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Star Valley #2
Wrangler
Sawyer Barlow is the family goof-off. Never one to take life too seriously, he works hard but prefers roping and riding--fillies and women--and he does both any chance he gets.
A drunken bet sets his sights on Cassidy Conroy, Star Valley's prissy little b...beauty queen. She's rich and spoiled and thinks she's too good for a Barlow. He's not interested in chasing her too far, but he'll knock boots with her for one tequila-fueled night with a hundred bucks on the line.
Cassidy is on a mission, unfortunately, and one she'd rather abandon altogether. A Barlow is making eyes at her from across a pool table, but it's the wrong brother. Sawyer's cute and funny, though, and she sure could use the good time he's promising her. She should say no. Her daddy will kill her, but when he turns that dark Barlow gaze on her, all bets are off.
A one night stand turns into a desperate plea for help when a brutal betrayal hits Cassidy hard. Broken and bruised with no where to go, she ends up in the one place she was trying to get away from--the Snake River Ranch.
Sawyer is shocked when she turns up at his door, but his sense of honor won't let him turn her away. The others are suspicious of her motives, but Sawyer thinks he sees a side to her that no one else can.
Days at Snake River are hard for Cassidy as she tries--and fails--to find her place on the ranch and in life. But nights in Sawyer's bed set her blood on fire. Sawyer's a wrangler through and through and no one is more surprised than Cassidy when he lassoes her heart.
But as old Kit Barlow used to say, Truth Will Out. Cassidy's secrets are revealed and the mismatched couple has to decide whether what they have is real or just a good time gone too far.
A drunken bet sets his sights on Cassidy Conroy, Star Valley's prissy little b...beauty queen. She's rich and spoiled and thinks she's too good for a Barlow. He's not interested in chasing her too far, but he'll knock boots with her for one tequila-fueled night with a hundred bucks on the line.
Cassidy is on a mission, unfortunately, and one she'd rather abandon altogether. A Barlow is making eyes at her from across a pool table, but it's the wrong brother. Sawyer's cute and funny, though, and she sure could use the good time he's promising her. She should say no. Her daddy will kill her, but when he turns that dark Barlow gaze on her, all bets are off.
A one night stand turns into a desperate plea for help when a brutal betrayal hits Cassidy hard. Broken and bruised with no where to go, she ends up in the one place she was trying to get away from--the Snake River Ranch.
Sawyer is shocked when she turns up at his door, but his sense of honor won't let him turn her away. The others are suspicious of her motives, but Sawyer thinks he sees a side to her that no one else can.
Days at Snake River are hard for Cassidy as she tries--and fails--to find her place on the ranch and in life. But nights in Sawyer's bed set her blood on fire. Sawyer's a wrangler through and through and no one is more surprised than Cassidy when he lassoes her heart.
But as old Kit Barlow used to say, Truth Will Out. Cassidy's secrets are revealed and the mismatched couple has to decide whether what they have is real or just a good time gone too far.
Unknown Binding
First published January 1, 2016
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118 people want to read
About the author
Dahlia West
24 books945 followersAmateur Writer. Professional Procrastinator. Voted Least Likely to Succeed in high school. Twice. Dean's list-Purdue University. Honorary Southerner. Future stand-up comedian. Gen X.
www.dahliawest.com
DahliaMWest@gmail.com
Follow me on IG: dahlia_west_13
www.dahliawest.com
DahliaMWest@gmail.com
Follow me on IG: dahlia_west_13
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
September 10, 2016
Another great book! My rating.....5 Stars!!
"Wrangler" Star Valley #2 is by author Dahlia West.
"Wrangler" features Sawyer Barlow, the sexy prankster brother with a sneaky sense of humor. At least he thinks he's funny. Cassidy Conroy is the beautiful, wealthy, socialite of their small town. A beauty queen on the outside but an emotionally abused woman inside. Cassidy is also a woman with secrets that can destroy what she is building with Sawyer.
Sawyer has thought a lot about Cassidy Conroy lately. Who wouldn't? She is absolutely stunning and most men dream of having her. But there is more to her than the superficial beauty queen everyone believes her to be. Unfortunately, Sawyer seems to be the only person to see beyond her appearance.
Cassidy has done some things she isn't proud of. With her mother gone, there is no one she can turn to. Not her demanding, cruel father and especially not her older brother whose job should be to love and protect her.
Following a horrific incident, Cassidy seeks out Sawyer for help. After a one night stand with Cassidy, Sawyer is surprised he wants more. What is even more shocking are the feelings of protectiveness that he experiences when she seeks him out for help.
I thought Cassidy was a sweet girl. I admit to not liking her much the first couple of chapters but she was easy to understand soon enough. Did she made poor choices? Yes. But that doesn't mean she is all bad. Once she realized how much better off her life would be outside the rule of her family, she didn't hesitate to get away. Even if it meant losing everything she had.
Secrets are revealed. Anger and disbelief are heavy in the hearts of the Barlows. Trust is broken. For Sawyer and Cassidy to have their happiness, can some things be overlooked? Can Sawyer look past his anger to see the obvious? Will Cassidy forgive as well?
This was a fast paced novel packed with love, lust, romance, loyal family and a bit of angst and suspense. As the brothers have their stories, the financial stability of the ranch continues to be a priority. And I guess we won't have that resolution til the last books.
One of my favorites moments, besides the steamy ones, was when the proverbial "shit" hit the fan because I knew what would follow.....love, forgiveness and a sexy Barlow getting his girl. It was a sweet HEA...up next book three..."Maverick" Austin Barlow here I come!
"Wrangler" Star Valley #2 is by author Dahlia West.
"Wrangler" features Sawyer Barlow, the sexy prankster brother with a sneaky sense of humor. At least he thinks he's funny. Cassidy Conroy is the beautiful, wealthy, socialite of their small town. A beauty queen on the outside but an emotionally abused woman inside. Cassidy is also a woman with secrets that can destroy what she is building with Sawyer.
Sawyer has thought a lot about Cassidy Conroy lately. Who wouldn't? She is absolutely stunning and most men dream of having her. But there is more to her than the superficial beauty queen everyone believes her to be. Unfortunately, Sawyer seems to be the only person to see beyond her appearance.
Cassidy has done some things she isn't proud of. With her mother gone, there is no one she can turn to. Not her demanding, cruel father and especially not her older brother whose job should be to love and protect her.
Following a horrific incident, Cassidy seeks out Sawyer for help. After a one night stand with Cassidy, Sawyer is surprised he wants more. What is even more shocking are the feelings of protectiveness that he experiences when she seeks him out for help.
I thought Cassidy was a sweet girl. I admit to not liking her much the first couple of chapters but she was easy to understand soon enough. Did she made poor choices? Yes. But that doesn't mean she is all bad. Once she realized how much better off her life would be outside the rule of her family, she didn't hesitate to get away. Even if it meant losing everything she had.
Secrets are revealed. Anger and disbelief are heavy in the hearts of the Barlows. Trust is broken. For Sawyer and Cassidy to have their happiness, can some things be overlooked? Can Sawyer look past his anger to see the obvious? Will Cassidy forgive as well?
This was a fast paced novel packed with love, lust, romance, loyal family and a bit of angst and suspense. As the brothers have their stories, the financial stability of the ranch continues to be a priority. And I guess we won't have that resolution til the last books.
One of my favorites moments, besides the steamy ones, was when the proverbial "shit" hit the fan because I knew what would follow.....love, forgiveness and a sexy Barlow getting his girl. It was a sweet HEA...up next book three..."Maverick" Austin Barlow here I come!
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April 1, 20174/1/17 sale .99.
July 9, 2016
Another great book by Dahlia West. I like how we see in this book how appearances are deceiving. We have Cassidy, the rich girl, beauty queen, that every girls envies and every guy want. And Sawyer, a hard working guy that has spent his life taking care of his younger brother Court. It's a couple that doesn't make sense, but that works well together.
January 26, 2018
To begin with it's hard to like the heroine, Cassidy. She seems shallow and somewhat of a used up beauty queen. Then slowly this talented author reveals the layers that are Cassidy and as you start to understand her so is Sawyer.
Sawyer, the guru I think of the family. He seemed to be everywhere in the last book. Knowingly pushing his brothers in the directions they needed to be in. Even in this book you can see that intuitive part to his character. He hides it behind a veil of shenanigans and pranks but behind the veil is love for his family.
Cassidy really got the raw end of the deal in the family stakes. I would have liked to have her somehow get some justice from her father. I'm not sure what but I needed to see her stand up for herself against him and the step mother. Perhaps revealing the secret she found out about her nasty brother.
I know we should be happy with happy endings with heroes and heroines but sometimes justice and payback are well deserved too - especially when injustices served upon the heroine have caused the reader some emotional distress 🙃
Sawyer, the guru I think of the family. He seemed to be everywhere in the last book. Knowingly pushing his brothers in the directions they needed to be in. Even in this book you can see that intuitive part to his character. He hides it behind a veil of shenanigans and pranks but behind the veil is love for his family.
Cassidy really got the raw end of the deal in the family stakes. I would have liked to have her somehow get some justice from her father. I'm not sure what but I needed to see her stand up for herself against him and the step mother. Perhaps revealing the secret she found out about her nasty brother.
I know we should be happy with happy endings with heroes and heroines but sometimes justice and payback are well deserved too - especially when injustices served upon the heroine have caused the reader some emotional distress 🙃
May 3, 2016
I enjoyed this story. Wrangler is about two people, from different income brackets, whose chemistry and connection brings them together. A relationship slowly blooms. There are quite a few bumps on their road to finding their HEA, but after a few cuts and bruises, some tears, and a lot of words, they get it. This story has some romance, angst, turmoil, a few pranks, and some hot sex scenes. This book definitely kept my interest. At the beginning of this story, I wasn't sure if I was going to like the heroine, but she grew on me; especially after reading more of her story. She is not what she seems at first. Give her a chance. If you missed the first book in the series, don't worry about feeling like you won't understand what is going on because that is not the case. This was a good book. I cannot wait to read the other brothers' stories.
I am a Beta reader.
I am a Beta reader.
January 26, 2017
3 1/2 stars
*sigh* I'm a bit torn on my review of this book. I love Dahlia West. LOVE her. She never disappoints me and while I wouldn't say I am truly *disappointed* with this story, I just wasn't as jazzed with the characters.
I was at first really enjoying the chemistry between Sawyer and Cassidy, the H & h. They were snarky and sarcastic, but you could tell there was that heat underlying it all. Sawyer comprises three of my top traits in a man--sweet, cocky, and funny. Cassidy is a spoiled former beauty queen who really has no purpose in life other than to marry well. There are family issues involved that I won't relate so as to prevent spoilers. She wasn't always the best person and she made some bad choices, but for a lot of the story I could at least understand why she made dumb ass decisions, even if I also cringed at what a snobby twat she could be at times. She at least showed signs of growth.
Where things fell apart for me is the reaction of Sawyer and his family when the story hits the climax. There is of course a big secret that tears the two apart and Sawyer does what most men do in these stories--spend the first 2/3 of it promising the woman he will never hurt her and generally being sweet, trusting and respectful only to suddenly turn around and treat her like crap without discussion. He fucking LEFT her without any money or means of transport. I went from thinking he was too good for Cassidy to thinking that she was too good for him. Dakota, a woman who is treated like a sister in his family, didn't act any better and was horribly cruel to Cassidy when the truth comes out.
The resolution was a little too quick and Sawyer REALLY needed to grovel more. I was so happy to finally see Cassidy stand up for herself with her family and with him. She is beginning to take some pride in herself and just GROW and then Sawyer comes back and pretty much says, "Oh I'm so sorry, I should have trusted you. I should have talked to you about it all. I promised you I'd never hurt you and then I did." No shit, asshole. I would have really enjoyed a bit more storyline that just showed Cassidy becoming more independent and gaining more self-respect before working things out with Sawyer.
*sigh* I'm a bit torn on my review of this book. I love Dahlia West. LOVE her. She never disappoints me and while I wouldn't say I am truly *disappointed* with this story, I just wasn't as jazzed with the characters.
I was at first really enjoying the chemistry between Sawyer and Cassidy, the H & h. They were snarky and sarcastic, but you could tell there was that heat underlying it all. Sawyer comprises three of my top traits in a man--sweet, cocky, and funny. Cassidy is a spoiled former beauty queen who really has no purpose in life other than to marry well. There are family issues involved that I won't relate so as to prevent spoilers. She wasn't always the best person and she made some bad choices, but for a lot of the story I could at least understand why she made dumb ass decisions, even if I also cringed at what a snobby twat she could be at times. She at least showed signs of growth.
Where things fell apart for me is the reaction of Sawyer and his family when the story hits the climax. There is of course a big secret that tears the two apart and Sawyer does what most men do in these stories--spend the first 2/3 of it promising the woman he will never hurt her and generally being sweet, trusting and respectful only to suddenly turn around and treat her like crap without discussion. He fucking LEFT her without any money or means of transport. I went from thinking he was too good for Cassidy to thinking that she was too good for him. Dakota, a woman who is treated like a sister in his family, didn't act any better and was horribly cruel to Cassidy when the truth comes out.
The resolution was a little too quick and Sawyer REALLY needed to grovel more. I was so happy to finally see Cassidy stand up for herself with her family and with him. She is beginning to take some pride in herself and just GROW and then Sawyer comes back and pretty much says, "Oh I'm so sorry, I should have trusted you. I should have talked to you about it all. I promised you I'd never hurt you and then I did." No shit, asshole. I would have really enjoyed a bit more storyline that just showed Cassidy becoming more independent and gaining more self-respect before working things out with Sawyer.
May 4, 2017
Sexy, hot and horny
Sawyer, b
eing one of the younger Barlows, had a bet with the former Lincoln County Fair beauty queen. Cassidy Conroy, had no self esteem. Her father and her brother tried to use her to gain more land. They tried to pimp her out to any local rancher whose land they thought they could acquire. Fortunately for her, the target turned her Down,, the younger brother didn't. The sparks flew and the war began..
Sawyer, b
eing one of the younger Barlows, had a bet with the former Lincoln County Fair beauty queen. Cassidy Conroy, had no self esteem. Her father and her brother tried to use her to gain more land. They tried to pimp her out to any local rancher whose land they thought they could acquire. Fortunately for her, the target turned her Down,, the younger brother didn't. The sparks flew and the war began..
May 29, 2020
Loved it
I've read all the motorcycle series from this author and enjoyed them, except for Doc, because I find bdsm tiresome. This is the first of the western series I've read and I have to say, I loved it. It took a little while to get into it, but then I was hooked. It was a great emotional story. I definitely shed some tears. The characters were vivid and they had crackling chemistry. Bravo!
I've read all the motorcycle series from this author and enjoyed them, except for Doc, because I find bdsm tiresome. This is the first of the western series I've read and I have to say, I loved it. It took a little while to get into it, but then I was hooked. It was a great emotional story. I definitely shed some tears. The characters were vivid and they had crackling chemistry. Bravo!
October 30, 2017
Good, enjoyable read.
February 12, 2019
Okay read
Follow on from first book and we have sawyer and Cassidy. Both annoying at times and not communicating well. Not my favourite reads by this author but an okay read.
Follow on from first book and we have sawyer and Cassidy. Both annoying at times and not communicating well. Not my favourite reads by this author but an okay read.
April 29, 2016
Dahlia West has a way of roping you in with her words, and keeping you there fully engrossed in the story. This story was not only sexy hot, but beautiful. It was about self discovery, and finding your true home. Cassidy, was the beauty queen of Star Valley, and Sawyer Barlow is the rodeo king. They both have had a thing for each other for awhile and finally give in to it. One night of passion leads to a road of lies and some unforeseen circumstances. Sawyer finally sees that the "Ice Queen" is not all the superficial, but really just a girl who hasn't been able to be herself. Cassidy is able to find what it means to truly have a family and people who love her. Cassidy's story just broke my heart, this poor girl had been paraded around her entire life with no identity for who she truly is. I loved that Walker opened his arms to Cassidy and welcomed her into the family. This was an amazing book, and kept me interested throughout. Dahlia West's writing is truly beautiful, and keeps getting better with every book. I said that book one of this series was my favorite, but Wrangler, was able to take over that top spot now. This story had some funny parts, with the "my Little Pony," and a snake, but also touched on some serious things as well. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
May 1, 2016
When ever you start a new series, even one done by a beloved author, it's a bit nerve racking. Try as you may to not hold it up to previous standards, you still do.
Happily, Dahlia has not let us down.
Her characters become important to you. Their environment, your home, you become invested. You genuinely want them to get the happily ever after, succeed in what ever their trying to accomplish, beat the bad guys. Sawyer and Cassidy are no different. I wanted them to make it, despite the crap in their way.
I soaked up the steamy bossy Sawyer, and and hoped with Cassidy that even though she screwed up and didn't seem to have anyone on her side at certain points that everything would work out.
Wrangler is a definite 5 star read.
I laughed , got frustrated, yelled at the pages in front of me and cried a little bit.
We saw the Barlow clan stand together, got a peek at a few brothers a bit more that we didn't know much about. I even felt bad for Court, and I didn't think it was possible for him to make me fell that way.
Book 1 Rough Stock was setting the scene but Wrangler threw the doors wide open and pulled me in.
I didn't want it to end, but I wanted it to end.
Bravo on another Phenomenal read.
Happily, Dahlia has not let us down.
Her characters become important to you. Their environment, your home, you become invested. You genuinely want them to get the happily ever after, succeed in what ever their trying to accomplish, beat the bad guys. Sawyer and Cassidy are no different. I wanted them to make it, despite the crap in their way.
I soaked up the steamy bossy Sawyer, and and hoped with Cassidy that even though she screwed up and didn't seem to have anyone on her side at certain points that everything would work out.
Wrangler is a definite 5 star read.
I laughed , got frustrated, yelled at the pages in front of me and cried a little bit.
We saw the Barlow clan stand together, got a peek at a few brothers a bit more that we didn't know much about. I even felt bad for Court, and I didn't think it was possible for him to make me fell that way.
Book 1 Rough Stock was setting the scene but Wrangler threw the doors wide open and pulled me in.
I didn't want it to end, but I wanted it to end.
Bravo on another Phenomenal read.
April 22, 2016
Love, Love, Love Dahlia's work. Loved her other series and I am falling in love with the Barlow (cowboy) Books.
Sawyer wanted to start living his life. He left the ranch to babysit his younger brother who joined the rodeo. Now back on the ranch and Sawyer has his eyes locked on Cassidy.
Cassidy is a beauty queen and spoiled. Her daddy has her on a mission to get married to a Rancher who will inherent the ranch or there will be consequences. Cassidy has her eye's on a particular Barlow brother but not the one her daddy wants her to go after.
After a night of drinking, Sawyer and Cassidy hook up but there only for there to be consequences for Cassidy when she gets home. This leads Cassidy right to Sawyer's door step.
Will the truth set Cassidy free? Will Sawyer see Cassidy for who she truely is or as a spoiled brat? Can they over come the hurt? Don't miss out on Sawyer and Cassidy's story!
Sawyer wanted to start living his life. He left the ranch to babysit his younger brother who joined the rodeo. Now back on the ranch and Sawyer has his eyes locked on Cassidy.
Cassidy is a beauty queen and spoiled. Her daddy has her on a mission to get married to a Rancher who will inherent the ranch or there will be consequences. Cassidy has her eye's on a particular Barlow brother but not the one her daddy wants her to go after.
After a night of drinking, Sawyer and Cassidy hook up but there only for there to be consequences for Cassidy when she gets home. This leads Cassidy right to Sawyer's door step.
Will the truth set Cassidy free? Will Sawyer see Cassidy for who she truely is or as a spoiled brat? Can they over come the hurt? Don't miss out on Sawyer and Cassidy's story!
May 17, 2016
This is my first time reading a book by Dahlia West, and I liked it!
At first, I was... Perturbed, I COULD NOT STAND Cassidy, like a spoiled pageant princess she exudes the "Kiss my feet" Mentality, and I did NOT love her.
But when push comes to shove she ends up giving just a tiny kick back and refuses to do her families bidding.
Enter Sawyer Barlow (Enter naughty, lust filled, inappropriate thoughts) One sexy cowboy is all I will say.
The longer she was without the unhealthy attitudes of her family and within the loving embrace of the blows the real Cassidy emerged and I fell in love with her.
I freaking LOVED this one and cannot wait to read another one from Dahlia West!
At first, I was... Perturbed, I COULD NOT STAND Cassidy, like a spoiled pageant princess she exudes the "Kiss my feet" Mentality, and I did NOT love her.
But when push comes to shove she ends up giving just a tiny kick back and refuses to do her families bidding.
Enter Sawyer Barlow (Enter naughty, lust filled, inappropriate thoughts) One sexy cowboy is all I will say.
The longer she was without the unhealthy attitudes of her family and within the loving embrace of the blows the real Cassidy emerged and I fell in love with her.
I freaking LOVED this one and cannot wait to read another one from Dahlia West!
July 15, 2016
Wrangler by Dahlia West is the 2nd book in her Star Valley series and it concentrates on the 4th brother Sawyer who yearns to settle down with a wife and to have children. Sawyer gave up a college education to follow his youngest brother Court to try & keep him out of trouble on the rodeo circuit. He made a great success of it with Court but was pleased to return home Sawyer was the joker of the family, the one who could be relied upon to lighten the mood. But there is so much more to him, as we see in this story.
MORE REVIEW TO FOLLOW.
MORE REVIEW TO FOLLOW.
April 30, 2016
I received a ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review and I have to say that this book was fantastic. I did not want it to end. The way Cassidy and Sawyer to trust each other was very moving. Their struggles tugged at your heartstrings and Dahlia West's writing made you feel like you were right there with them. This is one of the best books that I have read in a long time and I can't wait for the next Barlow brother.
May 1, 2016
I got an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I am a huge fan of Dahlia West's other books and the Star Valley series has not disappointed.
I loved this book and didn't want it to end. This book was well written and full of emotions.
I am a huge fan of Dahlia West's other books and the Star Valley series has not disappointed.
I loved this book and didn't want it to end. This book was well written and full of emotions.
April 28, 2016
Dahlia West has done it AGAIN!!! I love Sawyer and Cassidy's story!! I laughed out loud, got mad a couple times, and teared up!! Wonderful story about family, good and bad, and how love can help you believe in yourself when people tell you your not worth it!! Love Love Loved it!!!
May 1, 2016
Another good read
I am a reader, not a writer. I have enjoyed all of Dahlia West books. I like how her stories/series keep touch with the other characters. Always looking for her next book.
I am a reader, not a writer. I have enjoyed all of Dahlia West books. I like how her stories/series keep touch with the other characters. Always looking for her next book.
May 7, 2016
Wonderful reading!
The 2nd in this series and I'm hooked! I am in love with these reaching cowboy brothers. I can't wait for the next book. These are certainly up all night reads! I just couldn't put it down.
The 2nd in this series and I'm hooked! I am in love with these reaching cowboy brothers. I can't wait for the next book. These are certainly up all night reads! I just couldn't put it down.
May 7, 2016
I enjoy very much this book as all other by this author. Also this story was simple but intense, little angst in a great story. Sawyer and Cassidy were very interesting characters and I liked both very much. What tell more, a good reading to recommend at every one.
May 12, 2016
I just love all of Dahlia Wests’ books. They are always engaging from the first page and hot, hot, hot!!! And the love stories are romantic. I want to be swept off my feet by a Barlow.
November 11, 2016
This was a well written light western romance. I wanted a break from my usual dark reads and Wrangler fit the bill perfectly. I'll be looking for the next in the series
April 7, 2017
I liked this one but there are a lot of parts that seem to not have been edited properly. There are parts that don't make complete sense. Nothing necessarily important, and easy enough to overlook, but somewhat confusing at the moment of reading.
April 11, 2017
I am a big, huge, GIANT fan of Dahlia West. I absolutely adore her books. She does an incredible job of writing about the grit and charm of the “old west” - except in a modern day setting. Her words and writing style are flawless, and every single series she’s written draws you in and compels you to read the next book. And when the series ends...you’re left wanting more.
Wrangler is book two in the Star Valley series, seven books based on the Snake River Ranch in Wyoming, which is run by the five Barlow brothers. This story focuses on Sawyer, the second-to-youngest brother, and local county-fair beauty queen Cassidy.
Before I go any further, I want to say that another thing I really enjoy about Ms. West’s books is that you get a continuing story throughout the series. They really aren’t meant to be read as standalones, which is great if you are willing to invest in reading a thousand or so compelling, heart wrenching, heart warming pages. If not, you may still enjoy the books, but you won’t get the full emotional investment as when you learn about multiple characters and have seen them in a variety of situations, both focused directly on them and in the periphery of other stories. In the first book, Rough Stock, you’re introduced to all the brothers, learn their personalities, and how they work together as a family to conquer the challenge that is facing them.
Sawyer Barlow is the joker of the family. His playful demeanor belies the deeper waters that run through him. As one of the younger brothers, he’s teetering on the edge of being all grown up, but is still seen as a baby brother.
The bunkhouse, while not miles away from the Big House, seemed enough of a move that it reflected where Sawyer was in his life now - home but not a fully-fledged adult. Complete with Cheetos.
Cassidy Conroy, on the surface, is the stereotypical beauty pageant queen. She’s rude, conceited, and looks down her nose at everyone around her. When we first meet Cassidy, it’s hard to believe she’s going to be a sympathetic, likeable character at any point in the book. But underneath the cool, ice-queen demeanor is someone very few people truly know.
If Cassidy herself knew anything more than how to put gas in her Mercedes, she’d pick one of these roads, maybe at random, and just keep driving until she ran out of road. A satisfying dream...but nothing more than just that, just a dream.
When it’s no longer safe for Cassidy at home, she runs to the one person who seems to get her. Who makes her feel safe. But she’s still guarded and skeptical of Sawyer’s intentions.
Sawyer paused and looked at her askance. Something in her eyes was trouble. Had she been cheated on? Had her heart broken? Was that why she was so closed off, so unwilling to take a chance on something new?
“Cassidy, there’s no getting tired of someone you love.”
As Sawyer and Cassidy spend more time together, you begin to realize there really is more to Cassidy and her story.
In some ways, Cassidy was so very tired of keeping secrets.
Christopher Conroy had kept his daughter ignorant on purpose, a sin that was unforgivable in Sawyer’s mind.
Thankfully for her, though, Sawyer is there to help her fight her battles.
“You don’t need a man, Cassidy.”
“What do I need?” she snapped. “I suppose you know.”
He smiled down at her, not giving up the goods.
She sighed again. “Tell me. If I don’t need a man, what do I need?”
“Yourself.”
She snorted. “Very profound. Myself? What am I supposed to do with myself?”
He suddenly stopped dancing…
“It’s a good question, isn’t it?” he asked. “What are you supposed to do with yourself, Cassidy Conroy?”
Sawyer let her go and left her entirely, walking away toward the bar across the room.
Cassidy turned and headed into the bathroom for lack of anything better to do… What was she supposed to do with herself? Who was she, anyway? And why the hell was Sawyer Barlow the only person in the world who seemed to realize that she didn’t know?
Oh swoon… You’ve just gotta love a hunky cowboy who looks past the beauty queen looks and sees into a woman’s heart.
“...you’re mine,” he told her. “I snagged myself the best goddamn woman in three counties, in the whole state of Wyoming… It doesn’t have a damn thing to do with how good you look,” he informed her. “I see you, Cassidy. I see you, and I want to see more. I’m not giving up on this, on us. I won’t.”
Of course, that hunky cowboy is also a macho man, prone to getting his ego bruised. So when Cassidy’s brother informs Sawyer, and his brother Walker, about the unscrupulous plan Cassidy was “a part” of, Sawyer is furious, and in an uncharacteristic move leaves Cassidy behind with no money and no way to get anywhere. It’s a total asshole move.
But maybe it’s what Cassidy needed, because instead of wallowing in pity and taking the easy path (returning home), she picks herself up and moves forward. And when Sawyer gets his head out of his rear end and comes to take her back to the safety of the ranch, she doesn’t collapse back into Sawyer’s arms. She’s determined to forge her own way for once in her life.
Sawyer isn’t going to go away easily though. Confronting Cassidy’s brother, he lays down the law, once and for all.
“You’re never going near her again. You, your dad, all that shit, it’s in the past. You understand? It’s all in the past. You see, I am somebody, Palmer. I’m Cassidy’s future.”
I love these Barlow men. I love how Dahlia West writes about them, and her storytelling ability is among the best that I ever read (you can probably tell that by how long this review is!). I don’t always get anxious for the upcoming books in a series, but I am CRAVING the next five books. Thankfully, the third book, Maverick, is already out. But waiting for the final four books (especially since Walker's book isn't until number five!) is really going to try my patience!
Wrangler is book two in the Star Valley series, seven books based on the Snake River Ranch in Wyoming, which is run by the five Barlow brothers. This story focuses on Sawyer, the second-to-youngest brother, and local county-fair beauty queen Cassidy.
Before I go any further, I want to say that another thing I really enjoy about Ms. West’s books is that you get a continuing story throughout the series. They really aren’t meant to be read as standalones, which is great if you are willing to invest in reading a thousand or so compelling, heart wrenching, heart warming pages. If not, you may still enjoy the books, but you won’t get the full emotional investment as when you learn about multiple characters and have seen them in a variety of situations, both focused directly on them and in the periphery of other stories. In the first book, Rough Stock, you’re introduced to all the brothers, learn their personalities, and how they work together as a family to conquer the challenge that is facing them.
Sawyer Barlow is the joker of the family. His playful demeanor belies the deeper waters that run through him. As one of the younger brothers, he’s teetering on the edge of being all grown up, but is still seen as a baby brother.
The bunkhouse, while not miles away from the Big House, seemed enough of a move that it reflected where Sawyer was in his life now - home but not a fully-fledged adult. Complete with Cheetos.
Cassidy Conroy, on the surface, is the stereotypical beauty pageant queen. She’s rude, conceited, and looks down her nose at everyone around her. When we first meet Cassidy, it’s hard to believe she’s going to be a sympathetic, likeable character at any point in the book. But underneath the cool, ice-queen demeanor is someone very few people truly know.
If Cassidy herself knew anything more than how to put gas in her Mercedes, she’d pick one of these roads, maybe at random, and just keep driving until she ran out of road. A satisfying dream...but nothing more than just that, just a dream.
When it’s no longer safe for Cassidy at home, she runs to the one person who seems to get her. Who makes her feel safe. But she’s still guarded and skeptical of Sawyer’s intentions.
Sawyer paused and looked at her askance. Something in her eyes was trouble. Had she been cheated on? Had her heart broken? Was that why she was so closed off, so unwilling to take a chance on something new?
“Cassidy, there’s no getting tired of someone you love.”
As Sawyer and Cassidy spend more time together, you begin to realize there really is more to Cassidy and her story.
In some ways, Cassidy was so very tired of keeping secrets.
Christopher Conroy had kept his daughter ignorant on purpose, a sin that was unforgivable in Sawyer’s mind.
Thankfully for her, though, Sawyer is there to help her fight her battles.
“You don’t need a man, Cassidy.”
“What do I need?” she snapped. “I suppose you know.”
He smiled down at her, not giving up the goods.
She sighed again. “Tell me. If I don’t need a man, what do I need?”
“Yourself.”
She snorted. “Very profound. Myself? What am I supposed to do with myself?”
He suddenly stopped dancing…
“It’s a good question, isn’t it?” he asked. “What are you supposed to do with yourself, Cassidy Conroy?”
Sawyer let her go and left her entirely, walking away toward the bar across the room.
Cassidy turned and headed into the bathroom for lack of anything better to do… What was she supposed to do with herself? Who was she, anyway? And why the hell was Sawyer Barlow the only person in the world who seemed to realize that she didn’t know?
Oh swoon… You’ve just gotta love a hunky cowboy who looks past the beauty queen looks and sees into a woman’s heart.
“...you’re mine,” he told her. “I snagged myself the best goddamn woman in three counties, in the whole state of Wyoming… It doesn’t have a damn thing to do with how good you look,” he informed her. “I see you, Cassidy. I see you, and I want to see more. I’m not giving up on this, on us. I won’t.”
Of course, that hunky cowboy is also a macho man, prone to getting his ego bruised. So when Cassidy’s brother informs Sawyer, and his brother Walker, about the unscrupulous plan Cassidy was “a part” of, Sawyer is furious, and in an uncharacteristic move leaves Cassidy behind with no money and no way to get anywhere. It’s a total asshole move.
But maybe it’s what Cassidy needed, because instead of wallowing in pity and taking the easy path (returning home), she picks herself up and moves forward. And when Sawyer gets his head out of his rear end and comes to take her back to the safety of the ranch, she doesn’t collapse back into Sawyer’s arms. She’s determined to forge her own way for once in her life.
Sawyer isn’t going to go away easily though. Confronting Cassidy’s brother, he lays down the law, once and for all.
“You’re never going near her again. You, your dad, all that shit, it’s in the past. You understand? It’s all in the past. You see, I am somebody, Palmer. I’m Cassidy’s future.”
I love these Barlow men. I love how Dahlia West writes about them, and her storytelling ability is among the best that I ever read (you can probably tell that by how long this review is!). I don’t always get anxious for the upcoming books in a series, but I am CRAVING the next five books. Thankfully, the third book, Maverick, is already out. But waiting for the final four books (especially since Walker's book isn't until number five!) is really going to try my patience!
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August 13, 2017Review
I'm really enjoying this series the writing is fluid the story's connect together with ease, the characters are likeable, the romance is sweet.
I'm really enjoying this series the writing is fluid the story's connect together with ease, the characters are likeable, the romance is sweet.
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