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A cowboy returning to his hometown—and the best friend he left a dozen years before. This Christmas, can Graham and Laney build a family and find their happily-ever-after?Graham Whittaker returns to Coral Canyon a few days after Christmas—after the death of his father. He's just found out his long-time girlfriend in Seattle has been cheating on him, and while Coral Canyon isn't his first choice of where to live, it's certainly the friendliest. He takes over the energy company his dad built from the ground up and buys a high-end lodge to live in—only a mile from the home of his once-best friend, Laney McAllister.Laney returned to her family ranch after college, but her husband left Laney and their daughter, Bailey, to work the ranch themselves, which they've been trying to do. But with her furnace on the brink of failure and the snow falling faster than ever, Laney agrees to bring Bailey up to Graham's lodge for the holidays.They were best friends once, but Laney's always entertained feelings for him, and spending so much time with him while they make Christmas memories puts her heart in danger of getting broken again.Can they take their friendship to the next level and build a family? Or will Laney be risking her heart only to remain in the friend zone?
225 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2018
7530 people are currently reading
1512 people want to read
About the author
Liz Isaacson
357 books1,187 followers★ USA TODAY BESTSELLER, AMAZON BESTSELLING AUTHOR, and KINDLE ALL STAR! ★
Liz Isaacson writes inspirational cowboy romances. Her Three Rivers Ranch Romance series has multiple #1 bestsellers in half a dozen categories. She loves all things to do with contemporary cowboys, and will write romance in Texas, Montana, Vermont, Wyoming, and anywhere else she can find horses and mountains. Find out more at lizisaacson.com. Join her fandom by texting COWBOY to 801-618-2114 for exclusive sales and freebies.
Liz Isaacson writes inspirational cowboy romances. Her Three Rivers Ranch Romance series has multiple #1 bestsellers in half a dozen categories. She loves all things to do with contemporary cowboys, and will write romance in Texas, Montana, Vermont, Wyoming, and anywhere else she can find horses and mountains. Find out more at lizisaacson.com. Join her fandom by texting COWBOY to 801-618-2114 for exclusive sales and freebies.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 315 reviews
August 14, 2019
I cannot believe I am going to say this but this is the very first book I have ever DNF'd! Even when they are tortuous, I muddled through to the end but I just couldn't do it with this book and my sincerest apologies to the author for saying that. Everything I read was so choppy and disjointed. There were times I couldn't figure out who was 'thinking' what. Then, we would go from reading one of the characters thoughts to being TOLD about their thoughts instead. Huh? I was so confused trying to read this. On top of that, it was excruciatingly slow and there was ZERO connection between the 2 main characters. Zilch. Nada. None. For them to have supposedly been best friends all of their lives, they acted like complete strangers not to mention he treated everyone like a bossy dick who expected women to wait on him hand and foot (ie, he just gets up and leaves his plate on the table for the women to clean up after him without a second thought about putting it in the sink!).
Oh, and who leaves a small child alone in a cabin for hours on end when there is 3 feet of snow on the ground while they go out to take care of chores on the farm??? Hell, who leaves a young child alone for hours on end at anytime of the year? Anything could have happened to Bailey and all she had was 2 dogs to stay with her? Ugh, I just can't. That is wrong on so many levels.
No, sorry, I cannot recommend this book to anyone. I can't even believe this was a Liz Isaacson book. I've read others by her that were so good so I won't give up on reading other books by her just maybe in a different series.....
Oh, and who leaves a small child alone in a cabin for hours on end when there is 3 feet of snow on the ground while they go out to take care of chores on the farm??? Hell, who leaves a young child alone for hours on end at anytime of the year? Anything could have happened to Bailey and all she had was 2 dogs to stay with her? Ugh, I just can't. That is wrong on so many levels.
No, sorry, I cannot recommend this book to anyone. I can't even believe this was a Liz Isaacson book. I've read others by her that were so good so I won't give up on reading other books by her just maybe in a different series.....
September 23, 2024
sadly, this was a miss.
The first two chapters were very promising, but then the story went in a direction that confused me. The characters were not romantic together and it seemed like mostly a physical attraction.
The male love interest was narcissistic which made the dynamic between them cringey and a turn off.
Their dialogue lacked depth, which made it hard to believe in their connection.
I liked the female main character a lot other than she did whatever the dude wanted at that was ew.
There was light faith elements and no language. A little bit festive.
The first two chapters were very promising, but then the story went in a direction that confused me. The characters were not romantic together and it seemed like mostly a physical attraction.
The male love interest was narcissistic which made the dynamic between them cringey and a turn off.
Their dialogue lacked depth, which made it hard to believe in their connection.
I liked the female main character a lot other than she did whatever the dude wanted at that was ew.
There was light faith elements and no language. A little bit festive.
no-thanks-or-lost-interest
August 13, 202512/13/2019: I think this title needs to be modified so that it can tick a few more boxes.
How about: Her Cowboy Billionaire Best Friend Baby Daddy Reverse Harem Prince?
OMG, and I just noticed that based on the series name it takes place at Christmas.
Thank you Amazon Paperwhite lock screen for making me laugh out loud today.
Edit 8/13/25: Awww...the author must have seen this old review, because it looks like the book has been reprinted with a new boring title.
How about: Her Cowboy Billionaire Best Friend Baby Daddy Reverse Harem Prince?
OMG, and I just noticed that based on the series name it takes place at Christmas.
Thank you Amazon Paperwhite lock screen for making me laugh out loud today.
Edit 8/13/25: Awww...the author must have seen this old review, because it looks like the book has been reprinted with a new boring title.
April 2, 2020
I wanted it to be good. It was not.
September 20, 2020
Listened with Sydney.
First off, I want to acknowledge that I am fully aware that as a 23 year old lesbian, I am not the target audience for this book.
However.
This book was shit. (Spoilers ahead, unmarked.)
I have been known to enjoy terrible characters, bad relationships, etc in fiction, but this was not that. Besides the book being poorly written and seeming completely unedited, I HATED these characters. Especially Graham. He was a horrible person and partner, and Laney could do so much better, both in finding a partner and as a person.
They had been together for all of a week and they were talking about marriage and kids. I don't care if they were best friends in HIGH SCHOOL. They are completely different people now and do NOT know each other. The relationship seemed forced and extremely toxic and controlling, and she took him back way too easily. He completely ignored her when she was at her lowest point, and YES he knew she was in trouble. He ignored her for a week and a half and it literally takes 2 minutes to text back while youre taking a shit. It's not hard. Then she agreed to get back together with him and he tried to rush her into marriage so she couldn't leave him again. / But ooohhh noooo he's changed! /s He rearranged his entire life earlier that morning and hasn't even showed he would keep up with that promise. Maybe I have 'too high of standards' that should actually be the standard? But the ending stressed me out so much because that was so fucking unhealthy.
P.S. Why the FUCK was Mike McAllister at her house?? What happened to that? Did the dogs die half way through the book? She takes care of chickens and horses but only sells cows??
P.P.S. No need to continuously repeat that the ranch hand is mentally handicapped and then oops he is also a felon. Great.
P.P.P.S. Bank drop his wealth and then IGNORE IT for the entire rest of the book??
First off, I want to acknowledge that I am fully aware that as a 23 year old lesbian, I am not the target audience for this book.
However.
This book was shit. (Spoilers ahead, unmarked.)
I have been known to enjoy terrible characters, bad relationships, etc in fiction, but this was not that. Besides the book being poorly written and seeming completely unedited, I HATED these characters. Especially Graham. He was a horrible person and partner, and Laney could do so much better, both in finding a partner and as a person.
They had been together for all of a week and they were talking about marriage and kids. I don't care if they were best friends in HIGH SCHOOL. They are completely different people now and do NOT know each other. The relationship seemed forced and extremely toxic and controlling, and she took him back way too easily. He completely ignored her when she was at her lowest point, and YES he knew she was in trouble. He ignored her for a week and a half and it literally takes 2 minutes to text back while youre taking a shit. It's not hard. Then she agreed to get back together with him and he tried to rush her into marriage so she couldn't leave him again. / But ooohhh noooo he's changed! /s He rearranged his entire life earlier that morning and hasn't even showed he would keep up with that promise. Maybe I have 'too high of standards' that should actually be the standard? But the ending stressed me out so much because that was so fucking unhealthy.
P.S. Why the FUCK was Mike McAllister at her house?? What happened to that? Did the dogs die half way through the book? She takes care of chickens and horses but only sells cows??
P.P.S. No need to continuously repeat that the ranch hand is mentally handicapped and then oops he is also a felon. Great.
P.P.P.S. Bank drop his wealth and then IGNORE IT for the entire rest of the book??
October 14, 2018
I am never surprised when one of Liz Isaacson's books are wonderful because all of them are AMAZING! She can tell a story like no other. In this one, Laney and Graham are old friends but have not seen each for years. Laney has a little girl and a scumbag of an ex-husband. Graham has never been married and does not think he could be a husband or father. He is gruff and somewhat demanding and often takes advantage of everyone especially Laney. But in spite of everything, love is in the air. Can their feelings for one another get them past their problems? I highly recommend this book, in fact, any of her books.
April 9, 2020
Romance, clean, contemporary
More of a 3.5 for me as a reader. I love this series. Some good down to earth characters, even with the 'money'. I am tired of Billionaires, but L.I. does it so well!
More of a 3.5 for me as a reader. I love this series. Some good down to earth characters, even with the 'money'. I am tired of Billionaires, but L.I. does it so well!
October 30, 2018
Aw, I liked it. Her Cowboy Billionaire Best Friend had all the things I like! Cowboys! Good guys with funds! Falling for your best friend! Eeee! Don't let the cover fool ya, though. This hero and heroine? They're 40! I love that.
The Gist: Childhood friends and newfound neighbors, Graham and Laney... kinda have the hots for each other. They're older and sweet Mary they are slow on the uptake. And a bit hesitant to start anything up. *flails* Thank goodness for snow storms knocking out power and having to move in with each other for a spell.
I liked Graham and Laney. They're both workaholics--him with his business and lodge, her with her ranch. They're both on the verge of needing to scream in a closet (Lord don't I understand that!) because they are just about done with all of it. Laney's a good mom, and has a kind heart even if it's a bit damaged. Graham is a provider, brilliant problem solver and a bit damaged, too. They both have faults and quirks, they screw up now and again but I liked them and how hard they tried in the end.
Things stay pretty PG as Laney and her daughter move in for the holiday season and his family comes to visit for Christmas but I enjoyed the romance and watching these two find some sorely peace with each other.
All in all, Her Cowboy Billionaire Best Friend hit the spot. Sweet Christmasy romance with a large boisterous family that has me curious and ready for the next brother to find his match.
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2SxdrYX
The Gist: Childhood friends and newfound neighbors, Graham and Laney... kinda have the hots for each other. They're older and sweet Mary they are slow on the uptake. And a bit hesitant to start anything up. *flails* Thank goodness for snow storms knocking out power and having to move in with each other for a spell.
I liked Graham and Laney. They're both workaholics--him with his business and lodge, her with her ranch. They're both on the verge of needing to scream in a closet (Lord don't I understand that!) because they are just about done with all of it. Laney's a good mom, and has a kind heart even if it's a bit damaged. Graham is a provider, brilliant problem solver and a bit damaged, too. They both have faults and quirks, they screw up now and again but I liked them and how hard they tried in the end.
Things stay pretty PG as Laney and her daughter move in for the holiday season and his family comes to visit for Christmas but I enjoyed the romance and watching these two find some sorely peace with each other.
All in all, Her Cowboy Billionaire Best Friend hit the spot. Sweet Christmasy romance with a large boisterous family that has me curious and ready for the next brother to find his match.
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2SxdrYX
January 4, 2019
I tend to shy away from books with Millionaire/Billionaire in the title. I’m not sure why, except that the one book I tried reading (title forgotten) was so contrived, I couldn’t finish it. But this is a Liz Isaacson book and I’ve never gone wrong with one of her books, so I decided to give it a try. Plus it was free on Amazon Kindle Unlimited so nothing to lose.
I am so glad I picked it up. In fact, after I finished it, I paid for the rest of the series. (I tend to do that – get the book on Kindle Unlimited and if I like it, buy it and any sequels.)
Graham Whittaker’s father recently died, and Graham has been tasked with the role of CEO of the family’s energy company in Wyoming. He has left his high-tech job Seattle, along with the memory of his cheating girlfriend, and come home to Coral Canyon, his new job, and his new home, the former bed and breakfast, Whiskey Mountain Lodge.
Laney Boyd McAllister and her daughter Bailey are now Graham’s neighbors, but Laney had been Graham’s best friend in high school. This is a romance novel, so you can guess where the relationship is going, but it’s not a trite, straight road. Laney is struggling to keep her family's ranch afloat. Graham is willing to help her but she's a proud Boyd and isn't going to give up.
As usual with books by Liz Isaacson, I thoroughly enjoyed the story, its ups and downs in the relationship and recommend it as a good read.
I am so glad I picked it up. In fact, after I finished it, I paid for the rest of the series. (I tend to do that – get the book on Kindle Unlimited and if I like it, buy it and any sequels.)
Graham Whittaker’s father recently died, and Graham has been tasked with the role of CEO of the family’s energy company in Wyoming. He has left his high-tech job Seattle, along with the memory of his cheating girlfriend, and come home to Coral Canyon, his new job, and his new home, the former bed and breakfast, Whiskey Mountain Lodge.
Laney Boyd McAllister and her daughter Bailey are now Graham’s neighbors, but Laney had been Graham’s best friend in high school. This is a romance novel, so you can guess where the relationship is going, but it’s not a trite, straight road. Laney is struggling to keep her family's ranch afloat. Graham is willing to help her but she's a proud Boyd and isn't going to give up.
As usual with books by Liz Isaacson, I thoroughly enjoyed the story, its ups and downs in the relationship and recommend it as a good read.
August 6, 2018
Sweet, clean romance.
I liked the main characters for the most part. I liked that Laney got brave enough to voice her needs to Graham and then Graham had to decide what to do about it. He changed his life to not only be a better match for her but also because he wasn't all that happy with his life as it was. But until Laney voiced her needs he didn't really seem to think there was anything he could do about it.
Laney's daughter Bailey was cute, though often in the background. And I liked Graham's brothers. I also quite liked Celia as a grandmotherly figure.
A couple things I didn't like. Laney's mother was invited for Christmas but I don't remember her actually being there. Perhaps I just missed it. Also, I felt like there was no real resolve with Mike. He disappeared and they were trying to find out what he was about but nothing ever came of it. The next book is about a different brother so it seems odd that the Laney's ex storyline would resolve in the next book either. That part felt unfinished.
Light religious themes.
Sex: some kisses
Language: no
Violence: no
I liked the main characters for the most part. I liked that Laney got brave enough to voice her needs to Graham and then Graham had to decide what to do about it. He changed his life to not only be a better match for her but also because he wasn't all that happy with his life as it was. But until Laney voiced her needs he didn't really seem to think there was anything he could do about it.
Laney's daughter Bailey was cute, though often in the background. And I liked Graham's brothers. I also quite liked Celia as a grandmotherly figure.
A couple things I didn't like. Laney's mother was invited for Christmas but I don't remember her actually being there. Perhaps I just missed it. Also, I felt like there was no real resolve with Mike. He disappeared and they were trying to find out what he was about but nothing ever came of it. The next book is about a different brother so it seems odd that the Laney's ex storyline would resolve in the next book either. That part felt unfinished.
Light religious themes.
Sex: some kisses
Language: no
Violence: no
August 9, 2018
Her Cowboy Billionaire Best Friend is a well-written sweet romance. I enjoy Liz Isaacson’s writing style. The characters are very likeable and well-developed through the book. The snowy Wyoming setting was especially nice since I’m reading it in hot, humid Mississippi. The story is paced well, and there’s a great HEA. I hope this is a series, and we get to read about the other brothers. I’ve read a lot by this author and continue to enjoy her work. I received an ARC. I chose to write a review and share my opinion.
December 29, 2021
I received this book for free.
It still needs more editing. There were lots of errors and the conversations seemed very disjointed and boring.
Book about a billionaire ✔️
Book about falling in love with your best friend ✔️
Book about falling in love with high school crush ✔️
Cowboy ✔️
Workaholic changing his life ✔️
Single Mom with weird Ex ✔️
Christmas ✔️
Bleh. It’s like a bad Hallmark knock-off movie.
P.S. Why does she have 13 horses?!?
It still needs more editing. There were lots of errors and the conversations seemed very disjointed and boring.
Book about a billionaire ✔️
Book about falling in love with your best friend ✔️
Book about falling in love with high school crush ✔️
Cowboy ✔️
Workaholic changing his life ✔️
Single Mom with weird Ex ✔️
Christmas ✔️
Bleh. It’s like a bad Hallmark knock-off movie.
P.S. Why does she have 13 horses?!?
April 12, 2020
Wyoming Romance
Who says you can’t marry your best friend. This book shows two people overcoming obstacles, namely themselves, to fall in love. Big D
Who says you can’t marry your best friend. This book shows two people overcoming obstacles, namely themselves, to fall in love. Big D
June 23, 2022
2...
3...
2.5 stars for sure.
Most definitely jumped into Her Cowboy Billionaire Best Friend because it worked for a certain challenge. It also doesn't hurt that it brings me a new book, new series, and a new author my way either. Plus, I don't remember the last time I even read a cowboy book. So, I'll admit that I secretly excited to jump into this book.
Unfortunately, it wasn't a case of love at first sight. While the characters were okay at times, I just wasn't completely enamored by them. Yeah, they could be likable, but I wasn't invested the entire time. It was definitely a me thing and not the book.
Besides that, some of what happened just didn't make sense to me. First off, their romance just baffled me. It just didn't make sense and it felt like they really shouldn't be together. Then her farm life just confused the crap out of me. Heck, even his did.
In the end, I'm guess I knocked this off... but I have no idea if I'm going to jump into the next book.
3...
2.5 stars for sure.
Most definitely jumped into Her Cowboy Billionaire Best Friend because it worked for a certain challenge. It also doesn't hurt that it brings me a new book, new series, and a new author my way either. Plus, I don't remember the last time I even read a cowboy book. So, I'll admit that I secretly excited to jump into this book.
Unfortunately, it wasn't a case of love at first sight. While the characters were okay at times, I just wasn't completely enamored by them. Yeah, they could be likable, but I wasn't invested the entire time. It was definitely a me thing and not the book.
Besides that, some of what happened just didn't make sense to me. First off, their romance just baffled me. It just didn't make sense and it felt like they really shouldn't be together. Then her farm life just confused the crap out of me. Heck, even his did.
In the end, I'm guess I knocked this off... but I have no idea if I'm going to jump into the next book.
October 26, 2018
Reviewed at Lovin'A Cowboy Romance
Her Cowboy Billionaire Best Friend starts off the series with some necessary world building that’s smoothly folded into the story itself. While that is certainly a handsome cowboy on the cover the actual characters are past the first bloom of youth – it’s stated that Graham is 40, and Laney was not given an actual age but I lean toward her mid to late 30’s given that they were in school together, and the mentions of the risks of a pregnancy at her age. While a cover is often the first visual I get of the characters to base my own imagination on… I do wish that they were closer to the actual characters age – I find this in covers across all the genre I read. It’s a wish that will remain unfulfilled, I understand that and why but still… ya know? Anyways…
Graham and Laney both returned to Coral Canyon after their fathers’ deaths… Laney to inherit a small ranch, Graham to take over his father’s large business and the lodge that was meant as a hotel / get away resort. While they would consider each other best friends in high school, Laney did have a crush on Graham back then, one that never grew beyond her own imagination. She married, had a child, Bailey, and when her husband couldn’t stand life on the ranch and left, she divorced him. Now she’s running the ranch on her own, finances beyond tight, just trying to survive. Graham coming home to stay raises a complication for Laney. In many ways that crush is still there, but neither she nor Graham are the same people they were back in the day.
There were times, many in fact, that I truly wanted to smack both Graham and Laney upside the head and then sit them down for a stern talking to. Talk about stubborn and clueless to one’s actions. The fact is that I completely understood why they were acting that way, but it didn’t take away the frustration of seeing them make such huge mistakes in their growing relationship. Graham is no stranger to hard work, yet taking over his father’s main business meant hands on with every aspect of the business. While he wasn’t truly in over his head, he was bogged down by a business that was not his true passion… and a lodge that he was living in, not opening to paying guests. Graham could have cut the cast for the Strong, Silent Type. He rarely spoke his mind, kept his fears and frustrations bottled up and when he should have spoken, talked to Laney he made the choice not to… big mistake, huge. Laney was not without her own faults as she kept important information from Graham, kept her own emotions on a tight leash and nearly walked away over a very good reason. They’re complicated, much like life and reality are for us all.
Watching Laney and Graham learn how to talk to each other, to not hold back the important things was a painful, but necessary part of their journey as a couple. And we do see them grow, see then begin to view their actions through another person’s eyes – are they now perfect? Of course not. But they are on the same page, and that’s the most important part of a relationship. Meeting Graham’s brothers was a delight, and knowing that they will be also returning to Coral Canyon to take over different aspects of the lodge and helping with the business opens up all sorts of possibilities for future stories. I’m definitely looking forward to the rest of this series. In all, Her Cowboy Billionaire Best Friend was an intense, interesting introduction to the series with realistic characters, people I want to know more about and satisfying ending.
I read this title through my Kindle Unlimited subscription.
Her Cowboy Billionaire Best Friend starts off the series with some necessary world building that’s smoothly folded into the story itself. While that is certainly a handsome cowboy on the cover the actual characters are past the first bloom of youth – it’s stated that Graham is 40, and Laney was not given an actual age but I lean toward her mid to late 30’s given that they were in school together, and the mentions of the risks of a pregnancy at her age. While a cover is often the first visual I get of the characters to base my own imagination on… I do wish that they were closer to the actual characters age – I find this in covers across all the genre I read. It’s a wish that will remain unfulfilled, I understand that and why but still… ya know? Anyways…
Graham and Laney both returned to Coral Canyon after their fathers’ deaths… Laney to inherit a small ranch, Graham to take over his father’s large business and the lodge that was meant as a hotel / get away resort. While they would consider each other best friends in high school, Laney did have a crush on Graham back then, one that never grew beyond her own imagination. She married, had a child, Bailey, and when her husband couldn’t stand life on the ranch and left, she divorced him. Now she’s running the ranch on her own, finances beyond tight, just trying to survive. Graham coming home to stay raises a complication for Laney. In many ways that crush is still there, but neither she nor Graham are the same people they were back in the day.
There were times, many in fact, that I truly wanted to smack both Graham and Laney upside the head and then sit them down for a stern talking to. Talk about stubborn and clueless to one’s actions. The fact is that I completely understood why they were acting that way, but it didn’t take away the frustration of seeing them make such huge mistakes in their growing relationship. Graham is no stranger to hard work, yet taking over his father’s main business meant hands on with every aspect of the business. While he wasn’t truly in over his head, he was bogged down by a business that was not his true passion… and a lodge that he was living in, not opening to paying guests. Graham could have cut the cast for the Strong, Silent Type. He rarely spoke his mind, kept his fears and frustrations bottled up and when he should have spoken, talked to Laney he made the choice not to… big mistake, huge. Laney was not without her own faults as she kept important information from Graham, kept her own emotions on a tight leash and nearly walked away over a very good reason. They’re complicated, much like life and reality are for us all.
Watching Laney and Graham learn how to talk to each other, to not hold back the important things was a painful, but necessary part of their journey as a couple. And we do see them grow, see then begin to view their actions through another person’s eyes – are they now perfect? Of course not. But they are on the same page, and that’s the most important part of a relationship. Meeting Graham’s brothers was a delight, and knowing that they will be also returning to Coral Canyon to take over different aspects of the lodge and helping with the business opens up all sorts of possibilities for future stories. I’m definitely looking forward to the rest of this series. In all, Her Cowboy Billionaire Best Friend was an intense, interesting introduction to the series with realistic characters, people I want to know more about and satisfying ending.
I read this title through my Kindle Unlimited subscription.
October 17, 2019
(3.5 stars) - A cinderella-flavored friends-to-lovers 2nd chance romance
Graham is struggling in the aftermath of his father's death as well as other personal problems, and Laney is feeling overwhelmed by her single mom situation & fighting bitterness along with an increasing temptation to despair.
The story's pace felt real & the developing relationship between them realistic, though their friendship didn't seem like former besties. That realism did lead to the story feeling a little slow at times
The main characters are well developed & believable. Graham clearly has an "engineer's brain" which tends to be very efficient - point A to point B - but also tends to get overly absorbed in its own thoughts, and can frequently be oblivious to the obvious, as well as bad at normal communication & social interactions.
Laney was a strong woman with many admirable qualities of her own, but I do get frustrated with characters of the "too independent to ask for help" trope, especially when there's a child involved.
Which means Laney has communication issues of her own & they both have too much pride, but I liked that they learned to put it aside & put "people before things".
I have to agree with other reviewers that leaving Mike's storyline unresolved was odd, & there were a few minor issues but overall the story was believable. I liked when Laney told off Graham that she & Bailey deserved to be 1st & wouldn't settle for less - that's love - and that Graham was willing to do what he needed to to show Laney how much he loved her.
*Clean romance level: sweet kisses
*Religion: generically Christian, some occasional brief prayers to God for help, but nothing preachy
Graham is struggling in the aftermath of his father's death as well as other personal problems, and Laney is feeling overwhelmed by her single mom situation & fighting bitterness along with an increasing temptation to despair.
The story's pace felt real & the developing relationship between them realistic, though their friendship didn't seem like former besties. That realism did lead to the story feeling a little slow at times
The main characters are well developed & believable. Graham clearly has an "engineer's brain" which tends to be very efficient - point A to point B - but also tends to get overly absorbed in its own thoughts, and can frequently be oblivious to the obvious, as well as bad at normal communication & social interactions.
Laney was a strong woman with many admirable qualities of her own, but I do get frustrated with characters of the "too independent to ask for help" trope, especially when there's a child involved.
Which means Laney has communication issues of her own & they both have too much pride, but I liked that they learned to put it aside & put "people before things".
I have to agree with other reviewers that leaving Mike's storyline unresolved was odd, & there were a few minor issues but overall the story was believable. I liked when Laney told off Graham that she & Bailey deserved to be 1st & wouldn't settle for less - that's love - and that Graham was willing to do what he needed to to show Laney how much he loved her.
*Clean romance level: sweet kisses
*Religion: generically Christian, some occasional brief prayers to God for help, but nothing preachy
February 2, 2020
The Cowboy Billionaire’s Best Friend: Christmas in Coral Canyon: A Whittaker Brothers novel 1 is by Liz Isaacson. This first book introduces the story of the Whittaker Brothers and it is very predictable in that the brother moves in to take care of the Whittaker Lodge, meets an eligible girl, falls in love, and finally wins the girl’s hand in marriage. It is very predictable; but Liz has a way of making the action so different with each brother that the idea seems to be unique and fresh.
The characters are kept to a minimum and are very realistic and natural. The plot is always fun to follow. The book is a great one for reading romance that steers away from over treatment and doesn’t involve a raunchy scene or language.
This book involves Graham Whittaker who upon the death of his Father, inherited not only Springside Energy; but, also, the Lodge he had purchased in Wyoming where he had lived. He decided to quit his job in Seattle and return home to run the business and live in the lodge. The breakup with his girlfriend helped in that decision. He knew he would have to learn as he went with the lodge; but at least he had his neighbor to help him.
Laney McAlister had known Graham for a long time and they had been best friends since they started school. Since he had left home, she had married and divorced and was raising her daughter on the family ranch next to Graham. She and Bailey were trying to keep the farm alive; but were having problems when he arrived at home. She was willing to help him with the horses in the stable.
Just before Christmas, a storm knocked out the electricity at Laney’s and they were forced to seek refuge at the lodge. Graham and Laney began to see each other with different eyes as they prepared for a Whittaker Christmas.
The characters are kept to a minimum and are very realistic and natural. The plot is always fun to follow. The book is a great one for reading romance that steers away from over treatment and doesn’t involve a raunchy scene or language.
This book involves Graham Whittaker who upon the death of his Father, inherited not only Springside Energy; but, also, the Lodge he had purchased in Wyoming where he had lived. He decided to quit his job in Seattle and return home to run the business and live in the lodge. The breakup with his girlfriend helped in that decision. He knew he would have to learn as he went with the lodge; but at least he had his neighbor to help him.
Laney McAlister had known Graham for a long time and they had been best friends since they started school. Since he had left home, she had married and divorced and was raising her daughter on the family ranch next to Graham. She and Bailey were trying to keep the farm alive; but were having problems when he arrived at home. She was willing to help him with the horses in the stable.
Just before Christmas, a storm knocked out the electricity at Laney’s and they were forced to seek refuge at the lodge. Graham and Laney began to see each other with different eyes as they prepared for a Whittaker Christmas.
April 12, 2020
I'm excited to begin this new series. Liz Isaacson always does a great job with clean cowboy romance stories. In this book handsome Graham moved back to his hometown in Wyoming after his dad passed away in order to become the CEO of his billion dollar business. He is surprised to learn that his best friend growing up, Laney, is his next door neighbor. Having just broken up with his girlfriend and still recovering from the grief of his father's death, Graham only called Laney when he needed her help to learn how to do a ranch task. When a huge snow storm blew in and Laney's power went out Graham invited her and her daughter to stay at his massive lodge. With Laney in close proximity, Graham began to remember what a special person Laney was. I really enjoyed this story and highly recommend it!
August 5, 2018
This was great. A couple who were best friends as teens meet many years later. After both of them have been hurt by others. He has lots of money and works too many hours after taking over his father's company and buying a place with some horses. For a year he he asks Laney for advice on his horses. Even though she is overwhelmed taking care of her larger farm by herself she takes time for him. He is a person very wrapped up in himself. When Laney needs a place to stay with her daughter short term he realizes she is what he needs. But can he find time to nourish a relationship? I received a complimentary copy and I am voluntarily reviewing.
December 19, 2018
MARVELOUS SERIES
What do you do on a perfectly nasty, rainy, windy day (think scuba gear over hip waders for going outside ;-P) when you don’t have to go ANYWHERE? Especially when you have just downloaded ALL of the Christmas in Coral Canyon books onto your kindle app... =) You binge-read the entire series! I’ve fallen in love with all of the characters-their strong, and sometimes not so strong, faith, their care of family and the understanding that family isn’t always people with whom you are related. What started out as a dreary day, has be a joyous time of meeting ‘new friends’ and watching them grow in their faith and fall in love. *Sigh :) It’s been a LOVELY day!
What do you do on a perfectly nasty, rainy, windy day (think scuba gear over hip waders for going outside ;-P) when you don’t have to go ANYWHERE? Especially when you have just downloaded ALL of the Christmas in Coral Canyon books onto your kindle app... =) You binge-read the entire series! I’ve fallen in love with all of the characters-their strong, and sometimes not so strong, faith, their care of family and the understanding that family isn’t always people with whom you are related. What started out as a dreary day, has be a joyous time of meeting ‘new friends’ and watching them grow in their faith and fall in love. *Sigh :) It’s been a LOVELY day!
May 25, 2020
Gray has retired from the family firm but he can't move away because of Hunter's education. He's taken with Elise but she lives and works in Coral Canyon, where his brothers, Colton and Wes, live. Gray arranges a lunch date but everything that can go wrong does.
Gray has lost his trust in women due to his ex-wife and a couple of bad relationships after his divorce. He's very worried about the impact on Hunter of having a girlfriend.
Elise hasn't had a good relationship history and doesn't think she's worth much.
It's great to catch up with the other Hammond brothers.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
A great read, looking forward to Cy's story next.
Gray has lost his trust in women due to his ex-wife and a couple of bad relationships after his divorce. He's very worried about the impact on Hunter of having a girlfriend.
Elise hasn't had a good relationship history and doesn't think she's worth much.
It's great to catch up with the other Hammond brothers.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
A great read, looking forward to Cy's story next.
December 21, 2018
Good Character Development
Because of the deliberate omission of sleaze, Isaacson has space to develop her characters. In particular, we see the male protagonist realize his main personality flaws and set to work defeating them. Only after he has made substantial progress toward their defeat is his lady willing to marry him.
In the process, he succeeds in reuniting his far-flung brothers, to the gratitude of his widowed mother.
Recommended for readers of clean romance with a twist of wealth. But wealth does not, nor should it, solve all problems.
Because of the deliberate omission of sleaze, Isaacson has space to develop her characters. In particular, we see the male protagonist realize his main personality flaws and set to work defeating them. Only after he has made substantial progress toward their defeat is his lady willing to marry him.
In the process, he succeeds in reuniting his far-flung brothers, to the gratitude of his widowed mother.
Recommended for readers of clean romance with a twist of wealth. But wealth does not, nor should it, solve all problems.
April 21, 2021
The couple: Graham and Laney
Romance genre: second chance romance
Part of a series: Yes (Christmas in Coral Canyon)
Length: 218 pages
Plot: Graham's father has died, and so he comes home to run the ranch, lodge, and business. It's perfect timing, since he just broke up with a long-term girlfriend after finding out that she's been cheating on him. When he gets home, he finds himself relying on Laney, his neighbor who also used to be a friend back in high school. He finds himself relying on her a lot and never really gives a thought to what kind of a burden that puts on her, or what sort of burdens she might already be carrying. Laney's ranch is close to collapse, but she has to keep going to take care of her daughter. When the power goes out, Graham finds that he can finally repay Laney for all of her help, but in the process, he finds that maybe there are some things that he needs to change about himself, and as he and Laney begin to explore their relationship, he finds that there are even more things to adjust as he examines his relationship to those around him.
Character development: It was implied that they were very, very good friends in high school, but it didn't seem like it. It also seemed that she had a big crush on him, but I could not tell if it was ever reciprocated.
This isn't my normal type of read. I don't normally read clean and/or Christian romances. This was definitely in the "inspirational" category. But it was nice to see these two get a HEA; mostly I was glad that Laney no longer had to struggle so hard.
Would I read more from this author/in this series: no - clean romances aren't my thing
Next book in the series: Her Cowboy Billionaire Boss
Romance genre: second chance romance
Part of a series: Yes (Christmas in Coral Canyon)
Length: 218 pages
Plot: Graham's father has died, and so he comes home to run the ranch, lodge, and business. It's perfect timing, since he just broke up with a long-term girlfriend after finding out that she's been cheating on him. When he gets home, he finds himself relying on Laney, his neighbor who also used to be a friend back in high school. He finds himself relying on her a lot and never really gives a thought to what kind of a burden that puts on her, or what sort of burdens she might already be carrying. Laney's ranch is close to collapse, but she has to keep going to take care of her daughter. When the power goes out, Graham finds that he can finally repay Laney for all of her help, but in the process, he finds that maybe there are some things that he needs to change about himself, and as he and Laney begin to explore their relationship, he finds that there are even more things to adjust as he examines his relationship to those around him.
Character development: It was implied that they were very, very good friends in high school, but it didn't seem like it. It also seemed that she had a big crush on him, but I could not tell if it was ever reciprocated.
This isn't my normal type of read. I don't normally read clean and/or Christian romances. This was definitely in the "inspirational" category. But it was nice to see these two get a HEA; mostly I was glad that Laney no longer had to struggle so hard.
Would I read more from this author/in this series: no - clean romances aren't my thing
Next book in the series: Her Cowboy Billionaire Boss
October 29, 2019
This was a good read. Graham's father has passed away. He now returns home to run the family business. His childhood friend Laney is trying to stay afloat as she is raising her daughter and running the ranch. When her furnace is about to break during a winter storm she heads to Graham's house to stay. While there they begin as friends yet by the end they become so much more.
April 12, 2020
2.5 stars
In all honesty, it's all my own fault and my own obsession with wanting to rot my brain. There is no way of looking at the cover, reading the title, and not knowing what type of book it is going to be. Don't judge a book by its cover be darned. This book is exactly what it looks like.
It really wasn't that bad up until the last 25% or so. Like, yeah, it was a cheesy romance that could have easily been produced by Hallmark, but whatever, that's what I signed up for.
After that, though, it started to get more ridiculous than I thought suitable. About 99% of the relationship issues between Graham and Laney are just complete drama blowing things out of proportion. I agree that they don't act like they used to be best friends as kids (despite them constantly reminding me that they were...), and there's not that much chemistry between them. There was a subtle Beauty and the Beast thing going on for a while, which part of me didn't understand because Graham wasn't that bad. Like, he's not being a beast for telling you that you probably shouldn't go see your mentally insane ex-husband by yourself. That's called common sense.
Then, in the end, when they decide that they are obsessively devoted to each other (even though they've only actually thought about being a couple for maybe 3 weeks), Graham decides that they should get married immediately. Like, woah there buddy. Y'all had a major falling out and broke up for a week, but now that you're back together, it's time to get married? That did not sit well with me, especially since it seemed that the primary motivation for marriage was so that they could have a baby as soon as possible. I mean, I get that they're older and stuff, but if this is the way Laney treats her marriage then no wonder her first one went bad.
Also, while it's a pretty unremarkable detail, I don't know why they chose that particular cover because, although the guy on it could be Graham, he's probably like 20 years too young.
*pauses to catch breath and realizes I am completely overthinking this ridiculous romance story*
----
Edit: I'm upping my review from 2.5 stars to 3.5. After reviewing the series and the publisher, from as far as I can tell, it looks like the series was actually self-published. I feel like, for a self-published book, this stands out a little bit more because (apart from the issues I mentioned above) the writing is actually pretty solid, and I enjoyed the book for the most part.
In all honesty, it's all my own fault and my own obsession with wanting to rot my brain. There is no way of looking at the cover, reading the title, and not knowing what type of book it is going to be. Don't judge a book by its cover be darned. This book is exactly what it looks like.
It really wasn't that bad up until the last 25% or so. Like, yeah, it was a cheesy romance that could have easily been produced by Hallmark, but whatever, that's what I signed up for.
After that, though, it started to get more ridiculous than I thought suitable. About 99% of the relationship issues between Graham and Laney are just complete drama blowing things out of proportion. I agree that they don't act like they used to be best friends as kids (despite them constantly reminding me that they were...), and there's not that much chemistry between them. There was a subtle Beauty and the Beast thing going on for a while, which part of me didn't understand because Graham wasn't that bad. Like, he's not being a beast for telling you that you probably shouldn't go see your mentally insane ex-husband by yourself. That's called common sense.
Then, in the end, when they decide that they are obsessively devoted to each other (even though they've only actually thought about being a couple for maybe 3 weeks), Graham decides that they should get married immediately. Like, woah there buddy. Y'all had a major falling out and broke up for a week, but now that you're back together, it's time to get married? That did not sit well with me, especially since it seemed that the primary motivation for marriage was so that they could have a baby as soon as possible. I mean, I get that they're older and stuff, but if this is the way Laney treats her marriage then no wonder her first one went bad.
Also, while it's a pretty unremarkable detail, I don't know why they chose that particular cover because, although the guy on it could be Graham, he's probably like 20 years too young.
*pauses to catch breath and realizes I am completely overthinking this ridiculous romance story*
----
Edit: I'm upping my review from 2.5 stars to 3.5. After reviewing the series and the publisher, from as far as I can tell, it looks like the series was actually self-published. I feel like, for a self-published book, this stands out a little bit more because (apart from the issues I mentioned above) the writing is actually pretty solid, and I enjoyed the book for the most part.
May 14, 2025
I also thougth the writing was choppy almost like a novela.However, it works ...It is best to say Graham growns on you. :-) For now 3 stars, may change after reading more of the series.
***
This Summary/Review was copied from other sources and is used only as a reminder of what the book was about for my personal interest. Any Personal Notations are for my recollection only.
***
Her Cowboy Billionaire Best Friend starts off the series with some necessary world building that’s smoothly folded into the story itself. While that is certainly a handsome cowboy on the cover the actual characters are past the first bloom of youth – it’s stated that Graham is 40, and Laney was not given an actual age but I lean toward her mid to late 30’s given that they were in school together, and the mentions of the risks of a pregnancy at her age.
Anyways…
Graham and Laney both returned to Coral Canyon after their fathers’ deaths… Laney to inherit a small ranch, Graham to take over his father’s large business and the lodge that was meant as a hotel / get away resort. While they would consider each other best friends in high school, Laney did have a crush on Graham back then, one that never grew beyond her own imagination.
She married, had a child, Bailey, and when her husband couldn’t stand life on the ranch and left, she divorced him. Now she’s running the ranch on her own, finances beyond tight, just trying to survive. Graham coming home to stay raises a complication for Laney. In many ways that crush is still there, but neither she nor Graham are the same people they were back in the day.
There were times, many in fact, that I truly wanted to smack both Graham and Laney upside the head and then sit them down for a stern talking to. Talk about stubborn and clueless to one’s actions. The fact is that I completely understood why they were acting that way, but it didn’t take away the frustration of seeing them make such huge mistakes in their growing relationship.
Graham is no stranger to hard work, yet taking over his father’s main business meant hands on with every aspect of the business. While he wasn’t truly in over his head, he was bogged down by a business that was not his true passion… and a lodge that he was living in, not opening to paying guests.
Graham could have cut the cast for the Strong, Silent Type. He rarely spoke his mind, kept his fears and frustrations bottled up and when he should have spoken, talked to Laney he made the choice not to… big mistake, huge. Laney was not without her own faults as she kept important information from Graham, kept her own emotions on a tight leash and nearly walked away over a very good reason. They’re complicated, much like life and reality are for us all.
Watching Laney and Graham learn how to talk to each other, to not hold back the important things was a painful, but necessary part of their journey as a couple. And we do see them grow, see then begin to view their actions through another person’s eyes – are they now perfect? Of course not. But they are on the same page, and that’s the most important part of a relationship.
Meeting Graham’s brothers was a delight, and knowing that they will be also returning to Coral Canyon to take over different aspects of the lodge and helping with the business opens up all sorts of possibilities for future stories. I’m definitely looking forward to the rest of this series. In all, Her Cowboy Billionaire Best Friend was an intense, interesting introduction to the series with realistic characters, people I want to know more about and satisfying ending.
***
One positive review:
She can tell a story like no other. In this one, Laney and Graham are old friends but have not seen each for years. Laney has a little girl and a scumbag of an ex-husband. Graham has never been married and does not think he could be a husband or father. He is gruff and somewhat demanding and often takes advantage of everyone especially Laney. But in spite of everything, love is in the air. Can their feelings for one another get them past their problems?
****
A very negative Review-which I think points are valid
***
Aw, I liked it. Her Cowboy Billionaire Best Friend had all the things I like! Cowboys! Good guys with funds! Falling for your best friend! Eeee! Don't let the cover fool ya, though. This hero and heroine? They're 40! I love that.
The Gist: Childhood friends and newfound neighbors, Graham and Laney... kinda have the hots for each other. They're older and sweet Mary they are slow on the uptake. And a bit hesitant to start anything up. *flails* Thank goodness for snow storms knocking out power and having to move in with each other for a spell.
I liked Graham and Laney. They're both workaholics--him with his business and lodge, her with her ranch. They're both on the verge of needing to scream in a closet (Lord don't I understand that!) because they are just about done with all of it. Laney's a good mom, and has a kind heart even if it's a bit damaged. Graham is a provider, brilliant problem solver and a bit damaged, too. They both have faults and quirks, they screw up now and again but I liked them and how hard they tried in the end.
Things stay pretty PG as Laney and her daughter move in for the holiday season and his family comes to visit for Christmas but I enjoyed the romance and watching these two find some sorely peace with each other.
***
This Summary/Review was copied from other sources and is used only as a reminder of what the book was about for my personal interest. Any Personal Notations are for my recollection only.
***
Her Cowboy Billionaire Best Friend starts off the series with some necessary world building that’s smoothly folded into the story itself. While that is certainly a handsome cowboy on the cover the actual characters are past the first bloom of youth – it’s stated that Graham is 40, and Laney was not given an actual age but I lean toward her mid to late 30’s given that they were in school together, and the mentions of the risks of a pregnancy at her age.
Anyways…
Graham and Laney both returned to Coral Canyon after their fathers’ deaths… Laney to inherit a small ranch, Graham to take over his father’s large business and the lodge that was meant as a hotel / get away resort. While they would consider each other best friends in high school, Laney did have a crush on Graham back then, one that never grew beyond her own imagination.
She married, had a child, Bailey, and when her husband couldn’t stand life on the ranch and left, she divorced him. Now she’s running the ranch on her own, finances beyond tight, just trying to survive. Graham coming home to stay raises a complication for Laney. In many ways that crush is still there, but neither she nor Graham are the same people they were back in the day.
There were times, many in fact, that I truly wanted to smack both Graham and Laney upside the head and then sit them down for a stern talking to. Talk about stubborn and clueless to one’s actions. The fact is that I completely understood why they were acting that way, but it didn’t take away the frustration of seeing them make such huge mistakes in their growing relationship.
Graham is no stranger to hard work, yet taking over his father’s main business meant hands on with every aspect of the business. While he wasn’t truly in over his head, he was bogged down by a business that was not his true passion… and a lodge that he was living in, not opening to paying guests.
Graham could have cut the cast for the Strong, Silent Type. He rarely spoke his mind, kept his fears and frustrations bottled up and when he should have spoken, talked to Laney he made the choice not to… big mistake, huge. Laney was not without her own faults as she kept important information from Graham, kept her own emotions on a tight leash and nearly walked away over a very good reason. They’re complicated, much like life and reality are for us all.
Watching Laney and Graham learn how to talk to each other, to not hold back the important things was a painful, but necessary part of their journey as a couple. And we do see them grow, see then begin to view their actions through another person’s eyes – are they now perfect? Of course not. But they are on the same page, and that’s the most important part of a relationship.
Meeting Graham’s brothers was a delight, and knowing that they will be also returning to Coral Canyon to take over different aspects of the lodge and helping with the business opens up all sorts of possibilities for future stories. I’m definitely looking forward to the rest of this series. In all, Her Cowboy Billionaire Best Friend was an intense, interesting introduction to the series with realistic characters, people I want to know more about and satisfying ending.
***
One positive review:
She can tell a story like no other. In this one, Laney and Graham are old friends but have not seen each for years. Laney has a little girl and a scumbag of an ex-husband. Graham has never been married and does not think he could be a husband or father. He is gruff and somewhat demanding and often takes advantage of everyone especially Laney. But in spite of everything, love is in the air. Can their feelings for one another get them past their problems?
****
A very negative Review-which I think points are valid
***
Aw, I liked it. Her Cowboy Billionaire Best Friend had all the things I like! Cowboys! Good guys with funds! Falling for your best friend! Eeee! Don't let the cover fool ya, though. This hero and heroine? They're 40! I love that.
The Gist: Childhood friends and newfound neighbors, Graham and Laney... kinda have the hots for each other. They're older and sweet Mary they are slow on the uptake. And a bit hesitant to start anything up. *flails* Thank goodness for snow storms knocking out power and having to move in with each other for a spell.
I liked Graham and Laney. They're both workaholics--him with his business and lodge, her with her ranch. They're both on the verge of needing to scream in a closet (Lord don't I understand that!) because they are just about done with all of it. Laney's a good mom, and has a kind heart even if it's a bit damaged. Graham is a provider, brilliant problem solver and a bit damaged, too. They both have faults and quirks, they screw up now and again but I liked them and how hard they tried in the end.
Things stay pretty PG as Laney and her daughter move in for the holiday season and his family comes to visit for Christmas but I enjoyed the romance and watching these two find some sorely peace with each other.
July 31, 2018
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my review
Loved this book. Graham and Laney were best friends growing up and she had a huge crush on him in high school but he was dating someone else. Then he left for college and they lost touch for many years. Now he returns after his dad dies and takes over the family company and buys the lodge next door to Laney's ranch. The Lodge includes a few horses and he has no idea how to care for them other than the basics of feeding and making sure they have fresh water so he texts Laney frequently with problems and she comes to help him. A year later they are best friends again and when there is a storm at Christmas and the power goes out at Laney's ranch she agrees that her and her daughter will stay at the Lodge until the power comes back on but only because his family is going to be there. They end up staying for a couple weeks and grow closer. Laney is still in the back of her mind thinking that he will abandon her like her ex did so when he ends up leaving town for work after she moves back home and doesn't talk to her or respond to her texts she decided to end their short relationship. Will Graham realize why she is so upset and why she feels the way she does? Will he be able to change enough to get her back or will he throw himself more into his work? Will either one ever admit they are in love with the other?
Loved this book. Graham and Laney were best friends growing up and she had a huge crush on him in high school but he was dating someone else. Then he left for college and they lost touch for many years. Now he returns after his dad dies and takes over the family company and buys the lodge next door to Laney's ranch. The Lodge includes a few horses and he has no idea how to care for them other than the basics of feeding and making sure they have fresh water so he texts Laney frequently with problems and she comes to help him. A year later they are best friends again and when there is a storm at Christmas and the power goes out at Laney's ranch she agrees that her and her daughter will stay at the Lodge until the power comes back on but only because his family is going to be there. They end up staying for a couple weeks and grow closer. Laney is still in the back of her mind thinking that he will abandon her like her ex did so when he ends up leaving town for work after she moves back home and doesn't talk to her or respond to her texts she decided to end their short relationship. Will Graham realize why she is so upset and why she feels the way she does? Will he be able to change enough to get her back or will he throw himself more into his work? Will either one ever admit they are in love with the other?
September 8, 2018
I really enjoyed this Beauty and the Beast inspired romance. When Graham Whitaker lost his father, his life was transformed. Almost overnight he became the owner of Whiskey Mountain Lodge, CEO of Springside Energy Operations, and back home in Coral Canyon, a life he left years before. In his wake, the life he lived in Seattle, his dreams, and his career. As he growls his way through the pages of this story, his world revolves around his wants and his needs. He demands perfection from himself and others. Gentle, free spirit Laney Boyd McAllister inherited Echo Ridge and is determined to maintain her family’s legacy. Creating a life for her daughter Bailey remains her focus and priority. “She wanted to spend her life working the land and raising cattle.” A little Cinderella, a little bit Prince and the Pauper, this fun, sweet story brings together two very different characters. Can they rekindle their past friendship? They had a past, a present, and perhaps a future together. “Why couldn’t they hold hands and help each other on their farms and ranches? Why couldn’t he kiss her and still be her best friend?” Interesting story line, fun dialogue, and a sweetly satisfying ending.
February 8, 2020
This was a cute story. I did have a couple issues with it. It didn't feel like a "best friend" romance at all to me. The two characters were calling each other their best friends, but the situations and their actions didn't reflect that, for me. For example, the hero had been calling the heroine for help on his ranch for more than a year, but he rarely talked to her and mostly ordered her around -- that's how the heroine described the situation!
It just didn't feel like a friends-to-lovers romance.
The other thing I'm going to mention is that there is no real Christian theme or subplot the way there would be with a traditional inspirational romance. That's either a positive or negative depending on what you're looking for and prefer. The characters did go to church, and they did pray a few times, but again...no overall theme or subplot.
The final thing that kind of irked me is there's a whole section with the heroine's ex-husband that goes nowhere. Unless I missed it, it never even gets brought up again. Perhaps it will be a subplot in one of the other books in this series, but it just felt incomplete here.
It just didn't feel like a friends-to-lovers romance.
The other thing I'm going to mention is that there is no real Christian theme or subplot the way there would be with a traditional inspirational romance. That's either a positive or negative depending on what you're looking for and prefer. The characters did go to church, and they did pray a few times, but again...no overall theme or subplot.
The final thing that kind of irked me is there's a whole section with the heroine's ex-husband that goes nowhere. Unless I missed it, it never even gets brought up again. Perhaps it will be a subplot in one of the other books in this series, but it just felt incomplete here.
December 19, 2019
Darling and Delightful
Graham has moved back to Coral Canyon after his father's death. He reunites with Laney, his best friend from his youth. She's a divorced single mom struggling to keep her family's cattle ranch afloat. He's inherited the family business and bought a lodge next door to Laney. They're both stubborn and independant, Mature adults, they are use to making their own decisions and not relying on others. They both have to reevaluate their attitudes when they are trying to become a couple None more than Graham. The story is engaging, touching and loving Even with a few glitches along the way, it's reassuring to see the adaptions made for Laney and Graham to get their happy ending.
Graham has moved back to Coral Canyon after his father's death. He reunites with Laney, his best friend from his youth. She's a divorced single mom struggling to keep her family's cattle ranch afloat. He's inherited the family business and bought a lodge next door to Laney. They're both stubborn and independant, Mature adults, they are use to making their own decisions and not relying on others. They both have to reevaluate their attitudes when they are trying to become a couple None more than Graham. The story is engaging, touching and loving Even with a few glitches along the way, it's reassuring to see the adaptions made for Laney and Graham to get their happy ending.
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