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First Rodeo: A Novel
Kate, an attractive, thirty-something, workaholic, single mother, is in the business of pleasing others. At the top of her yes list is her sometimes surly and controlling boss: her father. But when a crisis at work spurs Kate to examine her life, she surprises everyone by taking her young son and heading where few high heels have ever gone: Wyoming, home to more cows than humans. There, at the Prickly Pair Ranch, she meets a young, sexy, bull rider, who s lived a lifetime in just over two decades. He s full of big dreams of training horses, and his passion fuels Kate s dormant dreams of becoming an artist, and sparks fly and once again, Kate shocks everyone, even herself, and jumps on for the romantic ride of her life.
Fast-paced and wildly entertaining, First Rodeo is filled with humorous scenes of city girl gone country, encounters with handsome cowboys, the struggles of the creative process, and a powerful message: the greatest love of all is the love you have for yourself."
Fast-paced and wildly entertaining, First Rodeo is filled with humorous scenes of city girl gone country, encounters with handsome cowboys, the struggles of the creative process, and a powerful message: the greatest love of all is the love you have for yourself."
288 pages, Paperback
First published September 20, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
October 9, 2016
Yeah....NO!
First and foremost, this is not, I repeat, NOT a romance. And that is fine of course, but I really feel like it is billed as one. So, it not being one felt like a bait and switch. Moving on.
I did not understand the choices Kate made in this book, starting with the insta-love between her and a man 13 years younger than her. The age gap didn't bother me, but them having nothing in common and the instant relationship sure did. What was all that love based on? I saw nothing. Then, just about every decision she made baffled me. I could not relate.
In the end, I didn't feel like I got any significant closure on the Jake front. He's basically Brad Pit's character from Thelma & Louise, except Kate tried to keep him. The events toward the end of the book (avoiding a spoiler here) came about as quickly as their relationship started. There was no buildup or gradual change.
I think what bothered me so much about it was that for most of the book you have dual POVs, making this feel like the story of them. Then when that suddenly changes and you realize it's only supposed to be her story it feels like a bait and switch, just like the blurb. He is relegated to unimportant, but you've just spend significant time in his head. So, it's hard to just dismiss him as the plot device he was.
I appreciate the theme of making yourself happy, instead of depending on another for it and some of the mysticism was interesting, though I didn't really think it fit the rest of the story. All in all, I suppose there will be some who really like this. I'm not one of them. It was an ok book, but not my cup of tea.
As an aside, there was something odd going on with the page numbering. A whole chunk (~30 pages) was out of order. They were all there, just transposed. I won the book on GR, so maybe it's an ARC (though it's not labeled as one).
First and foremost, this is not, I repeat, NOT a romance. And that is fine of course, but I really feel like it is billed as one. So, it not being one felt like a bait and switch. Moving on.
I did not understand the choices Kate made in this book, starting with the insta-love between her and a man 13 years younger than her. The age gap didn't bother me, but them having nothing in common and the instant relationship sure did. What was all that love based on? I saw nothing. Then, just about every decision she made baffled me. I could not relate.
In the end, I didn't feel like I got any significant closure on the Jake front. He's basically Brad Pit's character from Thelma & Louise, except Kate tried to keep him. The events toward the end of the book (avoiding a spoiler here) came about as quickly as their relationship started. There was no buildup or gradual change.
I think what bothered me so much about it was that for most of the book you have dual POVs, making this feel like the story of them. Then when that suddenly changes and you realize it's only supposed to be her story it feels like a bait and switch, just like the blurb. He is relegated to unimportant, but you've just spend significant time in his head. So, it's hard to just dismiss him as the plot device he was.
I appreciate the theme of making yourself happy, instead of depending on another for it and some of the mysticism was interesting, though I didn't really think it fit the rest of the story. All in all, I suppose there will be some who really like this. I'm not one of them. It was an ok book, but not my cup of tea.
As an aside, there was something odd going on with the page numbering. A whole chunk (~30 pages) was out of order. They were all there, just transposed. I won the book on GR, so maybe it's an ARC (though it's not labeled as one).
October 19, 2016
This review was originally posted on Cocktails and Books
Don't let the blurb on this book fool you. If you're picking this book up thinking you're getting a romance between a hot cowboy and a workaholic city girl, you'll be disappointed. FIRST RODEO is the story of Kate, a woman who has troubled relationships with the men in her life: her father, her brother, her ex (husband and boyfriend). When a rumor causes a rift between herself and her father, she decides a three-month leave of absence from work and time at a Wyoming ranch is what she and her five-year-old son need.
I didn't like Kate. At first, I thought it was her current circumstance and I'd like her more as the story developed. But that never happened. She made horrible choices and then often blamed the outcome on someone else rather than looking at herself.
A lot of Kate's issues stem from her relationship with her parents, but at some point (especially given she's a mother) she had to get over that. Instead she that relationship mold the type of men she picked for herself. The one decent guy out of the bunch is the one she cast aside while she let one string her along for years and the other she jumped into a insta-love romance with. All of this left me wondering when she was going to learn? Why, when she was finally taking a break from everything, did she jump into a relationship instead of focusing on figuring herself out and enjoy the hobbies she gave up? It made it hard to believe she was this smart business woman when every other choice she made in her life was so poor.
I would have liked to have enjoyed this one more. But Kate was just too hard to like and made it terribly hard to even hope she found some kind of HEA at the end of the book.
Don't let the blurb on this book fool you. If you're picking this book up thinking you're getting a romance between a hot cowboy and a workaholic city girl, you'll be disappointed. FIRST RODEO is the story of Kate, a woman who has troubled relationships with the men in her life: her father, her brother, her ex (husband and boyfriend). When a rumor causes a rift between herself and her father, she decides a three-month leave of absence from work and time at a Wyoming ranch is what she and her five-year-old son need.
I didn't like Kate. At first, I thought it was her current circumstance and I'd like her more as the story developed. But that never happened. She made horrible choices and then often blamed the outcome on someone else rather than looking at herself.
A lot of Kate's issues stem from her relationship with her parents, but at some point (especially given she's a mother) she had to get over that. Instead she that relationship mold the type of men she picked for herself. The one decent guy out of the bunch is the one she cast aside while she let one string her along for years and the other she jumped into a insta-love romance with. All of this left me wondering when she was going to learn? Why, when she was finally taking a break from everything, did she jump into a relationship instead of focusing on figuring herself out and enjoy the hobbies she gave up? It made it hard to believe she was this smart business woman when every other choice she made in her life was so poor.
I would have liked to have enjoyed this one more. But Kate was just too hard to like and made it terribly hard to even hope she found some kind of HEA at the end of the book.
September 24, 2024
Seem to think the same as all the other reviews. NOT a fan. The whole story was so weird, starts off with her & Jake falling madly in love to him saying he’s in love with a bartender in the last 1/4 of the book. I wanted to quit reading 1/2 through the book & I should have.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 15, 2017
This was something to read.... that's about it. I would definitely not consider it a romance. Maybe a novel about a woman trying to find herself. I think I was more disturbed about how Kate just up and left her child for weeks at a time and concerned about her being taken advantage of by this young man-boy to even enjoy the story. I will say that the descriptions of the Wyoming towns were very accurate and brought back memories of times I've stayed in Rock Springs. I may try another book by this author, but it will be awhile.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 26, 2016
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I am not sure what I was expecting with this book, but it wasn't what I found. While most of the book was fast-paced and entertaining, with Kate's initial adventure and then the subsequent relationship that followed, I was not the biggest fan but as a character, I did like and empathize with Kate. I think that towards the middle, the book got a bit depressing and Kate's choices were harder to understand. The author alludes to her being such a fiercely strong and independent woman, and her character continued to take actions that were a bit confusing to me based on her strength and drive, while others made complete sense.
I also think too much time was spent on Jake, even though he is the catalyst for many subsequent actions and decisions in Kate's life, however I am mad at how long it took to cut that cord. While he started off as the epitome of a sexy cowboy, I really just wanted him to go away and quickly.
Based on these experiences, Kate made choices as a strong woman with the help of her family and friends around her - knowing where and what her limits were when deciding on choices for her life. I think the overall message of this book is a great one - there is no life with others if you can't live, love and be happy with your self. This is an essential message for a woman and for people in general, and I think that the book showing the struggles Kate went through to learn this lesson, also shows that things that are worth it, aren't easy. If you're looking for a lighthearted romance, this may not be the right book to read (or at least, not the second half of the book).
I am not sure what I was expecting with this book, but it wasn't what I found. While most of the book was fast-paced and entertaining, with Kate's initial adventure and then the subsequent relationship that followed, I was not the biggest fan but as a character, I did like and empathize with Kate. I think that towards the middle, the book got a bit depressing and Kate's choices were harder to understand. The author alludes to her being such a fiercely strong and independent woman, and her character continued to take actions that were a bit confusing to me based on her strength and drive, while others made complete sense.
I also think too much time was spent on Jake, even though he is the catalyst for many subsequent actions and decisions in Kate's life, however I am mad at how long it took to cut that cord. While he started off as the epitome of a sexy cowboy, I really just wanted him to go away and quickly.
Based on these experiences, Kate made choices as a strong woman with the help of her family and friends around her - knowing where and what her limits were when deciding on choices for her life. I think the overall message of this book is a great one - there is no life with others if you can't live, love and be happy with your self. This is an essential message for a woman and for people in general, and I think that the book showing the struggles Kate went through to learn this lesson, also shows that things that are worth it, aren't easy. If you're looking for a lighthearted romance, this may not be the right book to read (or at least, not the second half of the book).
September 27, 2016
I can totally see this book becoming a made for Hallmark TV movie. Typical chick lit story that highlights a woman struggling to find her place in the world after a life-changing event.
The story revolves around Kate, a 30-something mom of a young son who is recently divorced and works for her father's successful auto dealer. Though she lives in St. Louis, Kate longs of living in the mountains of Wyoming where she can paint and find peace in a crazy world.
When she ventures into the mountains for a brief vacation with her son, she encounters Jake, a cowboy who works at the resort. This 20-something young stud captivates Kate and they fall hard for each other. The fact that they are a decade apart in age and come from two completely different worlds does not come to affect them until later.
Having received an Advanced Reader Copy, my book was missing 60 pages (30 pages here and 30 pages there) so I am sure I missed something, but it didn't really matter.
No matter what our age, we can all relate to Kate and her desire to be someone else, live a different life and have a different career. For me personally, the book touched on places I love (Santa Fe) and things that I relate to which made it a bit more enjoyable.
The story revolves around Kate, a 30-something mom of a young son who is recently divorced and works for her father's successful auto dealer. Though she lives in St. Louis, Kate longs of living in the mountains of Wyoming where she can paint and find peace in a crazy world.
When she ventures into the mountains for a brief vacation with her son, she encounters Jake, a cowboy who works at the resort. This 20-something young stud captivates Kate and they fall hard for each other. The fact that they are a decade apart in age and come from two completely different worlds does not come to affect them until later.
Having received an Advanced Reader Copy, my book was missing 60 pages (30 pages here and 30 pages there) so I am sure I missed something, but it didn't really matter.
No matter what our age, we can all relate to Kate and her desire to be someone else, live a different life and have a different career. For me personally, the book touched on places I love (Santa Fe) and things that I relate to which made it a bit more enjoyable.
August 15, 2016
Having made the same life change, from city to country, this was a fun read for me. Characters were interesting and believable, plus the main character, Kate, had an evolution from being focused on work and pleasing her father/boss to having more consideration for her own wishes, dreams of a better life for her and her son.
Descriptions and action in the western US, especially Wyoming, were enticing. The author has interesting insights into the world of horses, rodeo, western life. Main character Kate is a wannabe artist so capturing that big landscape in paintings was part of the story. Even though it was a novel, the essence of the art came through the words.
I won't give away the ending, but it was different than a lot of airy romances; it really had the feel of real life, real emotions and down-to-earth decisions from a woman who had to learn to listen to her heart.
Descriptions and action in the western US, especially Wyoming, were enticing. The author has interesting insights into the world of horses, rodeo, western life. Main character Kate is a wannabe artist so capturing that big landscape in paintings was part of the story. Even though it was a novel, the essence of the art came through the words.
I won't give away the ending, but it was different than a lot of airy romances; it really had the feel of real life, real emotions and down-to-earth decisions from a woman who had to learn to listen to her heart.
September 29, 2016
First Rodeo is a good read. While posting this rating, I couldn't help but notice a few less-than-glowing reviews. All I have to say to that is: Read the whole dang book! Give Ms. Hennessey a chance. Let her tell her story. Gheesh!
As in real life, First Rodeo's main character, Kate, endured much pain and hardships on her path to enlightenment. (I'm not giving anything away here...the ending is a wonderful surprise.) The storyline expresses the trials and tribulations of personal growth - and it isn't always pretty. But, all's well that ends well and this story's final message is filled with hope and redemption.
So...open your mind, settle into the writing style and let Ms. Hennessey tell you about Kate. In the end, you'll find a wonderful treasure chest. I promise, anyone who gives this novel a fair shake will gain valuable insight. Good job, Judith!
As in real life, First Rodeo's main character, Kate, endured much pain and hardships on her path to enlightenment. (I'm not giving anything away here...the ending is a wonderful surprise.) The storyline expresses the trials and tribulations of personal growth - and it isn't always pretty. But, all's well that ends well and this story's final message is filled with hope and redemption.
So...open your mind, settle into the writing style and let Ms. Hennessey tell you about Kate. In the end, you'll find a wonderful treasure chest. I promise, anyone who gives this novel a fair shake will gain valuable insight. Good job, Judith!
October 5, 2016
The plot of First Rodeo was not what I was expecting, but in a way, that was a good thing! Kate is stuck in life. She is recently divorced and works for her father at a car dealership. She feels that she needs to make some changes in her life. She wants to be somewhere that always her to decompress and enjoy the scenery to paint. She and her son take a small vacation to Wyoming. While on her trip out west she meets Jake, a full-blown cowboy. They have a great connection right off the bat and Kate starts thinking about what she really wants from life. Kate begins to think about making herself happy instead of other people. The backdrop of the landscape made me want to venture out west myself! Overall, this is a story of growth and something we all do in life. I felt like this story was very believable and enjoyed Kate's journey.
February 8, 2017
i received a free copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
I'm sorry I just could not get into this book at all and after two attempts DNF'd it at 24%.
I really liked the sound of a high-powered woman, humiliated at work and finding fulfilment in cowboy country (hey, I'm English give me a break), but I found the writing style did not suit me. The sentences were very staccato and when written in the third person it just felt unnatural.
I am also not a fan of men referring to women as little ladies and I guess I find the cowboy vernacular more irritating than charming.
I didn't really read enough of the novel to comment on the story, although there seemed a lot of back story, perhaps this is not a stand-alone novel?
I'm sorry I just could not get into this book at all and after two attempts DNF'd it at 24%.
I really liked the sound of a high-powered woman, humiliated at work and finding fulfilment in cowboy country (hey, I'm English give me a break), but I found the writing style did not suit me. The sentences were very staccato and when written in the third person it just felt unnatural.
I am also not a fan of men referring to women as little ladies and I guess I find the cowboy vernacular more irritating than charming.
I didn't really read enough of the novel to comment on the story, although there seemed a lot of back story, perhaps this is not a stand-alone novel?
August 21, 2016
This is the first book by Ms Hennessey I've read and have to say I had a difficult time finishing the story. It felt as if the author was trying too hard to make Jake into a believable cowboy. Everything about him seemed just so sad and bleak. The dialogue seemed forced at times using old time western/cowboy vernacular to push the imagery of the West and Cowboys. The character of Kate was the most believable in that you could see a woman struggling with finding her passion while raising a young son as a single parent.
This book was provided by the Publisher and Netgalley for my honest review.
This book was provided by the Publisher and Netgalley for my honest review.
August 4, 2016
The “First Rodeo,” by Judith Hennessey is a must read for everyone who is contemplating a change in their life or have experienced a change in direction from their life path. This story is set against the backdrop of the rugged west, and explores the need to break out of the stagnation of life and do things that makes an individual happy without all of the guilt that being a parent and a child brings. I was given this book to read by the author in return for a fair and honest review.
August 9, 2016
Kate is a single Mom and a workaholic, but she is stuck in a job she doesn’t enjoy and wants out. So when things get shaken up at work Kate takes trip to the west with her son and finds a sexy cowboy to shake up her life. When she decides to change her life and run with her sexy cowboy out west to become an artist sparks fly in all kinds of ways.
I had a hard time with this book. It keeps introducing new men in Kate’s life and your not sure where the writer is really going with this book.
I had a hard time with this book. It keeps introducing new men in Kate’s life and your not sure where the writer is really going with this book.
September 19, 2016
First Rodeo is just not that great. I found the characters to be unlikable, the romance to be unbelievable, and the entire thing to be just uninteresting. I find it very doubtful that this well-to-do successful single mother would push all of that to the side to live in a trailer with a man-child in the middle of nowhere.
I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.
I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.
September 20, 2016
This is a great book written by Judith Hennessey. This book has a wonderful story and well developed characters. This book will keep you reading long into the night. This was such a great read and full of surprises. I am looking forward to reading the next book by this great author. A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
September 20, 2016
This is a Goodreads win review. I really liked this book partly because I could relate to the Lady Kate and she made a big change and so did I. I found out even though I was scared to death my big change was very invigorating and brought me new joy in my life. This book is a nice romantic story with a woman facing new challenges.
August 12, 2016
**I received a copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review**
First Rodeo by Judith Hennessey
I’m sorry, I couldn’t get into this book, I really tried but it wasn’t for me. I really don’t like to give up or only give 1 star. I’m so sorry
I loved this cover!
First Rodeo by Judith Hennessey
I’m sorry, I couldn’t get into this book, I really tried but it wasn’t for me. I really don’t like to give up or only give 1 star. I’m so sorry
I loved this cover!
August 3, 2016
via netgalley
an ok read
an ok read
August 28, 2016
I could not get into this book. I really tried but after a while I just couldn't take anymore of this book.
June 7, 2017
I really enjoyed this. Fun snappy dialogue! I so wanted to find out how Kate would balance the pull to be her father's kind of gal verses finding her own way. How to navigate the waters of single motherhood following a divorce with the desire to forge a new future in spite of it all. The picturesque settings made me yearn to revisit my own time in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. This is a fast-paced, breezy, and at times comedic read explores what it means to start over when you least expect it, and to not only survive, but thrive through some of life's more monumental changes.
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March 16, 2018Pretty disappointed to find while published, the pages were all mixed up so having to go back and forth to figure out the story made it extremely hard to read.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews