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A Standalone Cowboy/Fireman Hero, Veterinarian Heroine Romance based in Whispering Springs, Texas

From New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Cynthia D'Alba comes a cowboy romance that ignites more than just sparks.

Veterinarian Georgina Greyson is only in Whispering Springs for three months, covering for the town veterinarian while he is on a research trip. She isn't looking for love or roots, just maybe a good time before she moves on.

When his parents leave on their dream fantasy RV trip, Tanner Marshall is left in charge of his family’s cattle ranch, as well as his two younger brothers and sister. When he isn’t ranching, he’s doing duty on the volunteer fire department, a job he loves more than ranching. At thirty-four, he’s ready to put down some roots, including marriage, children and the white picket fence.

When Georgina accidentally sets her yard on fire during a burn ban, the volunteer fire department responds and she gets quite the fire lecture from one very cute firefighter. If there’s one thing Tanner hates, it’s carelessness with fire, but there’s something about his latest firebug that he can’t get out of his mind.

Can a cowboy firefighter convince a vet to give up the road for a house and roots? Or will Georgina's wanderlust prove too strong to ignore?

214 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 5, 2015

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About the author

Cynthia D'Alba

46 books387 followers
Born and raised in Arkansas. After wandering the world for 17 years (okay, it was Memphis, but it felt like another world!), I've made it home again. I live in a small vine covered cottage on the shores of a 8,000 acre lake with 2 dogs, a bitchy parrot and my fisherman husband. Live is good.

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5 stars
157 (57%)
4 stars
59 (21%)
3 stars
46 (16%)
2 stars
8 (2%)
1 star
2 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
Profile Image for Lori Meehan.
1,159 reviews
October 8, 2018
4.5*
A relationship that starts with instant attraction and an end date, what could go wrong?
Georgina “Georgie” Greyson is a traveling veterinarian and in Whispering Springs for a 3 month fill-in job. She’s a spunky spitfire with a beautiful spirit and gives as good as she gets. She has no family and she beginning to believe her dreams of one is just that a dream.
Tanner Marshall is a hot firefighter cowboy and exudes confidence and attitude. He loves fighting fires and ranching but there’s something missing and he needs to make a decision.
Tanner meets Georgie when she accidentally sets her yard on fire during a fire ban. They continue to bump heads until they find themselves in each other’s arms and can’t seem to get enough. They make a deal, enjoy their time together then go their separate ways. Sounds perfect but the more time they are together the more they fall for the other. What seemed like a great idea in the beginning, with the end drawing near can they be truthful with each other or will they move on with just the memories to keep them warm?
I. Love. This. Series and Cynthia D’Alba knows how to write about sexy cowboys!
Profile Image for Isha Coleman.
9,381 reviews176 followers
January 1, 2019
Saddles and Soot (Whispering Springs, Texas Book 8) by Cynthia D'Alba  
 
Tanner is so used to making all the rules, that he has no idea how to break them. Enter Georgina Grayson. She's just passing through as she searches for her place in the world. When an accidental fire brings the free spirit and the ever responsible duo face to face, sparks fly. Can the adorable veterinarian and the uptight firefighter get out of their heads, long enough to listen to their hearts? Saddles and Soot is surrounded by cuteness of the furry variety and heartwarming moments as irresistible as the characters are hot.
Profile Image for Tanya Brown.
384 reviews7 followers
November 13, 2015
Georgina and Tanner have sparks flying between them when they meet in her backyard. The town's temporary vet and cowboy/fireman are one hot couple. I loved this story by Cynthia but then again, I love all her books!
4,342 reviews23 followers
April 1, 2019
Cynthia D’Alba’s Saddles and Soot took a turn when the name for book eight in the Texas Mavericks, Whispering Springs Series did not have Texas in title. Perhaps this is because it once was part of the 12-Alarm Cowboys Anthology. Never fear, it is a clear visit to Whispering Springs. Not just for the reader but also for the three month substitute veterinarian in Whispering Springs. Knowing all things animal does not carry over to knowing all things involving burning bans which Georgina Greyson learns only too well. Tanner Marshall is a family cattle rancher and volunteer fireman, who has plenty to say about her lack of knowledge.

These two had a combustible attraction but are in opposite places and have opposite goals in their lives. Wonderful story of working through conflict then developing a relationship and investing your life in others. I thoroughly enjoyed watching the these two come together.

The publisher/author gave me a complimentary ARC of the book which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for CarolKat.
2,280 reviews29 followers
January 20, 2019
Georgina Grayson is in Whispering Springs to take over the Veterinarian Clinic for Doc Maybee while he goes on a research trip to Australia. She's settling into her rental house and decides to burn some trash. Bad move when there's a burn ban and she didn't think to check.

Tanner Marshall's parents have taken off on an RV vacation. Leaving him in charge of his siblings, high school seniors twins Dillon and Deborah, with help from Zack who is closer to his age. While the twins make hi crazy, thoughts of the new temporary Veterinarian keep filtering in as does the way they first met.

These two are such a contradiction. Every time I thought Tanner would make a move, he doesn't. That has Georgina confused and thinking maybe he really doesn't like her at all.

Lots of fun things, the birth of a foal and finally some sizzle, topped only by a misunderstanding.

I truly enjoyed this read and I'm starting the next in this series. I may be addicted to these cowboys.
Profile Image for Jennie Fortna.
2,691 reviews30 followers
September 6, 2020
Saddles and Soot is book 8 in the Whispering Springs, Texas series by Cynthia D’Alba and while each book is a standalone you will see people from the prior book.

Georgina “Georgie” Greyson comes to Whispering Springs to cover for the town vet while he takes a trip to Australia for a few months and visit with her friend, Magda Hobbs Montgomery. Looking for nothing but maybe a good time before she moves on except she decides to start a fire to burn trash during a burn ban and ends up on the wrong side of the sexy, cowboy, volunteer firefighter, Tanner Marshall. Let the fun begin...short, sexy, fun read!
466 reviews3 followers
February 22, 2019
I loved this book! When you can see yourself doing some of the things the main characters do, you know it’s going to be a great story! A woman can be talented and make a few mistakes. A guy shouldn’t get all upset because she made a small mistake. That’s how Georgina Greyson and Tanner Marshall met – she started a fire by accident and he’s one of the firemen who came to put it out. He should just get over himself!

These two are going to burn up the sheets! They are so fun! Have you ever wanted to scream at a book like you can at the TV? This is that kind of story.
Profile Image for Kristian Erdmann.
363 reviews2 followers
October 26, 2019
Great until the end

I loved this book the characters were great and the back and forth was the best me I was hooked from the start and loved it all the way to the end. I was so disappointed with the end of this book, there was a huge build up of drama at the end then it was just like oh well it's okay sure less be together forever. There was no explanation of how their lives were going to work or even what they were going to do. Great book but definitely could of used another chapter.
1,913 reviews9 followers
May 17, 2019
Falling Hard!

Saddles and Soot: Fantastic addition to the series! Wonderful and hot romance. Loved all the animals and the characters. Loved that Georgie was a vet and had spunk in her to put up with the men in the story! Her and Tanner were perfect for each other and I loved the small town and how she what to stay and start a life. Cynthia D'Alba did a wonderful job of writing!
255 reviews1 follower
April 21, 2019
A Gentle Love Story

I found this book to be uplifting and love affirming. "Insta-love " is everywhere in romance novels these days but there is a premise of truth in it. The characters in this book spent time exploring their interest in each other. I found the story interesting and the characters well written. I hope you enjoy.
Profile Image for Donna.
1,385 reviews
May 23, 2017
This is the first book by this author that I've read. I really enjoyed it. Great characters - especially the feisty heroine, smooth writing style, and an engaging story. I will definitely read more books in this series. Found in 12-Alarm Cowboys anthology.
1,353 reviews
October 11, 2018
When Georgina starts a fire by accident, Tanner lectures her. There's nothing he can't stand more than carelessness when it comes to fire. But the sparks aren't only flying in the actual fire. Their chemistry is amazing. I loved their story!
23 reviews
April 25, 2020
Whispering Springs series

I have read all books 1-8 and have enjoyed each book.
Would read more if available. I especially enjoy reading books that have a connection to others with new people and people from previous books.
1,025 reviews5 followers
July 14, 2024
Overall I liked the story. Strong, intelligent female character and hot fireman. But it seemed to have an added drama near the end that didn't help the story along and the end wrapped up a little quickly. I will read more.
Profile Image for Anna.
1,934 reviews8 followers
June 25, 2017
Nice cowboy escape!

Part of the 12 Alarm Cowboys box set.
Profile Image for BookWorm.
857 reviews2 followers
April 25, 2019
I got this as a freebie or at least a cheapie. Not really my cup of tea. For the most part it was an ok read but there were a few elements that were too silly for me.
1,197 reviews5 followers
May 2, 2019
4 Stars

Cute quick and easy read. Firefighter Tanner and Vet Geotgina fall in lust and which turns into a cute romance.
Profile Image for Ronda Barnes-Howard.
481 reviews4 followers
May 25, 2019
Great

I loved Tanner and Georgie's story, it was so sweet. Now I can't wait to read the next Whispering Springs book.
2,847 reviews20 followers
January 28, 2021
Review of Saddles and Soot

I absolutely loved this book and this series! I will recommend her books to anyone who loves romance novels. She is a wonderful writer.
62 reviews
May 4, 2021
Almost

It's ok. I thought it was lacking a little more of something...intriguing. While Tanner starts off being unattainable, the transition happened to fast for me.
Profile Image for Cynthia.
2,097 reviews24 followers
January 26, 2017
You start off with a chuckle as the FIREFIGHTER meets the vet. You know what must be going to happen but you are still very surprised as this scene plays out. You think to yourself NO he just didn’t and OH MY what a sassy little lady that vet is. The scene where Tanner sends his brother to the store had me laughing my head off, rolling my eyes and saying MEN. There are so many wonderful aspects to the wonderful read from the humor to the sorrow. Ms. D’Alba knows how to reach in grabbing your heart and giving it a twist. This was a book I knew I should not have started until today but I wanted something to read. I ended up with three hours sleep. I just could not put it down. There is so much laughter here, so much fun. As we all know along with the sunshine there must be a little rain this is where the author really grabs your heart nearly breaking it with misunderstanding, lack of communication and just downright jealousy. It is one bumpy ride for this couple but one heck of a fun ride as well.

Georgina takes over running the animal hospital why the vet goes on a long vacation. Here first day in a new town doesn’t go as well as she had planned. You can imagine how surprised she was when she decided to burn some trash only turning around to find the fire department right in her face trailing behind them the fire hose running full blast. If that wasn’t enough one hot little fireman gives her the dressing down of her life. Georgina isn’t going to take this setting down as they go nose to nose neither holding back. This starts the entertainment and it doesn’t stop as you set with your mouth hung open and laughing your way through this delightful fun, sexy, exciting read.

I have to say I didn’t like Tanner at first he was just downright mean but when he gives that little almost grin he steels your heart. Tanner is a charmer but he isn’t the only charmer in this family Zack is something else I really hope we get to read his story. Tanner has it all sexy appeal, a smile that will melt you pants right off you, humor that keeps you smiling but he can be downright mean just ask his sisters that he is watching over why his parents are out of town. He is ready for the complete deal, wife, kids and a white fence that is until he has to keep an eye on his brothers and sisters. He is starting to think he might not be ready for the whole show. Between his siblings and Georgina it is enough to drive a man to drink.

Georgina has been burnt in the worse way she doesn’t want a relationship, she does miss burning up the sheets and wouldn’t say no to the handsome firefighter if he just happens to fall in those sheets with her. She is one sassy little lady but gentle and strong, she has a way of pulling people in making them feel calm. She isn’t afraid to take on all the ranchers or bullheaded cowboys either.

This is a small town with delightful characters that cannot seem to stay out of each other’s business. We only see a little of this in the story but you know they are there keeping an eye on things and having fun in the rumor mill. The supporting characters are a lot of fun that adds a lot of entertainment to each scene. You are just going to love Jolene she is going to steal your heart almost from the first time you see her. She will also pull on your heartstring by the end of her story you will have a big smile on your face. You have strong characters that won’t back down standing their ground with a delightful mother who know just how to push you just enough to make you think and go nuts. Friend that tells it like it is but supports you no matter what. I would so love to be part of this small town there is never a dull minute.

I loved the humor, baiting, arguing, passion, love scenes were hot, emotions, chemistry and just what a fun this story was. Those love scenes will burn up the pages leaving you fanning yourself and wishing you could take her place. Ms. D’Alba gives you passion at its finest. The author has a writing style that pulls you in keeping you invested as you laugh your way through each page leaving you at times with tears almost in your eyes from the pain, misunderstandings and sorrow. The plot really pulls you keeping you entertained from the first page. This is one author knows how to take her readers by storm making a few twisters in her plot as she spins a story that will leave you spellbound. Her stories are ones that will stay with you along after you put the book down. If you haven’t read anything by this author you don’t know what you are missing. I encourage you to pick up one of her books and give it a read. Saddles and Soot would be my pick for you to start with. I just love this very talented author as I am sure you will to.
Profile Image for Jodie Bivins.
169 reviews2 followers
February 12, 2017
Beautiful love story

Can love happen when you start out thinking the worst of one another. This story was written so well I couldn't put it down. I laughed, I cried, and I screamed are you kidding me. Good thing I was the only one home. I highly recommend this book to everyone who loves a really intense book
Profile Image for Laura.
2,557 reviews
January 31, 2017
This is a great book and was written by Cynthia D’Alba. Georgina Greyson is a veterinarian and is in Whispering Springs for three months covering for the town veterinarian while he is on a research trip. She isn’t looking for love or roots, just maybe a good time before she moves on. When his parents leave on their dream fantasy RV trip, Tanner Marshall is left in charge of his family’s cattle ranch, as well as his two younger brothers and sister. When he isn’t ranching, he’s doing duty on the volunteer fire department, a job he loves more than ranching. At thirty-four, he’s ready to put down some roots, including marriage, children and the white picket fence.When Georgina accidentally sets her yard on fire during a burn ban, the volunteer fire department responds and she gets quite the fire lecture from one very cute firefighter. If there’s one thing Tanner hates, it’s carelessness with fire, but there’s something about his latest firebug that he can’t get out of his mind. This is a great book with a wonderful story and well developed characters. This book will keep you reading long into the night and you will not want to put this book down until you finish. This was such a great read and full of surprises. I am looking forward to reading the next book by this great author.
Profile Image for Donna Feibusch.
1,798 reviews24 followers
January 31, 2016
An Awesome Read!

I loved reading Saddles and Soot, all about Georgina Greyson a Vet & Tanner Marshall a cowboy/Firefighter in Whispering Springs, Texas. They met when Georgia set a fire to burn some trash, when it jumped the fire circle the fire department showed up. Tanner's first words are you crazy or stupid which is it, theirs a no burn law on right now. Luckily they were able to out the fire out quickly, but it left a very bad taste in Tanners mouth! The author wrote a very interesting story, and the characters brought said book to life. Read this book because it will make you laugh, cry, sigh, shake your head and cum up a storm! Read about the new Vet, and the adventures she has in this wonderful little town! I loved reading it, and I hope you do as well.
Profile Image for Ruth.
319 reviews5 followers
August 29, 2020
As always Cynthia has another awesome book in Saddles and Soot! Love it!
Tanner Marshall is in charge of the ranch while his parents go on a dream vacation. He is also a volunteer firefighter. He takes both very seriously. He has also been thinking about the future, so now might be just the time to start.
Veterinarian Georgina Greyson is in Whispering Springs to let the current Veterinarian have a vacation. This is just a short stop for her before she moves on. She has found a nice little house to rent. As she settles in she does what she is use to and goes to burn her trash. She has no clue that there is a burn ban on until the firefighters get there and one gives her a good talking to.
Now Tanner and Georgina need to see if the sparks between them catch or burn
Profile Image for Emily.
1,713 reviews125 followers
November 14, 2015
'Saddles And Soot' by Cynthia D'Alba is a great read. I enjoyed reading about Tanner and Georgie. This story is fun, entertaining, and smoking hot. I would definitely like to read more about all the interesting characters in this story. Highly recommend to all fans of hot cowboys, firefighters, and romance.
140 reviews1 follower
May 21, 2016
Loved this book! I feel like this is a book in a series and I missed the first one but I really loved the story and the characters. Give me a love at first sight cowboy book any day and I'm in heaven.
723 reviews
February 12, 2016
Up until shortly before the end (the weekend getaway) I thought for once read ablout normal sane people, but then they both had a complete meltdown :-(
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews