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Montana Men #4

Stone Cold Cowboy

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With their hearts' desires on the line, nothing can stop the Montana Men

Sadie Higgins has a bad habit of bailing her brother out of trouble. But when he rustles a herd of cattle from the tough, honorable Kendrick brothers, it's Sadie who's in for it. Because the cowboy tracking them down is big, silent, and forbidding as hell.

Rory Kendrick is on the hunt to find out who's been stealing from him. When he stumbles upon Sadie in the woods, he barely recognizes the quiet, vulnerable beauty who has always taken his breath away. His mission shifts in an instant: He will do anything it takes to keep her safe . . . and make her his.

Sadie has always protected her family—no matter the price. But when Rory ropes her heart, she's forced to take a look at her life and make a dangerous choice—one that could cost, or gain, her everything.

389 pages, ebook

First published February 23, 2016

233 people are currently reading
938 people want to read

About the author

Jennifer Ryan

50 books1,885 followers
Jennifer Ryan, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of The Hunted and McBrides Series, writes romantic suspense and contemporary small-town romances.

Jennifer lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and three children. When she isn’t writing a book, she’s reading one. Her obsession with both is often revealed in the state of her home, and how late dinner is to the table. When she finally leaves those fictional worlds, you’ll find her in the garden, playing in the dirt and daydreaming about people who live only in her head, until she puts them on paper.

Please visit her website at www.jennifer-ryan.com for information about upcoming releases.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews
Profile Image for ♥Rachel♥.
2,267 reviews922 followers
July 18, 2018
Big time cheesy, and the heroine had too many TSTL moments. Her brother was a complete dirtbag and she was an enabler that needed to get a freakin clue! Plus, circling around drove me nuts.
Profile Image for Nanci **Warning**IWasASailor⚓️MyMouthisDirty.
521 reviews163 followers
November 15, 2016

REREAD BEFORE I START BOOK #5
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“I didn’t realize I was missing you until I found you. You weren’t here and now you are and everything is different and better and complicated and simple. Does that even make sense?”

5 you and me stars!

I've never read cowboy books, that was my sister's thing, but this popped up and thought what the hell. I am so glad I did! This book was so cute and beautiful and sad.

Sadie is a struggling waitress that is trying to keep her dad's ranch afloat while his health deteriorates and save her brother from the path of destruction. Her mother died when she was young and she's been playing mother and caretaker of her family ever since. She looks out for everyone but herself. At times I became frustrated with her because her brother is a POS.

Her brother is lost into drugs and Sadie tries to save him. All she wants is to love and help Connor who doesn't deserve it. One night Sadie goes out to once again talk sense into her brother. Appallingly, her brother turns his back on Sadie leaving her with this monster who almost kills her. The only thing that saved Sadie that night was Rory finding her as he was out looking for her brother.

Rory is the oldest of the three Kendrick brothers. They own a big ranch and are known not to be messed with. Rory lost both his parents and has played father/ranch handler for years. He spends his life dealing with his ranch that he forgot to look out for himself. He's also been smitten on Sadie for years but felt she wouldn't be interested do to his age.

So Rory saves Sadie that night and all of a sudden this protectiveness and need to keep her safe overpowers him and he decides to stop running and pursue Sadie.

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Unfortunately for Sadie, she wants Rory but she comes with a ton of baggage she doesn't think he'll want. She doesn't know how to give up on her brother even after he left her to die and she is hanging on to hope that he'll stop using and become the little boy she once knew.

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Her father not only has cancer but he's also losing his mind, so Sadie has to constantly check on him to ensure he's safe. And to top it off the lunatic who left her to die still wants her dead.

Rory doesn't care about any of that; all he wants is Sadie, so he steps up and helps her deal with it all.
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A bunch of stuff happens because of her stupid brother and his drug problems. I was glued to my book. I swear some parts gave me anxiety. I felt for Sadie, she just wanted her brother back even when he was a lost cause but at the same time I really wanted to smack some sense in her! When her father finally passed, I was a mess. Totally ugly teared it.
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No matter what, even with all the drama. Rory and Sadie were so awesome together. I loved them! I swear I totally want a cowboy now.
“I look at you and see only one thing. You’re my everything. You’re the one I want to be with always.”
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I've never read anything else from this author but I want to read the previous books and am definitely going to continue reading about the brothers. They were all very delicious.
Profile Image for Beth.
3,102 reviews301 followers
November 2, 2025
Let’s just say, I got way more than I expected from Stone Cold Cowboy.

I was expecting a sweet and endearing cowboy romance with maybe a little cattle and horse play…but the raw intensity, brutal and sadistic attacks and heart felt emotion was a complete shock to my system.

Ryan tells a story of a young woman, Sadie, struggling to keep her family together even when its ravaged by addictions, death and illness. The lengths Sadie will go to save those she loves only to be betrayed and left for dead made for amazing storyline.

Rory becomes her rescuer, but a woman who has given so much does she have any more to give? For all she's given, Rory and his family finally give her back what she's been giving her entire life.

This story was jarring; I didn’t expect it. That’s not to say it wasn’t a welcome shake up, it just totally took me by surprise.

I really became entrenched in Sadie’s struggles and by that alone, I highly enjoyed Stone Cold Cowboy. I did have a little trouble justifying a few of Sadie’s choices, especially after the all she endured. Beyond Sadie’s lack of rational thought towards certain individuals, Stone Cold Cowboy was unique, unexpected and quite riveting.

I received this ARC copy of Stone Cold Cowboy from Avon in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication Feb. 23, 2016.

My Rating: 4 Stars
Profile Image for Lover of Romance.
3,712 reviews1,122 followers
March 3, 2016
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance My Review
Summary
Sadie Higgins has had to bail her brother continually out of trouble. But his latest altercation involves stealing cows from the Kendricks. So Sadie goes after Connor hoping that she can change his mind and get whatever he has stolen returned back to the rightful owners. But when she finds him and confronts him, he is with a band of others. But Sadie is in over her head. Because the so called leader of the group, is viscious. He strings her up in the woods and wraps her body with barbed wire and leaves her there. Rory Kendrick on the search for his missing cows, stumbles upon Sadie, who is barely alive. He rescues her and aids her in healing. Rory has always wanted Sadie, but has never initaited any kind of romantic entanglement with her until now. Rory wants her, but he also needs her. As the circumstances with Sadie's father and brother erupt so does the love between them. Will Sadie be able to make the right choose between her brother and the man she has come to love more than life?
The Hero
Rory Kendrick, along with his other three brothers, became orphans when their parents were killed in a avalanche. They were raised by their grandfather and work together on the ranch. Rory is the oldest, full of responsibilities and very serious minded. His brother nickname him the "monk". Even though he has had enjoyed the company of a woman on occasion, he has never had a real relationship until he stumbles upon Sadie. Rory is hard working, responsible, duty bound and loyal. Family is everything to him, and he will do anything to protect Sadie even from her reckless brother. Rory was one delicious hero, and I honestly couldn't seem to get enough from him. Man was he sexy and loved the whole serious man theme going on here because they usually make the best romantic partners. He is truly wonderful with Sadie and the type of hero you could see yourself wanting to marry---he is that good!!
The Heroine
Sadie Higgins is in a tough spot where her family is concerned. Her mother passed away when she was young. Her father is currently having severe medical issues he doesn't share with her...but she knows that its bad. Ever since her brother got into drugs, she has had to constantly bail him out of every crime and problem he has gotten into. She is one tough hardworking woman. Works two jobs and takes care of her father. Sadie is probably one of my favorite heroines I have read so far this year. I was very impressed by her from the beginning. Even after what her brother does to her, she has a hard time letting go of wanting to help him. But she also pays his debts, she is honest and caring. She takes responsiblity for Connor even though she didn't commit those crimes but settles any debts she possibly can. She has spunk, is a fighter but I loved the way she embraces her relationship with Rory.
Plot and Story Line
Stone Cold Cowboy is one hell of a romantic jewel and I savored every moment. Literally, I couldn't put this book down at all it was so damn good. I just wanted morer of Rory and Sadie. This does have a bit of a heart breaking moments, especially there in the beginning. My Goodness...my heart just reached out to Sadie. But when Rory enters the scene....HOLY HANNAH did I fall in love with him at the spot. He is so honorable and good and I wanted more and more of them together. They make a fantastic match and it was so interesting to see them work through issues together, learn to trust one another and not hold things back from each other. Quite refreshing to read a story, where a couple just embraces what they have together and don't fight it or go into denial over what they are feeling.

I also had a fun time with Rory's family, most especially his grandfather. His brothers were a hoot, and I loved the great familial bond they share. The brothers tease each other, but they also fight for each other and support one another no matter what!! So admirable and the grandfather. He is darling. Always trying to matchmake his grandsons so they can marry and give him great grand babies. hehe They also accept Sadie instantly, and loved seeing that. They see what she means to Rory from the beginning, and treat her as one of their own which is what she needs. Sadie is definitely going through the ringer emotionally, and Rory is stable and reliable and is exactly the type of support she needs at the right moments.

The romance is sweet and charming but powerful!
Yes. I love you. With everything that I am, every breath I take, every beat of my heart, I love you.

Rory and Sadie have an instant connection to each other, and they build that up. I also loved seeing how Sadie learns to let go of situations that she can't change especially when it comes to her brother Connor.
The Cover
What a delicious covers and he isn't showing anything!! All covered up but boy does he make that t shirt and jeans look good!! I also love the ranch backdrop as well.
Overall View
Stone Cold Cowboy was one of the most satisfying romance reads I have ever read!! Boy does this author rock romance....she writes it beautiful, intricately and packs it with enough real emotion to sweep the reader off their feet. SUPERB IN EVERY WAY!!

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About The Author

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Profile Image for Steffi.
3,275 reviews182 followers
February 11, 2018
Ich habe bereits zwei Bücher der Montana Dreams Reihe gelesen und war echt begeistert, daher waren meine Erwartungen an "So tief wie die Sehnsucht" relativ hoch.

Zu Beginn hatte ich ein paar Probleme in die Geschichte reinzukommen und ich bin mit der Geschichte und den Charakteren nicht so warm geworden. Im Verlaufe des Buches habe ich aber immer besser reingefunden und die Geschichte hat mich richtig gepackt. Ich finde es klasse wie die Autorin eine klassische Liebesgeschichte mit Spannungselementen verknüpft.

Zum Schluss habe ich mit den Charakteren richtig mitgefiebert und die Geschichte war einfach richtig schön kitschig romantisch.
Luna und Colt waren ein tolles Paar und ich mochte die beiden irgendwann richtig gerne.
Profile Image for Aarann.
988 reviews82 followers
dnf
July 31, 2016
DNF @ 14%

Not rating this one. I didn't get far enough into it to give it a fair try and I suspect I would have ended up hating it. The FMC was betrayed by her loser meth head brother and because of it her life was threatened. Yet, when I skipped ahead because I had a bad feeling, she was still trying to protect him. Maybe I just happened to get a bad scene that made it look worse than it was, but no way did I want to waste my time on someone who would continue to protect a brother that put her life in danger for his own needs. From what little I saw, Sadie was absolutely an enabler and I have no patience for those people.

So no-go here. DNF and not looking back.
Profile Image for Lyndi W..
2,042 reviews210 followers
May 11, 2016
This would have gotten 5 stars had Sadie not given her fuck-up brother a second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, and ninth chance to screw her over. That shit went on way too long. But I loved everything else. Take that how you will.
Profile Image for ☕️Kimberly  (Caffeinated Reviewer).
3,586 reviews784 followers
February 19, 2016
Coffee Dates with Stone Cold Cowboy

First Date: Ryan started things off with an intense scene that quickly lets us into Sadie Higgins’ world. Her brother is bad news and she has bailed him out repeatedly. When she catches him stealing cattle she ends up in some serious trouble. Thankfully, Rory Kendrick is out searching for his cattle and finds Sadie. I loved all the details Ryan gave us about Sadie and Rory. Rory may be one of the honorable Kendrick brothers but he is also intimidating. Although they have never met, Sadie is convinced he hates her, but we soon realize all that staring he did was because he likes her! At this point, I am very addicted and jump right into my second date.
Second date: Ryan knows how to flesh out her characters. Sadie is strong, confident and proud. You cannot help but admire this young woman. Ryan tries to intimidate everyone, but I am not fooled. He is such a romantic on the inside. Sheesh, do not tell him or his brothers that though. They are good people who have suffered and their chemistry, banter and stubbornness was hilarious, hot and swoony. The suspense thread with Sadie’s brother and scary partners had me holding my breath. Ryan also weaved in a thread about Sadie’s Dad and I pretty much cried my way through it. I adored the time we spend at the Kendrick’s house. Rory’s brothers and Grandpa were such fun. I loved all the teasing, camaraderie and love this family has for each other. The romance at this point is developing wonderfully. Their feelings and the slow build feel genuine.
Third date: The outside world has slipped away and I am in Montana. Both characters struggle with expressing themselves, but the suspense, and other threads kept things out of the drama zone. My only complaint was a small thread involving the couple. A little obstacle that I felt was unnecessary. Despite that, I enjoyed these characters and their story. It was completely addictive. There were some truly tender moments and some heart stopping ones as we reached a climactic scene involving the suspense thread. My third date left me giddy and riding a book high we all crave.


Copy provided by publisher. This review was originally posted on Caffeinated Book Reviewer
Profile Image for Lindsay.
2,234 reviews512 followers
February 18, 2016
I don't typically go for cowboys. There's just something about the theme that turns me off...maybe it makes me think of the country and that makes me think of being dirty and honestly...I hate being dirty. So typically, I avoid cowboys (or anything in the farming/ranching family).

But something about this book screamed at me. It sounded really good, so I jumped at the opportunity to read it. I was hooked from page one. The story starts out with a bang and I was invited to the edge of my seat as I read. I was totally enthralled. I have to get this out of the way: this author writes a mean bad guy! In was in awe of his evilness. Quite a few books try to accomplish what Jennifer Ryan did but they fail spectacularly...this Ms. Ryan should give lessons on the perfect bad guy.

Initially, I really liked Rory and the way he quietly wanted from afar. I loved how he felt when he came upon Sadie in the woods. I loved his desperation and sorrow at the thought of losing her before having a chance with her. The emotions and scenes just came alive. I could picture Rory and Sadie running into each other in town, neither willing to make the first move. But sometime after Sadie starts working at Rory's ranch, the magic sort of disappeared. I wasn't feeling the connection between them as much. I'm not quite sure why, except things started happening very quickly between them and I never really felt the love grow. It just...appeared.

If I have any complaints about this book, it would be Sadie and how she kept giving her brother chance after chance after chance. It didn’t matter what he did, how her life was put in jeopardy, she forgave him and kept giving him another chance. I’m sorry, but if my sibling did even half of what he did to her, I’d be done. And if they left me in the situation that Sadie was in at the beginning of the book…I’d be beyond done. I’d be calling the police on them myself. That may sound harsh, but with all the chances she gave him, there was really no good ending for him. And let’s face it, I hold grudges when it comes to fictional characters so there was no redeeming Connor for me.

Overall, I really did enjoy Ms. Ryan’s writing and I can’t wait to read more from her!


Profile Image for 1-Click Addict Support Group.
3,749 reviews490 followers
January 25, 2016
I just love this series. Now on book four, and moving onto the Kendrick brothers after the Bowden boys found their true loves, the Montana Men continue to make me smile, swoon and search for my very own cowboy.

Sadie Higgins has always looked out for her brother—even as he spiraled into more and more trouble. But this time, he's gone too far…and Sadie is the one to pay the price.

When Rory Kendrick finds a herd of cattle missing from his ranch, he attempts to track the rustlers down, but what he discovers instead changes everything.

Rory has always admired Sadie, but never pursued her. Now, with their lives colliding, it becomes impossible to deny their connection. Except something—or someone—still stands in the way of their happiness…and it could cost them their lives.

As far as suspenseful romance goes, I've become a big fan of Jennifer Ryan’s. This series, which features handsome cowboys and beautiful, troubled women, always brings the mystery—along with a healthy dose of sexy. But this particular book? It also brought the feels along for the ride. Sadie’s family life, which is far from ideal, was a little bit shattering, and when she experienced a loss, I felt it with her. And by that, I mean I cried.

But that's okay, because I also smiled a chunk—especially whenever Rory’s younger brother, Colt made an appearance—and found myself clenching my thighs as this couple overcame their obstacles to find their HEA. Oh, and sighing at the gruff but caring Rory. He's the heart-and-panty melting epitome of strong and silent—and I loved him.

Stone Cold Cowboy was fun, heart-pounding, and yes, perhaps a touch cliché, but it was written so well, and featured a handful of likeable secondary characters (including a couple of Bowden cameos that made me a very happy camper), that I found myself swiping pages like the book addict I am. I simply can't wait to continue with this series; Ms. Ryan, that tease, left some things up in the air between Colt and Luna that I'm going to need to get answers for. Plus, Ford, the other Kendrick boy, clearly has a story that needs telling. A story that needs reading…by me. I'm still searching for my own cowboy, after all. ~ Beth, 4.5 stars
Profile Image for Danielle.
1,339 reviews51 followers
December 17, 2015
This is the second book I read by Ryan for this series and I really liked this book. Ryan delivers strong characters and a emotional plot that had me in tears more then once.

Rory is looking for whoever is stealing his cattle but comes across a gruesome scene that will change his life forever. He's seen Sadie around but never had the nerve to approach her but now that he has her it's for keeps.

After Sadie's mother passed away she has been working her ass off to not only keep her brother out of trouble but to take care of her father. Now that Rory and her are getting closer she has some real hard decisions to make and she hopes she makes the right one.

Ah man do I love these brothers. They are close which was so sweet yet they had this funny banter I just couldn't get enough of. Rory was an absolute doll considering how grumpy he can be but oh boy I love how fast and hard he fell for Sadie.

Sadie was a sweet girl and I love how she wanted to help her brother, took care of her dad, was trying to finish school and just wanted to do the right thing. When her and Rory got together I was like finally now they can stop mooning over each other!

This book had a little suspense on what would happen and when? Who are these people and what will these mean for the relationship between the two main characters. I have to say I was pleased with how it was told.

Be warned there is so emotional times throughout this story that only made me enjoy it more. It was real, honest and Ryan couldn't have done a better job with these characters emotions during these times.

I'm really excited to read more of this series and find out what will happen with Ford and Colts stories. I have a feeling they are going to be good!
Profile Image for Bj.
1,219 reviews254 followers
May 20, 2016
I gave this audiobook a B+ for the narration and B for the story at AudioGals.

Narrated by Coleen Marlo

Western romance lovers looking for a true cowboy who is particularly adept at saving the damsel in distress, will enjoy the wholesome goodness of the admirable hero in Stone Cold Cowboy. For the most part, the suspense angle of the plot is pretty predictable, but I did enjoy listening to the way that the caring and honorable, loyal hero took care of his “gal.” He’s the kind of cowboy that a western heroine should lasso in and never let get away.

Please note though that while the hero is top-notch, and a sweet kind gentleman, there is some rather descriptive physical abuse of the heroine (the abuse the hero saves the heroine from) that is a little tough to listen to. So this book may not be for all listeners.

See the full review at AudioGals.
Profile Image for Yesenia Gonzalez.
539 reviews18 followers
March 4, 2016
AHHH!! I didn't want to finish it because then I would have to wait for the next book. I really loved this story, I love all of them. Sadie was such a great sister but It was time for her to let go of her brother he made his mistake and it is too late for him. I do love that she was still hopeful and she was just such a great person. Rory aw man such a hot cowboy! He was big and scary but he was just a teddy bear toward Sadie and shy it was cute. Them together was awesome no drama just family drama but it only made them closer. Can't wait for Colt and Luna's story.
Profile Image for Adria's Musings.
843 reviews41 followers
March 2, 2016
Originally posted on Adria's Romance Reviews

* A copy of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review.

Basically Sadie Higgins’ loyalty to family has gotten her into some serious trouble. When she catches her brother stealing cattle from the Kendrick family she tries to stop him but is left in a bad situation in the woods. And when Rory Kendrick comes looking for the missing cattle he finds Sadie instead and gets involved with more than finding out who has been stealing his family’s cattle.



Stone Cold Cowboy was the first book by Jennifer Ryan that I’ve read and I liked it. It felt familiar in a good way and had me smiling all the way through.

The plot was well written and well developed and to be completely honest, felt like a modern version of an old Western tv show called Bonanza which is one of my favorite shows ever. The Kendrick brothers were like the Cartwright family, honorable, imperfect and close. They worked hard for what they had and never looked down their nose at people less fortunate. That’s what drew me to this story and the quiet but completely reliable Rory. My favorite thing about this character is that he’s such a strong man but the huge responsibility of overseeing a large ranch and caring for his family is starting to wear him out. He doesn’t have time for himself at all yet he continues to be this responsible, caring guy. It’s tough not to fall for someone like that.

Sadie was a bit tougher to like for me. I admired her loyalty to her brother but at some point that loyalty becomes stupidity and a death wish when it becomes clear that her brother just doesn’t care about her or her safety. She was stubborn and hell bent on doing things alone even when it was clear she couldn’t handle things alone. I like an independent heroine but being independent and tough also means knowing when you’ve hit your limit and need the help being offered. She had moments of being a damsel in distress but then she also had moments of standing her ground with Rory who had a talent for steamrollering over people when he wanted to take care of them.

Jennifer Ryan did such a good job of creating such a stark contrast between Sadie’s loyalty to her family and Rory’s. Both characters loved their family and took responsibility of them but Sadie’s love and loyalty almost got her killed because her family wasn’t worth the effort. Rory’s family by contrast gave that love and loyalty back to him. I loved how well the differences between the two characters’ families were showcased; it was subtle but gave some good backbone to the story and to Rory and Sadie’s personalities. It wasn’t all soft emotions and family history, Sadie’s brother and his criminal activities provided a lot of action, suspense and drama throughout the story and while Sadie loved her brother, I couldn’t find one redeeming quality in the booger. I kept thinking Throw his worthless butt in jail! But that was part of the appeal of Stone Cold Cowboy, having a central conflict that endangers the main characters and any supporting characters.

There were quite a few supporting characters too. Characters from previous books made appearance but nothing major was spoiled for me and even though I wasn’t familiar with them, I still found this book easy to follow along with.

Final Verdict: Stone Cold Cowboy really had an old Western feel but it was all contemporary. Rory was pretty irresistible with that responsible, selfless, tough but still lonely personality. His romance with Sadie was well told, passionate and balanced out by conflicts brought on by Sadie’s brother. I definitely wouldn’t say “no” to the previous books nor would I hesitate to read future ones.
Profile Image for Kristin.
1,033 reviews108 followers
February 18, 2016
Brutal beginning, Ms. Ryan!  I remember sitting in some session, some where, and the speaker noted that an author needs to hook a reader in the first chapter or the book has the potential to fail.  On that point alone, Ms. Ryan ran away with the Stanley Cup, the Heisman, and the Super Bowl trophy in one fell swoop!

Sadie Higgins is one helluva a girl.  She has been cleaning up after her little brother's messes ever since he decided to go off the rails after their mother passed away when they were kids.  Sadie works two jobs and takes care of their horses on their ranch because their father has taken ill recently, as well.  But when Sadie tries to save her brother this last time, we truly see how bad things have gotten for this family.

Rory Kendrick is the oldest of the Kendrick brothers and the one who has taken care of his younger brothers when their parents died when they were kids.  Rory is the quiet, intimidating type, mostly because he's just a big guy who doesn't smile very often.  He's actually had his eye on Sadie for quite a few years but he's been admiring her quietly from afar.

It's only after he stumbles upon Sadie and helps her that these two actually say more than two words to each other.

I read in a bunch of other reviews the following sentiment and I had the same thoughts:

I was expecting a sweet cowboy romance but I got something completely different and so much more!

Ms. Ryan writes a great romance about two people who fall in love under extenuating circumstances and wonder whether that relationship is built on something real or artificial.  How do you know it's real?  So many angles to question when you meet that person that just fits and feels like "home".  Are we going too fast?  Are we wasting time by not moving faster?

Ms. Ryan manages to look at all these angles in this one little story.  She's so smart :)

And don't forget the messed up brother...  that adds a whole other level of suspense I wasn't expecting.  Sheesh!

The writing is tight.  It's a dual POV so we see both sides to the story, appropriate to the scene.  The pace is perfect and there just is not a thing a can complain about.  Why not five stars then?  I guess it just comes down to my personal tastes with books.  I don't gravitate towards heavy subject matter.  Doesn't mean I didn't really enjoy THIS mighty fine book,though.



 Review appears on Addicted to Happily Ever After
Profile Image for Elizabeth H..
1,075 reviews77 followers
February 25, 2016
What I love about Jennifer Ryan books is that they are family-centered. The stories are real, the emotion is raw and the romance is intense.

I’m always emotionally drained after reading the stories but I absolutely love them! Sadie and Rory were beautiful together. Both are devoted to family and have sacrificed greatly for them. They also have a sense of responsibility that is unbending. They couldn’t be a more perfect couple.

There are a lot of tough themes in the book that were at times uncomfortable and a little hard to read through but the love Rory and Sadie had for each other eclipsed them all.

STONE COLD COWBOY is a solid romance filled with action, danger, intrigue, and lots of love. Love of family, friends and a genuine love of the heart between two people who “get” each other.

Jennifer Ryan always delivers a beautiful love story full of hope and heart and I highly recommend this or any of her books!

***I was gifted an eBook copy from the publisher via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. All conclusions reached are my own***
132 reviews10 followers
February 28, 2016
The heroine in this book was just TSTL. Sisterly love is one thing . Putting your own life at risk--and protecting your younger brother from his own mistakes time after time after time--is another. On top of it she makes promises and breaks them--tells the hero he will know something as soon as she does and then doesn't tell him for no particular reason. Leaves cryptic messages instead of being direct again for no reason. Insists on going home when she is too injured instead of trying to find another way to take care of her dad. (None of these are spoilers--most happen in the first few chapters.) Also the author needs better line editing .
1,116 reviews23 followers
February 28, 2016
Don't remember when I've ever been s disappointed in a book. The language was off the top horrible, constant use of the f-word. I couldn't even get halfway through it before I gave up. And the thing is, it was entirely unnecessary.

The violence in it was also very graphic, something I'm not used to in my romantic suspense. I was so looking forward to reading this book as I've enjoyed this author in the past but this really left a bad taste in my mouth.
Profile Image for Blender.
447 reviews13 followers
February 23, 2016
Seriously... Where can you find a hero like these Montana men??? Great series, be warned, you will read these books straight through so plan your schedule accordingly.
Profile Image for Catherine (The Sassy Bookster).
719 reviews63 followers
March 2, 2016
STONE COLD COWBOY starts out with a punch of raw intensity and pretty much delivers more of the same throughout the book. Even with the powerful and unsettling opening chapter, Ms. Ryan still manages to balance out the danger with a sweet and exhilarating romance all the way to the end of the book.

 Sadie Higgins has spent her whole life trying to take care of her family after her mother's death and no matter how much she does, she's barely keeping her head above water. Between the mounting bills, the upkeep of the ranch, her brother's slide into drug addiction and the cost of his criminal activities, Sadie is pretty much tapped out. The last straw comes when her brother abandons her after she's attacked and left to die by one of his cohorts, but it's also the start of something beautiful in her life and it's now her turn to be pampered and taken care of.

Rory Kendrick is on the hunt for cattle rustlers who have been stealing from him but the hunt takes a backseat to protecting Sadie. He's always been interested in her and now he has the perfect chance to keep her safe and happy, no matter the cost.

Honestly? I think Sadie was too optimistic about the chances of her brother's rehabilitation and should have cut him loose long before things got that far, but I can't fault her for hoping day after day that the sweet boy she grew up with would find his way back. 

I loved the Kendrick boys and their grandfather, their fun and delightful relationship, their playful banter and how they opened up their hearts and home to Sadie, as well as supported her in her decision to protect her brother even though he was undeserving of it.

STONE COLD COWBOY is a really great story with characters that are easy to relate to and is filled with action, danger, loss and emotion; at times uncomfortable and frustrating, but also carries a powerful message of hope and unconditional love. 


Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

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Profile Image for Olivia.
435 reviews26 followers
August 2, 2016
"Rory, you stare at her any harder, you'll wear a hole in her."-Ford to Rory about Sadie.

"For you, the devil will get his due."- Rory to Sadie.

"You found me, so you're keeping me?" She narrowed her eyes, trying to figure him out.
"Sounds good." -Sadie and Rory.

"Going up against one Kendrick is stupid. Taking on all three of us is suicide."- Rory.

Great. His whole family was there to witness him losing his mind. -Rory's thoughts.

Sadie stared at him. "Did you actually smile at me?"
He frowned. "What of it?"
"You should do it more often." -Sadie and Rory.

"Don't you cowboys have anything better to do than stare at me," Sadie called from atop her horse.
"No," they said in unison.-Sadie, Rory, Ford, and Colt.

"She needs someone like you."
"I need someone like her, sir."- Sadies father and Rory.

"Is your brother armed?"
"With stupidity." -Rory and Sadie.

"I got you, sweetheart." -Rory to Sadie.

"You're sweet."
"On you, yes."
That earned him another soft smile. "Did you threaten to kill my brother?"
"Several times," he admitted. -Sadie and Rory.

"Do I look happy?"
"No, you're back to scowling at me. And put on a shirt. I can't fight with you when you're naked."
The made him smile and laugh. "If I was naked, we'd be in that bed and you wouldn't be fighting with me." -Rory and Sadie.

"Stay with me. I'll keep the nightmares away." -Rory to Sadie.

"How the hell did I get this lucky?"
"You save her, you get to keep her." Sadie's groggy voice held a lilt of humor.
"Only if she's you. You I want to keep forever."-Rory and Sadie.

What his brain made complicated, his heart simplified. -Rory's thoughts.

"You and me?"
"You and me." -Sadie and Rory.


Profile Image for DrunkenCherry.
782 reviews134 followers
August 10, 2018
Nachdem ich bereits die drei Vorgänger der Montana Dreams Reihe gelesen hatte, habe ich mich auch auf den vierten Teil sehr gefreut. Umso überraschter war ich, dass es sich hier gar nicht um die Übersetzung des vierten Bandes handelt, sondern um die des fünften. Der Mira Taschenbuch-Verlag hat also einfach einen Teil der Reihe ausgelassen - und das merkt man doch sehr, da es sich hier um Geschichten handelt, die aufeinander aufbauen.
Gerade zu Beginn des Buches fiel es mir deshalb schwer, mich in die Geschichte einzufinden.
Denn es geht nicht mehr um die altbekannte Familie Bowden, sondern um die Kendricks, die auf einer Nachbarranch leben. Doch natürlich entwickelt sich hier zwischen den Protagonisten Luna und Coldt genau so viel Liebe, wie man es auch bisher gewohnt war.
Allerdings konnte mich das Buch nicht so gefangen nehmen wie die anderen Teile, fehlte es hier an Emotionen. Ich konnte mich einfach nicht so in die Personen einfühlen, was teilweise auch daran lag, dass mir das Wissen aus dem "echten" Band 4 fehlte.
Deshalb war für mich dieses Mal das Crime-Element interessanter als die Liebesgeschichte, doch auch die war nicht gut ausgearbeitet. Über lange STrecken passiert zu wenig und viele Dinge wurden schlecht eingearbeitet, nachdem sie kurz angerissen worden waren.
Insgesamt ist das nun also der schlechteste Band der Reihe, aber dennoch solide Unterhaltung für Zwischendurch, bei der man abschalten kann.


Profile Image for Crystal.
418 reviews
February 28, 2016
From the moment I started reading Stone Cold Cowboy I was immediately reminded why I love Jennifer's books so much. Her writing style is so smooth, I find myself reading for hours without noticing time passing by. Her characters are amazingly wonderful. Rory wastes no time making room for Sadie in his life. He goes from pining for her to risking his life to protect her in almost 2.5 seconds. The entire Kendrick clan welcomed her with open arms. Sadie... That poor girl went through hell and back for her family. She's strong and resilient, but also a bit too trusting. I loved them together, watching out for each other. They fit together perfectly. While I wouldn't classify Stone Cold Cowboy as a true romantic suspense, I enjoyed the little bit of mystery the book did have. There are a couple of action scenes that kept me riveted, but that beginning scene... I pretty much cringed the entire time. Overall, I loved this book, especially being reminded how much I loved an author's previous books and being lured back into their world. I know that I will definitely go back and pick up the previous books in this series, as well as picking up the Hunted series. In the mean time, I have my fingers crossed that we'll see more of other two Kendrick men in the future.

I received a copy in exchange for a honest review.
Profile Image for Jules2016.
174 reviews45 followers
March 2, 2016
OMG, this book is one, big, ridiculous eye roll and totally preposterous.

BECAUSE....

1. Insta-love for both of the main characters

2. The first time they have sex, after knowing each other a short amount of time, the condom breaks and this is what the heroine says

“but if I am pregnant, I won’t be upset about it..”

Seriously?! She doesn't even really know the dude! And the instantly pussy-whipped hero doesn't really know her!

3. Too sweet for my tastes, all they talk about are "feelings" and it goes on and on and on for pages and pages, totally exhausting. This book has lots of "does he love me?" " does she love me like I love her?" Inner dialogue.

4. Heroine is an IDIOT: she is stripped, beaten, stabbed, strung up on a tree by her brother's companions while her brother watches!!!! And is left for dead, but she still believes in the goodness of her brother, seeks to protect him and puts herself in jeopardy where he is concerned throughout the book - utterly unbelievable!! Besides that, she's just an idiot overall.

5. The over the top ending. Shooting, stabbing, fighting, inconceivable circumstances and idiotic behaviors put this ending in the category of complete lunacy and juvenile fiction.

6. Lame epilogue.

This book got so stupid I almost DNF. But I did, cuz I paid $5.99. Wonder if I can get a refund?

This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Jen.
586 reviews17 followers
March 3, 2016
Sadie has been through some hard times and deserves all the love in the world. She has been taking care of her father and rescuing her brother for years. When her brother steals cattle from the Kendricks, she tries to stop him, but instead is betrayed and left to die. Rory is out tracking his missing cattle when he comes across a bleeding and unconscious Sadie. He's admired her from afar and after he rescues her, he stays by her side to care for her. Sadie quickly realizes that Rory is actually really sweet and loving underneath the tough and intimidating looks. Their love progresses very quickly, but the circumstances and danger surrounding them have a lot to do with it. There's romance, suspense, heartbreak and danger that had me hooked from the very first chapter! I've enjoyed the previous books in the series with the Bowdens and can't wait for the other two Kendricks to find their match.
4.5 stars

I received an ARC via Edelweiss for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review, all conclusions are my own.
Profile Image for Kelly at.
1,145 reviews13 followers
February 19, 2016
Review will be posted at www.books-n-kisses.com .

NUMBER OF HEARTS: 4
WOW!!!
The start of Stone Cold Cowboy starts of and a very heartbreaking way. Sadie finds herself in a situation that only a miracle will get her out of.
I really enjoyed this book. Sadie is a trooper. Sadie is willing to do anything for those she loves including giving up her own happiness for them. But this last time with her brother was to much for even Sadie to handle. Thankfully she has a very stubborn cowboy in her corner.
Rory Kendrick is one tough cowboy who is about get his world turned upside down by a one Sadie Higgins and her family. Rory had two choices. Turn his back or Cowboy up.
I can’t wait to see what Ms. Ryan has in store for us next.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Edelweiss & Avon in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
Profile Image for The Romance Book Disciple (Samantha).
2,116 reviews361 followers
February 11, 2016
Jennifer Ryan's books always bring the suspense. Her characters are well developed including the bad guys! Connor's drug addition brings a depth to the story. I was a little frustrated at Rory and Sadie because they both danced around saying how they felt. Overall, great romantic suspense and I can't wait to get Colt and Ford's stories! Full review will be posted on The Book Disciple
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