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Roughstock #2
And a Smile
All Coke Pharris wants is for his cowboys to be safe–all of them. When rodeo clown, Dillon, sets to prove that there’s more to the bullfighter, people could get hurt.
It's Coke Pharris' job to save bull riders from bulls, and he takes his work very seriously. Which is why he's devastated when one of his favorite riders gets hurt, and he's determined to help the young man ride again. Dillon Walsh is the arena entertainer for the bull riding tour, and he wants to help. He also wants Coke, has been admiring the man for a long time. He hasn't made a move on Coke for fear of messing up their friendship, but when he finds out Coke might feel the same way, Dillon has to try to win Coke over.
Coke thinks he's too old for Dillon, too beat up and scarred, but he can't resist when Dillon finally makes a play for him. Dillon is like a wet dream for Coke, and the two of them have a great time getting to know each other better, at least until the danger of their job threatens to come between them. Will Dillon and Coke be able to help their friend and weather the problems that blow their way?
Publisher's Note: This book was previously released elsewhere. It has been re-edited for re-release with Pride Publishing.
General Release Date: 27th October 2015
It's Coke Pharris' job to save bull riders from bulls, and he takes his work very seriously. Which is why he's devastated when one of his favorite riders gets hurt, and he's determined to help the young man ride again. Dillon Walsh is the arena entertainer for the bull riding tour, and he wants to help. He also wants Coke, has been admiring the man for a long time. He hasn't made a move on Coke for fear of messing up their friendship, but when he finds out Coke might feel the same way, Dillon has to try to win Coke over.
Coke thinks he's too old for Dillon, too beat up and scarred, but he can't resist when Dillon finally makes a play for him. Dillon is like a wet dream for Coke, and the two of them have a great time getting to know each other better, at least until the danger of their job threatens to come between them. Will Dillon and Coke be able to help their friend and weather the problems that blow their way?
Publisher's Note: This book was previously released elsewhere. It has been re-edited for re-release with Pride Publishing.
General Release Date: 27th October 2015
173 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 10, 2008
12 people are currently reading
158 people want to read
About the author
B.A. Tortuga
381 books629 followersTexan to the bone and an unrepentant Daddy's Girl, BA Tortuga spends her days with her hounds and her beloved wife, texting her grandbabies, and eating Mexican food. When she's not doing that, she's writing. She spends her days off watching rodeo, knitting, and surfing Pinterest in the name of research. Following their own personal joys, BA and Julia heard the call of the high desert and they now live in the New Mexico mountains. BA's personal saviors include her wife, her best friends, and coffee. Lots of coffee. Really good coffee.
Having written everything from fist-fighting rednecks to cowboy daddies to werewolves, BA does her damnedest to tell the stories of her heart, which is committed to giving everyone their happily ever after. With books ranging from hard-hitting BDSM, to fiery passions, to the most traditional of love stories, BA refuses to be pigeon-holed by anyone but the voices in her head.
Having written everything from fist-fighting rednecks to cowboy daddies to werewolves, BA does her damnedest to tell the stories of her heart, which is committed to giving everyone their happily ever after. With books ranging from hard-hitting BDSM, to fiery passions, to the most traditional of love stories, BA refuses to be pigeon-holed by anyone but the voices in her head.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
January 12, 2022
Great story of our cowboys finally getting together... They finished up their rodeo time and had a break. They are going to Coke's place and to help blinded Jase.
Coke is older, 39, a bullfighter (rodeo clown),
with his scars, light brown hair and hazel eyes, he gives a helping hand to everyone.
Dillon, 35, also a bullfighter, blonde and blue eyed,
is from Idaho, he's sharp, smart and sexy.
We get their easy banter, and see the deep friendship turn into passion as our two rough and tough cowboys, find their peace and contentment in each other's arms.
They are not hearts and flowers guys, but they let the other know how important the other man is. Their sexy times are wild and hot.
They have fun, relax, and help Jase out when he comes to visit.
ENJOY !
======
Coke is older, 39, a bullfighter (rodeo clown),
with his scars, light brown hair and hazel eyes, he gives a helping hand to everyone.
Dillon, 35, also a bullfighter, blonde and blue eyed,
is from Idaho, he's sharp, smart and sexy.
We get their easy banter, and see the deep friendship turn into passion as our two rough and tough cowboys, find their peace and contentment in each other's arms.
They are not hearts and flowers guys, but they let the other know how important the other man is. Their sexy times are wild and hot.
They have fun, relax, and help Jase out when he comes to visit.
ENJOY !
======
February 13, 2016
Bull riders and anyone else competing in a rodeo have my respect for facing the unpredictable dangers involved when working with powerful animals. But bullfighters? The people putting themselves between an enraged bull and a rider to ensure the rider makes it to safety? I think they are amazing. And this story is about one such man, Coke, and the man he falls in love with, a rodeo clown (official designation: arena entertainer) named Dillon. They have been secretly longing for more than friendship for quite a few years, but opening up is not in these tough guys’ nature. And when they do, things aren’t always as easy as they seem either. This second book in the ‘Roughstock’ series is just as amazing as the first with its ability to magically transport me to Texas and its stubborn cowboys.
Coke Pharris is a bullfighter, and that means he is responsible for rodeo participants’ life in the arena. But he takes his job a lot more serious than most. He is the kind of man who will put himself in the path of an enraged bull to save someone else’s life, and he has the scars to prove it. He is older than most of the twenty-something cowboys who compete for the championship, and that makes him a bit of a father figure. He has some distinctly non-parental feelings for Dillon, but he has never approached him or given any sign of his interest. Coke’s newest project is to help Jason ride again – yes, the Jason who is blind after an accident in book one.
Dillon is a rodeo clown, in charge of entertaining the audience while waiting for the next event, or when the medics have to drag an injured man out of the arena. He has secretly had his eye on Coke for a while and hates that everyone thinks Coke is so old. Dillon has no such issues – first of all he is only a few years younger than Coke, and they are both under forty, so where is the problem? Finally Dillon decides to go for it and is stunned but ecstatic when he finds out the interest is mutual.
Even though both men are interested, theirs is not an easy relationship. Not just because they have to be careful in a mostly homophobic and very macho world of the rodeo. No, they have a lot to overcome. Misunderstandings, exes from the past interfering, an inability to believe their feelings are real - the list goes on. I rooted for them all the way but held my breath several times when things got tense. What an emotional ride!
If you like the world of tough bull riders and tougher bullfighters, if you want to find out more about two men who are hesitant about opening up but once they do, they set the sheets aflame, and if you’re looking for a read that is like an emotional roller coaster, intense, exciting, and hotter than a Texas summer, then you will probably like this novel as much as I did. I’ll have to wait until January for the next one to be published (‘File Gumbo’), but I’m ready for it now!
NOTE: This book was provided by Pride Publishing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Coke Pharris is a bullfighter, and that means he is responsible for rodeo participants’ life in the arena. But he takes his job a lot more serious than most. He is the kind of man who will put himself in the path of an enraged bull to save someone else’s life, and he has the scars to prove it. He is older than most of the twenty-something cowboys who compete for the championship, and that makes him a bit of a father figure. He has some distinctly non-parental feelings for Dillon, but he has never approached him or given any sign of his interest. Coke’s newest project is to help Jason ride again – yes, the Jason who is blind after an accident in book one.
Dillon is a rodeo clown, in charge of entertaining the audience while waiting for the next event, or when the medics have to drag an injured man out of the arena. He has secretly had his eye on Coke for a while and hates that everyone thinks Coke is so old. Dillon has no such issues – first of all he is only a few years younger than Coke, and they are both under forty, so where is the problem? Finally Dillon decides to go for it and is stunned but ecstatic when he finds out the interest is mutual.
Even though both men are interested, theirs is not an easy relationship. Not just because they have to be careful in a mostly homophobic and very macho world of the rodeo. No, they have a lot to overcome. Misunderstandings, exes from the past interfering, an inability to believe their feelings are real - the list goes on. I rooted for them all the way but held my breath several times when things got tense. What an emotional ride!
If you like the world of tough bull riders and tougher bullfighters, if you want to find out more about two men who are hesitant about opening up but once they do, they set the sheets aflame, and if you’re looking for a read that is like an emotional roller coaster, intense, exciting, and hotter than a Texas summer, then you will probably like this novel as much as I did. I’ll have to wait until January for the next one to be published (‘File Gumbo’), but I’m ready for it now!
NOTE: This book was provided by Pride Publishing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
June 21, 2023
Re-read June 21, 2023
Love these cowboys. Coke and Dillon are one of my favorites.
Love these cowboys. Coke and Dillon are one of my favorites.
January 12, 2015
The second installment of the Roughstock series features bullfighter Coke Pharris and arena entertainer Dillon Walsh.
These guys are hot, the sex is even hotter but it's their emotional bond that's central to the book. When an accident threatens to come between them it will take a lot of understanding and trust on both of their parts to get them through it.
As was the case with the first book, Blind Ride, the characters are interesting and draw the reader in. While Coke and Dillon are the focus of the book we are treated to glimpses of the other rodeo cowboys from the first book as well. This is another wonderful book by BA Tortuga.
These guys are hot, the sex is even hotter but it's their emotional bond that's central to the book. When an accident threatens to come between them it will take a lot of understanding and trust on both of their parts to get them through it.
As was the case with the first book, Blind Ride, the characters are interesting and draw the reader in. While Coke and Dillon are the focus of the book we are treated to glimpses of the other rodeo cowboys from the first book as well. This is another wonderful book by BA Tortuga.
October 12, 2015
I mentioned in my review of Blind Ride that I was not going to move further into the Roughstock series. There is a huge curiosity factor here that caught me. It is a huge something that was left hanging at the end of Blind Ride. It’s the how is Jason going to perform as a secretly blind bull rider. I want to know this. That is not in And a Smile. And a Smile is Coke and Dillon’s story. Jase and Bax have small secondary roles where they have a little page time bringing Dillon in on helping them hide the blindness from the cameras and sponsors. So to answer the blind Jason on a bull question, it does not happen in this book.
Who Coke and Dillion truly are as men, how they are written as characters, and how they are seen by their friends are so many different things that their characters become confusing. I read them as the really old crusty guy and the twink for so much of this book. Their friends see them a gramps and the guy who freaks everyone out. They actually are a bull fighter and a rodeo clown who have a few years in age between them and a whole lot of sexual chemistry. They love the work they do with the rodeo. These men are passionate about the careers they have chosen. They take their jobs very seriously.
Going into And a Smile and expecting some conclusion on it or even some momentum in the direction of a conclusion and not receiving anything of that nature is a big disappointment. Getting to know Coke and seeing him get a happily ever after didn’t help to fill that void on what I was expecting. Dillon and Coke reading as so many different things made it difficult to ever get a good grasp on their character. Overall I do not believe that this series is working for me.
Who Coke and Dillion truly are as men, how they are written as characters, and how they are seen by their friends are so many different things that their characters become confusing. I read them as the really old crusty guy and the twink for so much of this book. Their friends see them a gramps and the guy who freaks everyone out. They actually are a bull fighter and a rodeo clown who have a few years in age between them and a whole lot of sexual chemistry. They love the work they do with the rodeo. These men are passionate about the careers they have chosen. They take their jobs very seriously.
Going into And a Smile and expecting some conclusion on it or even some momentum in the direction of a conclusion and not receiving anything of that nature is a big disappointment. Getting to know Coke and seeing him get a happily ever after didn’t help to fill that void on what I was expecting. Dillon and Coke reading as so many different things made it difficult to ever get a good grasp on their character. Overall I do not believe that this series is working for me.
November 30, 2015
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the second in the series, and carries on right where it left off. However it concentrates on another couple, and Jase's future is a side issue. It could be read as a standalone, as the salient details are explained sufficiently.
Coke and Dillon have clearly been keen on each other for a while, but not acted upon those feelings. Coke is convinced he is too old, even though in fact just a few years older. He is clearly an old soul - and the responsible one in the group. He is described in such a way in the beginning that I am not sure I would recognise him, given how is then described later in the book. His issues however take a back seat as he finally enjoys the strong chemistry between him and Dillon. It is a very relaxed and enjoyable foray into a most desirable romance. I like friends to lovers stories, and this one works.
This is the second in the series, and carries on right where it left off. However it concentrates on another couple, and Jase's future is a side issue. It could be read as a standalone, as the salient details are explained sufficiently.
Coke and Dillon have clearly been keen on each other for a while, but not acted upon those feelings. Coke is convinced he is too old, even though in fact just a few years older. He is clearly an old soul - and the responsible one in the group. He is described in such a way in the beginning that I am not sure I would recognise him, given how is then described later in the book. His issues however take a back seat as he finally enjoys the strong chemistry between him and Dillon. It is a very relaxed and enjoyable foray into a most desirable romance. I like friends to lovers stories, and this one works.
August 3, 2015
Too much (although perfectly reasonable) cowboy-speak had me struggling but I liked this a lot. I don't believe it be very realistic yet I loved the openness of both MCs.
July 7, 2019
This 2nd Roughstock novel follows the romance of Coke and Rodeo clown Dillon, Very similar to the previous novel - both these guys have been interested in each other for a long while but it takes an accident for them to really hook up. Again the romance is way too easy although we are getting more complex... Dillon does have an ex and Coke thinks he's cheating on him at one point which does give this some hurdle to overcome. Jason & Bax come in about half way through and we continue the story from Blind Ride, now with Dillon on board to try and get Jason to ride again even though he is still blind. I love how Dillon and Jason interact, he's so good with him.
Again thoroughly enjoyed this - Its told from both Coke and Dillon's POV and uses heavy accent/dialect which BA Tortuga excels at - you really can hear these characters.
It's very much part of a series and I guess isn't so strong as a stand alone - but still if gay cowboy romances are your thing, check out the roughstock series. I particularly like how these are real, rough & ready working men, complete with all the injuries and problems their dangerous career entails. This evokes the rodeo world and its perils rather well.
Again thoroughly enjoyed this - Its told from both Coke and Dillon's POV and uses heavy accent/dialect which BA Tortuga excels at - you really can hear these characters.
It's very much part of a series and I guess isn't so strong as a stand alone - but still if gay cowboy romances are your thing, check out the roughstock series. I particularly like how these are real, rough & ready working men, complete with all the injuries and problems their dangerous career entails. This evokes the rodeo world and its perils rather well.
June 12, 2021
These are definitely back catalogue and feel a little unfinished, possibly because the larger plot arc is continuing. I am learning more about roles at the rodeo, though.
September 19, 2023
Finally, Coke and Dillon find each other. Dillon offers to deal with Jason's sponsors' to aid the conspiracy. A misunderstanding lead to a huge bunch of hurt feelings.
August 2, 2012
Coke Pharris is devastated when Jason Scott is hurt, and the fact that he couldn’t get to Jason fast enough, that he wasn’t there to save him when things went terribly wrong with his last bull ride, haunts Coke to no end. Coke feels responsible for everyone around him, not only the bull riders but his fellow bull fighters. Especially the arena entertainer, or clown, Dillon Walsh. Coke watches Dillon as he entertains the crowd, as he shakes his tight, beautiful ass. After over twenty years on the job, Coke feels old and damaged but he can’t stop his deep yearning and desire for Dillon.
Dillon knows Coke pretty well from both working with the man and watching him every chance he gets. Dillon is seriously attracted to the bull fighter, but doesn’t want to damage their friendship so he stays quiet. He wants to be closer to Coke, and constantly lusts after the man that so many others see as a father figure of sorts. As Dillon starts to drop hints here and there, he discovers that the attraction is mutual and it sets off a pairing that is energetic and overwhelming. The men spend time together, getting to know one another, and their relationship quickly deepens. That is, until the dangers of their jobs set off a chain of events that could lead to their eventual breakup.
And a Smile ~ Season One is a wonderful story about love and friendship. Coke and Dillon are dynamic together and are enjoyable to spend time with. The story starts out like being shot out of a canon and the sex is intense and full of energy from the very beginning. Coke was a favorite character of mine in Blind Ride and it is exciting to learn more of his story. It is fascinating to watch how Dillon relates to Coke, how the two fit together so perfectly.
This is the second book in the Roughstock series. Although this is very much Coke and Dillon’s story, it also serves to continue the story of Jason and Bax. There is a bit of overlap between the stories, and we get to see pieces of Blind Ride from Coke’s point of view. All of the men that are dedicated to helping Jason, including both Coke and Dillon, have to find a way to work with Jason and get him ready for the next steps. In particular, I loved watching Dillon work with Jason. He admires Jason immensely but isn’t as close to him as Coke and Bax are which allows him to help push Jason to become more independent when the men close to him want simply to help instead of watching Jason struggle.
The other aspect of And a Smile that I found so interesting is that it is told from the perspective of the bull fighters and arena entertainer. So often these stories are told strictly from a bull rider’s standpoint. The bull fighters are just as intimately involved yet don’t get the same glory as the riders do and it is wonderful to spend time with them.
Overall, And a Smile is another excellent addition to what is turning out to be a wonderfully intriguing series. Although this story can most definitely stand on its own, I highly recommend reading Blind Ride first in order to fully understand what Jason and Bax are dealing with and why it affects Coke so deeply. Definitely spend some time with these bull fighters ~ you won’t be disappointed!
Dillon knows Coke pretty well from both working with the man and watching him every chance he gets. Dillon is seriously attracted to the bull fighter, but doesn’t want to damage their friendship so he stays quiet. He wants to be closer to Coke, and constantly lusts after the man that so many others see as a father figure of sorts. As Dillon starts to drop hints here and there, he discovers that the attraction is mutual and it sets off a pairing that is energetic and overwhelming. The men spend time together, getting to know one another, and their relationship quickly deepens. That is, until the dangers of their jobs set off a chain of events that could lead to their eventual breakup.
And a Smile ~ Season One is a wonderful story about love and friendship. Coke and Dillon are dynamic together and are enjoyable to spend time with. The story starts out like being shot out of a canon and the sex is intense and full of energy from the very beginning. Coke was a favorite character of mine in Blind Ride and it is exciting to learn more of his story. It is fascinating to watch how Dillon relates to Coke, how the two fit together so perfectly.
This is the second book in the Roughstock series. Although this is very much Coke and Dillon’s story, it also serves to continue the story of Jason and Bax. There is a bit of overlap between the stories, and we get to see pieces of Blind Ride from Coke’s point of view. All of the men that are dedicated to helping Jason, including both Coke and Dillon, have to find a way to work with Jason and get him ready for the next steps. In particular, I loved watching Dillon work with Jason. He admires Jason immensely but isn’t as close to him as Coke and Bax are which allows him to help push Jason to become more independent when the men close to him want simply to help instead of watching Jason struggle.
The other aspect of And a Smile that I found so interesting is that it is told from the perspective of the bull fighters and arena entertainer. So often these stories are told strictly from a bull rider’s standpoint. The bull fighters are just as intimately involved yet don’t get the same glory as the riders do and it is wonderful to spend time with them.
Overall, And a Smile is another excellent addition to what is turning out to be a wonderfully intriguing series. Although this story can most definitely stand on its own, I highly recommend reading Blind Ride first in order to fully understand what Jason and Bax are dealing with and why it affects Coke so deeply. Definitely spend some time with these bull fighters ~ you won’t be disappointed!
December 16, 2015
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
While you can probably get away with reading And a Smile as a standalone, I strongly recommend reading Blind Ride first because while this is Coke’s story, there is a lot of carryover from book one as Coke is still strongly involved with Jason’s recovery. It will also give you a much better frame of reference for many of Coke’s strong reactions toward incidents inside the ring and out. If you’ve read Blind Ride you’ll be happy to see that Jason and Andy have prominent roles in this installment in the series and we get to see how the guys are faring.
Having met Coke in book one, I was looking forward to seeing the old cowboy (his characterization, not mine) get his chance at love. As it turns out, Dillon Walsh is perfect for him. The rodeo clown might be small in stature, but he’s big in heart, personality, and want, because he wants Coke something fierce. I loved that everything Coke saw as a negative about himself, like his age and his scars, were things that Dillon loved about him. I also enjoyed that Dillon had no problem pointing out to everyone, Coke included, that there were only a few years’ difference between them despite his youthful appearance. Thankfully Dillon is willing to put himself out there and make Coke aware of his attraction, shooting down all of Coke’s objections, and proving that Coke is not too old for love or seriously hot sex. Ride ‘em cowboy!
There was a lot to love about And a Smile. Watching Coke and Dillon’s relationship grow was obviously the best part because the men complemented one another so well. They just fit. But on top of that, I enjoyed seeing how Dillon worked with Jason and how his personal circle of friends gave him an insight on how to work with Jason that Coke and Andy were missing because they were too close to the situation. It not only gave Coke and Andy some direction, but it also helped bolster Jason’s confidence in what he could accomplish. The misunderstanding that led to Coke thinking that Dillon had gotten tired of the old cowboy broke my heart – for both men. Thankfully, Dillon’s job as a rodeo clown and having to stare down a thousand pounds or more of ticked off bull meant he had no problem tracking down his heartbroken cowboy and making sure he heard the truth. Gotta love a determined man. And a Smile is another great installment of hard working men and steamy cowboy lovin’ in the Roughstock series and I am so glad I won’t have to wait too long to read the next book in the series, File Gumbo.
While you can probably get away with reading And a Smile as a standalone, I strongly recommend reading Blind Ride first because while this is Coke’s story, there is a lot of carryover from book one as Coke is still strongly involved with Jason’s recovery. It will also give you a much better frame of reference for many of Coke’s strong reactions toward incidents inside the ring and out. If you’ve read Blind Ride you’ll be happy to see that Jason and Andy have prominent roles in this installment in the series and we get to see how the guys are faring.
Having met Coke in book one, I was looking forward to seeing the old cowboy (his characterization, not mine) get his chance at love. As it turns out, Dillon Walsh is perfect for him. The rodeo clown might be small in stature, but he’s big in heart, personality, and want, because he wants Coke something fierce. I loved that everything Coke saw as a negative about himself, like his age and his scars, were things that Dillon loved about him. I also enjoyed that Dillon had no problem pointing out to everyone, Coke included, that there were only a few years’ difference between them despite his youthful appearance. Thankfully Dillon is willing to put himself out there and make Coke aware of his attraction, shooting down all of Coke’s objections, and proving that Coke is not too old for love or seriously hot sex. Ride ‘em cowboy!
There was a lot to love about And a Smile. Watching Coke and Dillon’s relationship grow was obviously the best part because the men complemented one another so well. They just fit. But on top of that, I enjoyed seeing how Dillon worked with Jason and how his personal circle of friends gave him an insight on how to work with Jason that Coke and Andy were missing because they were too close to the situation. It not only gave Coke and Andy some direction, but it also helped bolster Jason’s confidence in what he could accomplish. The misunderstanding that led to Coke thinking that Dillon had gotten tired of the old cowboy broke my heart – for both men. Thankfully, Dillon’s job as a rodeo clown and having to stare down a thousand pounds or more of ticked off bull meant he had no problem tracking down his heartbroken cowboy and making sure he heard the truth. Gotta love a determined man. And a Smile is another great installment of hard working men and steamy cowboy lovin’ in the Roughstock series and I am so glad I won’t have to wait too long to read the next book in the series, File Gumbo.
October 28, 2016
4.5* Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
Coke Pharris couldn’t ride the bulls so he’s instead spent his life protecting and looking after those that do. One man in particular, Dillon Walsh, while not a rider, has him looking more than he ought to but Coke just can’t seem to help himself. Too bad the entertainer deserves someone younger and less scarred than the ‘old man’ at the rodeo. Dillon may look young but he knows what he wants and what he wants is Coke. All that talk about being old is just ridiculous as the two men are only a few year apart in age and when Dillon sees an chance to let Coke know how he feels, he takes it. Their work, while fun, is often times dangerous, however, and when one bull too many gets some hits in on both men, Dillon will have to work to ensure his cowboy understands he isn’t going anywhere.
Oh, this was such a great follow up to the first book in the series! In the previous story we got to know Coke through his helping Jase and Bax after Jase’s accident and he was such a sweet man wanting to do whatever he could for ‘his boys’. Now we really got to see him shine and I just loved every bit of it. :) Coke and Dillon were such a great match and it was just great to see Coke getting taken care of for once since he believes its his purpose in life to take care of everyone else. I will totally admit that I thought Coke was a lot older than he actually is since he’s always calling the other guys ‘son’ and he’s referred to as the ‘old man’ a lot so it was really surprising to find that he isn’t even forty years old! I totally agreed with Dillon’s approach on insisting that Coke isn’t old and that people need to stop treating him as if he is. All the hot sex may have helped to reinforce that message but neither myself or Coke are complaining on that front, I’m sure!
The connection between the men was great and totally believable and I enjoyed every minute I spent reading their story. You do get to catch up with Jase and Bax from the first book, which was nice since I was still left wondering how they were doing with their injuries, and while there was a bit of drama included in the storyline it wasn’t overwhelming at all and added a nice break from the overall easy going plot. I loved this every bit as much as the first book and I’m really looking forward to reading the next one in the series. :) If you enjoy cowboys or books that feature the rodeo, you’re sure to enjoy this series but I would recommend reading them in order to get the most out of them.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/2016/10/2...
Coke Pharris couldn’t ride the bulls so he’s instead spent his life protecting and looking after those that do. One man in particular, Dillon Walsh, while not a rider, has him looking more than he ought to but Coke just can’t seem to help himself. Too bad the entertainer deserves someone younger and less scarred than the ‘old man’ at the rodeo. Dillon may look young but he knows what he wants and what he wants is Coke. All that talk about being old is just ridiculous as the two men are only a few year apart in age and when Dillon sees an chance to let Coke know how he feels, he takes it. Their work, while fun, is often times dangerous, however, and when one bull too many gets some hits in on both men, Dillon will have to work to ensure his cowboy understands he isn’t going anywhere.
Oh, this was such a great follow up to the first book in the series! In the previous story we got to know Coke through his helping Jase and Bax after Jase’s accident and he was such a sweet man wanting to do whatever he could for ‘his boys’. Now we really got to see him shine and I just loved every bit of it. :) Coke and Dillon were such a great match and it was just great to see Coke getting taken care of for once since he believes its his purpose in life to take care of everyone else. I will totally admit that I thought Coke was a lot older than he actually is since he’s always calling the other guys ‘son’ and he’s referred to as the ‘old man’ a lot so it was really surprising to find that he isn’t even forty years old! I totally agreed with Dillon’s approach on insisting that Coke isn’t old and that people need to stop treating him as if he is. All the hot sex may have helped to reinforce that message but neither myself or Coke are complaining on that front, I’m sure!
The connection between the men was great and totally believable and I enjoyed every minute I spent reading their story. You do get to catch up with Jase and Bax from the first book, which was nice since I was still left wondering how they were doing with their injuries, and while there was a bit of drama included in the storyline it wasn’t overwhelming at all and added a nice break from the overall easy going plot. I loved this every bit as much as the first book and I’m really looking forward to reading the next one in the series. :) If you enjoy cowboys or books that feature the rodeo, you’re sure to enjoy this series but I would recommend reading them in order to get the most out of them.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/2016/10/2...
October 26, 2015
This is book two of the Roughstock series. You do not have to read them in order but you do understand some of the things they talk about better and who some of the other characters are. I do suggest you read them in order though. I loved Coke form the first book and was so happy to get his story. Coke is my kind of man. Tender and loving and he deserves a Happy ever after. The stars of the Show--oops-- I mean book were equally Coke and Dillon. I mean a sexy rough bullfighter and an adorable and funny rodeo clown. How could it get better?
We also got another peek at Jason and Bax (I won’t say more here just in case you haven’t read the first. But for those that have. Don’t give up on them yet! Jase is still determined.
There were many other cowboys mentioned like the Taggard triplets (I really would l love to see Adam’s story) also Packard or Beau and Sam… yeah so many stories I would like!
I loved the conversation and dialogue between Coke and Dillon. It is short and clipped and to me it really made the impact. I also like how there was short repetitive words or short sentences in internal dialect that also added some punch.
The chase was hot the sex even hotter. I think it got a bit too hot. For me anyhow. Once they got together it seemed for quite a while the story became all about the sex. I would have liked a little more of the drama near the end and a few pages less of the sex. (Just my opinion).
If you like rough and tumble cowboys, bullfighters, rodeo clowns, sweet romance, and some hot and raunchy man-sex (hey they are cowboys! and there are tender moments as well!) You will love this one!
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
We also got another peek at Jason and Bax (I won’t say more here just in case you haven’t read the first. But for those that have. Don’t give up on them yet! Jase is still determined.
There were many other cowboys mentioned like the Taggard triplets (I really would l love to see Adam’s story) also Packard or Beau and Sam… yeah so many stories I would like!
I loved the conversation and dialogue between Coke and Dillon. It is short and clipped and to me it really made the impact. I also like how there was short repetitive words or short sentences in internal dialect that also added some punch.
The chase was hot the sex even hotter. I think it got a bit too hot. For me anyhow. Once they got together it seemed for quite a while the story became all about the sex. I would have liked a little more of the drama near the end and a few pages less of the sex. (Just my opinion).
If you like rough and tumble cowboys, bullfighters, rodeo clowns, sweet romance, and some hot and raunchy man-sex (hey they are cowboys! and there are tender moments as well!) You will love this one!
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
May 2, 2016
Okay, I cheated. When I saw that book four was coming up for review I first said (to myself) why are we on book four? How have I missed the first three?! Then I panicked, I didn’t want to miss it, but knew I didn’t have time to read all three. So I asked the author! And BTW, SOOO incredible sweet. She said no big, read book two and then four. They can be read as stand alone. But, you start the relationship in book two.
So here we are, my review of book two. With out reading book one. I have to say, Yes, completely understood what was going on, so yes to the Stand alone question.
Coke is a beaten up but not down rodeo clown. And the ring leader of this motley crew. He’s the oldest but only by a few years, but plays that role to the hilt. And so does everyone else.
Dillon has had a crush on Coke for, forever but refuses to act because he doesn’t want to mess up the dynamics of the crew.
We’ve a lot of players in the book, and even though we concentrate on Coke and Dillon, the ones to the background are very important, Jason and AJ, Nate and the rest.
I loved the slow build between these two. The falling asleep on each other is classic. How Coke finally lets his guard down only to be wrecked by his own ability to quick to judge.
The writing style in this one is very different from the others, B.A. really got into the cowboy, down south, mannerism, lingo and total vibe. Loved it! And the fact that these men pulled out an HEA even after all that nonsense was brilliant.
I was given a copy in exchange for an honest review by Crystals Many reviewers
So here we are, my review of book two. With out reading book one. I have to say, Yes, completely understood what was going on, so yes to the Stand alone question.
Coke is a beaten up but not down rodeo clown. And the ring leader of this motley crew. He’s the oldest but only by a few years, but plays that role to the hilt. And so does everyone else.
Dillon has had a crush on Coke for, forever but refuses to act because he doesn’t want to mess up the dynamics of the crew.
We’ve a lot of players in the book, and even though we concentrate on Coke and Dillon, the ones to the background are very important, Jason and AJ, Nate and the rest.
I loved the slow build between these two. The falling asleep on each other is classic. How Coke finally lets his guard down only to be wrecked by his own ability to quick to judge.
The writing style in this one is very different from the others, B.A. really got into the cowboy, down south, mannerism, lingo and total vibe. Loved it! And the fact that these men pulled out an HEA even after all that nonsense was brilliant.
I was given a copy in exchange for an honest review by Crystals Many reviewers
September 27, 2016
I have skipped around a bit in this series instead of reading it in order but nonetheless I went back and read the few books that I had not read yet in the series.
BA Tortuga is such an amazing author to be able to get into the guys mannerisms the way that she has. When reading this book you can definitely feel this whole cowboy vibe by the way these men act and by the way they talk. They have the southern charm to them and that makes the book so much more enjoyable and believable.
I have to say as far as the characters in this book goes I fell in love with Dillion from the get go. Dillion has been in love with Coke for a while but has always kept it to himself out of fear of bringing tension to their team.
Coke is so hard on himself. He thinks he is to old and to broken to be good enough for someone especially someone as special as Dillion.
Dillion does not give up though and is determined to make Coke realize how good they can be together.
BA Tortuga has the ability to draw the readers in and make them feel like part of the book. I love that about an author. This book can be read as part of the series or it can be read as a standalone. Definitely a good read!!
Was given this book for free from inked rainbow reads for an honest review
BA Tortuga is such an amazing author to be able to get into the guys mannerisms the way that she has. When reading this book you can definitely feel this whole cowboy vibe by the way these men act and by the way they talk. They have the southern charm to them and that makes the book so much more enjoyable and believable.
I have to say as far as the characters in this book goes I fell in love with Dillion from the get go. Dillion has been in love with Coke for a while but has always kept it to himself out of fear of bringing tension to their team.
Coke is so hard on himself. He thinks he is to old and to broken to be good enough for someone especially someone as special as Dillion.
Dillion does not give up though and is determined to make Coke realize how good they can be together.
BA Tortuga has the ability to draw the readers in and make them feel like part of the book. I love that about an author. This book can be read as part of the series or it can be read as a standalone. Definitely a good read!!
Was given this book for free from inked rainbow reads for an honest review
October 19, 2015
Everybody needs a Coke Pharris in their life. Someone who is always watching, making sure you are safe and taking care of you when you’re not. For bull riders, having a Coke Pharris helps keep them alive. Coke feels old, at pushing 40 his body doesn’t bounce back the way it used to when confronted with an angry bull. So who takes care of Coke when Coke is the one who takes care of everyone else? Dillon Walsh is the clown – the little guy who hides in the barrel and provides the comic relief – but there is a serious side to Dillon and that side yearns to be there for Coke in every way he can. B.A. Tortuga has an incredible insight into the world of rodeo. Her accurate descriptions of what goes on, not just in the ring but in the wings surrounding it and the fairgrounds make all of her cowboy stories second to none. Her realism and character descriptions bring these men alive for you and the stories she weaves give you a real taste of the exhilaration of the ride and the reality of the job. I love her cowboys and the stories they have to tell!
October 9, 2015
Roughtsock: And a Smile - Season One (Season #3) by BA Tortuga
3 stars
M/M Romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
First off, let me start by stating that I did not read the other stories in this series.
I found this story extremely difficult to follow. The POV was constantly changing and I had a difficult time with the cowboy "talk".
While I did enjoy the heat between the characters, it didn't really feel like a relationship to me. It was two men, knowing what they wanted and going for it. But, then you had the bull riding thrown in and the injured rider, it was all very swirly - lots of things going on with no real focus.
Usually I really like Tortuga books, but this one, I just couldn't get in to. It might have been different if I had read the previous stories.
I would say this was a decent book, but I just didn't really like where it went.
3 stars
M/M Romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
First off, let me start by stating that I did not read the other stories in this series.
I found this story extremely difficult to follow. The POV was constantly changing and I had a difficult time with the cowboy "talk".
While I did enjoy the heat between the characters, it didn't really feel like a relationship to me. It was two men, knowing what they wanted and going for it. But, then you had the bull riding thrown in and the injured rider, it was all very swirly - lots of things going on with no real focus.
Usually I really like Tortuga books, but this one, I just couldn't get in to. It might have been different if I had read the previous stories.
I would say this was a decent book, but I just didn't really like where it went.
April 12, 2010
I have liked other Tortuga books, but this one was so sketchy, it was hard to get into it. Also, the point of view shifts (pov) were very difficult to follow and did an effective job of preventing me from really getting into the story. If I'm constantly trying to figure out who said/did/thought what, I just can't enjoy the read.
Plus, the idea of a blind bullrider.... That's really hard for me to accept. I imagine that character will be in the next book in the series.
And.... This book is pretty clearly based on the Professional Bull Riders circuit. I have watched that on TV a lot, and seen it in person. I felt uncomfortable that the "clown" of the events in real life seemed to be the model for one of the pov characters in this book. I really don't like Real Person Slash (RPS), and this just came a little too close to it for my comfort level.
Plus, the idea of a blind bullrider.... That's really hard for me to accept. I imagine that character will be in the next book in the series.
And.... This book is pretty clearly based on the Professional Bull Riders circuit. I have watched that on TV a lot, and seen it in person. I felt uncomfortable that the "clown" of the events in real life seemed to be the model for one of the pov characters in this book. I really don't like Real Person Slash (RPS), and this just came a little too close to it for my comfort level.
October 4, 2015
This one did take me a little more to get into it but I ended up really like this book one I got farther into it.
Now Coke I really liked his character from the first book in this series. You see so much more of him in this book which I loved! Coke saves bull riders when they need him and who is also at the same time so sweet and caring about the Bull riders and his other co workers. Whenever anyone gets hurt he really feels it.
Now Dillon is a clown for the rodeo who really loves his job and also is very caring.
The two of them together fit, I really loved them as a couple.
You get some angst but also sweet and steam which i loved how well everything worked together in this book.
So all together I really liked this book!
I would recommend this book!
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review from Inked Rainbow Reads.
Now Coke I really liked his character from the first book in this series. You see so much more of him in this book which I loved! Coke saves bull riders when they need him and who is also at the same time so sweet and caring about the Bull riders and his other co workers. Whenever anyone gets hurt he really feels it.
Now Dillon is a clown for the rodeo who really loves his job and also is very caring.
The two of them together fit, I really loved them as a couple.
You get some angst but also sweet and steam which i loved how well everything worked together in this book.
So all together I really liked this book!
I would recommend this book!
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review from Inked Rainbow Reads.
November 5, 2016
I admittedly need a few pages to get used the language in these books. I'm not a native speaker and the Texan cowboy way of speaking is not something I come across too often. But it fits the world of the Roughstock series because, well, cowboys. Everywhere. Which is a good thing. Absolutely. So even though not a whole lot happened in this one I still liked it - a fine little story, y'all.
The fact that we have seen no sign of homophobia despite the series being centered around the man's world of rodeo and bull riding is kind of refreshing.
Each book focuses on one couple but there is still an ongoing story line concerning Jason who lost his eye sight in the first one. That alone ensures that I will continue with this series.
The fact that we have seen no sign of homophobia despite the series being centered around the man's world of rodeo and bull riding is kind of refreshing.
Each book focuses on one couple but there is still an ongoing story line concerning Jason who lost his eye sight in the first one. That alone ensures that I will continue with this series.
November 5, 2022
Love these cowboys
It would’ve been a five star read for me had the intimate moments been cut by half or moved off page. Now I know I can skip and I did most of them, I just think that a reader could still have felt their love and connection without pages of them.
Now the positives. I love these two better than Jase and Bax. Dillon was this carefree and fun clown and what the others called freaky and Coke an older and serious cowboy always looking out for the younger ones. I had liked Coke from the last book and I wasn’t sure about Dillon and how he would work out with Coke. The mutual attraction evolved into a caring and loving relationship and it was lovely to see them together. Highly recommend if you are looking for a good cowboy romance.
It would’ve been a five star read for me had the intimate moments been cut by half or moved off page. Now I know I can skip and I did most of them, I just think that a reader could still have felt their love and connection without pages of them.
Now the positives. I love these two better than Jase and Bax. Dillon was this carefree and fun clown and what the others called freaky and Coke an older and serious cowboy always looking out for the younger ones. I had liked Coke from the last book and I wasn’t sure about Dillon and how he would work out with Coke. The mutual attraction evolved into a caring and loving relationship and it was lovely to see them together. Highly recommend if you are looking for a good cowboy romance.
October 26, 2015
And a Smile by B.A. Torugua
M/M
4 stars
I was given this book by Inked Rainbow Reads for an honest review.
In this book we are getting Dillon and Coke's story. I found Dillon to be extremely hyper and Coke was the one everyone turned to. I thought he was more mature and acted older.
The story was good and you got to read more about the cowboys from Book 1, which I liked.
At times I was a little confused with trying to figure out who was doing the talking in some of the conversations. It seemed a little hard to follow.
All in all I liked the book a lot and look forward to reading more in this series.
M/M
4 stars
I was given this book by Inked Rainbow Reads for an honest review.
In this book we are getting Dillon and Coke's story. I found Dillon to be extremely hyper and Coke was the one everyone turned to. I thought he was more mature and acted older.
The story was good and you got to read more about the cowboys from Book 1, which I liked.
At times I was a little confused with trying to figure out who was doing the talking in some of the conversations. It seemed a little hard to follow.
All in all I liked the book a lot and look forward to reading more in this series.
May 25, 2010
This was a pretty good book. I liked it more than the first book in the series. (Rough Ride) I enjoyed reading a cowboy book that was about somehting other than the bullriders/traditional cowboys. I've never read about a rodeo clown or the bull fighters.
One thing that is a little confusing to me is that it seems kind of like these men (in books 1 & 2) are trying to hide the fact that they are gay but then it also seems like everyone knows. I'm still not too sure about that part.
One thing that is a little confusing to me is that it seems kind of like these men (in books 1 & 2) are trying to hide the fact that they are gay but then it also seems like everyone knows. I'm still not too sure about that part.
May 6, 2016
The characters are sexy and their developing relationship romantic.
I didn't read the 1st books in the series and was lost in parts as the stories are very much intertwined. Also, a couple of characters are called multiple names, sometimes within the same paragraph...confusing!
Warning about a rather serious injury toward the end - the pain so palpable that I was actually repulsed.
I didn't read the 1st books in the series and was lost in parts as the stories are very much intertwined. Also, a couple of characters are called multiple names, sometimes within the same paragraph...confusing!
Warning about a rather serious injury toward the end - the pain so palpable that I was actually repulsed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2015
A very entertaining series. Lots of sex and sexy cowboys. I saw BA Tortuga's youtube video on the Roughstock men and the visuals were a great addition!
This book features 2 important secondary characters, Coke and Dillon. You could almost argue they are the main characters of Roughstock.
Just good cowboy fun!
This book features 2 important secondary characters, Coke and Dillon. You could almost argue they are the main characters of Roughstock.
Just good cowboy fun!
August 23, 2023
Love me some Cowboys
Oh my!!!!! Dillon is some kind of crazy!!!! Dillon & Coke make a great couple boy oh boy they are exhausting but fun!! This story is of course awesome 👍 like all of BA's cowboys can't get enough
Thank you Lori
Oh my!!!!! Dillon is some kind of crazy!!!! Dillon & Coke make a great couple boy oh boy they are exhausting but fun!! This story is of course awesome 👍 like all of BA's cowboys can't get enough
Thank you Lori
April 3, 2014
It was really sweet story with a rodeo in a first place. The second part of the book had too many bed scenes and too little plot for my taste, but I really liked all the characters.
April 22, 2014
3.5 stars
November 11, 2015
Good sequel to "Blind Ride". Dillon and Coke are really good together. Can't wait to see what's next from BA Tortuga on the Roughstock series.
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