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Morgan Ranch #4
The Bad Boy Cowboy
A fading rodeo star returns to the family ranch—and finds the spark of love—in this western romance by the New York Times bestselling author. Professional rodeo cowboy “HW” Morgan achieved his dream of competing in the national rodeo finals—but his career came at a price. His twin brother wants nothing to do with him and a string of hookups haven’t warmed his bed. When he loses to a younger competitor, he knows it’s time get his head on straight—and the only place to do that is at home, if his family will have him. Army veteran Samantha Kelly isn’t sure that her visit to Morgan Ranch is a good idea. Struggling to rehab from an injury, she’s willing to give anything a try—even equine therapy. But it doesn’t help that her riding instructor is bold, brash, and distractingly easy on the eyes. As she and HW warily try to work each other out, slowly and surely an unbreakable trust is built—one on which dreams can be built.
“If you love cowboys—and who doesn’t—you’ll love the Morgans!”—Cora Seton, New York Times bestselling author
“If you love cowboys—and who doesn’t—you’ll love the Morgans!”—Cora Seton, New York Times bestselling author
337 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 26, 2017
153 people are currently reading
752 people want to read
About the author
Kate Pearce
164 books1,846 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kate Pearce was born in England in the middle of a large family of girls and quickly found that her imagination was far more interesting than real life. After acquiring a degree in history and barely escaping from the British Civil Service alive, she moved to California and then to Hawaii with her kids and her husband and set about reinventing herself as a romance writer.
She is known for both her unconventional heroes and her joy at subverting romance clichés. In her spare time she self publishes science fiction erotic romance, historical romance, and whatever else she can imagine. You can find Kate on katepearce.com.
She is known for both her unconventional heroes and her joy at subverting romance clichés. In her spare time she self publishes science fiction erotic romance, historical romance, and whatever else she can imagine. You can find Kate on katepearce.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
December 15, 2017
Throughout this series, all of the Morgan men have exposed secrets that have shown just how difficult their childhood was on the ranch. However, HW's childhood just might have been the most difficult and even more so because no one realized the extent of his secret nor how everything else affected him. That is not until Sam (Samantha) points it out to everyone, even to HW himself. Both HW and Sam have difficulty expressing themselves. HW because he has hidden his secret so long and tends to just want people to like him and Sam is dealing with returning from the war and living life without her left leg. She refuses to let people in for fear of being hurt, again. Together, just maybe, they can help each other.
This is a book that is definitely best read as part of the series, since each book explains a little bit more of life on the Morgan Ranch. And based on the secrets revealed in this one, I really hope there is one more Morgan Ranch story featuring Rachel!
This is a book that is definitely best read as part of the series, since each book explains a little bit more of life on the Morgan Ranch. And based on the secrets revealed in this one, I really hope there is one more Morgan Ranch story featuring Rachel!
December 8, 2017
Only thing better than a Kate Pearce Morgan Ranch novel would be being able to actually go there! Love this family with its tragic past but their ability to overcome and function as a family. Hard for me to comment if this is a stand-alone since I have enjoyed all the books in this series. HW Morgan has been on the rodeo circuit for years but finds himself aging and fearful of a riding accident that might prove to be deadly. Coming home he finds that the family ranch is being transformed into a getaway for tourists and he is tasked with giving Samantha Kelly some lessons on how to ride a horse. Sam is pushing all of HW's buttons with her out going personality and strong zeal for living. But.. Sam comes with her own demons from her military injury that has left its nightmares. This is my favorite in this series so far. Touches on equine therapy and its merit to kids and veterans. Fresh air, muscled cowboys, and heart are included. "A copy of this book was provided by Kensington Books via Netgalley with no requirements for a review. Comments here are my honest opinion."
December 25, 2017
HW is the wild child of the Morgan siblings. He is a rodeo star who has lived life in the fast lane; sleeping around, partying, drinking, drugs. He’s finally tired of it all, got it together. He wants to go home to Morgan Ranch to reconnect to his family, especially his twin, stay and find his place on the ranch. However, he’s not sure his family will accept him back into the fold with open arms. His usual MO is to come home for short periods of time then take off again when he gets restless.
Samantha Kelly is an Army veteran, medically discharged when a bomb blew off her left ankle and foot. She has a prosthesis she is still adapting to. She is gruff, no nonsense, very independent and beyond stubborn. She comes to the ranch as a guest to try equine therapy and help them evaluate their services.
HW is tasked with teaching Sam to ride. Their relationship felt really awkward in the beginning and I didn’t feel their attraction or connection. Both have serious insecurities that drove me crazy. There is an extreme amount of pushing and pulling. In addition, there are some implausible moments with Sam’s mobility.
His agent is a total snake in the grass. He’s conniving, ruthless and asinine.
There is a lot of interaction between the siblings, as well as with their girlfriends and wives. Billy plays a more active role on the ranch and with his kids in this story.
The ending was rushed, left lots of questions and was unsatisfying. HW and Sam’s relationship wasn’t an HEA, more like maybe a HFN, but it was a jumbled mess.
More secrets are revealed. While this could be read as a standalone, you will appreciate all the nuances and back story if you start at the beginning. This is definitely my least favorite in the series. I’m assuming Rachel’s story is next. Hopefully we will see how HW and Sam make it work and get more answers.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher.
Samantha Kelly is an Army veteran, medically discharged when a bomb blew off her left ankle and foot. She has a prosthesis she is still adapting to. She is gruff, no nonsense, very independent and beyond stubborn. She comes to the ranch as a guest to try equine therapy and help them evaluate their services.
HW is tasked with teaching Sam to ride. Their relationship felt really awkward in the beginning and I didn’t feel their attraction or connection. Both have serious insecurities that drove me crazy. There is an extreme amount of pushing and pulling. In addition, there are some implausible moments with Sam’s mobility.
His agent is a total snake in the grass. He’s conniving, ruthless and asinine.
There is a lot of interaction between the siblings, as well as with their girlfriends and wives. Billy plays a more active role on the ranch and with his kids in this story.
The ending was rushed, left lots of questions and was unsatisfying. HW and Sam’s relationship wasn’t an HEA, more like maybe a HFN, but it was a jumbled mess.
More secrets are revealed. While this could be read as a standalone, you will appreciate all the nuances and back story if you start at the beginning. This is definitely my least favorite in the series. I’m assuming Rachel’s story is next. Hopefully we will see how HW and Sam make it work and get more answers.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher.
January 3, 2018
We finally get HW's story!!! OMG and what a story it is! We not only learn more about the mysterious brother, but we learn how and why Rachel ended up with her mother.
I liked Sam's character; loved the way she gave it to HW just as much as he gave it to her. I appreciated that the author didn't focus Sam's entire character on her amputation. I've read far too many stories where it was as if that's the only part of the character that existed any longer. Instead Ms. Pearce addressed it when necessary but Sam's character and life didn't revolve around her injury.
My only complaint, and the reason my review didn't get 5 stars, was that the ending seemed very rushed. I felt like we needed more of an epilogue especially if this is to the be the last book in the series. In theory, each brother's story has been told so there isn't another story to be told unless the author has something up her sleeve we don't know about yet.
An amazing conclusion to the series that I absolutely recommend.
I liked Sam's character; loved the way she gave it to HW just as much as he gave it to her. I appreciated that the author didn't focus Sam's entire character on her amputation. I've read far too many stories where it was as if that's the only part of the character that existed any longer. Instead Ms. Pearce addressed it when necessary but Sam's character and life didn't revolve around her injury.
My only complaint, and the reason my review didn't get 5 stars, was that the ending seemed very rushed. I felt like we needed more of an epilogue especially if this is to the be the last book in the series. In theory, each brother's story has been told so there isn't another story to be told unless the author has something up her sleeve we don't know about yet.
An amazing conclusion to the series that I absolutely recommend.
March 12, 2018
The Bad Boy Cowboy is the fourth novel in the Morgan Ranch series and the third novel in the series that I've read, and I must admit that I had a very hard time deciding on a rating for this novel because while I can easily acknowledge the author's skill as a writer, this installment in the series left me in a bit of a quandary, while I liked both lead characters, HW Morgan and Samantha (Sam) Kelly, their relationship and constant bickering and waffling made this novel seem endless, and while I understood the issues facing each of them, I rapidly lost sympathy for both characters, more so, Sam. and was disappointed by the lack of a more substantial plot and the lack of a true HEA ending, which led me to give this novel only a 3-star rating.
HW is a character I was eager to learn more about after encountering him briefly in preceding novels. He's a mature rodeo bronc rider whose best performance was coming in second, convincing him that at his age (30-something), he'd never place any higher against the younger up-and-coming riders. He thinks he wants to retire, but his money-grubbing and obnoxious agent, Paul, thinking only of his own share of HW's winnings and endorsement deals, wants him to commit to another season. HW decides to take a break and return to the family ranch to figure it out, the ranch which is now in the process of being turned into a rehabilitation center and historic dude ranch by his siblings.
Samantha (Sam) Kelly is the female interest in this novel. She's a wounded veteran and former MP who lost her foot and ankle in an IED explosion. She's been invited to the ranch for two reasons, for rehab and as a test guest, tasked with evaluating what the ranch has to offer and how well it treats it's clientele. She first meets HW when she shows up at the stable, ready to re-learn how to ride a horse, and from the very beginning she's attracted to this gorgeous and charming hunk of rodeo cowboy. HW is equally taken with Sam. While HW is struggling to figure out how he'll fit in at the family ranch he's been away from for years, Sam is trying to regain her sense of independence, deal with her PTSD nightmares, and her survivor guilt, as the only survivor of the explosion that ended her military career. Additionally, she was dumped by her cheating ex-finance, and is a bit gun-shy and leery of getting deeply involved with another man, especially a man like HW--a love 'em and leave 'em, one-night stand, rodeo celebrity with a trail of buckle bunnies in his past, and no relationship experience whatsoever. While I applauded Sam's attempts to regain her independence, some of her arguments with HW, and her reactions to him seemed incredibly petty and calling her attitude prickly makes a saguaro seem smooth. At times I didn't have a clue what she wanted, and quite frankly, it seemed that neither did she.
The set-up and background of these two characters was intriguing, and at the outset both were likable, but the entire middle of the novel was one seemingly endless on-again, off-again sexual relationship plagued with constant waffling and bickering on the part of both characters, neither of whom really seemed to know what they wanted from the other beyond the bedroom. To say that their behavior and non-stop misunderstandings and conflicted feelings, indecisiveness and angst grew tedious and tiresome is putting it mildly. It slowed the novel down to a crawl, the only relief being the inter-relationships between HW and his other family members, almost all of whom we'd met in previous novels.
What saved the novel for this reader was seeing some well-liked Morgan family members again and learning more about what made them tick, as well as getting a better picture of what tore this family apart and why, and how each family member was dealing with the reality of what happened when they were mere children.
Add in the money-grubbing agent, HW's ex-girlfriend and drug abuser, Lally, who has her own agenda, the reappearance of Rachel, the sister that the brothers and their reformed alcoholic father, Billy, had presumed was dead, and there was plenty of drama to go around. I just kept wishing that Ms. Pearce has spent more time on them and less time on the non-stop bickering between Sam and HW. I was also disappointed by the abrupt ending, which hints at an HEA at some indeterminate time in the future, but still leaves the reader wondering why the author chose that rather than simply winding up this novel with a true HEA ending.
While I feel grateful for having more of the Morgan family history brought to light, and while I liked almost all of the characters, the character I liked the least was Samantha, and I would have much preferred growing to like her by the end of the novel, but for this reader, it just didn't happen. Finally, I have to take issue with the title. HW was a nice guy, charming, caring, sexy and sweet. While he may have been a bad boy a some point in his past, we didn't see any evidence of that in this novel. Instead, HW wants to save everyone with whom he comes into contact, and thus, the title seemed designed merely to draw in possible readers, rather than being an actual portrayal of the hero's character.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
HW is a character I was eager to learn more about after encountering him briefly in preceding novels. He's a mature rodeo bronc rider whose best performance was coming in second, convincing him that at his age (30-something), he'd never place any higher against the younger up-and-coming riders. He thinks he wants to retire, but his money-grubbing and obnoxious agent, Paul, thinking only of his own share of HW's winnings and endorsement deals, wants him to commit to another season. HW decides to take a break and return to the family ranch to figure it out, the ranch which is now in the process of being turned into a rehabilitation center and historic dude ranch by his siblings.
Samantha (Sam) Kelly is the female interest in this novel. She's a wounded veteran and former MP who lost her foot and ankle in an IED explosion. She's been invited to the ranch for two reasons, for rehab and as a test guest, tasked with evaluating what the ranch has to offer and how well it treats it's clientele. She first meets HW when she shows up at the stable, ready to re-learn how to ride a horse, and from the very beginning she's attracted to this gorgeous and charming hunk of rodeo cowboy. HW is equally taken with Sam. While HW is struggling to figure out how he'll fit in at the family ranch he's been away from for years, Sam is trying to regain her sense of independence, deal with her PTSD nightmares, and her survivor guilt, as the only survivor of the explosion that ended her military career. Additionally, she was dumped by her cheating ex-finance, and is a bit gun-shy and leery of getting deeply involved with another man, especially a man like HW--a love 'em and leave 'em, one-night stand, rodeo celebrity with a trail of buckle bunnies in his past, and no relationship experience whatsoever. While I applauded Sam's attempts to regain her independence, some of her arguments with HW, and her reactions to him seemed incredibly petty and calling her attitude prickly makes a saguaro seem smooth. At times I didn't have a clue what she wanted, and quite frankly, it seemed that neither did she.
The set-up and background of these two characters was intriguing, and at the outset both were likable, but the entire middle of the novel was one seemingly endless on-again, off-again sexual relationship plagued with constant waffling and bickering on the part of both characters, neither of whom really seemed to know what they wanted from the other beyond the bedroom. To say that their behavior and non-stop misunderstandings and conflicted feelings, indecisiveness and angst grew tedious and tiresome is putting it mildly. It slowed the novel down to a crawl, the only relief being the inter-relationships between HW and his other family members, almost all of whom we'd met in previous novels.
What saved the novel for this reader was seeing some well-liked Morgan family members again and learning more about what made them tick, as well as getting a better picture of what tore this family apart and why, and how each family member was dealing with the reality of what happened when they were mere children.
Add in the money-grubbing agent, HW's ex-girlfriend and drug abuser, Lally, who has her own agenda, the reappearance of Rachel, the sister that the brothers and their reformed alcoholic father, Billy, had presumed was dead, and there was plenty of drama to go around. I just kept wishing that Ms. Pearce has spent more time on them and less time on the non-stop bickering between Sam and HW. I was also disappointed by the abrupt ending, which hints at an HEA at some indeterminate time in the future, but still leaves the reader wondering why the author chose that rather than simply winding up this novel with a true HEA ending.
While I feel grateful for having more of the Morgan family history brought to light, and while I liked almost all of the characters, the character I liked the least was Samantha, and I would have much preferred growing to like her by the end of the novel, but for this reader, it just didn't happen. Finally, I have to take issue with the title. HW was a nice guy, charming, caring, sexy and sweet. While he may have been a bad boy a some point in his past, we didn't see any evidence of that in this novel. Instead, HW wants to save everyone with whom he comes into contact, and thus, the title seemed designed merely to draw in possible readers, rather than being an actual portrayal of the hero's character.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
December 28, 2017
I’ve been mulling over The Bad Boy Cowboy for a while now, and I am still not 100% sure how I feel about it. Mostly, I’m swaying towards liking it—it is, after all, an incredibly well-written romance. However, I had/have some misgivings about HW and Sam’s back-and-forth, which I just can’t seem to shake . . .
For me, it just dragged on a little long, and made it harder for me to find the attraction they shared, the feelings they were growing together. I would have liked to see less of the fighting (although, please don't misunderstand me, there were times when said fighting was tension-filled and perfect) and more of the connecting. (Mind out of the gutter, friends. But, like, not too far out . . .)
Having said that, there are so many enjoyable things about this book and it would be a disservice to Kate Pearce to overlook them. The family dynamics of the Morgan clan is intriguing and still to be completely resolved. And because of that, the way Sam took up for HW when he needed it—and he needed it—made me happy. Plus, the scenery as painted by Ms. Pearce's words was lovely, and I can't help but wish the Morgan ranch was a real place I could visit.
Despite its hurried conclusion, I am still glad to have read this book. I have lingering questions, and hopefully they'll be answered if this series continues with Rachel's book. If not, I'll be frustrated but not completely unhappy—after all, the ending was swift but sweet, the cowboys gruff and sexy, the story well-written and likable, and that works just fine for me.
~ 3.5 STARS ~
For me, it just dragged on a little long, and made it harder for me to find the attraction they shared, the feelings they were growing together. I would have liked to see less of the fighting (although, please don't misunderstand me, there were times when said fighting was tension-filled and perfect) and more of the connecting. (Mind out of the gutter, friends. But, like, not too far out . . .)
Having said that, there are so many enjoyable things about this book and it would be a disservice to Kate Pearce to overlook them. The family dynamics of the Morgan clan is intriguing and still to be completely resolved. And because of that, the way Sam took up for HW when he needed it—and he needed it—made me happy. Plus, the scenery as painted by Ms. Pearce's words was lovely, and I can't help but wish the Morgan ranch was a real place I could visit.
Despite its hurried conclusion, I am still glad to have read this book. I have lingering questions, and hopefully they'll be answered if this series continues with Rachel's book. If not, I'll be frustrated but not completely unhappy—after all, the ending was swift but sweet, the cowboys gruff and sexy, the story well-written and likable, and that works just fine for me.
~ 3.5 STARS ~
December 14, 2017
This is the 4th book in this series and i think my favorite. I'm not sure why other than I really liked HW and Sam and i really didn't care much for HW in previous books. HW is not a favorite among his family. He almost burned his bridges home when he finally figured out he was going down a bad path, He's decided he's done with the rodeo and wants in on the family business but no one takes him seriously. Samantha Kelly is a military vet with a prosthetic foot. She's been having a rough time getting her life on track after her devastating injury but is slowly finding her way. A friend recommends her to the Morgan's when they are looking for feedback on their new dude ranch. Hoping to get away from her family for a bit and get away she jumps at the chance. HW gets to teach her how to ride again and the two bang heads right from the get go. I loved these two. HW and Sam have to face some truths about themselves and their pasts while coping with their new paths in life. Some sweet and sad, heartbreaking moments in this book. Can't wait to see what happens on the Morgan's ranch next!
December 8, 2017
This is the story of the last Morgan brother. All very unique cowboys with distinct personalities and views of their past. A painful past that has affected them into their adulthood.
HW has been the wildcard. He was considered the favorite child of a mother that abandoned them when they were very young. Little do they know there is a great deal of pain within HW. He has become a rodeo champion, is considered a playboy and the one that the other brothers feel will never stay permanently at the ranch. He has decisions to make about his future, and has gone to stay at the ranch to regroup. Samantha Kelly is an Army vet, still dealing with an injury and nightmares that has her feeling at times insecure. That said, she is a strong woman who speaks her mind. She is invited to the ranch so she can critique the ranch prior to it’s grand opening.
Samantha and HW start a relationship though both have trust issues and HW still doesn’t know what to do with the rest of his life.
I appreciated the author’s presentation of the trials and tribulations the returning troops, especially those injured, have to endure. Also the fact that the experiences you have as a child, will follow you into adulthood. Whether it’s lack of trust, a sense of not being loved or feeling responsible for the acts of the adults.
All that said, for me , it could have easily been 50 pages shorter . Some parts were repetitive and wordy. A 3-3.5 star story in my opinion. That said, I did love books 1 and 2, so for that , I am giving it a higher rating.
I was gifted this copy by Netgalley . The opinions expressed are solely my own.
HW has been the wildcard. He was considered the favorite child of a mother that abandoned them when they were very young. Little do they know there is a great deal of pain within HW. He has become a rodeo champion, is considered a playboy and the one that the other brothers feel will never stay permanently at the ranch. He has decisions to make about his future, and has gone to stay at the ranch to regroup. Samantha Kelly is an Army vet, still dealing with an injury and nightmares that has her feeling at times insecure. That said, she is a strong woman who speaks her mind. She is invited to the ranch so she can critique the ranch prior to it’s grand opening.
Samantha and HW start a relationship though both have trust issues and HW still doesn’t know what to do with the rest of his life.
I appreciated the author’s presentation of the trials and tribulations the returning troops, especially those injured, have to endure. Also the fact that the experiences you have as a child, will follow you into adulthood. Whether it’s lack of trust, a sense of not being loved or feeling responsible for the acts of the adults.
All that said, for me , it could have easily been 50 pages shorter . Some parts were repetitive and wordy. A 3-3.5 star story in my opinion. That said, I did love books 1 and 2, so for that , I am giving it a higher rating.
I was gifted this copy by Netgalley . The opinions expressed are solely my own.
February 11, 2023
I love a sassy woman who holds her own and Sam is no exception. I loved her attitude in overcoming her challenges and HW was one that she struggled with to the end. HW tries to save women who need saving and isn’t sure how to handle one who doesn’t. I’m not often surprised by book endings but this one did surprise me on some of the plot resolutions.
February 24, 2018
I liked it but didn't love it. The characters fought a bit too much for my liking.
- - Received copy through NetGalley - -
L
- - Received copy through NetGalley - -
L
December 12, 2017
HW Morgan wants to retire from the rodeo he isn’t young anymore and needs a break. He comes home to there Morgan ranch as the black sheep the family. He is ready to see his Twin Ry and the rest of his brothers and see what happens.
Samantha, Sam, is an Army vet who has lost her foot from the ankle down. She is asked by her friend Jay to go stay the new dude ranch and give them her thoughts.
When HW is asked to give riding lessons he is not thrilled at the job and Sam overhears this and decides to give HW a hard time. The two get off to a rocky start can these two work out their differences and trust each other?
I loved this series and learning more about the brothers. Both characters have issues they have to work out and they need each other. I love the banter between the two and at times were comical. The plot and setting were wonderful the reader would actually feel like part of the family.
Finding love and trust is not easy but the author lets you know it is possible.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Samantha, Sam, is an Army vet who has lost her foot from the ankle down. She is asked by her friend Jay to go stay the new dude ranch and give them her thoughts.
When HW is asked to give riding lessons he is not thrilled at the job and Sam overhears this and decides to give HW a hard time. The two get off to a rocky start can these two work out their differences and trust each other?
I loved this series and learning more about the brothers. Both characters have issues they have to work out and they need each other. I love the banter between the two and at times were comical. The plot and setting were wonderful the reader would actually feel like part of the family.
Finding love and trust is not easy but the author lets you know it is possible.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
January 2, 2018
For the Morgan family life is about moving forward, not looking back. Despite the turbulent infighting, the heartbreaking losses and the emotional turmoil, Ms. Pearce has created a family as inspiring as they are flawed. It's only fitting that these rough riding cowboys find their heart's in strong willed women. The Bad Boy Cowboy is HW and Sam's tumultuous romance. Sam is an army vet working her way back from injury, the demons in her head and the fear in her heart. HW is the man determined to bring the hidden warrior out of the darkness and into the light. The scenery isn't always a pretty but the message is as uplifting as they come.
February 1, 2018
I am very conflicted with this book and have considered skipping writing this review altogether. First, it took me for the longest time to finish reading the book, I would put it away and then pick it up again. I had waited to hear the story of Ry's twin HW, I had looked forward to this story. I felt like he really deserved a good woman as his partner, and I was excited to read this story, I really wanted to not only like it but love it. But this book turned out to be a bit of a mess, in my opinion.
Samantha Kelly is a good woman, she is a wounded veteran, she is strong and independent but she is also stubborn, has no idea what she wants or how to go about figuring life out. She is lost with survivor's guilt, with a broken heart by an ex who cheated on her, with the adjustment of her new life after losing her leg.
HW is ready to leave the rodeo world and retire while he still can. He wants to leave behind the snake of an agent who wants to take advantage of him and the clingy ex who loves to party while intoxicated and high and do it all by using HW's money. But coming home is not so easy when HW feels that the whole family resents him because of their mother who loved him the best. The family drama and trouble seems to come to heads everytime HW is around and he is not completely confident there is a welcome mat for him or a place to him in the new operation at the home ranch.
When you take two people who both have more issues than most, who are at the crossroads on their lives and have no idea how to communicate, are stubborn, argumentative, and tenacious you bet you get some sparks flying. HW and Sam fight, argue, banter, clash, have confrontations, walk away from each other and come back together again for a tryst. Because they are physically as combustible as they are mentally and emotionally. Yes, there is a connection between them but it is not working out because of their hard-headed behavior. Sam is so prickly, I am not sure she knew half a time herself why she was fighting with HW.
The past drama with the family brings to light more secrets from the past, HW's burden as the favorite child of their unstable mother was not an easy to task to live with, nor are the memories or actions of a little child that changed lives and destinies.
The biggest problem I have with the story was that after all the exhausting arguments and fights, the ending was left wide open with no solutions to anything. HW's professional life was not resolved, the rodeo past is still open-ended, there are money issues that are not solved, there was a maybe with his future at the ranch, and his personal life got more of an HFN ending and even that was part of an argument... I am aware that some people do get energy out of constant fighting but I just felt drained and disappointed when I finished the book.
~ Two Spoons
Samantha Kelly is a good woman, she is a wounded veteran, she is strong and independent but she is also stubborn, has no idea what she wants or how to go about figuring life out. She is lost with survivor's guilt, with a broken heart by an ex who cheated on her, with the adjustment of her new life after losing her leg.
HW is ready to leave the rodeo world and retire while he still can. He wants to leave behind the snake of an agent who wants to take advantage of him and the clingy ex who loves to party while intoxicated and high and do it all by using HW's money. But coming home is not so easy when HW feels that the whole family resents him because of their mother who loved him the best. The family drama and trouble seems to come to heads everytime HW is around and he is not completely confident there is a welcome mat for him or a place to him in the new operation at the home ranch.
When you take two people who both have more issues than most, who are at the crossroads on their lives and have no idea how to communicate, are stubborn, argumentative, and tenacious you bet you get some sparks flying. HW and Sam fight, argue, banter, clash, have confrontations, walk away from each other and come back together again for a tryst. Because they are physically as combustible as they are mentally and emotionally. Yes, there is a connection between them but it is not working out because of their hard-headed behavior. Sam is so prickly, I am not sure she knew half a time herself why she was fighting with HW.
The past drama with the family brings to light more secrets from the past, HW's burden as the favorite child of their unstable mother was not an easy to task to live with, nor are the memories or actions of a little child that changed lives and destinies.
The biggest problem I have with the story was that after all the exhausting arguments and fights, the ending was left wide open with no solutions to anything. HW's professional life was not resolved, the rodeo past is still open-ended, there are money issues that are not solved, there was a maybe with his future at the ranch, and his personal life got more of an HFN ending and even that was part of an argument... I am aware that some people do get energy out of constant fighting but I just felt drained and disappointed when I finished the book.
~ Two Spoons
December 11, 2017
This has been my favorite series of the past year and this 4th installment of the Morgan Ranch series was just as entertaining as the rest. This time around we get HW's story, he is the black sheep of the family and everyone is still upset with his last stunt that made the family look bad. But, now HW is at a crossroads in his life, he doesn't want to be a professional rodeo star anymore and longs to just find a place at the ranch with his family. It's going to be hard to convince everyone he has changed, but with a little help from a spunky Irish gal named Samantha, HW finally takes his place at Morgan Ranch.
HW wasn't what I expected him to be, I was wanting him to be more alpha than he was, but he was still a great character. I think his childhood story is the most heartbreaking of all the Morgan boys, it hit me right in the feels. Samantha was a strong female character but I had issues with her indecisiveness and at times I just didn't like her much. There wasn't enough spark between HW and Samantha there definitely was something missing there. The story lagged a bit for me, but the last few chapters really picked up and when HW reveals his long held secret, it's a doozy! All in all I enjoyed the story, especially the relationship between HW and Ry. The character development is some of the best I have ever read and the back story is enthralling. I love being on the ranch with the Morgans and can't wait for the next book.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher through Net Galley**
HW wasn't what I expected him to be, I was wanting him to be more alpha than he was, but he was still a great character. I think his childhood story is the most heartbreaking of all the Morgan boys, it hit me right in the feels. Samantha was a strong female character but I had issues with her indecisiveness and at times I just didn't like her much. There wasn't enough spark between HW and Samantha there definitely was something missing there. The story lagged a bit for me, but the last few chapters really picked up and when HW reveals his long held secret, it's a doozy! All in all I enjoyed the story, especially the relationship between HW and Ry. The character development is some of the best I have ever read and the back story is enthralling. I love being on the ranch with the Morgans and can't wait for the next book.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher through Net Galley**
December 18, 2017
The Bad Boy Cowboy by Kate Pearce
Morgan Ranch #4
I wondered how the author would redeem HW Morgan after his introduction and comparison with his brothers…and am happy to say that though he still had some rough edges he was much more likable than I thought he would be.
HW was a good man. He had a kindness and patience some of his brothers did not. He had his demons from childhood but by the end of the book seems to have overcome most of them, found love and a place on the family ranch.
So, who was HW’s love interest? Did he end up with a buckle bunny from the rodeo? An old friend or perhaps a guest on the ranch or??? Well, he ended up with Sam Kelly, retired military veteran who lost part of her leg in combat. Sam is strong in so many ways but also afraid to lean on anyone and HW seems to have a savior complex always wanting to save the women he becomes involved with. The two get off to a rough start, find difficulty trusting and communicating but eventually move on and find a way to make their relationship work and both end up with a happily ever after on the ranch.
I enjoyed the story and look forward to reading Rachel’s story when it comes out. Who is Rachel? The lost sister now found and visiting the ranch for a bit.
There is the possibility of more romances on the ranch as guests, military veterans, children and others come to stay so…who knows how many books there will be in this wonderful series?
Thank you to NetGalley, Kensington Books-Zebra, and the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4 Stars
Morgan Ranch #4
I wondered how the author would redeem HW Morgan after his introduction and comparison with his brothers…and am happy to say that though he still had some rough edges he was much more likable than I thought he would be.
HW was a good man. He had a kindness and patience some of his brothers did not. He had his demons from childhood but by the end of the book seems to have overcome most of them, found love and a place on the family ranch.
So, who was HW’s love interest? Did he end up with a buckle bunny from the rodeo? An old friend or perhaps a guest on the ranch or??? Well, he ended up with Sam Kelly, retired military veteran who lost part of her leg in combat. Sam is strong in so many ways but also afraid to lean on anyone and HW seems to have a savior complex always wanting to save the women he becomes involved with. The two get off to a rough start, find difficulty trusting and communicating but eventually move on and find a way to make their relationship work and both end up with a happily ever after on the ranch.
I enjoyed the story and look forward to reading Rachel’s story when it comes out. Who is Rachel? The lost sister now found and visiting the ranch for a bit.
There is the possibility of more romances on the ranch as guests, military veterans, children and others come to stay so…who knows how many books there will be in this wonderful series?
Thank you to NetGalley, Kensington Books-Zebra, and the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4 Stars
January 20, 2018
Finally getting to HW's story has been well worth the wait. With all the turmoil that was his life as was told through Ry's story, HW's own brought out his true character, and much of what had been unseen previously. As truths about his childhood was revealed, my heart ached for the little boy
As Sam challenged HW, and he did the same to her, you're able to see that there is a connection between the two, though their chemistry was subtle, it was heartwarming to watch them grow closer. Their relationship was unique and a joy to witness.
Now with her four brothers' stories told, perhaps Rachel's will be next. Since her brothers have found their own HEA, she now deserves her own.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
As Sam challenged HW, and he did the same to her, you're able to see that there is a connection between the two, though their chemistry was subtle, it was heartwarming to watch them grow closer. Their relationship was unique and a joy to witness.
Now with her four brothers' stories told, perhaps Rachel's will be next. Since her brothers have found their own HEA, she now deserves her own.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
May 30, 2018
The Bad Boy Cowboy by Kate Pearce
Book #4: Morgan Ranch Series
Source: Netgalley and Purchase
My Rating: 4/5 stars
HW Morgan has always been very good at two things, the rodeo and disappointing his family. With his age, various injuries, and general level of exhaustion the rodeo is quickly becoming a no-go, which leaves returning to the Morgan ranch and hoping he can mend some literal and figurative fences there. Going home won’t be easy, but the Morgan’s have a long history of forgiveness; all HW can really hope for is that the forgiveness will extend to him.
With the ranch on the verge of opening for “real” guests, the timing of HW’s return couldn’t be better. He’s willing to pitch in anywhere, anytime, and glad to be back to the honest, hard work of ranch life. With a herd of trial-run guests coming to the ranch, HW is willing to work hard, not just for himself, but also, to prove to his family he’s ready to settle down, leave the bright lights of the rodeo behind. His first assignment, outside of the everyday ranch chores, is to teach the newbies how to ride a horse. Though HW initially grumbles and groans about the assignment (he is a rodeo star!) he quickly figures out, he’s a pretty good teacher, and one guest in particular is well worth his time and attention.
Samantha Kelly frustrates HW to no end! She is strong, sassy, intelligent, and not like any other woman he has ever known. Every time he takes her out riding, Samantha surprises him or pisses him off and there’s certainly no in between! She’s admittedly nosy and pushes HW to talk about the issues that have clearly made him so angry. What’s more, her outspoken nature has made her a Morgan family favorite which means she’s learning more about HW from his family than he would normally share on his own. That pisses him off too! Finally, there is the intense attraction he has toward Samantha. She is sexy as hell and seems interested in nothing more than a no-strings-attached fling. Yeah, that also pisses him off!
HW’s life is generally a mess, but Samantha is working hard to help him sort it out. She insists on him talking about and dealing with his past even when it pushes them further away from one another. As the weeks fly by, HW is confronted with one issue after another, and each seems more emotionally wrought than the last. With his nerves frayed, his sexual frustration at an all time high, and his future uncertain, HW needs Samantha more than ever, but he just isn’t sure he is what she wants or needs. Needless to say, everything blows up in spectacular Morgan fashion long before an HEA can be reached 😊
The Bottom Line: You know what? I am still really enjoying this series, and with the exception of a few unanswered questions, I particularly liked this read. As I discovered, HW isn’t so much a bad boy, though he has done some bad boy things, but a guy with a great many unresolved issues related to his family and his past. He has secrets he fears will separate him from his family forever, and that drives much of his behavior and anger. Samantha is a force of nature with her own issues that often collide with HW and his issues. However, at the end of the day, Samantha and HW are perfect for one another, and with the support of the rest of the Morgan family (to HW’s great surprise!) they can be together and be amazing! As much as I liked HW and Samantha, my favorite part of this read was the extended information about the Morgan family history. The secrets just keeping rolling out of this group and it certainly keeps me interested and coming back for more. The family history reveal is buttressed by the ongoing evolution of the entire Morgan clan (and partners!) and interesting book-specific plot lines that fall right in line with the series plot line. In all, I am still impressed with and totally entertained by this series!
Book #4: Morgan Ranch Series
Source: Netgalley and Purchase
My Rating: 4/5 stars
HW Morgan has always been very good at two things, the rodeo and disappointing his family. With his age, various injuries, and general level of exhaustion the rodeo is quickly becoming a no-go, which leaves returning to the Morgan ranch and hoping he can mend some literal and figurative fences there. Going home won’t be easy, but the Morgan’s have a long history of forgiveness; all HW can really hope for is that the forgiveness will extend to him.
With the ranch on the verge of opening for “real” guests, the timing of HW’s return couldn’t be better. He’s willing to pitch in anywhere, anytime, and glad to be back to the honest, hard work of ranch life. With a herd of trial-run guests coming to the ranch, HW is willing to work hard, not just for himself, but also, to prove to his family he’s ready to settle down, leave the bright lights of the rodeo behind. His first assignment, outside of the everyday ranch chores, is to teach the newbies how to ride a horse. Though HW initially grumbles and groans about the assignment (he is a rodeo star!) he quickly figures out, he’s a pretty good teacher, and one guest in particular is well worth his time and attention.
Samantha Kelly frustrates HW to no end! She is strong, sassy, intelligent, and not like any other woman he has ever known. Every time he takes her out riding, Samantha surprises him or pisses him off and there’s certainly no in between! She’s admittedly nosy and pushes HW to talk about the issues that have clearly made him so angry. What’s more, her outspoken nature has made her a Morgan family favorite which means she’s learning more about HW from his family than he would normally share on his own. That pisses him off too! Finally, there is the intense attraction he has toward Samantha. She is sexy as hell and seems interested in nothing more than a no-strings-attached fling. Yeah, that also pisses him off!
HW’s life is generally a mess, but Samantha is working hard to help him sort it out. She insists on him talking about and dealing with his past even when it pushes them further away from one another. As the weeks fly by, HW is confronted with one issue after another, and each seems more emotionally wrought than the last. With his nerves frayed, his sexual frustration at an all time high, and his future uncertain, HW needs Samantha more than ever, but he just isn’t sure he is what she wants or needs. Needless to say, everything blows up in spectacular Morgan fashion long before an HEA can be reached 😊
The Bottom Line: You know what? I am still really enjoying this series, and with the exception of a few unanswered questions, I particularly liked this read. As I discovered, HW isn’t so much a bad boy, though he has done some bad boy things, but a guy with a great many unresolved issues related to his family and his past. He has secrets he fears will separate him from his family forever, and that drives much of his behavior and anger. Samantha is a force of nature with her own issues that often collide with HW and his issues. However, at the end of the day, Samantha and HW are perfect for one another, and with the support of the rest of the Morgan family (to HW’s great surprise!) they can be together and be amazing! As much as I liked HW and Samantha, my favorite part of this read was the extended information about the Morgan family history. The secrets just keeping rolling out of this group and it certainly keeps me interested and coming back for more. The family history reveal is buttressed by the ongoing evolution of the entire Morgan clan (and partners!) and interesting book-specific plot lines that fall right in line with the series plot line. In all, I am still impressed with and totally entertained by this series!
December 27, 2017
HW Morgan watched as they tore down the rodeo trappings. His friend, Rio, came up to chat with him and HW told him he was thinking of walking away from it all. Too many of his friends had died in accidents already. He lost the desire to compete for the #1 spot in the national rodeo finals which he had lost this time to a talented young newcomer to the rodeo. But his sponsors loved him, as did the women who crowded around him after every event. His agent was not going to be happy about his decision not to return to the rodeo. Paul was greedy about his share of the money HW earned, and wouldn’t understand HW’s not wanting to get out there and earn even more money.
Army vet Sam Kelly’s best friend, Jay, was trying to convince her to come to the new Morgan dude ranch where they were offering an all-expense paid vacation in return for feedback from the guests on how successful it might be and what needed to be changed. She could spend 6 weeks there in Northern California, getting back into outdoor activity, relearning her riding skills, and relaxing. Finally she said yes to Jay’s persistent begging. His bar was near the ranch and he wanted her to meet his girlfriend. Sam’s Mom asked if she was ready to go so she put her prosthetic leg on, got in her wheelchair, and they drove home where she would tell her parents she was at last taking a vacation. Rehab from her army injury was over and she needed to get back into the world.
Right away, Sam sees that some ground rules need to be set. She overhears HW grumbling about having to teach some girl, and she decides to press on his patience and rattle him a bit. Ultimately, she lets him know that he does not want to be treated differently because of her disability. She is strong and willing to try. And HW honors her request to let her prove herself. HW also has to prove himself to his family who expect him to move on as he has always done. But now he wants to stay and is unsure how to prove himself to them. What will the future hold for HW? For Sam? For the success of the new dude ranch? And how will HW deal with the external pressures trying to force him in another direction?
This was an enjoyable story for me. Both of the main characters have issues to overcome, and it was cathartic to watch them learn to trust each other and begin to heal. Since this is the 4th book in the series, I intend to purchase the first three and catch up on the backstory. I liked the Morgan family very much and want to read their stories as well. I think this is a good series and I definitely recommend this book. NetGalley provided a copy of this book at my request and my comments reflect my honest opinion.
Army vet Sam Kelly’s best friend, Jay, was trying to convince her to come to the new Morgan dude ranch where they were offering an all-expense paid vacation in return for feedback from the guests on how successful it might be and what needed to be changed. She could spend 6 weeks there in Northern California, getting back into outdoor activity, relearning her riding skills, and relaxing. Finally she said yes to Jay’s persistent begging. His bar was near the ranch and he wanted her to meet his girlfriend. Sam’s Mom asked if she was ready to go so she put her prosthetic leg on, got in her wheelchair, and they drove home where she would tell her parents she was at last taking a vacation. Rehab from her army injury was over and she needed to get back into the world.
Right away, Sam sees that some ground rules need to be set. She overhears HW grumbling about having to teach some girl, and she decides to press on his patience and rattle him a bit. Ultimately, she lets him know that he does not want to be treated differently because of her disability. She is strong and willing to try. And HW honors her request to let her prove herself. HW also has to prove himself to his family who expect him to move on as he has always done. But now he wants to stay and is unsure how to prove himself to them. What will the future hold for HW? For Sam? For the success of the new dude ranch? And how will HW deal with the external pressures trying to force him in another direction?
This was an enjoyable story for me. Both of the main characters have issues to overcome, and it was cathartic to watch them learn to trust each other and begin to heal. Since this is the 4th book in the series, I intend to purchase the first three and catch up on the backstory. I liked the Morgan family very much and want to read their stories as well. I think this is a good series and I definitely recommend this book. NetGalley provided a copy of this book at my request and my comments reflect my honest opinion.
April 20, 2020
This was by far the worst book in the series. I'm incredibly disappointed after finishing this book. Had I not been reading a paperback, I'd have though I was missing a chapter or two at the end. How can the book just end like that? I wouldn't even say it was a HFN ending. It was abrupt and we're still left wondering what happens with HW's ex, what happens with his career, what happens between the time Sam finishes therapy and then returns in the summer to begin work on the ranch. When I saw there were only a few pages left in the book and none of those things had been answered and Sam & HW were still at odds, I knew I'd be disappointed with how things went down. So instead of just adding another chapter to really make the whole ending seem believable and a little satisfying, the author crams in the "I love you's" and "marry me" declarations all in a couple paragraphs at the end. Why?!? I just don't understand when none of the other books ended this abruptly.
I may not have had a problem with the ending had HW & Sam not spent the entire book bickering and going back and forth with their feelings. They both had insecurities and that didn't let up until the final couple of pages. I didn't find any love between them, lust, sure, but not love. They didn't exactly date or do anything remarkable to make a relationship seem feasible or make them a likable couple that we'd root for. Sam was too independent and stubborn for my liking (I'm the same way, but I at least accept help and ask for it when needed). HW was an idiot who liked to play the white knight to his drug addict ex way too often, even when he was with Sam. And he let his agent run all over him. Neither Sam nor HW seemed very mature or confident.
I did like getting to know more about happened to HW and his mom as a kid. It was utterly heartbreaking to hear what happened when his mom left and how he tried to stop her. Once we learn that, he doesn't seem so bad and spoiled like the persona he put out there.
I really wanted to like Sam. I liked that she was strong & independent, I just didn't like that she consistently pushed HW away and treated him so poorly. I get she was hurt by her ex in the past and then he died in combat while she survived. I hated that she didn't get the closure she really needed and he made her not trust men as much and not allow herself to love and be loved again. But at some point she just became a bitter woman and that's when I stopped caring if she and HW found their HEA.
I've already started the next book and I must say that it's already better (even though it doesn't have a Morgan as the H/h). So this was probably just a dud in the series and I won't hold it against the author too much. But that ending, yeah, that makes the Top 5 Worst Endings list for me.
I may not have had a problem with the ending had HW & Sam not spent the entire book bickering and going back and forth with their feelings. They both had insecurities and that didn't let up until the final couple of pages. I didn't find any love between them, lust, sure, but not love. They didn't exactly date or do anything remarkable to make a relationship seem feasible or make them a likable couple that we'd root for. Sam was too independent and stubborn for my liking (I'm the same way, but I at least accept help and ask for it when needed). HW was an idiot who liked to play the white knight to his drug addict ex way too often, even when he was with Sam. And he let his agent run all over him. Neither Sam nor HW seemed very mature or confident.
I did like getting to know more about happened to HW and his mom as a kid. It was utterly heartbreaking to hear what happened when his mom left and how he tried to stop her. Once we learn that, he doesn't seem so bad and spoiled like the persona he put out there.
I really wanted to like Sam. I liked that she was strong & independent, I just didn't like that she consistently pushed HW away and treated him so poorly. I get she was hurt by her ex in the past and then he died in combat while she survived. I hated that she didn't get the closure she really needed and he made her not trust men as much and not allow herself to love and be loved again. But at some point she just became a bitter woman and that's when I stopped caring if she and HW found their HEA.
I've already started the next book and I must say that it's already better (even though it doesn't have a Morgan as the H/h). So this was probably just a dud in the series and I won't hold it against the author too much. But that ending, yeah, that makes the Top 5 Worst Endings list for me.
November 29, 2017
I received an ARC from netgalley.com for an honest review.
I love this series. First of all because the Morgan boys (now men) were all named after characters from the old tv westerns that I used to watch with my grandfather when I was a young girl. I would not recommend reading this as a stand alone, but start at the begining with The Reluctant Cowboy.
This is HW's story. The youngest of the twins, he was perceived by the rest of the family as their mother's favorite. But none of them realized that she had messed with his head as much as she had the others. He was the charmer, because the lesson he learned from his mother was that no one who loved him stuck around; that something about him was "unloveable and leavable". His brothers think he has a "savior complex", but there are more family secrets that only HW knows about, that affected him the most.
At eighteen both of the twins left home to join the rodeo circuit with the dream of becoming Professional rodeo cowboys. However, in the last book, RY had had enough and went home. HW has finally achieved his dream of competing in the national rodeo finals, but at the end of the season realizes that he is getting too old, will never beat the younger guys coming up and he no longer has the desire in his heart. Without his twin, he is lonely, but he doesn't know if he will be welcomed at home and if not there, what will he do?
In a previous book, we also met Jay, ex Navy SEAL who had come home to Morganville. He asks his buddy Samantha (Sam) Kelly, who he had befriended in military rehab, to come spend 6 weeks at Morgan Ranch as a guest to give feedback before the grand opening. She had lost the lower part of her left leg in Afghanistan.
HW is assigned to help Sam relearn how to ride a horse. They start out bickering, but slowly start to trust the chemistry between them. Both have survivors guilt and trust issues due to abandonment by people who supposedly loved them. Will they be able to lower their "shields" and tell each other how they really feel?
The characters are engaging, the setting beautifully described and conflicts abound. Humor, some danger and a couple minor "villains" included. Family and brothers, love and conflicts, gorgeous cowboys- what else could you want?
I love this series. First of all because the Morgan boys (now men) were all named after characters from the old tv westerns that I used to watch with my grandfather when I was a young girl. I would not recommend reading this as a stand alone, but start at the begining with The Reluctant Cowboy.
This is HW's story. The youngest of the twins, he was perceived by the rest of the family as their mother's favorite. But none of them realized that she had messed with his head as much as she had the others. He was the charmer, because the lesson he learned from his mother was that no one who loved him stuck around; that something about him was "unloveable and leavable". His brothers think he has a "savior complex", but there are more family secrets that only HW knows about, that affected him the most.
At eighteen both of the twins left home to join the rodeo circuit with the dream of becoming Professional rodeo cowboys. However, in the last book, RY had had enough and went home. HW has finally achieved his dream of competing in the national rodeo finals, but at the end of the season realizes that he is getting too old, will never beat the younger guys coming up and he no longer has the desire in his heart. Without his twin, he is lonely, but he doesn't know if he will be welcomed at home and if not there, what will he do?
In a previous book, we also met Jay, ex Navy SEAL who had come home to Morganville. He asks his buddy Samantha (Sam) Kelly, who he had befriended in military rehab, to come spend 6 weeks at Morgan Ranch as a guest to give feedback before the grand opening. She had lost the lower part of her left leg in Afghanistan.
HW is assigned to help Sam relearn how to ride a horse. They start out bickering, but slowly start to trust the chemistry between them. Both have survivors guilt and trust issues due to abandonment by people who supposedly loved them. Will they be able to lower their "shields" and tell each other how they really feel?
The characters are engaging, the setting beautifully described and conflicts abound. Humor, some danger and a couple minor "villains" included. Family and brothers, love and conflicts, gorgeous cowboys- what else could you want?
December 28, 2017
The most emotional one in the series - I loved it.
I've been eagerly anticipating reading this book. The Bad Boy Cowboy is the fourth book in the Morgan Ranch series, a series that is best read in order. HW Morgan is a rodeo star and in the earlier books he's been portrayed as a bit of a jerk (OK, that's putting it mildly but I want Amazon to publish this review 😊).
I couldn't wait to see how Kate Pearce redeemed this bad boy and she did a fantastic job of it. HW is tired of life on the road and of abusing his body. He returns home to Morgan Ranch to see if his family will accept him back into the fold.
Samantha (Sam) Kelly was invited by a friend to help the Morgans do a trial run at their new Dude Ranch before it opens. She's recovering from an injury and has a lot of baggage. Sam and HW butt heads almost from the beginning but there are also sparks of attraction that both of them are afraid to acknowledge.
Wow, for me, this was the most emotional book in the series. Who doesn't love to see a bad boy be redeemed? HW turns out not to be the total baddy that he was portrayed in the earlier books. He has a lot of baggage from his past that caused him to act the way he does.
I was sobbing in places while reading this and in other places I wanted to smack some sense into both HW and Sam. Their path to an HEA is not easy but reading their story was so worth all of the tears I shed. If you've been following this series and have been wondering what HW stands for I won't give it away; you'll need to read the book for yourself.
I don't know if there are more books planned for this series or not but I sure hope so. There is one sibling left and I'd love to read her story.
A review copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley but this did not influence my opinion or rating of the book.
I've been eagerly anticipating reading this book. The Bad Boy Cowboy is the fourth book in the Morgan Ranch series, a series that is best read in order. HW Morgan is a rodeo star and in the earlier books he's been portrayed as a bit of a jerk (OK, that's putting it mildly but I want Amazon to publish this review 😊).
I couldn't wait to see how Kate Pearce redeemed this bad boy and she did a fantastic job of it. HW is tired of life on the road and of abusing his body. He returns home to Morgan Ranch to see if his family will accept him back into the fold.
Samantha (Sam) Kelly was invited by a friend to help the Morgans do a trial run at their new Dude Ranch before it opens. She's recovering from an injury and has a lot of baggage. Sam and HW butt heads almost from the beginning but there are also sparks of attraction that both of them are afraid to acknowledge.
Wow, for me, this was the most emotional book in the series. Who doesn't love to see a bad boy be redeemed? HW turns out not to be the total baddy that he was portrayed in the earlier books. He has a lot of baggage from his past that caused him to act the way he does.
I was sobbing in places while reading this and in other places I wanted to smack some sense into both HW and Sam. Their path to an HEA is not easy but reading their story was so worth all of the tears I shed. If you've been following this series and have been wondering what HW stands for I won't give it away; you'll need to read the book for yourself.
I don't know if there are more books planned for this series or not but I sure hope so. There is one sibling left and I'd love to read her story.
A review copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley but this did not influence my opinion or rating of the book.
March 29, 2018
I accidentally stumbled onto this series way back before the first book was even released. It has been a journey to say the least, but it has been well worth it. With each book you get another piece of the puzzle. By the time you get to this book, each brother (and their father) has revealed secrets that have been keeping them from properly reuniting as a family.
The Morgan boys haven't had it easy. Their mother was fighting postpartum depression after the birth of their younger sister, and usually took her anger out on Ry, while favoring HW. After she tried to drown their sister, then Ry, she tried to stab their father, then ran away. The boys have managed to find out what happened to their mother and have found their sister again, and have been tried to rebuild a relationship between them all.
While being the unfavored twin wasn't easy on Ry, It hasn't been easy on HW knowing he couldn't protect his brother, something that the rest of the family doesn't ever seem to realize. HW has also always felt betrayed by their mother for leaving him behind.
In the previous book, HW has seemed to be a jerk to busy with booze, drugs, and women to worry about himself much less his family, but you realize that much of that has been a front trying to deal with the hand he and his brother have been dealt.
Sam has come to stay on the ranch as a trial guest. She's a disabled vet dealing with a lot of her own scars and reacquainting herself in the world with the new challenges (and guilt) she has on her shoulders.
I loved this series and I loved Ruth's stern glare, and her ability to bring her family back together, because really it was all Ruth's doing. I'm sad that its over but I still plan on re-reading in over and over, and passing it on to anyone looking for a good ranch/cowboy series.
The Morgan boys haven't had it easy. Their mother was fighting postpartum depression after the birth of their younger sister, and usually took her anger out on Ry, while favoring HW. After she tried to drown their sister, then Ry, she tried to stab their father, then ran away. The boys have managed to find out what happened to their mother and have found their sister again, and have been tried to rebuild a relationship between them all.
While being the unfavored twin wasn't easy on Ry, It hasn't been easy on HW knowing he couldn't protect his brother, something that the rest of the family doesn't ever seem to realize. HW has also always felt betrayed by their mother for leaving him behind.
In the previous book, HW has seemed to be a jerk to busy with booze, drugs, and women to worry about himself much less his family, but you realize that much of that has been a front trying to deal with the hand he and his brother have been dealt.
Sam has come to stay on the ranch as a trial guest. She's a disabled vet dealing with a lot of her own scars and reacquainting herself in the world with the new challenges (and guilt) she has on her shoulders.
I loved this series and I loved Ruth's stern glare, and her ability to bring her family back together, because really it was all Ruth's doing. I'm sad that its over but I still plan on re-reading in over and over, and passing it on to anyone looking for a good ranch/cowboy series.
December 27, 2017
** I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the Net Galley and the publisher. All opinions expressed in my review are my own and given freely. **
This series has been just amazing. I’m not sure if this will be the last book as all of the brothers have had their stories told and the main mystery of their mom has been wrapped up. Yet there’s still their sister, Rachel, who can have a story I suppose. Not to mention the people in town.
The chemistry between HW and Sam is hot and I love their banter. Both have so many issues to deal with but are also very used to putting on a false front for everyone around them. They’re both extremely stubborn and hate asking for help…one because he doesn’t think he deserves the love and support of his family and the other because she doesn’t ever want to be considered weak or needy.
It is almost comical how Sam and HW each think they know what is best for the other and assume they are doing what the other wants of them. I swear, sometimes I couldn’t keep track of who should be upset with who and why…in a good way. It was highly entertaining.
I have been very impressed with this author throughout this entire series. I have yet to read any of her other work but feel I need to get cracking on working through her library. She has quite a range and it should be interesting.
https://allingoodtimeblog.wordpress.c...
This series has been just amazing. I’m not sure if this will be the last book as all of the brothers have had their stories told and the main mystery of their mom has been wrapped up. Yet there’s still their sister, Rachel, who can have a story I suppose. Not to mention the people in town.
The chemistry between HW and Sam is hot and I love their banter. Both have so many issues to deal with but are also very used to putting on a false front for everyone around them. They’re both extremely stubborn and hate asking for help…one because he doesn’t think he deserves the love and support of his family and the other because she doesn’t ever want to be considered weak or needy.
It is almost comical how Sam and HW each think they know what is best for the other and assume they are doing what the other wants of them. I swear, sometimes I couldn’t keep track of who should be upset with who and why…in a good way. It was highly entertaining.
I have been very impressed with this author throughout this entire series. I have yet to read any of her other work but feel I need to get cracking on working through her library. She has quite a range and it should be interesting.
https://allingoodtimeblog.wordpress.c...
December 23, 2017
A new book, another Morgan Brother. I have read all the series so far from Kate's Morgan Ranch. Chase was okay. BB/Blue was Best, Ry was just not my hero:( sorry Ry fans. But HW is sooo Good. I will say I was not excited to read that much about HW because he seemed too "Wild" but needed to read this to complete the cycle. Well I finished the book in a day. ONE DAY. I felt so many emotions this book. I get why HW was always seen as the "Bad boy" But he is and I will sort of quote" He's strong and courageous, and underneath that charm he's so...kind." That is why I couldn't put this book down. The one brother I thought I would really hate. I love the most. The end of the book had me wanting to cry. All the other brothers were so "Happy ending" This book was all sorts of emotions for me. This leads me to talk about the female companion. Veteran and therapist Miss Sam. When we first meet her on the Morgan ranch she is kind of annoying. But It was her plan to fool with HW. that took guts. Sam is strong, flirty, and her instant pondering care for HW. With all of Sam's questioning we get the complete story of Annie and Rachel. Who knew the Morgan's were so scary, and sad. I really hope the family and ranch can get past another scandal/ "GO THE F-HOME LALLY" I was really upset with that character the whole time. Regardless of the ups and downs....I really want another go around of the Morgan's story line. Please let there be more from these hot ranchers. Please?
December 26, 2017
I really enjoyed HW & Sam's story, it was sweet, sassy, emotional & strong. Sam is a military veteran amputee from the war in Afghanistan who was asked to the Morgan Ranch to help them make sure everything is just right for its grand opening. Coming home is a little terrifying for HW Morgan because he hasn't been home for any length of time since he left home at 18. The rodeo circuit celebrity has decided to retire & move home to help out on the ranch & reconnect with his family, which he thinks is going to be the hardest thing he's ever done. When Sam over hears HW whining about having to give riding lessons to some newbie kid she decides to give him a run for his money. It's hilarious how she scatters HW & it's great to see HW push Sam past her limits with his flirting. These to were such damaged characters in such different ways but that damage is what draws them together but also pushes them apart. Add in the drama with HW's brothers & you have a highly combustible story. I loved HW's character in this story because he was such a sweet, sexy cowboy who wanted nothing more than to fit in with his family & take care of the stubborn woman he was falling for. Definitely recommend this book & series to read. I hope there's going to be a book on the newly found sister Rachel soon. I received this book through Net Galley for an honest review.
December 22, 2017
As we read about each brother in the Morgan family, we finally get to the "wild child" Rodeo star HW Morgan. He's come home so figure out what he wants in life after coming in 2nd in the worlds. The winner is a young guy HW's not sure he can beat. He's pretty sure he's retiring and his agent is NOT happy about losing one of his best money making clients. The ranch is doing a "test run" before they open as a vacation "Dude Ranch" and looking for feedback. Jay Williams, the town's bar owner, knows that his friend, "Sam", Samantha Kelly, PT and former Amy MP, needs to get away from her parents during her recovery from loosing her lower leg in the war. Sam agrees to come and give the family feedback about her experience at the ranch.
This is a great exploration of how to find joy in life after being damaged. HW has been running from his emotional hurts since he left home at 18. Sam is coping but not really living after her broken relationship and injury. Their interactions through HW giving her riding lessons make the other think about the difficult emotions they're not dealing with. I enjoyed watching the growth in each character and the secrets HW has been keeping coming to light. This family deserves happiness and it's slowing healing and finding love.
Thank you Kensington and Kate Pearce for the NetGalley ARC of this story for an honest review.
This is a great exploration of how to find joy in life after being damaged. HW has been running from his emotional hurts since he left home at 18. Sam is coping but not really living after her broken relationship and injury. Their interactions through HW giving her riding lessons make the other think about the difficult emotions they're not dealing with. I enjoyed watching the growth in each character and the secrets HW has been keeping coming to light. This family deserves happiness and it's slowing healing and finding love.
Thank you Kensington and Kate Pearce for the NetGalley ARC of this story for an honest review.
December 17, 2017
What a great surprise! I have spent years reading the books written by a handful of my favorite authors. I guess I am one of those people who don't like change. I requested this book from netgalley and am SO glad that they agreed to my request.
THE BAD BOY COWBOY is a 5 star read. I won't rehash the story line because you can read the author's description. Kate Pearce wrote an incredible story with wonderful characters. It is a stand alone book, but other story lines are mentioned so I assume this is not the first book in the series. That being said, this issue does not detract from the overall enjoyment of this book. Kate Pearce gives you characters that are flawed, but you love them and root for them. Both the hero and heroine struggle to overcome many personal obstacles, and find themselves trying to discover/recover their own self-worth. The story grabbed me from the first page and I hated to put it down. There are sex scenes but they are not explicit nor graphic, which I really appreciate. There are a few mild curse words throughout the book, and the f-bomb is dropped once toward the end of the book. But I found them not overly used or in excess.
Although I had never read a Kate Pearce book before this one, it will not be my last. Thank you Kate, for telling such a wonderful story! 5 stars all the way!
THE BAD BOY COWBOY is a 5 star read. I won't rehash the story line because you can read the author's description. Kate Pearce wrote an incredible story with wonderful characters. It is a stand alone book, but other story lines are mentioned so I assume this is not the first book in the series. That being said, this issue does not detract from the overall enjoyment of this book. Kate Pearce gives you characters that are flawed, but you love them and root for them. Both the hero and heroine struggle to overcome many personal obstacles, and find themselves trying to discover/recover their own self-worth. The story grabbed me from the first page and I hated to put it down. There are sex scenes but they are not explicit nor graphic, which I really appreciate. There are a few mild curse words throughout the book, and the f-bomb is dropped once toward the end of the book. But I found them not overly used or in excess.
Although I had never read a Kate Pearce book before this one, it will not be my last. Thank you Kate, for telling such a wonderful story! 5 stars all the way!
December 26, 2017
"The Bad Boy Cowboy" is a standalone. For readers of past books there is a reveal we have all been waiting for. What happens to a couple of struggling tired souls when they have reached their limits? For HW Morgan, he goes home to the family ranch. For Samantha, she is asked to visit a dude ranch to try out the new concept of therapy at the ranch for a trial run. I found both characters working hard to show only their best side, just what they wanted others to see and think of them. The two became aware of each other, the chemistry between them hot and sexy while their insecurities and true feelings came forward. There is a lot of apprehension in their involvement with each other as HW struggles with his childhood, while Sam is coming to terms with her injury and life after the military. The realizations of the past we have been waiting for are finally revealed inadvertently by HW to his family and comes as a shock to everyone. Sam comes to her own realizations following her time in the military. Together, and with a loving family, these two find their HEA. I would like to thank NetGalley and Kensington/Zebra books for gifting me "The Bad Boy Cowboy". My opinion is my own. This is mine. 5 Stars!
December 28, 2017
The Bad Boy Cowboy is book four of the Morgan Brothers by Kate Pearce. I had thought none would replace Ry and Avery’s story as my favorite but HW and Sam’s story did it. The entire series is solidly written with strong character development as each brother deals with the past. I would recommend reading the series in order, but I guess one could read this as a stand-alone. However, I loved meeting each of the brothers as they returned home to a place that has haunted them but also with a grandmother who has loved them.
What made this such a hit with me was Samantha, a military vet. I loved her strength, her sense of honor and humor as she rebuilds her life after war. While HW has issues of his own, it did this man good to see a real warrior up close and personal. I enjoyed the way these two sparred with each other as the chemistry between them continued to ignite.
Yes, you can go home again. In fact, sometimes you must face the past to have the best future. Marvelous series with the fourth brother’s story, The Bad Boy Cowboy a hit with me.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley.
What made this such a hit with me was Samantha, a military vet. I loved her strength, her sense of honor and humor as she rebuilds her life after war. While HW has issues of his own, it did this man good to see a real warrior up close and personal. I enjoyed the way these two sparred with each other as the chemistry between them continued to ignite.
Yes, you can go home again. In fact, sometimes you must face the past to have the best future. Marvelous series with the fourth brother’s story, The Bad Boy Cowboy a hit with me.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley.
January 6, 2018
The Bad Boy Cowboy by Kate Pearce is the fourth book in the Morgan Ranch series. The book focuses on the second twin “HW” Morgan and his reintroduction to the ranch and living at home with his siblings. The ranch is slowly turning into a place to vacation with good food, horseback riding, exploring the Sierra Mountains and the local area. It is into this that “HW” returns.
“HW” is a nationally ranked rodeo rider, but he doesn’t know where he is going. He knows that he is all done with the rodeo, but he doesn’t know what comes next and even if he is welcome to stay on the ranch. He is feeling out of sorts with his brothers, especially his twin. He feels out of place and alone.
Samantha comes to the ranch to help them. As a disabled vet, her input can be key to helping the ranch cater to helping people. Samantha is not about to be treated any differently as a fully able person. “HW” manages to offend her from the outset, and yet seems to be fascinated by her. Samantha is nosy and seems to push and pick at “HW” to help him grow.
The Bad Boy Cowboy by Kate Pearce is a fun, flirty read.
“HW” is a nationally ranked rodeo rider, but he doesn’t know where he is going. He knows that he is all done with the rodeo, but he doesn’t know what comes next and even if he is welcome to stay on the ranch. He is feeling out of sorts with his brothers, especially his twin. He feels out of place and alone.
Samantha comes to the ranch to help them. As a disabled vet, her input can be key to helping the ranch cater to helping people. Samantha is not about to be treated any differently as a fully able person. “HW” manages to offend her from the outset, and yet seems to be fascinated by her. Samantha is nosy and seems to push and pick at “HW” to help him grow.
The Bad Boy Cowboy by Kate Pearce is a fun, flirty read.
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