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Back in the Saddle
Gregory McKnight is not lucky in love. In fact, he feels like a downright failure, having had two partners leave him for someone else. So, instead of trying another relationship, Gregory focuses on what he does do well: run a business and raise his daughter, Kendall. Willing to do just about anything for his daughter, the single dad takes them on vacation to Colorado and books a weekend tour riding horseback in the mountains. For Kendall, it's a dream come true. For Gregory, who has been afraid of horses since he was a kid, this is just another opportunity for him to fail.
Enter Cowboy Cooper, the tour's lead guide and expert rider. The two men have an immediate connection, and while Cooper isn't shy about making that known, Gregory is terrified of getting his heart broken again. They share an amazing night in the stables, but Gregory ultimately rejects the sweet Cowboy and leaves the ranch without saying good-bye. Knowing how her dad really feels about Cooper, Kendall convinces him that it's time to get back in the saddle and take a chance on love. What Gregory and Cooper soon realize is that getting together was the easiest part. Can their relationship survive when they're not even in the same time zone? Follow Gregory and Cooper from the mountains of Colorado to the lakes of Minnesota, where they navigate a relationship hampered by distance and insecurity, and finally find their happily-ever-after.
Enter Cowboy Cooper, the tour's lead guide and expert rider. The two men have an immediate connection, and while Cooper isn't shy about making that known, Gregory is terrified of getting his heart broken again. They share an amazing night in the stables, but Gregory ultimately rejects the sweet Cowboy and leaves the ranch without saying good-bye. Knowing how her dad really feels about Cooper, Kendall convinces him that it's time to get back in the saddle and take a chance on love. What Gregory and Cooper soon realize is that getting together was the easiest part. Can their relationship survive when they're not even in the same time zone? Follow Gregory and Cooper from the mountains of Colorado to the lakes of Minnesota, where they navigate a relationship hampered by distance and insecurity, and finally find their happily-ever-after.
- GenresM M RomanceWesterns
136 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 28, 2015
3 people are currently reading
60 people want to read
About the author
J.R. Barten
8 books27 followersJ.R., or Jen, as friends call her, has always been an avid reader, oftentimes finishing five to six books a week. When she was a kid, she found a huge box of old paperbacks for sale at a neighbor's garage sale. She offered the woman a quarter for the entire haul, and then went home and locked herself in her bedroom so her younger brother couldn't interrupt her while she read. This fueled her love for romantic fiction and inspired her to try her hand at writing. In 2013 Jen started writing fan-fiction, and then began creating her own original stories in 2014. Currently, her favorite genre to read and write is contemporary gay romance.
J.R. Barten was born and raised in Iowa and now resides in the Twin Cities of Minnesota with her partner of eighteen years and a spoiled rotten rescue dog.
J.R. Barten was born and raised in Iowa and now resides in the Twin Cities of Minnesota with her partner of eighteen years and a spoiled rotten rescue dog.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
May 30, 2015
WOW!! What a story!! This is a meant to be love story that brings two beautiful men together from the moment they talk on the phone together. This is a story of emotions and Hot Sex and the strongest attraction I've seen in a while. You find yourself joining these men in their quest to explore what they could have together and what the future might hold. I loved this book. Can't wait till the sequel comes out. It's just the first of this series of these two amazing men. Jen has done a brilliant job of writing a strong story line in first person with Gregory, the city guy, telling the story. Cooper is the handsome Cowboy who comes into Gregory's life in just the right time. This is a must read for all of you who love MM Love and Romance, along with Hot Sex.
June 22, 2015
Gregory doesn’t like horses, but like any good parent he finds himself giving in to his daughter’s desperate longing to spend a weekend out trail riding. On the off chance that a popular tour company has an opening for the coming weekend he bows down to his kid’s wishes and gives them a call. From the moment he hears the voice on the other end of the line he’s pretty much smitten with the flirty cowboy who takes his call. A flirty cowboy who seems very interested in meeting single father, Gregory. Gregory is almost hoping that they don’t have a place for them on the ride. The last thing Gregory is interested in is a hookup with someone who lives thousands of miles away. But unfortunately, they do have places available, so Gregory and his daughter, Kendall head off to meet up with their horses and their cowboy guides.
While I wasn’t blown away by this story, there were definitely some things that I liked about it. Firstly, I liked the fact that while these men practically declared their interest in each other during that first phone call, when they initially meet face to face Gregory isn’t blown away by Cooper’s looks. He doesn’t think he’s unattractive but he’s also not the hot, buff cowboy stereotype that Gregory had imagined. He’s not really Gregory’s physical “type” at all.
Secondly, I liked the contrast between the confident Gregory we see at work and the awkward, completely lacking in confidence Gregory that we witness through out the majority of the book. The story is told solely from Gregory’s point of view and for the first part of the book I pretty much wanted to punch the guy in the face. The way he treated Cooper, the pull closer then push away behavior, was so frustrating. Cooper was by far my favourite out of the pair and if it wasn’t for the way Gregory was with Kendall I would have thought he was a completely lost cause. It wasn’t until the start of part two of the book that I got a better idea of the man Gregory could be.
I also liked Kendall. She was probably my favourite character in the story. Often children in stories can be annoying, and fair enough Kendall is fifteen, not a young child, but I still thought that her character was very well written. As a secondary character she was well developed and acted as the voice of reason many times.
But, and you knew this was coming right; I also had some issues with the book. This isn’t something that affected my rating, but I think it should be noted because many readers don’t like it, the story is written in present tense. I don’t really have a problem with that, one of my favourite m/m books is written in present tense, but I do find that, perhaps because it isn’t the norm, it often takes longer to become comfortable with the story. It feels like there’s something off about the writing and you get distracted trying to figure out why it feels wrong rather than sinking straight in to the tale.
My biggest concern was the fact that the main characters spent about a third of the book apart. I know the blurb mentions a long distance relationship but the time between Gregory returning home and Cooper arriving for his visit seemed unnecessarily drawn out. By the time they are reunited there’s time for some sex and the epilogue and we’re done. Although, I must mention that I did really enjoy the epilogue.
Lastly, and yes, maybe I’m being a bit picky now but these two things really bothered me. Contractions. They’re a much used part of the English language and they needed to be used more often in this book. I assume that that’s something an editor should pick up on. Also, the use of the title “cowboy”. The tourists on the trail ride are told that they absolutely must address their guides as cowboy, as a sign of respect. Cowboy Cooper, Cowboy Jake, Cowboy Jasmine, etc. But the way that Gregory continued to refer to Cooper as Cowboy Cooper in his thoughts got really annoying. When he spoke, fine, but for him to continue to do it whenever Cooper was on his mind was just too much.
Don’t read this book if you’re looking for a cowboy story. It’s definitely more a story about over coming fears and being brave enough to give love a second (or even third) chance.
Reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews
http://lovebytesreviews.com/2015/06/2...
While I wasn’t blown away by this story, there were definitely some things that I liked about it. Firstly, I liked the fact that while these men practically declared their interest in each other during that first phone call, when they initially meet face to face Gregory isn’t blown away by Cooper’s looks. He doesn’t think he’s unattractive but he’s also not the hot, buff cowboy stereotype that Gregory had imagined. He’s not really Gregory’s physical “type” at all.
Secondly, I liked the contrast between the confident Gregory we see at work and the awkward, completely lacking in confidence Gregory that we witness through out the majority of the book. The story is told solely from Gregory’s point of view and for the first part of the book I pretty much wanted to punch the guy in the face. The way he treated Cooper, the pull closer then push away behavior, was so frustrating. Cooper was by far my favourite out of the pair and if it wasn’t for the way Gregory was with Kendall I would have thought he was a completely lost cause. It wasn’t until the start of part two of the book that I got a better idea of the man Gregory could be.
I also liked Kendall. She was probably my favourite character in the story. Often children in stories can be annoying, and fair enough Kendall is fifteen, not a young child, but I still thought that her character was very well written. As a secondary character she was well developed and acted as the voice of reason many times.
But, and you knew this was coming right; I also had some issues with the book. This isn’t something that affected my rating, but I think it should be noted because many readers don’t like it, the story is written in present tense. I don’t really have a problem with that, one of my favourite m/m books is written in present tense, but I do find that, perhaps because it isn’t the norm, it often takes longer to become comfortable with the story. It feels like there’s something off about the writing and you get distracted trying to figure out why it feels wrong rather than sinking straight in to the tale.
My biggest concern was the fact that the main characters spent about a third of the book apart. I know the blurb mentions a long distance relationship but the time between Gregory returning home and Cooper arriving for his visit seemed unnecessarily drawn out. By the time they are reunited there’s time for some sex and the epilogue and we’re done. Although, I must mention that I did really enjoy the epilogue.
Lastly, and yes, maybe I’m being a bit picky now but these two things really bothered me. Contractions. They’re a much used part of the English language and they needed to be used more often in this book. I assume that that’s something an editor should pick up on. Also, the use of the title “cowboy”. The tourists on the trail ride are told that they absolutely must address their guides as cowboy, as a sign of respect. Cowboy Cooper, Cowboy Jake, Cowboy Jasmine, etc. But the way that Gregory continued to refer to Cooper as Cowboy Cooper in his thoughts got really annoying. When he spoke, fine, but for him to continue to do it whenever Cooper was on his mind was just too much.
Don’t read this book if you’re looking for a cowboy story. It’s definitely more a story about over coming fears and being brave enough to give love a second (or even third) chance.
Reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews
http://lovebytesreviews.com/2015/06/2...
June 27, 2015
I truly enjoyed this story. J.R Barten wrote an eloquent romantic tale about two men looking for their forevers. The story was well written and I found myself intrigued from the first chapter until the end. I loved the family elements told in this story. It was really refreshing to read just how much we as parents tend to sacrifice our own needs and wants for our children.
Gregory is a single father raising a typical teenage girl. His daughter, Kendall has become his sole focus and making sure she comes first has been his quiet mantra for awhile now. He is still recovering from the lose of his longtime partner due to cheating so he has some major trust issues and in need of some self confidence. After being convinced to take a vacation on a horse ranch by his daughter, Gregory not only learns to conquer his fear of horses but meets an incredible hot guy who just might steal his heart. Cooper is the young sexy cowboy who just pours sexiness and confidence. Cooper just knows what he wants and while he isn’t afraid to go after it he also won’t beg for it. I just fell in love with him immediately.
This was a very endearing sweet read with not a bunch of angst in it. I loved that about it. I only had a mild problem with the instant love connection but the way Ms. Barten managed to acknowledge the mens feelings and yet still keep them both vulnerable was written beautifully. They didn’t just go jump right in the sack. However, when Gregory and Cooper finally expressed themselves sexually is was sizzling steamy and so romantic. Total plus plus for me!!! If you like a cowboy read and are looking for a refreshingly romantic story then I would have to highly recommend this one for you.
Gregory is a single father raising a typical teenage girl. His daughter, Kendall has become his sole focus and making sure she comes first has been his quiet mantra for awhile now. He is still recovering from the lose of his longtime partner due to cheating so he has some major trust issues and in need of some self confidence. After being convinced to take a vacation on a horse ranch by his daughter, Gregory not only learns to conquer his fear of horses but meets an incredible hot guy who just might steal his heart. Cooper is the young sexy cowboy who just pours sexiness and confidence. Cooper just knows what he wants and while he isn’t afraid to go after it he also won’t beg for it. I just fell in love with him immediately.
This was a very endearing sweet read with not a bunch of angst in it. I loved that about it. I only had a mild problem with the instant love connection but the way Ms. Barten managed to acknowledge the mens feelings and yet still keep them both vulnerable was written beautifully. They didn’t just go jump right in the sack. However, when Gregory and Cooper finally expressed themselves sexually is was sizzling steamy and so romantic. Total plus plus for me!!! If you like a cowboy read and are looking for a refreshingly romantic story then I would have to highly recommend this one for you.
June 8, 2015
Back in the Saddle
Nice love story.
I mean, the basic story was sweet, the MCs likable enough too.
But no.
Can't quite explain it... something in the writing.
They sounded weird to me. Like when someone tells a joke and then explains it. A little off.
Not sure I'm making myself clear here. Probably not, this liking or not liking something is so personal it's hard to justify...
Thing is it was a nice love story (told from one POV only which was OK though I'd rather it switched cause I'm nosy that way ^^) but didn't pull me in all the way. Couldn't feel the attraction, the pain nor the desire or even the HEA love.
Loved the Cowboy Camp though, sounded like a plan :)
Enjoy!
Nice love story.
I mean, the basic story was sweet, the MCs likable enough too.
But no.
Can't quite explain it... something in the writing.
They sounded weird to me. Like when someone tells a joke and then explains it. A little off.
Not sure I'm making myself clear here. Probably not, this liking or not liking something is so personal it's hard to justify...
Thing is it was a nice love story (told from one POV only which was OK though I'd rather it switched cause I'm nosy that way ^^) but didn't pull me in all the way. Couldn't feel the attraction, the pain nor the desire or even the HEA love.
Loved the Cowboy Camp though, sounded like a plan :)
Enjoy!
July 10, 2015
'Love at first sound?' I think that might be what J.R. Barten called it when I was telling her how wonderful this story is. It's so gentle and beautiful. Yep, you'll find sexy in there too (clearly - it has a cowboy from Colorado).
What I love about the characters is that they are both clear about their sexuality and their feelings for each other. I adore Cowboy Cooper - I think he's got his work cut out with Gregory, who is a little on the neurotic side, but Cooper can handle it...
It they ever bridge the geographical distance.
A great read that isn't too hard on the emotions. I enjoyed the first half a lot more than the second half, but overall this is a five-star read for me.
What I love about the characters is that they are both clear about their sexuality and their feelings for each other. I adore Cowboy Cooper - I think he's got his work cut out with Gregory, who is a little on the neurotic side, but Cooper can handle it...
It they ever bridge the geographical distance.
A great read that isn't too hard on the emotions. I enjoyed the first half a lot more than the second half, but overall this is a five-star read for me.
January 8, 2017
Cowboy Cooper....oh yeah!!!!
Ms. Barten has a new fan. I really enjoyed this story. Cooper was incredible. He was so rugged yet sweet. I loved how he put himself out there. He wasn't afraid to admit how he felt. My heart hurt for all the pain Gregory faced. He made me angry by denying his feelings but thankfully Kendall was there to give him the shove he needed. Cooper and Gregory had great chemistry. They were also sweet and playful. They really made a great couple.
If a book makes me physically react...my breath catches or I get butterflies....I immediately want more. I would love more of Cooper and Gregory but I also want to read Ms. Barten's other books.
Ms. Barten has a new fan. I really enjoyed this story. Cooper was incredible. He was so rugged yet sweet. I loved how he put himself out there. He wasn't afraid to admit how he felt. My heart hurt for all the pain Gregory faced. He made me angry by denying his feelings but thankfully Kendall was there to give him the shove he needed. Cooper and Gregory had great chemistry. They were also sweet and playful. They really made a great couple.
If a book makes me physically react...my breath catches or I get butterflies....I immediately want more. I would love more of Cooper and Gregory but I also want to read Ms. Barten's other books.
June 13, 2015
Heartwarming love story! Back in the Saddle was a fun lighthearted read. This story brings together two men who couldn't be more different. Gregory is a single father whose past relationships have caused him to be unsure of himself. Cooper is a cowboy who enjoys the outdoors and isn't afraid to take risks. Their attraction starts with a flirty phone conversation and blooms into a fast-paced romance. I loved the story from start to finish and read through it in one sitting. I highly recommend this book, and I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
May 31, 2015
Great first story!
This was a cute, heartwarming, romantic love story. Not an insta love kind of story, there was instant attraction, but she took the time for them to see where it could lead them to. Throw in a teenage daughter, horseback riding, a cowboy and the beauty of the Colorado rockies and you have a sweet, engaging love story. I look forward to seeing what else this Author gives us!
This was a cute, heartwarming, romantic love story. Not an insta love kind of story, there was instant attraction, but she took the time for them to see where it could lead them to. Throw in a teenage daughter, horseback riding, a cowboy and the beauty of the Colorado rockies and you have a sweet, engaging love story. I look forward to seeing what else this Author gives us!
June 30, 2015
This was really enjoyable. It didn't get 5 stars is for two reasons: one, their relationship was lightning fast, warp speed even. A week later they're committed and saying I love yous. Two, the author never resolved the side story of the guy at work who liked Gregory. I felt a lot of time was wasted writing about him and then nothing happened and there was no resolution.
June 5, 2015
Good story
I sort of wish it hadn't skipped so much time in the middle, but I love how this story works out. The characters are memorable and well fleshed out.
I sort of wish it hadn't skipped so much time in the middle, but I love how this story works out. The characters are memorable and well fleshed out.
July 22, 2015
A really sweet and interesting story. Angst free with some open ends. A quick read for the summer.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews