughout this book. This story and setting just felt so real and down to earth. I absolutely loved it.
I know I say this with each new trilogy, but this is already turning into a favorite! Each group just has something that the others don’t that just consumes me and I just can’t let them go. I love each trio and their lady for different reasons.
Audrey is strong, smart, a great mom, and just so real with real problems that she handles herself because she’s always had to. Her guys come charging in (pun intended) to help take that burden. Graham is the strong silent type that is thrown all kinds of out of sorts. Ridge is steady, ready, and completely enthralled with her. Holden is the golden retriever with a dark side that is already attached. All three are protective and ready to take Audrey and her problem by the horns (again, pun intended lol) and give her and her daughter a safe place.
That ending was just as nail biting as I have come to expect and I am so ready for book 2!
Also, I will never look at a mechanical bull the same way again! IYKYK
October 4, 2026
The Queen of the Hunt has struck again. This book starts with another Hunt, but with the Bulls taking over, there are new surprises around every twist in the tunnel. The new additions go hand in hand with the new men who took over-cattle ranch style! If you like cowboys, you'll definitely like this book.
Aubrey a 34-year-old enters the Hunt in hopes that if she wins, she can save herself and her 6-year-old daughter from her abusive douche canoe ex-husband. There she meets the Bulls: Graham, Ridge, and Holden who are hot as sin cowboys and they have taken over the Hunt. But when they Bulls catch her the game changes.
They all are falling for her and her daughter. And they will stop at nothing to protect them from her ex. They also find out that her ex is in some deep stuff and some stuff that may or may not be linked to the disappearing girls of Blackwell Falls. The ex will stop at nothing to make her life miserable and try to not let her have full custody of their daughter.
The spice is hot as sin and will make you look at a Mechanical Bull and coffee tables never the same again. And I am all here for it. This book does end on a cliffhanger....and I need the next book. I just love reading Sadie's books. And I truly love the Blackwell Falls verse.
Aubrey a 34-year-old enters the Hunt in hopes that if she wins, she can save herself and her 6-year-old daughter from her abusive douche canoe ex-husband. There she meets the Bulls: Graham, Ridge, and Holden who are hot as sin cowboys and they have taken over the Hunt. But when they Bulls catch her the game changes.
They all are falling for her and her daughter. And they will stop at nothing to protect them from her ex. They also find out that her ex is in some deep stuff and some stuff that may or may not be linked to the disappearing girls of Blackwell Falls. The ex will stop at nothing to make her life miserable and try to not let her have full custody of their daughter.
The spice is hot as sin and will make you look at a Mechanical Bull and coffee tables never the same again. And I am all here for it. This book does end on a cliffhanger....and I need the next book. I just love reading Sadie's books. And I truly love the Blackwell Falls verse.
October 6, 2026
Down to Ride
Ok the Bulls are definitely my favourite trio, I didn’t think any of them would replace the butchers but in come the bulls and totally stole my heart!
I really liked Audrey, the fmc, she’s a single mom dealing with an abusive and controlling ex and is willing to do anything she has to do in order to keep her daughter safe so she enters the hunt in the hope of winning. She wasn’t counting on the bulls being in there and hunting her, catching her and owning her for the next 90 days. But what the bulls don’t realise is that Audrey and Ella (her daughter) we going to capture their hearts and owning them instead!
I loved all three guys x Graham, Ridge and Holden, each one with their own distinct personality, each one falling just as hard for Audrey and each one being just as determined to keep their girls safe and protected.
I absolutely love the fact that Audrey was a little older than the typical fmc and also loved the differing age gaps with the guys too (Graham and Ridge are close in age and the eldest of the four, and Holden is the youngest of the group).
I was hooked from the start until the end, couldn’t put it down and I cannot wait for the next book!
Ok the Bulls are definitely my favourite trio, I didn’t think any of them would replace the butchers but in come the bulls and totally stole my heart!
I really liked Audrey, the fmc, she’s a single mom dealing with an abusive and controlling ex and is willing to do anything she has to do in order to keep her daughter safe so she enters the hunt in the hope of winning. She wasn’t counting on the bulls being in there and hunting her, catching her and owning her for the next 90 days. But what the bulls don’t realise is that Audrey and Ella (her daughter) we going to capture their hearts and owning them instead!
I loved all three guys x Graham, Ridge and Holden, each one with their own distinct personality, each one falling just as hard for Audrey and each one being just as determined to keep their girls safe and protected.
I absolutely love the fact that Audrey was a little older than the typical fmc and also loved the differing age gaps with the guys too (Graham and Ridge are close in age and the eldest of the four, and Holden is the youngest of the group).
I was hooked from the start until the end, couldn’t put it down and I cannot wait for the next book!
October 7, 2026
An Absolute Masterpiece of High-Stakes Suspense and Scorching Chemistry!
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Sadie Hunt has done it again! She continuously raises the bar with every release, but Down to Ride is hands down her best book yet. Packed with heart-pounding tension, deep emotional stakes, and an unforgettable romance, this story grips you from page one and never lets go.
Audrey’s journey from surviving a sadistic ex to fighting tooth and nail for her daughter's safety sets up an urgent, high-stakes plot. Her desperation to protect her child makes her sacrifice completely captivating.
The unique blending of motorcycle-riding ranchers, clandestine smuggling, and raw hunt dynamics creates a constant pulse of tension. The transition from being hunted to being fiercely protected keeps the chemistry burning hot throughout the book.
Down to Ride delivers everything dark romance readers hunger for: high-voltage heat, dangerous secrets, deep loyalty, and men who will burn the world down to keep the woman they claim safe. Sadie Hunt outdoes herself with exquisite character development and relentless pacing. An absolute must-read for fans of dark romantic suspense and why-choose romance!
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Sadie Hunt has done it again! She continuously raises the bar with every release, but Down to Ride is hands down her best book yet. Packed with heart-pounding tension, deep emotional stakes, and an unforgettable romance, this story grips you from page one and never lets go.
Audrey’s journey from surviving a sadistic ex to fighting tooth and nail for her daughter's safety sets up an urgent, high-stakes plot. Her desperation to protect her child makes her sacrifice completely captivating.
The unique blending of motorcycle-riding ranchers, clandestine smuggling, and raw hunt dynamics creates a constant pulse of tension. The transition from being hunted to being fiercely protected keeps the chemistry burning hot throughout the book.
Down to Ride delivers everything dark romance readers hunger for: high-voltage heat, dangerous secrets, deep loyalty, and men who will burn the world down to keep the woman they claim safe. Sadie Hunt outdoes herself with exquisite character development and relentless pacing. An absolute must-read for fans of dark romantic suspense and why-choose romance!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Every trilogy by Sadie Hunt is amazing with the different backgrounds and character dynamics of the men and the woman they are after. This time around though, Sadie has truly outdone herself. The Blackwell Bulls: Holden, Ridge, and Graham are the most down to earth, hard-working, hood ol' boys. Ranchers who ride steel horses and who hunt for fun and pleasure.
Usually the emotional connection takes a while to build up. This time was different.I They were all in on Audrey from day 1, ready to fight for her and her daughter from her abusive ex. Modern outlaws helping the damsel in distress. Plus the way they accepted both Audrey and Ella as part of their routine- chef's kiss.
And in true Sadie fashion there is spice. When the kid's away, mommy will play. My gods, the Bulls were up to the task. Plus Audrey being a bossy "wildcat" with the guys made it even hotter. I love seeing a take-charge woman, and the men were all for it. Hell yeah!
Be warned though, Dean's character is a true pile of garbage. There is DV on page with references to SA. Your mental health is important. Read the triggers please.
The ending though? Holy cliffhanger Batman! How am I supposed to wait 4 weeks?
Usually the emotional connection takes a while to build up. This time was different.I They were all in on Audrey from day 1, ready to fight for her and her daughter from her abusive ex. Modern outlaws helping the damsel in distress. Plus the way they accepted both Audrey and Ella as part of their routine- chef's kiss.
And in true Sadie fashion there is spice. When the kid's away, mommy will play. My gods, the Bulls were up to the task. Plus Audrey being a bossy "wildcat" with the guys made it even hotter. I love seeing a take-charge woman, and the men were all for it. Hell yeah!
Be warned though, Dean's character is a true pile of garbage. There is DV on page with references to SA. Your mental health is important. Read the triggers please.
The ending though? Holy cliffhanger Batman! How am I supposed to wait 4 weeks?
October 1, 2026
I have been deep into Sadie's books getting ready for Down to Ride and this book is definitely the one that has held me in a chokehold!! Audrey's story is heart breaking and I absolutely love how far Ridge, Grahm and Holden have gone for her. I always love when a FMC is stuck in her ways but finds to give up a little control to the MMCs and to see her let her guard down a little.
The changes in this book have been everything!! I love that each time, the hunt changes a lil with each new ownership so I am not reading the same thing every time. I do wish that the not so legal jobs of the MMCs were explained a bit more. (Maybe in the next book!) Bringing in the western edge to this book has been fun though and I like seeing the different dynamics between each group of men.
The relationships between Audrey and the Bulls has been so fun to follow. They fell together so quickly and I love how protective the bulls are of Audrey.
I thought I expected the ending cliff hanger but man was I wrong!! That twist had me upset and I am going to be so impatient for the next month waiting to see what happens to the characters. Talk about a wild ride!
The changes in this book have been everything!! I love that each time, the hunt changes a lil with each new ownership so I am not reading the same thing every time. I do wish that the not so legal jobs of the MMCs were explained a bit more. (Maybe in the next book!) Bringing in the western edge to this book has been fun though and I like seeing the different dynamics between each group of men.
The relationships between Audrey and the Bulls has been so fun to follow. They fell together so quickly and I love how protective the bulls are of Audrey.
I thought I expected the ending cliff hanger but man was I wrong!! That twist had me upset and I am going to be so impatient for the next month waiting to see what happens to the characters. Talk about a wild ride!
October 1, 2026
Down to Ride is book 1 of The Blackwell Bulls Trilogy, and the third series that starts off with the hunt, an adult, hide and seek game pitting teams of men against single women. The women have 24 hours to remain uncaptured or spend 3 months with their winning men.
Our female in this series is a slightly older female than we are used to. Doctor Audrey 'Wildcat" Sterling. A recent divorce from a cheating husband with a dark side led Audrey to The Hunt.
There she meets the men who run the hunt Graham, Ridge and Holden, our "Bulls". They had taken on the role after The Hawks and The Butchers also found their women. (See Sadie's other books).
This book is a little different from the past series, firstly we have Ella, Audrey's daughter. We have Dean, Audrey's ex- husband and we have Graham who is older than our usual MMCs who is in his 50s.
A cliffhanger ending with real danger and jeopardy leaves the reader desperate for more.
These men are morally gray with fluffiness in their ways and have taken the two ladies, Audrey and Ella into their hearts.
Some triggers, some spice and a whole lotta story. Highly recommend.
Our female in this series is a slightly older female than we are used to. Doctor Audrey 'Wildcat" Sterling. A recent divorce from a cheating husband with a dark side led Audrey to The Hunt.
There she meets the men who run the hunt Graham, Ridge and Holden, our "Bulls". They had taken on the role after The Hawks and The Butchers also found their women. (See Sadie's other books).
This book is a little different from the past series, firstly we have Ella, Audrey's daughter. We have Dean, Audrey's ex- husband and we have Graham who is older than our usual MMCs who is in his 50s.
A cliffhanger ending with real danger and jeopardy leaves the reader desperate for more.
These men are morally gray with fluffiness in their ways and have taken the two ladies, Audrey and Ella into their hearts.
Some triggers, some spice and a whole lotta story. Highly recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 15, 2026
I need book 2 immediately! This storyline is so addictive and took hold of me, I could not put it down!
A primal hunt by masked men where the rules are clear, you win… you get a favor, you lose… you’re theirs for the next 90days. That’s what Audrey signed up for when it came to protecting her 6 yr old daughter.
What I didn’t expect was to be so invested in each persons back story. Each character you couldn’t help to fall in love with, even grumpy Graham, who might just be my favorite, had so much depth they brought to the story and learning how they came to live at the ranch. All with questionable walks of life.
I loved seeing the different connections Audrey develop between each MC. I know this is a why choose but it’s so much more than that. The safety and peace she finds on Calloway ranch is more than what she ever expected after losing her hunt. These men are willing to do anything and risk it all to keep Audrey and her daughter safe.
Also can we talk about this one hitting one of my microtropes 🤤 when our MMC cooks for the FMC. There’s not just 1 but 3 in here that cooks!
A primal hunt by masked men where the rules are clear, you win… you get a favor, you lose… you’re theirs for the next 90days. That’s what Audrey signed up for when it came to protecting her 6 yr old daughter.
What I didn’t expect was to be so invested in each persons back story. Each character you couldn’t help to fall in love with, even grumpy Graham, who might just be my favorite, had so much depth they brought to the story and learning how they came to live at the ranch. All with questionable walks of life.
I loved seeing the different connections Audrey develop between each MC. I know this is a why choose but it’s so much more than that. The safety and peace she finds on Calloway ranch is more than what she ever expected after losing her hunt. These men are willing to do anything and risk it all to keep Audrey and her daughter safe.
Also can we talk about this one hitting one of my microtropes 🤤 when our MMC cooks for the FMC. There’s not just 1 but 3 in here that cooks!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed reading this hunt! Audrey is desperate. So much so that she enters the hunt knowing very well that she could get caught. And she does. Graham, Ridge and Holden all want her and because they run the Hunt, they’ve decided she belongs to them. But Audrey has secrets, including a psychopath ex husband and a six year old daughter! She wants him gone! Once they capture her, the Bulls decide they are going to help her. They start digging for information, and the ex, under all his money and power, does not look clean at all! In fact he could be trafficking!
He tried several times to intimidate Audrey but always got stopped from hurting her by either Ridge or Holden. So much so, the Bulls decide to pay him a visit! Well that leads to major consequences and Ella, Audrey’s daughter is supposedly “kidnapped “. Dean blames the Bulls who are arrested and Audrey knows, just knows, that Dean is behind all this! Now she has to find her daughter before it’s too late. ALL BY HERSELF! Can’t wait for book 2!
I received an ARC copy of this book.
He tried several times to intimidate Audrey but always got stopped from hurting her by either Ridge or Holden. So much so, the Bulls decide to pay him a visit! Well that leads to major consequences and Ella, Audrey’s daughter is supposedly “kidnapped “. Dean blames the Bulls who are arrested and Audrey knows, just knows, that Dean is behind all this! Now she has to find her daughter before it’s too late. ALL BY HERSELF! Can’t wait for book 2!
I received an ARC copy of this book.
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