She’s a divorced single mom. She has trauma, baggage, and rowdy twin boys.
I’m younger than her. A bull rider with a history of leaving before the sun rises.
The age gap, the drama with her ex, the kids—she has a mountain of reasons to choose from for why she doesn’t want me.
I try to accept it, but something in her sad green eyes wrecks me.
When her apartment goes up in flames, I offer up my bunkhouse for her to live in, rent-free.
Our physical attraction is undeniable. We’re unable to resist the temptation in close quarters.
For the first time ever, I want more.
But she doesn’t.
Then her ex proves that abusers never change, and not even her kids are safe with him. I’ll bury him before I watch him hurt anyone else.
Dallas has had enough of violence from men, so when she sees the dark side of me, she has every right to turn tail and run.
The problem is, she’d be taking what’s left of my heart with her.
This is a single mom, reformed playboy, morally gray cowboy/DV survivor love story with an HEA. The story contains dark and intense domestic violence themes. Please check trigger warnings.
This is book four in the Redford Ranch Series. Each book can be read as a complete stand-alone, but for the best reader experience I suggest starting with book one, Untamed.
This book contains some heavy themes that may be uncomfortable for some readers.
Also published as Mj Hendrix. Ariel is a native Texan who lives in Hawaii with her dreamy husband Justin and two kiddos. She can't resist pairing a damaged heroine with a southern gentleman who manages to tear down her walls one brick at a time. The men in her books will open every door and carry every bag, just like Justin does. She's eternally indebted to her writing, which rescued her from the darkest place she has ever been. Her lifelong dream is to one day write all her books in a house by the sea, with a wine cellar that's never empty and her imaginary characters somehow becoming her real-life friends.
Duke Redford officially wins the top book boyfriend title.
A huge thanks to Ariel Hendrix for this arc. These are all of my honest thoughts and opinions.
Holy shit this was so good!
We follow Dallas, a mother of twin boys and a total warrior. That woman has been through it all. Including a very abusive ex husband who all but tried to ruin her life. And Duke, the youngest of the Redford brothers. Duke is such a protective man.
Now while this cover some extremely heavy topics, so check your trigger warnings.
Watching Dallas grow was my favorite part. Being able to see her change from a scared and battered woman to a woman who finally lets her guard down.
Duke literally won me over in the first 20% I was so fully invested in their story. I found myself super emotional throughout.
Ariel’s writing is so crisp and detailed. It’s easy to lose yourself in any of her worlds.
I’ll forever recommend this one. Or any of the Redford Ranch series. My heart completely lives here. 🫶🏻
Wow. I absolutely devoured this book!!!! So freaking good!!!
Duke completely stole the show for me. Give me a dark, morally gray cowboy who’s fiercely protective of the people he loves, and I’m all in. The way he cared for Dallas, supported her without trying to change her, and just showed up for her had me swooning.
This story tackles some very heavy topics surrounding domestic violence, so definitely check the trigger warnings before going in. I thought the healing journey was handled with so much care and felt incredibly authentic. Watching Dallas slowly rebuild herself while the romance unfolded made the slow burn so rewarding.
This was my first book by Ariel Hendrix, and it definitely won’t be my last. I was completely invested from beginning to end and already need to read more from this author.
Paskutinė knyga iš serijos Redford Ranch ir galiu pasakyti, kad tikrai nenuvylė. Šita knyga buvo apie Duke ir Dallas. Ir taip Duke pilnai pavogė širdi ir jo poelgiai🩶 Kaubojus, jodinėjantis ant bulių, turinti morally gray vibe ir mėgstantis flirtuoti. 😏Be viso šito Duke dar yra globėjiškas, saugo ir myli savo šeima. Labai patiko kaip jis globojo, rūpinosi ir saugoji Dallas, bei jos dvyniais🥺. Nes būten Dallas po sunkių skyrybų, patyrusi vyro smurta, su dvynukais be namų ir kuriais reikia rūpintis...Savyje turi atrasti jėgu, išnaujo pasitikėti savimi, išgyti po visko, bei suprasti ko nori iš gyvenino... Nors ir buvo tam tikri sprendimai, kurie mane nervino ir norėjau tiesiog Dallas papurtyti už juos... Bet visa knyga iki 5⭐️ ištempė Duke ir jo elgesys su ją ir dvyniais, o epilogas iš vis ištirpdė🥹
I was lucky enough to be able to read this one early and I am obsessed.
Reformed playboy, Duke stole my heart and I am so proud of Dallas and the strength that she has for her and her boys throughout this story. This one was definitely an emotional ride to say the least.
This is my first time reading Ariel and it absolutely will not be my last. Her writing is beautiful and as soon as I started this one I knew I was going to fall in love with her writing style.
Definitely check trigger warnings for this one 🤍
What to expect: Friends w/ benefits Single mom x bull rider Romantic suspense Reverse age gap Morally gray cowboy Reformed playboy
“My mouth waters. A drop of wetness hits my cleavage. I look down, thinking it might have been the start of rain, only to realize it was drool. I am literally drooling over this man.”
“Sometime over the course of the last few months, I’ve let Dallas Hayes consume my entire being. She’s all I can think about. When she’s not in my bed, I lie awake and think about her.”
I DEVOURED THIS BOOK. I will now be going back and reading the rest of this series because HOLY SHIT. Once I picked this up I couldn’t put it down.
Dallas and Duke had undeniable chemistry from the start. But Dallas was tangled in a messy divorce with an abusive ex. Duke was a playboy, never getting serious about anyone until Dallas and her two boys moved onto his ranch.
Duke and his brothers are morally grey cowboys who don’t stand for men who hurt women and they aren’t afraid to take action. They wouldn’t stand by as Dallas ex tried to take away the most important thing in her life. Her two boys.
Duke cherished Dallas like she always should’ve been. He’d been gentle and so loving even before they said the words.
Thank you Ariel for this advance copy!! I loved this story with my entire heart.
5⭐️| 3🌶️ •morally grey cowboy •single mom •reverse age gap •he falls first •touch her and die
My Thoughts: I could not put Dallas and Duke's book down. Dallas is in the midst of a divorce and DV survivor. She lands on the Redford Ranch, needing a stable place for herself and two young twin boys. Duke is a bit of a flirt, but has such a big heart. He cares for his family and quickly welcomes Dallas and her boys into his home. Not only is he super protective of Dallas, but he's also protective of her boys. I loved seeing his interactions with them. This book is emotional, touches on hard subjects, has a dirty-talking cowboy, and a fierce FMC. I really enjoyed their book and this series as a whole. I highly recommend you check it out.
ARC REVIEW!!❤️ 3/5🌶️ •single mom •bull rider •friends with benefits •reverse age gap •found family •small town
Dallas and Duke have my entire heart. i loved them so damn much. 🥹🥹
Dallas deserved every single second of her happily ever after. she is one of the strongest, kindest, most radiant women i’ve ever read. she loves her boys with everything she has, cares so deeply for the people in her life, and somehow always manages to see the good in people, even the ones who don't deserve it. after enduring years of abuse, seeing her and the twins finally find safety, love, and a family that completely embraces them made me so emotional. she’s truly the best mama, and i couldn't be prouder of her. what inspired me most was watching her slowly trust again. her wounds ran so deep, but Duke never rushed her. he patiently helped her heal, piece by piece, until she felt whole again.
and Duke... whew. what a fkn gentleman. He. Is. Sexy. every single time he called her "Mamas"? HOLY. FUCK. year drops down my legs. 😭 that man absolutely worshipped the ground she walked on. the way he loved every part of her, including the changes her body went through after having twins, was one of the sweetest, sexiest things i’ve ever read. he took care of Dallas, adored her boys like they were his own, and never once made them feel like anything less than his family. my heart could barely handle it. and truthfully? if a man isn't ready to break your abuser's fingers after everything they put you through... i don't want him.
special shoutout to every hurricane shot Duke happily accepted from Dallas. that man was so unbelievably down bad, and it was hot as hell. they're absolutely meant to be
•••••••• fav quotes💐🤠🐂
“Now that she’s closer to me, I can see the faint stretch marks on her stomach, probably from her twin pregnancy. And I want to kiss every single one as I trail my lips down lower.”
“He’s so pussy-whipped. My sister’s been carrying his balls around in her purse for months now” ^^Duke talking about Sam & Dolly. dead asf. because as she should💅💅
“I turn around and keep climbing the stairs, hoping half the bar isn’t getting flashed by my ass cheeks. I feel a brush against the back of my upper thighs, and when I turn around, I see his cowboy hat hovering right underneath the hem of my skirt” ^^^ayooooo that’s SEXY asf
“I want to show her what it’s like to be put first.”
“You go right ahead, darlin’. I can take it. I want it all—all your darkness, all your rage, and the pent-up reactions you’ve always had to keep hidden. I’m here to take the broken pieces of you and fuse them back together. It might be painful and brutal and messy, but I’m in love with you. I won’t give up until you’re whole again.”
“Loving you is the easiest thing I’ve ever done.”
“Then I met you and the boys, and I found a reason worth living. You complete me, in every sense of the word”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
OMG!!!… The chokehold this book has on me is insane!! . There were definitely moments where I had to step away from the book and come back later because it had me going through all the emotions and doing all of the self reflection. This is a HEAVY book but in such a good way! Definitely check your trigger warnings before you dive in.
I have loved the Redford brothers from book 1 but this book takes the whole ass cake! Duke Justin Redford has officially jumped to #1 Redford brother (and Sam). Watching Duke grow up essentially throughout the series has been great and written so well. His inner monologue through the book will have you giggling. He goes from your party boy that’s mad he lost the girl to his big broody brother to loving this woman so much that he gives her time to heal and becomes her peace and her safe space! Every woman out there deserves to be loved by a man like Duke Redford!
Dallas Hayes has probably got to be one of the strongest FMCs I have read about in a while. The struggle to figure out what is right for your babies and what will cause more damage in the long run is probably one of the hardest decisions to make as a mother in a horrible situation. You take as much as you can until that one straw breaks the camels back and you can’t take anymore. I loved seeing her find her voice and her strength through Ariel’s words, the way she brings her story to life is really beautiful and written in the best way possible.
My Favs from the book… well just a few bc you have to read it! The chemistry between the two of them… ugh chefs kiss The nicknames he gives her are so southern gentleman… When they get busted by Cash and Monroe in the sprinkler on the lawn… literally LOL When he rescues those beautiful babies and Dutton says “I love you Cowboy, Can we go see Mommy now?….omg my heart exploded!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I’ve loved every book in this series so far, but I can confidently say this one is my absolute favourite.
From the very beginning, I was completely obsessed with Duke. The way that man loved Dallas from the moment he met her had me swooning. Watching him protect not only Dallas but also her boys absolutely melted my heart. There is just something so special about a man who steps up without hesitation, and Duke did exactly that.
My heart absolutely shattered for Dallas. Everything she endured during her marriage to Matt was heartbreaking. The way he spoke to her, the way he treated her, and all the things she had to do just to survive made me so emotional. Honestly, there were so many moments where I wanted to climb into the pages and deck Matt myself. 😤
Seeing Dallas slowly find safety, happiness, and unconditional love with Duke made every heartbreaking moment worth it. Their journey was emotional, healing, and so beautifully written that I couldn’t put the book down.
Once again, Ariel Hendrix has absolutely knocked it out of the park. She has a way of creating characters you become so invested in that you feel every heartbreak, every victory, and every moment of joy alongside them.
Here’s the thing: I’ve read everything Ariel has written, and every story has made me feel seen in some way.
But this one? This one hit me where it hurt.
Sure, there was sweet stuff and spicy stuff and all of the things that makes a romance novel great. But Ariel dove deep into emotional, mental, and sexual abuse in this book in a way that made it easier to stomach than most writers have.
In fact, reading this was so eye-opening that I didn’t even realize my ex (who I was with for 4.5 years and ended things with over 8 years ago now) was emotionally and sexually abusing me for our whole relationship until I read this book.
So, trigger warning if you have a past with this stuff OR if you can’t stomach it.
But besides all of that, Ariel did it again! She wrote a beautiful love story that made me laugh, cry, yell, and feel seen in a way that’s hard to explain in a review about a book.
If you like cowboys, romance, and actual justice for the good guys, you’ll love this series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I absolutely loved Duke and Dallas. Their relationship felt so real, and I was rooting for them from the very beginning. Duke was everything I want in a cowboy romance hero. Protective, patient, and completely gone for Dallas and her boys.
This story was definitely more emotional than I expected. Dallas's journey through healing after an abusive relationship was handled so well, and I loved watching her realize she deserved a love that made her feel safe, valued, and protected.
Ariel Hendrix... you did your big one with this one. Duke and Dallas are easily one of my favorite cowboy romance couples, and I already need your next book.
If you love protective cowboys, single mom romances, and stories with plenty of heart, definitely add this one to your TBR. 🤠❤️📚
this book is gonna be all i think about for a while… Duke Redford has taken place for #1 Book Boyfriend. Watching him slowly & gently bring Dallas back to herself after surviving DV, is so fucking beautiful. But then also love him being morally grey and doing what he does for her. UGH What a man what a man what a man. And don’t even get me started on the spice, these two are so fun!!!!
This was my favorite in the series BY FAR. The love Duke has for Dallas is swoon worthy. I can’t wait to read Sterling and Eden’s book but I’m also sad for the series to end. This is the only series I’ve read of Ariel’s but I’m obsessed and need to immediately read more.
This book is such a rollercoaster of emotions. But it was done so well. I love how hard and fast Duke falls for Dallas and her boys. Duke is crazy productive of them and the touch her and 💀 vibes are so real with this one. I love this book and this whole series I’m sorry y see it end!
Dallas is a mom of twin boys Dutton and Dawson and is getting a divorce from her pos husband Matt. She’s known duke Redford as her friend playboy younger brother. He is reformed now bc he only has eyes for Dallas and will do anything and everything to protect her and the boys.
Things I want to remember…
Divorced from Matt. “I’ve always loved to dance, but some guy at work has been teaching me more lately.” “At work? Where do you work?” I thought she was a stay-at-home mom. “Lucky’s Pub.” “In Elmott?”“I work Wednesdays through Saturdays, six p.m. to two a.m.”
Is that a real cowboy hat, try it on mommy. You didn’t have to pay for our stuff. Keep it as a tip. I got all the way home and I’m still wearing the hat.
Cancer. Pancreatic. Stage four. “All right,” I say into the phone pressed against my ear. “So, how long?” “Three months at most.” Holden’s voice has a rough edge to it. “The dementia will only get worse from this.”“As far as the surveyors go, I don’t know how long they’ll be here, but we legally have to allow them access. We just need to keep an eye on where they are.” Holden’s gaze switches from mine to Sam to Cash. Shit. Because of the bodies.
Dallas’ apartment caught on fire. She staying in the bunkhouse with Eden.
“The surveyor found a human skeleton on the ranch. We’re under investigation.”
The alleyway. Briggs Crawford just hit on you. Power puff cowgirls? A smile ghosts across her lips. “You just punched a celebrity for hitting on me.”
He finally sighs, leaning back on the stool. “They’re in the truck, sleeping. They’re—” Dallas is already on the move, darting toward the other end of the bar. I jump up and follow her. I cup my hands around my face and peer inside. My heart leaps into my throat when I see Dawson and Dutton inside, crying. Their faces are streaked with tears. They look terrified. They’re not buckled into car seats because there’s not even any in the vehicle.
“Do you remember that time I put my hands around your neck?” Cold fear coats my throat. I nod, words escaping me. “Well, if you don’t shut the fuck up and stop being such a cunt, I’m going to do it again. And this time, I’m not going to stop until you’re not breathing anymore. Then I’ll take your body out to Route 56, and I’ll find an empty field and bury you where no one will ever think to look. How does that sound?”
“Really, Duke? Right out here on the lawn?”
“Over in the south field, near the windmill,” Cash says, eyes on Holden. “Jed,” I spit. Holden grimaces, nodding to confirm. Holden murdered Jed after he helped kidnap Rosie and held her captive on our land. He was a former ranch hand, disgruntled by us firing him after we caught him torturing the animals. He was always an annoying piece of shit, and I was glad when we finally got rid of him. I helped dig his grave; we all did.
“If you want to maintain any amount of custody, you’d be better off not strangling your wife in broad daylight when the man behind you is calling the cops. Just my two cents.”“You want me to follow him, boss?” “Nope. Just track my phone that’s in his back seat.”
“I need you to promise me that you will never ever use sex in a transactional way with me. Sex is not currency. Sex is me pleasing you and you pleasing me because we both enjoy it and we’re having fun or because we’re in love and we want to express it physically. I didn’t save the boys because I wanted to fuck you, and I don’t want you to ever thank me for anything in that way ever again.”
“Warner thinks it’s all gonna blow over. Our alibi is solid. No one saw us sneaking out of Old Harry’s, and if they did, it wasn’t enough time to burn two bodies since we all took turns. No one knew it was Jed, so even though he’s been a missing person for years, he had no family willing to pursue it.” He smiles. “Damn. So, we’re in the clear? What about his bones being found on Redford Ranch?”
After the last four days of causing my girlfriend the pain and agony of thinking she might never see her sons again, I have big plans for her ex-husband and his family, who helped him kidnap her kids. Dutton leans forward, wrapping his little arms around my neck. “I love you, Cowboy. Can we go see Mommy now?” Emotion chokes me. I pat his hands, attempting to hold back the tears threatening to fall and failing. “I love you too, buddy. We’re going to see your mom really soon.”
My friend Jo told me she had heard through gossip at Old Harry’s that Sandy was the one behind all the rumors going around town that I had been cheating on my ex. In reality, he was visiting the strip club in Oklahoma when he was supposedly on work trips. That same strip club was raided for sex trafficking minors only a week after Duke found Matt’s truck there.
I MEAN YESSSSS, I LOVE ALL THE REDFORD BOYS… BUT OMMMMMG.
DUKE FUCKING REDFORD. 😭🔥🤠
I KNEW I was going to love this man, but I was NOT prepared to love him THIS MUCH.
Ariel Hendrix really saved Duke for book four and said, “You know what? Let’s give Livvy the cowboy who is going to completely ruin every other fictional man for her.”
AND SHE DID.
Because Duke Redford???
I AM OBSESSED.
This man is a younger bull rider, a reformed playboy, morally grey as FUCK, ridiculously protective and completely gone for Dallas before he even realises just how deep he’s in.
And the fact that this man has spent his whole life leaving before the sun comes up…
ONLY TO MEET DALLAS AND FINALLY WANT TO STAY?!
ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING ME?! 😭😭😭
I’m sorry but that got me RIGHT IN THE HEART.
Dallas is a divorced single mum with twin boys, trauma and a whole mountain of reasons why she should absolutely stay away from a younger cowboy like Duke.
And Duke?
He sees her.
He sees the sadness in her eyes.
He sees what she’s been through.
And instead of running like he normally would, this man starts SHOWING UP.
For her.
For those boys.
For their little family.
I WAS SOBBING. 🥹💜
And then her apartment burns down and he offers her the bunkhouse?!
HELLOOOOO FORCED PROXIMITY. 👀🔥
Because putting these two under the same roof when the attraction is already THERE was just cruel.
The tension???
THE CHEMISTRY???
The way they keep trying to resist each other while basically being unable to stay away from each other???
I WAS NOT OKAY. 🫠🔥
But what really made Duke my favourite Redford was watching this reformed playboy realise that Dallas wasn't just another woman.
He didn't want a fling.
He didn't want to leave.
He wanted HER.
And he wanted the boys too.
This man went from “I leave before the sun comes up” to “I will burn this entire fucking world down if someone hurts my family.”
AND I AM OBSESSED WITH THAT CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT. 😭🔥
And when her ex shows his true colours?
OH.
DUKE.
Sir.
The morally grey side of this man came OUT and I was sitting there like 👀🍿 because while Dallas had every reason to be terrified of violence after everything she'd survived, Duke's instinct was immediately PROTECT.
He was ready to do whatever it took to keep her and those boys safe.
And honestly, watching Dallas slowly learn that she could have a man who didn't want to control her, hurt her or take away her independence but instead wanted to love her, protect her and STAY?
That broke me.
Because this wasn't just a romance.
It was Dallas learning that she could have something good after everything she'd been through.
And Duke learning that staying didn't have to mean losing himself.
I cried.
I swooned.
I got VERY attached to Duke.
I fell in love with those twin boys.
I wanted to punch her ex in the face.
I wanted to wrap Dallas in a blanket and protect her.
And I wanted to personally tell Duke that he is NEVER allowed to leave before sunrise again. 😂
The Redford boys have ALL been great.
But I'm sorry…
Duke is MY MAN.
THIS IS MY FAVOURITE BOOK IN THE WHOLE REDFORD RANCH SERIES AND I DON'T THINK ANYONE IS TAKING THAT SPOT FROM HIM. 😭🔥🤠
I love this whole series. Give me morally gray cowboys who are protective, stand up for their women, and occasionally have their own questionable ideas of justice, and I’m in. I love the setting, I love the side characters, and I’m just a big fan of this world overall. That said, Unbridled might be my least favorite of the series so far, but I still really enjoyed it.
This one follows Duke and Dallas and features a reverse age gap. Dallas is a recently divorced single mom to two rowdy boys who is struggling to get back on her feet. She’s carrying a lot of baggage, including an abusive and truly awful ex-husband. Duke is a 26-year-old bull rider who comes across as a little cocky and a bit of a playboy, but he’s also dealing with plenty of his own, including his sick father and responsibilities on the ranch.
Overall, I really liked both of these characters, but Duke was definitely the star of the book for me. Sure, his initial attraction to Dallas was pretty much based on lust, but as their relationship developed, I loved seeing how protective he became of her. He wanted to be there for Dallas in whatever capacity she would allow, without pushing her for more, and I really loved that about him.
Dallas is a strong character who is dealing with A LOT, and I really liked her as well. The storyline involving her ex-husband kept things interesting and brought us back to the cowboys and their slightly questionable forms of justice. Which I’m always here for.
I can’t quite put my finger on why I didn’t love this one as much as the others, but I think a lot of it came down to the pacing. Some parts felt a little long or dragged in places, while there were other moments where I actually wanted more. That unevenness made the book feel a bit longer than it needed to be, and I think tightening up certain sections could have made this a higher-rated read for me.
That being said, I still enjoyed it! The writing is great, the characters are well developed, the spice is good, and I still love this series. If you already love these morally gray cowboys, there’s plenty here to enjoy. And if you’re new to the series, I still think this is a really solid read. It just wasn’t my favorite of the bunch. With a series I love this much, the bar was already pretty high.
This book had me in my feels!!! I devoured it in less than 24 hours and it was a first for me by Ariel Hendrix. I WILL be going back to read the rest of the series.
Duke Redford is a morally grey cowboy who protects those he loves! He has been a reformed playboy since Dallas caught his eye and he goes above and beyond to keep her safe and feel loved since she moved onto his family’s ranch. once his siblings told him he’s making her uncomfortable with his outward flirting, he toned it down a bit and let her take the lead! Absolute golden retriever vibes!! the way he cares for his dying father even though he drank himself to death showed what a loving son, brother, and SO he is..
Dallas is our FMC. She’s a protective momma who leaves and divorces her abusive husband but still has to deal with aggressive/stalker behavior.. she’s constantly on edge when her twins have to go spend time with their dad. She has to move to the Redford ranch when her apartment catches on fire.. Being in therapy allows her to understand the abuse she endured even if it hadn’t left physical marks.. she resorted to pleasuring her ex as a way to keep him happy and avoiding hurting her or the kids when he was upset. Sex became traumatic for her that she had a panic attack when she finished for the first time since her divorced 😢🥺 her story was handled with so much care and finding out that Ariel herself came out of toxic relationship made this book even more special.. it allows for people to understand that they’re not alone when dealing with abuse even if it’s just verbal or mental
She believed she was broken, had baggage, and was too old for Duke, but Duke was at her side, handling her with such care and love. ❤️ he also helped take care of the twins and showed them the ways of the ranch. they named him COWBOY 🥺
I loved the family dynamics in this! All the brothers and the best friend, who are just as morally grey, come together to help Duke and Dallas, and the girls who become a sisterhood!
Tropes: 🤠morally grey cowboy 👩❤️👨age gap 🤠bull rider x single mom ❤️reverse age gap 🤠reformed playboy 👩❤️👨friends with benefits ❤️romantic suspense
4.25⭐️ This is a hard one for me to rate… I am absolutely OBSESSED with Duke 🔥 He was overwhelmingly everything I wanted him to become after being the playful, up to no good, playboy lil brother in the first three books- especially Sam’s book. He was absolutely everything I was looking for in his story and then some. Heavy on the he falls first category. However… I had a really hard time staying engaged and feeling connected to the storyline. At points, their relationship felt forced for me and I had to push through. It’s not that I didn’t like Dallas (I did) and I connected with her on some deep levels if I’m being honest, and I even got the trauma she had experienced. But I still found their connection hard to feel for a good portion (around the middle) of the story. I still think I needed a bit more from her in the end. I feel like he gave her absolutely everything and he had is own trauma in the book, and where was she? Again, I get what she was going through, I just needed more depth from her at some points. And if I never hear the words ‘just as friends’ again… I’ll be happy 🤣 what a dirty liar hahah I also think the girls (Rosie and Dolly) treated him unfairly with some comments earlier on (that we knew, as the reader, weren’t true- because we had his inner monologue that they didn’t), and they never resolved that- they go from those comments that hurt him, to telling Dallas they were made for each other.. which is it girls? My rating is off pure vibes (because this series as an overall fantasy world 🫠) and my man Duke 🔥 & it needed a higher rating than poor Cash’s story imo… if Duke had a storyline like Holden or Sam’s? Ooft… Anyways, Duke and all the Redford boys (obviously including Sam in here!) were amazing as usual! God I’m craving more Sterling (though, should I have read his novella prior to this? Who knows. Lots of spoilers for his story in this book but there was so many time lapses/jumps…) So straight onto that before I read the final epilogue of Hawaii 🔥
Update: I have now read Sterling’s story and the Hawaii epilogue- definitely should read Unbound before Unbridled. It will have a much better impact and then go straight into the novella to wrap it all up nicely.
Y'all...this book was SOOO dang good. I devoured it in under 24 hours and it's an easy ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ from me!!
If you look up green flag MMC in the dictionary, I'm convinced you'll find a picture of Duke. He's protective, patient, dependable, and completely obsessed with Dallas...but don't let all those green flags fool you. Our cowboy has a little dark side too, and when it comes to protecting the people he loves, he isn't afraid to take justice into his own hands. Duke fell HARD for Dallas, and I was right there falling too.
Dallas has been through hell. After finally leaving her POS husband, she's trying to pick up the pieces, heal her battered heart, and be the best mom she can be to her adorable twin boys, Dutton and Dawson. Seriously...those boys calling Duke "Cowboy" melted my heart. 🥹
When a fire destroys Dallas's apartment building, her friend Rosie offers her a place to stay at the family ranch...which just so happens to be Duke's family ranch. Forced proximity? Oh yeah. The tension between these two was wound so tight you just knew it was going to snap, and when it did...WOW. The chemistry was off the charts. Through every obstacle, Duke never once hesitated. He was all in, ready to stand beside Dallas through every messy, difficult, heartbreaking moment.
But this story is so much more than a cowboy romance. It's about surviving, healing, learning to trust again, and realizing that love isn't supposed to hurt. It's about finding someone who makes you feel safe, who loves you fiercely, who reminds you that you're worthy of peace, happiness, and unconditional love. I also adored the found family aspect, it made this story feel so warm and comforting, even in the hardest moments.
Ariel, I know this story is going to stay with me for a long time. I couldn't get enough of Duke, Dallas, and everyone at the ranch. The characters were beautifully layered, the romance had me swooning, the suspense kept me turning pages, and every emotion hit exactly the way it was supposed to.
If I had balls, this book would have me by them. 😏
WHAT THE HELL WAS IN THIS??? Ariel you laced this book with something. Within 50 pages it was already a 5 star read. I was so consumed with this story and these characters. My eyes widened but they also rolled😛
Dallas, Duke, Dutton & Dawson. The most beautiful family, I'm convinced 🥹
Dallas deserves everything in this world and more. Give her the moon. Give her the stars. She was the strongest and most radiant character despite what she went through. After going through abuse for years, she up and left that mf. Honestly girl, I would have gave a standing ovation if you put his ass in the ground cause baby that man's SHIT!!! The way she is so strong for her boys makes my mama heart melt. She was the best mama and I'm honestly so proud of her. Not knowing if she was open to love again was real, she had open wounds but Duke helped mend her and took care of her like the MANNNN he is😭😭 Baby had that man crawling to her and I was giggling so hard in my bed😏
Honestly, if you man doesn't break your abusers fingers for all the things he did....baby throw him away. Duke was possessive, obsessive and down BADDDD. He was everything you want in a man and the red flags dont exist. The reverse age gap was beautiful. Him taking care of her and her boys. Im (s)creaming😃👍 I loved how he gave 0 FAWKS and his only goal in life was to made his girl happy before she even knew he wanted her. 🥹
The chemistry between these two are unreal? Needed a fan on myself honestly I had beats of sweat forming😭 foaming at the mouth and barking when he called her Mamas...lets be real:)
“Why are you acting like this?” “Like what, baby?” “Like my mess is worth it to you.” “Because you are worth it to me, darlin’.”
"I’m here to take the broken pieces of you and fuse them back together. It might be painful and brutal and messy, but I’m in love with you. I won’t give up until you’re whole again.”
Thank you Ariel for this earc🥹 Booksta- romance.with.bri
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Thank you to Ariel Hendrix for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review. I highly recommend checking the trigger warnings before diving into it. 5 out of 5 stars. I don't even know where to begin with this one. I devoured this book in less than 24 hours and loved every second of it. I did not want it to end. Duke and Dallas were everything. Duke was exactly what Dallas needed during her healing journey. He was the unwavering support, he never rushed her, never tried to "fix" her, he simply made her feel safe enough to feel like herself again. Their chemistry was HOT. And Duke with the boys? My heart couldn't handle it. I would take a morally grey protective cowboy who would stop at nothing to protect the women he loves and her children every single day of the week. Dallas's healing journey, oh where do I even begin with this one. Ariel captured Dallas's abuse in a raw authentic way. Just because there aren't physical or visible bruises doesn't mean the wounds aren't there. The constant belittling, threats, the second guessing that comes with, wondering if you are overreacting, asking "was it actually that bad?" or "Did I do something to deserve it?" It wrecks your nervous system, little things that should feel normal aren't anymore. All off those thoughts don't just disappear, they linger like a little pesky voice long after you leave, this was all portrayed so beautifully and honestly. Watching Dallas reclaim herself was powerful. Healing isn't linear it's different for everyone. This book made me laugh, cry, and honestly I'm kinda speechless. There were so many thoughts and emotions Dallas felt that I recognized myself. I hope other readers who see pieces or parts of themselves within Dallas's journey feel the same sense of being understood. The respect I have for Ariel Hendrix after reading this story is hard to put into words. It was emotional, heartfelt, and just SOOOO beautifully written. My first 5 stars this year, and boy does this one absolutely deserve it.
“Unbridled” is a yes a 1000 times yes, a must read especially if you’ve read the other books in the “Redford Ranch Series.” Duke and Dallas’ story did not disappoint. It has some heavy topics but it all came together beautifully. I loved how the other brothers and their wives and girlfriends intertwined into this book. I adored the bond all the girls formed with eachother too. Duke was hooked the first time he laid eyes on Dallas but she has way too much on her plate to even think about romance or love. She was trying to get through the trauma her abusive toxic ex husband caused and keep her three year twin boys and herself safe. She thought Duke was an immature playboy just looking for a good time but what she doesn’t realize is when those Redford boys love they love hard and they don’t give up. That family is the real deal, they are loyal to a fault. Even though they are facing their own family turmoil they bring Dallas and her boys onto the ranch and into the family fold and give her protection and a safe place to stay. She’s never had that much support and love before and she doesn’t quite know how to handle it. Duke knew what he wanted all along it just takes Dallas a while to catch up. And little by little her walls and defenses come down especially when she sees the man Duke really is. This one has trauma, grieve, finding yourself again, grit, heart, love, witty humor, suspense, the right amount of spice and just about everything else in between. And let’s just say there is a scene that happens on the lawn that will live rent free in my head forever…lol. Let’s not forget about those Hurricane Shots either…OMG! Don’t wait add it to your TBR now cause Ariel Hendrix knows how to write a story involving a morally gray cowboy with a heart of gold for the ones he loves. Every woman needs a man to love, honor, cherish, and protect them like Duke does Dallas!
-morally gray cowboy -single mom -friends with benefits -reformed playboy -bull rider/rancher -bartender -navigating trauma and abuse -found family -forced proximity -slight reverse age gap
Saddle up.. this review is a pile of heartfelt word vomit.
Before I even reached chapter one, I knew this book was going to leave an impact. The dedication alone set the tone:
"For the survivors forced to bottle up their female rage because of a fucked-up legal system. And to the men who break through those walls and love those women back to loving themselves."
That dedication perfectly captures the heart of this novel.
Set at Redford Ranch—where blood is thicker than water—this story introduces Duke, the youngest of five siblings. He's a playboy ranch hand on the surface, but underneath is one of the most caring, patient, and emotionally available heroes I've read in a long time. Between caring for his father, riding with Lady Liberty, and giving the nickname "Mamas", (SWOON!), Duke completely stole my heart.
Then there's Dallas.
Freshly divorced, raising her twin boys, Dutton and Dawson, while carrying the unimaginable weight of surviving an abusive marriage, Dallas felt heartbreakingly real. Ariel Hendrix doesn't shy away from showing what life looks like after abuse—the constant fear of not being enough, the anxiety of saying the wrong thing, and the instinct to protect your children from the anger you've already lived through. Those moments weren't just written well—they felt painfully authentic.
Watching Duke love Dallas wasn't about grand gestures. It was in the quiet moments. Taking care of her and the twins when she was sick. Making them feel safe. Showing up consistently. Giving her the space to heal instead of trying to fix her. That's what made this romance so powerful.
And yes... THE HURRICANE SHOTS. If you know, you know.
One aspect of this story hit especially close to home for me. Duke's journey caring for his father brought back so many memories of my own grandfather, who required around-the-clock care during the last decade of his life. Those scenes were emotional, honest, and beautifully handled. They added another layer of depth to Duke's character and made his strength feel incredibly real.
This isn't just a cowboy romance. It's a story about survival, healing, found family, learning to trust again, and discovering that love doesn't have to hurt to be real. It's about finding someone who helps you believe you're worthy of peace.
Ariel Hendrix wrote a story that is equal parts heartbreaking and hopeful, and I'll be thinking about these characters for a very long time.
This one completely earned five stars. 🤍
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Thank you to the author for ARC opportunity!! Unbridled by Ariel Hendrix ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Book 4 in the Redford Ranch series gave me everything I wanted and more. Dallas and Duke completely stole my heart. This story blends friends with benefits, a single mom and bull rider romance, a reverse age gap, romantic suspense, and a reformed playboy who discovers he’s capable of loving far deeper than he ever imagined. Watching Duke realize his feelings for Dallas were something he’d never experienced before was easily my favorite part. Dallas’s journey as a domestic violence survivor was handled with care, making her healing and their relationship feel that much more meaningful. Their chemistry, the emotional growth, and the suspense had me hooked from beginning to end. If you pick this one up, please check the trigger warnings, as it contains heavy domestic violence themes. But if you love emotional cowboy romances with protective heroes, found healing, and plenty of heart, this one is absolutely worth the read. 🤍
Español: 📖 Unbridled por Ariel Hendrix ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ El libro 4 de la serie Redford Ranch me dio todo lo que esperaba y más. Dallas y Duke se ganaron por completo mi corazón. Esta historia combina friends with benefits, mamá soltera y jinete de rodeo, diferencia de edad inversa, suspenso romántico y un playboy reformado que descubre que puede amar de una forma que jamás imaginó. El proceso de sanación de Dallas como sobreviviente de violencia doméstica fue tratado con mucho cuidado, haciendo que su historia de amor se sintiera aún más especial. La química entre ellos, el crecimiento emocional y el suspenso hicieron que no pudiera soltar el libro. Revisen las advertencias de contenido antes de leerlo, ya que aborda temas fuertes de violencia doméstica. Pero si disfrutan los romances de vaqueros llenos de emoción, héroes protectores y segundas oportunidades, este libro vale totalmente la pena. 🤍
Hold up✋🏻 let me collect myself because this book took my heart straight out of my chest from the start. Duke and Dallas's story is one about being broken down to the studs but then finding yourself again and healing with the person that settles your soul enough to allow you to slowly break through the past traumas! It's a heavy subject to read but there is also so much humor, sweetness, and spice that heats up the daggone room.
Dallas is a fighter and sometimes that fight looks like not fighting at all. Years of abuse from her now ex-husband left its mark. She's doing everything to create the best life for her twin boys, Dutton and Dawson, while simultaneously trying to rebuild herself in the midst of her abusers' continued presence. Obviously she isn't looking for a new relationship but Duke makes it hard to remember that plan. Dallas deserved the entire world and thankfully she got a cowboy to make her hopes a reality.
The duality of Duke is so attractive. I mean he says things like “𝘊𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘰𝘯, 𝘔𝘢𝘮𝘢𝘴. 𝘖𝘯𝘦 𝘥𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘬. 𝘐 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘦 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘭𝘪𝘳𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶.”, hello!? HOT. One moment he's the most charming flirt of a cowboy, the next he's threatening and ruthlessly beating down a man who deserved nothing less. He may have been a playboy in the past but when he saw Dallas, he knew he wanted her. All of her. Her boys? He loves them, protects them, stepping up as the dad figure they needed.
I couldn't get enough of these two during their little dates, every hurricane shot ;), the way he lets Dallas tell him what she needs in any given moment between them, the sweet surprises, and her gaining true friends & family!
First of all… can we talk about how incredibly lucky I am to receive an ARC from Ariel?! 🥹 I’ve been a fan for what feels like forever, so getting the chance to read this was honestly mind blowing.
I finished this book in 2 days because I genuinely could not put it down. I knew I was going to love it… I just didn’t realise I was going to fall this hard for this couple.
We all know I have a weakness for cowboys, but a morally grey, “touch my woman and die” cowboy? Yeah… Ariel knew exactly what she was doing 🫡
Meet Dallas. Before anything else, she’s an incredible mum. Her twin boys are her whole world, and every decision she makes is for them. As a mum myself, I loved seeing it portrayed so authentically. It wasn’t pushed aside; it was at the heart of the story, and I appreciated that so much!
Also, meet Duke. A rough around the edges cowboy, who’s a little bit younger but doesn’t make him any less experienced (iykyk) or immature. He steps up and does what he has to do (you’ll see what I mean when you read the book. And yes. You will be reading this book) He also treats Dallas twin boys as his own, the boys are so sweet and call him “cowboy”.
And can we PLEASE appreciate Duke loving every part of Dallas? The way he admired her stretch marks instead of seeing them as flaws honestly made my heart melt. 🥹 We don’t see enough love for mum bodies in romance books or when we do, they’re not talked about it in detail or what a mum bod actually is!
This book gave me all the feels.. laughs, sexy time, protective cowboy energy, and so many moments that had me smiling and laughing like an idiot.
I already know this is a book I’ll be rereading because I know I’ll fall in love with Duke all over again every single time.
When I rate this book 5 stars, I truly mean it.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Thank you so much Ariel Hendrix for the ARC copy of this book for an honest review!
Star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 Spice rating: 🌶.5
YALL...I only have one regret....not discovering this series sooner. Unbridled was an absolute emotional masterpiece!!! When I tell you to add this to your must reads, DO IT! You will thank me later.
Unbridled is Book 4 in the Redford Ranch series and can be read as a standalone, but better enjoyed to read in order. I would say that reading this as a standalone is completely doable but knowing the brothers relationship is built by reading the first 3....which I totally plan to do.
Dallas, the FMC, is a married mother of 2-3 year old twin boys (one actually shares one of my boy's names!!! So cool). She is in a highly physically, emotionally and sexually abusive relationship with her husband, Matt. She builds up the courage to leave him and file for divorce but not without Matt lashing out, making her life difficult at every turn. She ends up at Redford Ranch after her apartment burns down and needs a place to stay.
Duke, MMC, is the youngest of the Redford brothers and is a notorious playboy....that is until he sees Dallas again. They are connected by her being friends with his sister, and he admits to always having a thing for her. Duke is relentless at pursuing Dallas and helps her along the way with being able to trust others and love again-but not without laying down so cowboy law first.
Can Dallas ever love again after her marriage ended so poorly or can Duke mend her broken heart and teach her that true love is worth fighting...and dying for? Read to find out!!
Ariel, this was a masterpiece. You are so brave to put your real life traumas into this story and the emotions these characters faced...just wow! Fantastic work and thank you for having me on your street team! You are stuck with me now!!