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Country Nights
Sixty country days and sixty country nights—that’s all I wanted. I needed to get away from the city, away from the hot mess that had become my life. When I stumbled upon my childhood home on RentBnB.com, I took it as a sign, cleaned out my life savings, and hightailed it to the only place that ever meant something to me, a place I hadn’t seen since a lifetime ago. Only when I arrived to the familiar South Dakotan farmhouse, I was met by a brooding, we-don’t-take-kindly-to-strangers cowboy by the name of River McCray, who insisted this was his house and most definitely not a rental property. I’d been internet scammed. And that cocky, smart-mouthed stranger had the nerve to make me a humiliating I could stay in his house for the next two months rent-free, but I had to work for him. With no money and nowhere else to go, I agreed. But nothing could have prepared me for the tension, the attraction, and the bombshell revelatiosn that changed … everything.
298 pages, Paperback
Published June 30, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 395 reviews
June 30, 2017
2 Stars
Overall Opinion: I tried really hard not to go into this one with any expectations, and I think for the most part I did. That's not to say that I wasn't still disappointed, because I was. I liked the overall premise, and I did appreciate the fact that it wasn't love/lust at first sight sort of thing...BUT there was just so much else going on that made my eyes roll and me scratch my head because they just didn't work for me. There is a serious scene that happens with the h that is just swept under the rug as if it wasn't a big deal and a serious scene . There's also what felt like to me a drastic change in their feelings towards one another. At one moment they were friendlyish acquaintances, the next they are making out (out of nowhere), and then they are in love. I didn't feel the connection at all and I honestly didn't understand the progression to love between them. And then there was the drama with the h and H's families. At that point I was skimming (thankfully) but I still rolled my eyes at the way it seemed just too OTT for me.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Leighton and River's story. Leighton escapes Arizona in hopes of finding some peace in the small town and home she grew up in when she finds that it's available for her to rent. She is shocked to find River who is the owner of said house and to also find that she was a victim of an internet scam. She is in a bad position, and River offers for her to stay with him in exchange for doing some work on his farm. She takes him up on the offer at least until she can get some things sorted. She meets some new people and even goes on a few dates, but there is something about River that draws her to him. There is some family and ex drama, some sexy times, and some big secrets revealed...and they get a HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between Leighton and River's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Ok. I HATE "bonus" books, as it makes the tracking on my kindle app off. I thought for the longest time that I wasn't really progressing all that much, so it felt slow. But in reality, I was probably reading at my normal pace but with the added book it just seemed like I was barely into it. I was pretty much over the book around the 75ish% mark (I'm guessing that's about right by dividing the chapter number by the total number of chapters...but??), so I skimmed A LOT! I still got the just of what was going on, but I didn't fully read it past that point tbh.
Instalove: Not really. It didn't happen right away, but I also didn't understand the abrupt change of feelings either.
H rating: 3 stars. River. I liked him more than the h, but that wasn't saying much either...
h rating: 2 stars. Leighton. She had some definite tstl moments for me.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. They do take a while to actually get together physically.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: Not between mcs
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had a cute jump ahead epilogue and a HEA ending. It ended at 56% on my kindle app because it includes a "bonus book" (which I always hate -- just make it another book!).
How I got it: It was part of my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: This one is probably Safe with exception for most safety gang readers
Overall Opinion: I tried really hard not to go into this one with any expectations, and I think for the most part I did. That's not to say that I wasn't still disappointed, because I was. I liked the overall premise, and I did appreciate the fact that it wasn't love/lust at first sight sort of thing...BUT there was just so much else going on that made my eyes roll and me scratch my head because they just didn't work for me. There is a serious scene that happens with the h that is just swept under the rug as if it wasn't a big deal and a serious scene . There's also what felt like to me a drastic change in their feelings towards one another. At one moment they were friendlyish acquaintances, the next they are making out (out of nowhere), and then they are in love. I didn't feel the connection at all and I honestly didn't understand the progression to love between them. And then there was the drama with the h and H's families. At that point I was skimming (thankfully) but I still rolled my eyes at the way it seemed just too OTT for me.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Leighton and River's story. Leighton escapes Arizona in hopes of finding some peace in the small town and home she grew up in when she finds that it's available for her to rent. She is shocked to find River who is the owner of said house and to also find that she was a victim of an internet scam. She is in a bad position, and River offers for her to stay with him in exchange for doing some work on his farm. She takes him up on the offer at least until she can get some things sorted. She meets some new people and even goes on a few dates, but there is something about River that draws her to him. There is some family and ex drama, some sexy times, and some big secrets revealed...and they get a HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between Leighton and River's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Ok. I HATE "bonus" books, as it makes the tracking on my kindle app off. I thought for the longest time that I wasn't really progressing all that much, so it felt slow. But in reality, I was probably reading at my normal pace but with the added book it just seemed like I was barely into it. I was pretty much over the book around the 75ish% mark (I'm guessing that's about right by dividing the chapter number by the total number of chapters...but??), so I skimmed A LOT! I still got the just of what was going on, but I didn't fully read it past that point tbh.
Instalove: Not really. It didn't happen right away, but I also didn't understand the abrupt change of feelings either.
H rating: 3 stars. River. I liked him more than the h, but that wasn't saying much either...
h rating: 2 stars. Leighton. She had some definite tstl moments for me.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. They do take a while to actually get together physically.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: Not between mcs
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had a cute jump ahead epilogue and a HEA ending. It ended at 56% on my kindle app because it includes a "bonus book" (which I always hate -- just make it another book!).
How I got it: It was part of my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: This one is probably Safe with exception for most safety gang readers
December 18, 2018
3.5 stars
I absolutely loved this book till about 32/33%.*
AMAZING HEROINE! One of the best! IMO of course.
I worshipped this woman.
She won me completely and "irreparably" with this one line (said about her cheating ex):
My kind of a woman!!!
*******SPOILERS!!!*******
I wish I could rate it with 5 stars, but I rate not only the writing/characters etc., but also the moral of the story. I rate always according to my moral compass.
I rarely love female characters so much. And I read CR looking for strong females (and definitely not for a§§hole males).
Almost perfect heroine – of course based on my taste and personal preference.
*The story ends at about 55%. + Bonus material.
I absolutely loved this book till about 32/33%.*
AMAZING HEROINE! One of the best! IMO of course.
I worshipped this woman.
She won me completely and "irreparably" with this one line (said about her cheating ex):
"The damage is done, and I’ve never believed in second chances."
My kind of a woman!!!
*******SPOILERS!!!*******
I wish I could rate it with 5 stars, but I rate not only the writing/characters etc., but also the moral of the story. I rate always according to my moral compass.
I rarely love female characters so much. And I read CR looking for strong females (and definitely not for a§§hole males).
"And if you don’t have trust, you don’t have a relationship. Doesn’t matter how much you love the person."
"I refuse to let what Grant (h’s cheating ex) did define me in any way. I refuse to let him steal my hope for the future or make me question my trust in every man who comes into my life from here on out."
Almost perfect heroine – of course based on my taste and personal preference.
*The story ends at about 55%. + Bonus material.
July 16, 2017
Oh my lordy, Country Nights blew my mind. I have been reading books by Winter Renshaw for a long time, and this book, is without a doubt, my favourite so far. She took my breath away with this story. I could not get enough. I lapped up this story in one sitting because there was no way I was putting it down. It was too good to leave it. Even for a second.
River and Leighton meet when she comes across her childhood home. And he is the sole occupant. I loved the storyline of Country Nights so much, I am still unable to stop thinking about it. These characters had their ups, their downs, and their in betweens. This story had everything. I cannot think of one single thing it lacked. Except more pages. I wasnt ready to let go and say goodbye to Leighton and River. Their pain was my pain, their laughter was my laughter, their tears were my tears. I felt every emotion right along with them. A more addictive and mesmirising story I have never read.
Winter Renshaw, I love you, I love you, I love you. Your stories are out of this world, and I cannot get enough of them. Like vintage wine, the longer you write, the better you get. Which is a huge achievement, as all your books are my #1. I am never ready for the end of this authors books, and eagerly anticipaye the next release. I am addicted and will read these books more than once. Because once is never enough.
5 stars for Country Nights. 5 stars for Winter Renshaw. Your best work yet.
River and Leighton meet when she comes across her childhood home. And he is the sole occupant. I loved the storyline of Country Nights so much, I am still unable to stop thinking about it. These characters had their ups, their downs, and their in betweens. This story had everything. I cannot think of one single thing it lacked. Except more pages. I wasnt ready to let go and say goodbye to Leighton and River. Their pain was my pain, their laughter was my laughter, their tears were my tears. I felt every emotion right along with them. A more addictive and mesmirising story I have never read.
Winter Renshaw, I love you, I love you, I love you. Your stories are out of this world, and I cannot get enough of them. Like vintage wine, the longer you write, the better you get. Which is a huge achievement, as all your books are my #1. I am never ready for the end of this authors books, and eagerly anticipaye the next release. I am addicted and will read these books more than once. Because once is never enough.
5 stars for Country Nights. 5 stars for Winter Renshaw. Your best work yet.
January 14, 2021
At its core, Country Nights is a sweet second chance small town romance with plenty of steam between two broken souls, Leighton and River. Strong and resilient Leighton never feels sorry for herself regardless of what life throws at her. River carries years of guilt and shame over events in his past that close him off from what life has to offer, essentially not letting himself feel anything for anyone.
All these years, I was sure silence and solitude equaled some form of comfort and peace, but now I’m not so sure.
Our eyes meet. He says nothing. I say nothing. But in this moment, I feel everything.
The passion, the angst, the emotions...the reader feels it all.
All I know is until I met her, I was falling, sinking into an endless black hole. Then I kissed her. And suddenly I felt the earth beneath my feet again.
Enjoyed this one for a great start to my 2021 reading challenge. My first Winter Renshaw book (besides the thrillers she writes under her Minka Kent pseudonym) and definitely not my last. Highly recommend.
All these years, I was sure silence and solitude equaled some form of comfort and peace, but now I’m not so sure.
Our eyes meet. He says nothing. I say nothing. But in this moment, I feel everything.
The passion, the angst, the emotions...the reader feels it all.
All I know is until I met her, I was falling, sinking into an endless black hole. Then I kissed her. And suddenly I felt the earth beneath my feet again.
Enjoyed this one for a great start to my 2021 reading challenge. My first Winter Renshaw book (besides the thrillers she writes under her Minka Kent pseudonym) and definitely not my last. Highly recommend.
July 13, 2017
Heroine: unmemorable
Hero: zero personality
Heroine's ex-boyfriend: he was such a "bad guy" that it was cartoony (total eye-roll)
Story: boring.
Hero: zero personality
Heroine's ex-boyfriend: he was such a "bad guy" that it was cartoony (total eye-roll)
Story: boring.
Want to read
April 2, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/2/2020)! 🎁
August 4, 2017
I was expecting more from Renshaw cause I love the Rixtonfalls Series and of course the Amado brother, that is why when I saw this baby on the shelf I just grabbed it.
Well for starters, I love the personality of Leighton, she is a relateable girl, almost as if I know what she is going through. Then comes the decision that changed the course of her life. Leighton found out that her long time boyfriend and fiance had been cheating, not just that the man she fell inlove withwas long gone.
Of course a girl has got to do what her mind tells her, RUN. So there she was in a place where all love took place, back to her hometown. Here she met River, a mysterious man with a haunting past and a scarred heart. He never wanted to love again, he never wanted to live again, but Leighton has some convincing powers no man can resist.
Maybe if i was also River I'd learn to fall inlove again, I mean she was infectious, she carried joy literally in her pockets.
But the downside is, I felt the story lacked of a little more meat, like when Leighton's ex came looking for her, he attacked River and with just one nudge of a shotgun he was a goner. I mean he would've backed down that easily but just like that he was erased from the book.
And then there's my issue with River, he could've been more sweeter. I was waiting for the sourpuss to turn sweet, but I guess my waiting was just in vain. So there you have it, a 3-star for this cowboy. *wink*
Well for starters, I love the personality of Leighton, she is a relateable girl, almost as if I know what she is going through. Then comes the decision that changed the course of her life. Leighton found out that her long time boyfriend and fiance had been cheating, not just that the man she fell inlove withwas long gone.
Of course a girl has got to do what her mind tells her, RUN. So there she was in a place where all love took place, back to her hometown. Here she met River, a mysterious man with a haunting past and a scarred heart. He never wanted to love again, he never wanted to live again, but Leighton has some convincing powers no man can resist.
Maybe if i was also River I'd learn to fall inlove again, I mean she was infectious, she carried joy literally in her pockets.
But the downside is, I felt the story lacked of a little more meat, like when Leighton's ex came looking for her, he attacked River and with just one nudge of a shotgun he was a goner. I mean he would've backed down that easily but just like that he was erased from the book.
And then there's my issue with River, he could've been more sweeter. I was waiting for the sourpuss to turn sweet, but I guess my waiting was just in vain. So there you have it, a 3-star for this cowboy. *wink*
February 5, 2018
3.5 stars
Overall I enjoyed this book but thought the plot had some serious holes that affected my rating.
To be honest, this one will probably sink into my mental cemetery of forgettable reads as soon as I finish this review.
This is dual POV and we start with Leighton, our h, who walks away from her fiance after 8 years. This scene started really well for me. She picks up her stuff and moves on, stating with a return to her roots where she remembers being happy. Some hole in the wall small town where she finds out she got scammed and rented her childhood house that was not for rent. I like this premise and it's the reason I decided to read the book. Leighton is now stranded in the middle of nowhere, 5k poorer with hardly any funds left. River, our H, is the owner of said house but he's detached and shows zero sympathy towards her predicament.
They get to know each other and slowly he begins to open up to her. It a change from what I normally read and I appreciated the way this relationship evolved. The characters are written in a believable way. These people could easily be my friends or next door neighbors, if I lived in a small town where my closest neighbor was a mile away that is.
Where I had issues with the plot:
Overall I enjoyed this book but thought the plot had some serious holes that affected my rating.
To be honest, this one will probably sink into my mental cemetery of forgettable reads as soon as I finish this review.
This is dual POV and we start with Leighton, our h, who walks away from her fiance after 8 years. This scene started really well for me. She picks up her stuff and moves on, stating with a return to her roots where she remembers being happy. Some hole in the wall small town where she finds out she got scammed and rented her childhood house that was not for rent. I like this premise and it's the reason I decided to read the book. Leighton is now stranded in the middle of nowhere, 5k poorer with hardly any funds left. River, our H, is the owner of said house but he's detached and shows zero sympathy towards her predicament.
They get to know each other and slowly he begins to open up to her. It a change from what I normally read and I appreciated the way this relationship evolved. The characters are written in a believable way. These people could easily be my friends or next door neighbors, if I lived in a small town where my closest neighbor was a mile away that is.
Where I had issues with the plot:
June 28, 2017
I loved this book. Couldn't put it down. Full review to come. It was funny, sad, heartbreaking and beautiful.
February 10, 2023
I genuinely enjoyed this one.
Full review to come.
Full review to come.
May 1, 2021
After leaving her fiancé, Leighton is desperate to figure out what she wants to do with her life. So she goes back to her very small town where she grew up in South Dakota, even going as far as renting her childhood home. But when she steps onto the doorstep she learns the house isn’t for rent and she was scammed out of her life savings. And that’s where Leighton meets River.
River is mysterious and closed off, consumed by sadness. He isn’t happy to see a city girl on his porch out of the blue. But he takes pity on her for some reason and offers her to stay in his house in exchange for help on his farm.
Leighton only plans to stay with River for a week until she can figure out other living arrangements. River couldn’t be any more closed off, but the more time Leighton and him spend together, the more his icy exterior seems to melt. And as it turns out, Leighton and River have more in common than they originally could’ve thought. So when it’s time for Leighton to leave, she isn’t sure she’s ready to say goodbye to River...
Country Nights by Winter Renshaw is a small town, grumpy-sunshine romance that I devoured so quickly. I really enjoyed Winter’s quick, easy writing style, which made this romance easy to consume. There was something about this I really enjoyed. I felt for River and his tortured past. Leighton was really likable and she was a great match for River. Although there was some unnecessary drama, I was able to look past it. Overall this was a great read and I look forward to reading more by Winter. 4/5 stars.
River is mysterious and closed off, consumed by sadness. He isn’t happy to see a city girl on his porch out of the blue. But he takes pity on her for some reason and offers her to stay in his house in exchange for help on his farm.
Leighton only plans to stay with River for a week until she can figure out other living arrangements. River couldn’t be any more closed off, but the more time Leighton and him spend together, the more his icy exterior seems to melt. And as it turns out, Leighton and River have more in common than they originally could’ve thought. So when it’s time for Leighton to leave, she isn’t sure she’s ready to say goodbye to River...
Country Nights by Winter Renshaw is a small town, grumpy-sunshine romance that I devoured so quickly. I really enjoyed Winter’s quick, easy writing style, which made this romance easy to consume. There was something about this I really enjoyed. I felt for River and his tortured past. Leighton was really likable and she was a great match for River. Although there was some unnecessary drama, I was able to look past it. Overall this was a great read and I look forward to reading more by Winter. 4/5 stars.
July 5, 2017
This was an enjoyable read. The story line with the hit and run did remind me a little of the ending of Spinning Out by Lexi Ryan. Still it was a good story with a nice slow burn. I don't like when our hero and heroine jump in the sack too soon and then spend the rest of the book full of regrets and miscommunications. I much prefer a slow build up and BOOM! Burn up the sheets!!! I don't think River and Leighton were exactly "burning" them up but the love scenes were satisfying. Would have been nice to see Renee get some help but maybe that is yet to come. I have a feeling Leighton's brother Adam will get his own story...
June 27, 2017
I just have to say it-Winter Renshaw writes some pretty AWESOME heroes!!! This is another phenomenal story with some great characters. The first couple pages tell us what the heroine had been going thru - Leighton thought she had it all under it all fell down in one swoop (successful lawyer boyfriend since college, non-challenging job at an art gallery ) which is when she catches him cheating- by way of sext from another woman that pops up on his phone and other things that added up and he didn’t even bother to try and deny it. So Leighton clears out her things and takes a trip and ends up back where she lived when she was younger , where she lived where everything was good until her father was killed in a hit and run. But that too ends up going downhill for her when someone scammed her out of money that she thought she paid for a stay in her old home. This is where she meets River…
River McCray is the new owner of Leighton’s old home and well, he is one ornery son of a gun. He is rude, doesn’t listen and goes his own way. But he feels sort of bad for what has befallen Leighton so he lets her stay in his farm IF she works for her keep. There is a chemistry there between them that they both fight. Which leads to a temporary truce. I don’t want to give this story away but OMG this is such an emotional read and it has many twists that I definitely didn’t see coming. There are things that shaped River into the man he is today, things like betrayal, regret and guilt –He finally gives Leighton his Trust but was he right to do so? Will she regret letting him into her life? There is passion and they develop this intense love that overcame a lot. I also enjoyed the secondary cast of characters that helped shaped this story into the powerhouse that it is.
At the end of the story, there is a blurb by the author that she talks about the inspiration for this story and I loved how she used this for her story. I could really feel this story took place from her memories and tell this was happy times for her. I was so glad I could “see” her memories and that she shared these with the readers. This is what makes Ms. Renshaw a phenomenal author, the ability to have readers feel your memories and that is surely what I did. This is a book you must read. I hope she writes more books from this town. I loved reading about Leighton and River –hope we get to meet more townspeople.
My Rating: 4.9 stars *****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
River McCray is the new owner of Leighton’s old home and well, he is one ornery son of a gun. He is rude, doesn’t listen and goes his own way. But he feels sort of bad for what has befallen Leighton so he lets her stay in his farm IF she works for her keep. There is a chemistry there between them that they both fight. Which leads to a temporary truce. I don’t want to give this story away but OMG this is such an emotional read and it has many twists that I definitely didn’t see coming. There are things that shaped River into the man he is today, things like betrayal, regret and guilt –He finally gives Leighton his Trust but was he right to do so? Will she regret letting him into her life? There is passion and they develop this intense love that overcame a lot. I also enjoyed the secondary cast of characters that helped shaped this story into the powerhouse that it is.
At the end of the story, there is a blurb by the author that she talks about the inspiration for this story and I loved how she used this for her story. I could really feel this story took place from her memories and tell this was happy times for her. I was so glad I could “see” her memories and that she shared these with the readers. This is what makes Ms. Renshaw a phenomenal author, the ability to have readers feel your memories and that is surely what I did. This is a book you must read. I hope she writes more books from this town. I loved reading about Leighton and River –hope we get to meet more townspeople.
My Rating: 4.9 stars *****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
June 27, 2017
"...I love your heart.”
Country Nights pull me in from the very first page. Leighton and River's story kept me turning page after page. Needing to see what was going to happen. From Leighton leaving her douche bag of a partner to finding out what was behind this brooding man that really pulled on my heartstrings.
Leighton is heading back to the one place that as always felt like home. She left leaving her fiancee and her life needing to make a fresh start. Her fresh start doesn't go quite to plan. When the house she was suppose to be renting is not for rent the owner knows nothing about it. She also doesn't expect the brooding grumpy man to tell her she has been scammed and that she's a fool for handing over her money and not checking the details were legit. Now she is stuck with no place to stay and no money until River makes her an offer she cant refuse.
River knows he's grumpy and not to be approached does he care does he hell. He's happy being by himself taking care of his ranch the last thing he needs is Leighton and her problems, but he can't walk away. She a light that he never knew that he needed. But there's secret's he is keeping and could end things before they've even begun.
"I want to feel worthy of her love because at the end of the day, you can’t give love fully if you can’t accept it in return."
Country Nights with its twists and turns gave us a good romance story to swoon the heart.
Country Nights pull me in from the very first page. Leighton and River's story kept me turning page after page. Needing to see what was going to happen. From Leighton leaving her douche bag of a partner to finding out what was behind this brooding man that really pulled on my heartstrings.
Leighton is heading back to the one place that as always felt like home. She left leaving her fiancee and her life needing to make a fresh start. Her fresh start doesn't go quite to plan. When the house she was suppose to be renting is not for rent the owner knows nothing about it. She also doesn't expect the brooding grumpy man to tell her she has been scammed and that she's a fool for handing over her money and not checking the details were legit. Now she is stuck with no place to stay and no money until River makes her an offer she cant refuse.
River knows he's grumpy and not to be approached does he care does he hell. He's happy being by himself taking care of his ranch the last thing he needs is Leighton and her problems, but he can't walk away. She a light that he never knew that he needed. But there's secret's he is keeping and could end things before they've even begun.
"I want to feel worthy of her love because at the end of the day, you can’t give love fully if you can’t accept it in return."
Country Nights with its twists and turns gave us a good romance story to swoon the heart.
July 6, 2017
4 Landlord Stars
The moral of this story is never wire money to anyone you don't know. Unless there is a hunky cowboy involved. It's still better to use a credit card with a return policy...but, helllllooooo. Hunky cowboy.
Leighton needs to leave her home. Quickly. The only problem is that she is has no place to go. So she decides to go back to the last place she was really happy. And that was a really long time ago. And very far away. The only problem is she didn't make the plans she thought she did and now she is stuck with no place to stay and STILL a long way away.
River is a man who has checked out from the world. Or at least checked out from any form of fun. He doesn't deserve it. He only deserves to work hard and.....well that's about it.
But when he meets Leighton, both of their plans change. Without their consent.
But if it makes you feel better, sure, I was following you. Ever since you showed up at my door two days ago I can't get you out of my head.
Country Nights is a sweet, fun read that will take you on a hay ride of emotion. There are old newspapers kept in drawers and calves to feed. Not to mention sexy bar owners and friends in need of eggs. With lots of advice.
Can Leighton and River move on? Can they find more than lightning bugs in the country nights?
The moral of this story is never wire money to anyone you don't know. Unless there is a hunky cowboy involved. It's still better to use a credit card with a return policy...but, helllllooooo. Hunky cowboy.
Leighton needs to leave her home. Quickly. The only problem is that she is has no place to go. So she decides to go back to the last place she was really happy. And that was a really long time ago. And very far away. The only problem is she didn't make the plans she thought she did and now she is stuck with no place to stay and STILL a long way away.
River is a man who has checked out from the world. Or at least checked out from any form of fun. He doesn't deserve it. He only deserves to work hard and.....well that's about it.
But when he meets Leighton, both of their plans change. Without their consent.
But if it makes you feel better, sure, I was following you. Ever since you showed up at my door two days ago I can't get you out of my head.
Country Nights is a sweet, fun read that will take you on a hay ride of emotion. There are old newspapers kept in drawers and calves to feed. Not to mention sexy bar owners and friends in need of eggs. With lots of advice.
Can Leighton and River move on? Can they find more than lightning bugs in the country nights?
August 2, 2020
From the ashes rises the phoenix of love!
It's taken me a bit longer than usual. I started this back when it was released. Got distracted but it was one of our choices for book club this week. Decided it was time to finish my read.
I grabbed the Audible and have split my attention between reading and listening.
First, I've not listened to these narrators before. Loved them! They were great!
Leighton discovers her fiance is a cheating, pompous, pretentious jerk. She already wanted to leave but the cheating sent her running.
To where?
She discovered her family's old farm listed as an airbnb. Unfortunately, she arrived there to discover she got scammed.
But the current owner, River, ends up taking pity on her and lets her stay.
Her trip to South Dakota leads to them both finding what they need to heal. They both have tragedy in their pasts. Even some shared sorrow.
I loved it! Winter always gives a good story. The right mix of passion, drama, tragedy, hope, and heart.
I am so glad I got to finish it finally. A few years late.
It's taken me a bit longer than usual. I started this back when it was released. Got distracted but it was one of our choices for book club this week. Decided it was time to finish my read.
I grabbed the Audible and have split my attention between reading and listening.
First, I've not listened to these narrators before. Loved them! They were great!
Leighton discovers her fiance is a cheating, pompous, pretentious jerk. She already wanted to leave but the cheating sent her running.
To where?
She discovered her family's old farm listed as an airbnb. Unfortunately, she arrived there to discover she got scammed.
But the current owner, River, ends up taking pity on her and lets her stay.
Her trip to South Dakota leads to them both finding what they need to heal. They both have tragedy in their pasts. Even some shared sorrow.
I loved it! Winter always gives a good story. The right mix of passion, drama, tragedy, hope, and heart.
I am so glad I got to finish it finally. A few years late.
July 7, 2017
Country Nights by Winter Renshaw was nothing like I expected it to be. If anything it was so much more! I couldn't possibly tell you if I devoured this book or it devoured me. I was totally captivated by this story from start to finish.
Winter’s books are absolutely fantastic, I swear they bring out so much emotion and passion and I have loved every book of hers so far but I actually think this one is my favourite. Hands down.
Without a doubt Winter is one of the BEST at writing men that are hard, closed off, broken men. She's also one of the best at writing women who kick these men into touch and turn them into protective, love sick alphas. And it's ALWAYS a dream to read.
Country Nights follows Leighton & River. These two are super hot! From the moment they meet an electric current begins to sizzle and it slowly builds up into an all connection that consumed me, heart and mind.
5 captivating, consuming stars!
Winter’s books are absolutely fantastic, I swear they bring out so much emotion and passion and I have loved every book of hers so far but I actually think this one is my favourite. Hands down.
Without a doubt Winter is one of the BEST at writing men that are hard, closed off, broken men. She's also one of the best at writing women who kick these men into touch and turn them into protective, love sick alphas. And it's ALWAYS a dream to read.
Country Nights follows Leighton & River. These two are super hot! From the moment they meet an electric current begins to sizzle and it slowly builds up into an all connection that consumed me, heart and mind.
5 captivating, consuming stars!
June 29, 2017
Nice!
I really liked Country Nights. It is IMO more heartfelt and has a little more substance and feeling than her last couple of books. I liked the country setting, the characters and even though Winter Renshaw is known for her short books, so the storylines don't allow for much character growth or real depth this one touched me. I felt sad for River and the sorrow he was carrying, but I have to admit I would have liked to see a more gradual change in him, and more time for him to accept and develop his feelings for the h. It felt a little too rushed in regards to that, also the resolution of the conflict with the bad guy was too easy at the end, but it is a short book, so it is what it is. Anyway, I liked the story and I loved the epilogue with a satisfying HEA.
I really liked Country Nights. It is IMO more heartfelt and has a little more substance and feeling than her last couple of books. I liked the country setting, the characters and even though Winter Renshaw is known for her short books, so the storylines don't allow for much character growth or real depth this one touched me. I felt sad for River and the sorrow he was carrying, but I have to admit I would have liked to see a more gradual change in him, and more time for him to accept and develop his feelings for the h. It felt a little too rushed in regards to that, also the resolution of the conflict with the bad guy was too easy at the end, but it is a short book, so it is what it is. Anyway, I liked the story and I loved the epilogue with a satisfying HEA.
April 22, 2022
as always a delight
I loved it like I love every thing I've read of Winters work. She writes like a angel but rides you like a monster when you try to get som sleep. I don't think the kindle was put down before I read the hole book❤️ do you self a favor and read it📚
I loved it like I love every thing I've read of Winters work. She writes like a angel but rides you like a monster when you try to get som sleep. I don't think the kindle was put down before I read the hole book❤️ do you self a favor and read it📚
December 8, 2017
A very contrived plot.
nope
November 9, 2018Nope because of how the MCs react to an attempted rape:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
October 12, 2020
I read this book in just one sitting!! This was sooo good, I wish it was a little longer though.
July 5, 2017
Find This and Other Reviews At Craves The Angst.
Country Nights is an Adult, Contemporary Romance written by Winter Renshaw. I was gifted a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review through Ardent Prose .
3.5 “I love your heart.” Stars!
The Review:
This was a very simple, very sweet second-chance-at-happiness romance with a little bit of angsts and a great story. Leighton won me over and River made my heart weep at all he’d lost. This was my first book by this author, but it won’t be my last. I enjoyed the writing style and I connected with the characters. There were a few things I wished had happened differently, but overall, it was a good read.
Story/Characters...
Leighton Hart has just found out her fiance is a cheater and lier. Needing some quiet and peace to re-find herself and heal her wounded heart, she takes it as a sign when she finds her childhood home on a renters list. Spending her savings and packing her bags, she heads back to Bonesteel Creek in hopes to reconnect with a past she remembers fondly ... that is until she meets the surly owner of her family's old farm and realizes she’s been swindled.
River McCray is off the grid. After losing his whole world in the blink of an eye, he’s closed himself off from any kind of connection but when Leighton shows up at his doorstep with all her limited possessions in tow, he can’t seem to turn her completely away.
I loved River right from the start. He was intense, quiet and resistant to any and all connection. He straight up sends Leighton away but soon his caring and wholesome heart shines through and comes to her rescue. Leighton was a no-nonsense kind of character and I enjoyed and respected her .. all the way up until she makes a pretty bad decision in keeping quiet when she should have spoke up. After such a strong start, it was disappointing to see. I also didn’t really like the “potential” of a second love interest. In this kind of romance, I want my heroine’s eyes to be set on one choice ... the hero. Not swayed by another and with Seth in the picture, it kind of threw me at first as to who I should have been rooting for.
Also, when Leighton’s ex came back into the picture, I expected more. He shows up, tries to stake his claim and after all the underhanded things he did to find Leighton, he just leaves? I was expecting a bigger showdown. But I loved how River stood up to Grant and let Grant know Leighton was now his! FUN!
River’s heartbreak was well written. In fact, I loved how the author wrote him from beginning to end. He was grieving and hadn’t moved on from a painful past. I became emotionally invested in him and it only solidified as the story moved forward. I also enjoyed how supportive and understanding Leighton was. She could have let jealousy rule her, but she understood she was befriending a man who had a past and she respected that past and all the love it held.
There was a wonderful, slow build to romance between River and Leighton and when they came together, it was sweet and also hot and sexy.
The Wrap Up:
All in all, this was a great story. There were a few parts I wished had been different, but this book was a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. I’ll be looking up more books by this author.
Country Nights is an Adult, Contemporary Romance written by Winter Renshaw. I was gifted a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review through Ardent Prose .
3.5 “I love your heart.” Stars!
The Review:
This was a very simple, very sweet second-chance-at-happiness romance with a little bit of angsts and a great story. Leighton won me over and River made my heart weep at all he’d lost. This was my first book by this author, but it won’t be my last. I enjoyed the writing style and I connected with the characters. There were a few things I wished had happened differently, but overall, it was a good read.
Story/Characters...
Leighton Hart has just found out her fiance is a cheater and lier. Needing some quiet and peace to re-find herself and heal her wounded heart, she takes it as a sign when she finds her childhood home on a renters list. Spending her savings and packing her bags, she heads back to Bonesteel Creek in hopes to reconnect with a past she remembers fondly ... that is until she meets the surly owner of her family's old farm and realizes she’s been swindled.
River McCray is off the grid. After losing his whole world in the blink of an eye, he’s closed himself off from any kind of connection but when Leighton shows up at his doorstep with all her limited possessions in tow, he can’t seem to turn her completely away.
I loved River right from the start. He was intense, quiet and resistant to any and all connection. He straight up sends Leighton away but soon his caring and wholesome heart shines through and comes to her rescue. Leighton was a no-nonsense kind of character and I enjoyed and respected her .. all the way up until she makes a pretty bad decision in keeping quiet when she should have spoke up. After such a strong start, it was disappointing to see. I also didn’t really like the “potential” of a second love interest. In this kind of romance, I want my heroine’s eyes to be set on one choice ... the hero. Not swayed by another and with Seth in the picture, it kind of threw me at first as to who I should have been rooting for.
Also, when Leighton’s ex came back into the picture, I expected more. He shows up, tries to stake his claim and after all the underhanded things he did to find Leighton, he just leaves? I was expecting a bigger showdown. But I loved how River stood up to Grant and let Grant know Leighton was now his! FUN!
River’s heartbreak was well written. In fact, I loved how the author wrote him from beginning to end. He was grieving and hadn’t moved on from a painful past. I became emotionally invested in him and it only solidified as the story moved forward. I also enjoyed how supportive and understanding Leighton was. She could have let jealousy rule her, but she understood she was befriending a man who had a past and she respected that past and all the love it held.
There was a wonderful, slow build to romance between River and Leighton and when they came together, it was sweet and also hot and sexy.
The Wrap Up:
All in all, this was a great story. There were a few parts I wished had been different, but this book was a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. I’ll be looking up more books by this author.
September 8, 2020
Country Night was a solid three star read. Living in South Dakota myself, I was happy to see a novel take place here and was anxious to give it a try.
When Leighton finds out her fiancé is lying and cheating on her, she packs her bags and leaves for South Dakota. The farm house she grew up in is for rent on an airbnb kind of website and she ecstatic to spend the entire summer in her childhood home. Unfortunately, she is met by River, owner of the farm house, who has no idea what she is talking about. He never offered the place for rent and it becomes obvious: Leighton has been scammed. Reluctantly, River offers her to spend a few days at the farm, and with no where else to go, Leighton accepts.
Like I said, I love the setting. The author does a great job describing the farm and small town life. I am enjoying that this brooding cowboy isn’t from Montana or Wyoming, and South Dakota finally has its time to shine.
I do have several questions about the plot, as it seems unfinished. There is a sexual assault that happens, and then never gets mentioned again. It almost seems like the author forgets that this happens, as there are no consequences for this. Another thing is the sudden appearance (and leaving) of Leighton’s ex. He wants her back, he threatens her, he says he’ll be back... but he never appears again. Again, I am just confused in what the point is.
I do like River. He has had a traumatic past, and struggles to open up to Leighton. There is a sadness about him, that I think is very realistic. Leighton is definitely wilder and more out going than him, but also comes across a little pushy in my opinion. Knowing his trauma, she still doesn’t understand the confusion about his feelings for her.
I like the book overall, and I like the writing. Would I read it again? Probably not, but I would pick up another book by this author.
When Leighton finds out her fiancé is lying and cheating on her, she packs her bags and leaves for South Dakota. The farm house she grew up in is for rent on an airbnb kind of website and she ecstatic to spend the entire summer in her childhood home. Unfortunately, she is met by River, owner of the farm house, who has no idea what she is talking about. He never offered the place for rent and it becomes obvious: Leighton has been scammed. Reluctantly, River offers her to spend a few days at the farm, and with no where else to go, Leighton accepts.
Like I said, I love the setting. The author does a great job describing the farm and small town life. I am enjoying that this brooding cowboy isn’t from Montana or Wyoming, and South Dakota finally has its time to shine.
I do have several questions about the plot, as it seems unfinished. There is a sexual assault that happens, and then never gets mentioned again. It almost seems like the author forgets that this happens, as there are no consequences for this. Another thing is the sudden appearance (and leaving) of Leighton’s ex. He wants her back, he threatens her, he says he’ll be back... but he never appears again. Again, I am just confused in what the point is.
I do like River. He has had a traumatic past, and struggles to open up to Leighton. There is a sadness about him, that I think is very realistic. Leighton is definitely wilder and more out going than him, but also comes across a little pushy in my opinion. Knowing his trauma, she still doesn’t understand the confusion about his feelings for her.
I like the book overall, and I like the writing. Would I read it again? Probably not, but I would pick up another book by this author.
July 27, 2023
1,5 royalement arrondis à 2.
Autant dire que je me sens un peu seule, une fois de plus, face aux avis étincelants qu'a récolté ce livre. Ai-je lu la même romance ?
Ça commençait pourtant gentiment, moyennant de passer sur l'intrigue éculée de la location qui se révèle être une escroquerie, mettant en présence deux individus que tout oppose. Et je ne parle pas des raisons qui poussent notre héroïne à se dépayser - encore une lâche tromperie du petit ami... soupir - et encore moins du raisonnement douteux qui la pousse à trouver refuge dans sa maison d'enfance (il suffit d'écouter la poignante chanson Enfance de notre Barbara nationale, pour en être convaincu.e).
Mais si nos deux personnages principaux sont attachants et touchants (encore que leur alchimie ne soit pas brûlante), les ressorts de l'intrigue consistent en une avalanche de drames et de ficelles énormes qui ont eu raison de mon estomac.
Trop, c'est trop.
Elle qui perd ses parents dans ses circonstances dramatiques, lui qui est injustement traité par ses parents d'adoption face à un frère tellement malhonnête et dissimulateur qu'il ferait pâlir les méchants de cinéma des blockbusters américains...
Et des invraisemblances en pagaille, à commencer par le fait que nos deux protagonistes ne se connaissent ni d'Eve ni d'Adam, en ayant tous deux habité le même bled... a fortiori quand les parents de l'héroïne ont été victime d'un accident tragique : le genre de fait divers qui anime durablement la vie locale des patelins.
Enfin, un deus ex machina qui dénoue cet imbroglio indigeste.
STOP. J'ai le tournis.
Je relirai probablement Absinthe, mais pour le moment, aucun autre roman de cette autrice ne m'a convaincue. Dommage car elle n'écrit pas mal ...
Autant dire que je me sens un peu seule, une fois de plus, face aux avis étincelants qu'a récolté ce livre. Ai-je lu la même romance ?
Ça commençait pourtant gentiment, moyennant de passer sur l'intrigue éculée de la location qui se révèle être une escroquerie, mettant en présence deux individus que tout oppose. Et je ne parle pas des raisons qui poussent notre héroïne à se dépayser - encore une lâche tromperie du petit ami... soupir - et encore moins du raisonnement douteux qui la pousse à trouver refuge dans sa maison d'enfance (il suffit d'écouter la poignante chanson Enfance de notre Barbara nationale, pour en être convaincu.e).
Mais si nos deux personnages principaux sont attachants et touchants (encore que leur alchimie ne soit pas brûlante), les ressorts de l'intrigue consistent en une avalanche de drames et de ficelles énormes qui ont eu raison de mon estomac.
Trop, c'est trop.
Elle qui perd ses parents dans ses circonstances dramatiques, lui qui est injustement traité par ses parents d'adoption face à un frère tellement malhonnête et dissimulateur qu'il ferait pâlir les méchants de cinéma des blockbusters américains...
Et des invraisemblances en pagaille, à commencer par le fait que nos deux protagonistes ne se connaissent ni d'Eve ni d'Adam, en ayant tous deux habité le même bled... a fortiori quand les parents de l'héroïne ont été victime d'un accident tragique : le genre de fait divers qui anime durablement la vie locale des patelins.
Enfin, un deus ex machina qui dénoue cet imbroglio indigeste.
STOP. J'ai le tournis.
Je relirai probablement Absinthe, mais pour le moment, aucun autre roman de cette autrice ne m'a convaincue. Dommage car elle n'écrit pas mal ...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2020
From the ashes rises the phoenix of love!
It's taken me a bit longer than usual. I started this back when it was released. Got distracted but it was one of our choices for book club this week. Decided it was time to finish my read.
I grabbed the Audible and have split my attention between reading and listening.
First, I've not listened to these narrators before; Greyson Ashe & Alastair Haynesbridge. Loved them! They were great! I am definitely going to have to listen to them again!
Leighton discovers her fiance is a cheating, pompous, pretentious jerk. She already wanted to leave but the cheating sent her running.
To where?
She discovered her family's old farm listed as an airbnb. Unfortunately, she arrived there to discover she got scammed.
But the current owner, River, ends up taking pity on her and lets her stay.
Her trip to South Dakota leads to them both finding what they need to heal. They both have tragedy in their pasts. Even some shared sorrow.
I loved it! Winter always gives a good story. The right mix of passion, drama, tragedy, hope, and heart.
I am so glad I got to finish it finally. A few years late. Honestly, I can't remember why I didn't finish it when I first started reading it, especially since I remember plowing through a lot of Winter releases at the time.
It's taken me a bit longer than usual. I started this back when it was released. Got distracted but it was one of our choices for book club this week. Decided it was time to finish my read.
I grabbed the Audible and have split my attention between reading and listening.
First, I've not listened to these narrators before; Greyson Ashe & Alastair Haynesbridge. Loved them! They were great! I am definitely going to have to listen to them again!
Leighton discovers her fiance is a cheating, pompous, pretentious jerk. She already wanted to leave but the cheating sent her running.
To where?
She discovered her family's old farm listed as an airbnb. Unfortunately, she arrived there to discover she got scammed.
But the current owner, River, ends up taking pity on her and lets her stay.
Her trip to South Dakota leads to them both finding what they need to heal. They both have tragedy in their pasts. Even some shared sorrow.
I loved it! Winter always gives a good story. The right mix of passion, drama, tragedy, hope, and heart.
I am so glad I got to finish it finally. A few years late. Honestly, I can't remember why I didn't finish it when I first started reading it, especially since I remember plowing through a lot of Winter releases at the time.
May 14, 2022
This story was everything an epic love story should be. River and Leighton are both learning to live after tragedies in their past. Leighton returns to her home town to regroup after a disastrous breakup with her fiance, but finds that she's been scammed out of her life savings.
River wants nothing to do with her - or any woman, for that matter - but he can't resist the magnetic pull he feels towards her. Slowly she draws him out of his shell, showing him that there's still something to live for, but then the interconnectedness of small-town living rises up to knock them both flat on their backs and threatens their still-fragile friendship.
The author doesn't just give us backstories for her characters, she gives us deep wells of emotional turmoil as well as loving memories that form a strong enough foundation upon which to build their futures. How it all works out is a testament not only to the author's skill as a writer, but also to what every small-town resident knows about the intrinsic goodness of people bound by a shared sense of community.
The characters from this story will stay with you for a long time, like friends you grew up with that you know you can always go back to. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
River wants nothing to do with her - or any woman, for that matter - but he can't resist the magnetic pull he feels towards her. Slowly she draws him out of his shell, showing him that there's still something to live for, but then the interconnectedness of small-town living rises up to knock them both flat on their backs and threatens their still-fragile friendship.
The author doesn't just give us backstories for her characters, she gives us deep wells of emotional turmoil as well as loving memories that form a strong enough foundation upon which to build their futures. How it all works out is a testament not only to the author's skill as a writer, but also to what every small-town resident knows about the intrinsic goodness of people bound by a shared sense of community.
The characters from this story will stay with you for a long time, like friends you grew up with that you know you can always go back to. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
August 25, 2020
I'm really enjoying the writing of the Author! Her stories are well developed and the angst/drama is alwasy handled well with good communication. It's refreshing to have smart characters who don't play dumb or make assumptions thus making the story do a 180 and make the reader frustrated. I'm finding this author to be a go for a good read that has romance, heat and overall likeable characters!
August 22, 2017
Loved this book!
I read it in one sitting! I couldn't put it down! If you love stubborn mysterious Cowboys who falls in love with a city girl who talks too much then this is for you!
I read it in one sitting! I couldn't put it down! If you love stubborn mysterious Cowboys who falls in love with a city girl who talks too much then this is for you!
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