Rule #1: No Dating Cowboys. A fake fiancé doesn’t count, right? Oh boy . . .
Amy Weaver is tired of her dad meddling in her love life. Fed up, she hires an actor to play the part of her fake cowboy fiancé when she goes home for her grandpa’s ninetieth birthday. Sure, Luke Jenkins has got looks, charm, and muscular legs, but this is business, pure and simple. Things are fine and dandy until she finds out he’s a real cowboy, not an actor. Now, she’s stuck between a rock and his chiseled jawline, falling faster than a sack of horseshoes. How the heck is Amy supposed to ignore the sparks between them and stick to her rule of not dating cowboys? All bets are off.
Rich Amooi is a Taleflick Discovery Winner, Readers' Favorite Gold Medal Recipient, Holt Medallion Finalist, and the Amazon Bestselling author of 24 romantic comedies, including It's Not PMS, It's You, Dying to Meet You, Royal Crush, and Men or Paws.
A former radio personality and wedding DJ, Rich now writes romantic comedies full-time in San Diego, California, and is happily married to a kiss monster imported from Spain. Rich believes in public displays of affection, silliness, infinite possibilities, donuts, gratitude, laughter, and happily ever after.
“Those aren’t Wranglers,” Amy said, glancing at the tight jeans surrounding the man’s muscular legs. “That’s denim-colored Saran Wrap. I swear I can see his marble collection.”
Sure, he’s some serious eye candy, no doubt, but you know I prefer the nerdy type. Give me a computer engineer and I’ll be naked before you can say hard disk.
…”why don’t you bring me a piece of that delicious apple pie with some of that slow-Chernobyl vanilla ice cream.” “It’s slow-churned, nincompoop.”
“Now, don’t you go joking around like that,” Grandpa Leo said. “You never know when I’m going to keel over from this old heart of mine. My A-orca is not what it used to be.” “Aorta.” “That, too.”
He’s a master at sucking up to your father. Hear that slurping? That’s him again. The man could suck a Big Mac through a screen door.
Not that Nathan was a horrible person, but they wanted different things. He wanted Amy to be a housewife, and she wanted him to go far, far away.
I want to say thank you all for coming to my birthday. I’m so old I remember when the Dead Sea was just sick.
My Review:
I can always count on Rich Amooi to put a smile on my face; his stories are a sweet treat like a delightfully frothy confection. His characters were knowable and endearing while not always likable, but I honestly don’t know anyone who is - other than myself of course. The storylines were engaging and pleasantly entertaining while the writing was cleverly observant, humorous, easy to follow, and held my interest throughout. His light romantic comedies are a welcome respite between heavier tomes and just good fun.
A fun laugh out loud story that will make you say giddyup!🤠
Another delightful story from this author that will just make you feel good! There is something about the fake date/fiancée trope that really draws me in... perhaps it is the fact that you know exactly where the book is going, so the joy is really in the characters.... and that is my favorite part of books, getting to know and love amazing characters... and this book had plenty of them, with a special S/O going to Amy’s grandpa!
Amy is tired of her family trying to fix her up, trying to push her in the direction of a cowboy, Amy does not date cowboys! So what does Amy decide to do? Hire somebody to play the part of a cowboy and her fiancé... Luke is hot and sweet, and best of all not a cowboy, or is he? Amy cannot deny the chemistry between Luke and her, but he is not what she has been looking for....
Such an enjoyable read, guaranteed to put a smile on your face! I really enjoyed navigating the road to Amy and Luke’s HEA! It was a little bumpy and uncomfortable at times, but so worth it.... Amy and Luke were both very likable and I found the interactions between them cute and sweet, and yes a little steamy! Amy’s family was well drawn, and some of the family members I liked more than others....
A character driven story full of romance and charm! Recommend!
*** Big thanks to the author and Rachel for my copy of this book ***
This was such a fun story to read. I really enjoy the fake to real trope and this one was seriously enjoyable. I went into this with an idea of the formula but It is about how well the story is written and how the story develops. I am exceedingly pleased with both, the story-line and the writing quality.
Living in the UK I have not had chance to meet a real cowboy, but, if I ever had the chance then I would like him to be like Luke. (ish) I would also like him to sweep me off of my feet. (but don't tell the hubby)
Filled with humour, romance and tender, heartfelt moments, There's Something About a Cowboy has be sold on the literary talents of Richard Amooi
Thank you to Richard Amooi and Rachel’s Random Resources, for gifting me a review copy There's Something About a Cowboy . The gifting of this book did not influence my review.
I so enjoyed this book. The funny banter between the two main characters Amy and Luke was just priceless. This story is about Amy, 45 year old woman who goes out with her much younger niece to a cowboy bar, where she meets irresistible Luke. Amy challenges Luke to a ride on the mechanical bull. Winner gets a kiss. Loser does not. Amy loses by one second and this is where the story really takes off. Amy has an idea to keep her family happy and her ex away. And Luke is the main idea of her plan. She hires him to be her fake fiancé to scare away her ex. Luke and Amy’s banter had me laughing out loud. My favorite part of the story was when poor Luke had to have a competition with Amy’s ex Nathan. Mucking out horses stalls. Oh yeah. Who wins! Luke and Amy soon find out there is more than meets the eye to each other. Secondary characters, Amys grandparents are a hoot. I loved loved loved this story.
I am now kicking myself for not purchasing and reading books from this author years ago when I first spotted them while scrolling through Amazon, for it turns out I now have another author that I really really like, based on There's Something About a Cowboy.
I've read quite a few of these hire a fake date books in the past perhaps 6 months or so, and thus sort of knew the basics of who Amy would end up with - but what I couldn't have predicted was how enjoyable the journey was.
It is clear from their first meeting that there is considerable chemistry between Amy and Luke, and as the story progresses you forget that money may be exchanging hands at some point as everything felt quite real.
Except Luke is sworn of dating, and is definitely not Amy's fiance, and Amy is currently trying to avoid dating cowboys but she's not convinced Luke is a real cowboy, and she's not really dating him either!
The book really gets going once they get to Julian, and the big family gathering, and we get to meet Amy's family members. One thing is for certain Luke looks, sounds and feels all cowboy. And boy do I love a cowboy in fiction!
I was utterly hooked on Luke, and just wanted to get to know him for fully. Amy's grandparens are lovely but her father is a rather interesting character who is determined to get Amy back with her ex Nathan.
They are a family that loves food, and Amy is an excellent pie maker together with Luke being a barbecue expert, well lets just say its a book that made me quite hungry.
There is plenty of comedy, all starting with a bucking bronco, and Rich Amooi had a way of drawing me into the story and had me turning the pages and devouring his words incredibly quickly. It was a sheer pleasure to read this book.
There really is just something about a cowboy, and this book is a great example of just why I love them so much.. What I definitely know is this won't be the last book from Rich Amooi that I will read.
Thank you to the author for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
This is not my first rodeo with Mr Amooi….sorry could not resist! For those who know me and speak to me. I always bang on about Mr Amooi and how his book Five Minutes late got me out of my reading slump…if you didn’t you do now! Mr Amooi’s books never let me down and this book is just the same!
I always fly through his books, I got this done in one sitting, when I open the page (or turn the kindle on) I am done for. His writing is magical, it sucks me into the story and the journey I get to go onto with our two star crossed lovers.
This book had all the lovey feels, I mean who would not love a cowboy! Especially one as hot as Luke! There is more than meets the eye with this hot diggory guy, and his eye is firmly on Amy, our heroine of the book. She is shutting herself off from love and is working in a hotel where she does not want to be. She has forgotten her dreams, and in walks Luke, could he be the one that helps her. But first…he is a cowboy and he has to be her fake fiance!!
This book is fun, the fake fiancé was fun to read, the meeting of Amy’s family, the hilarious grandpa and grams. Aunt Barbara who wants to share all her lotions and then the standoffish dad and the ex Nathan who keeps turning up like a bad smell. Everyone had a part to play, and they played it well. Plus with the miscommunications and secrets you know only then the story is complete and it is no different here! And the banter is a hoot and gave me a good giggle, the flirting was steamy and left Amy quite breathless at times!
Being set in Julian, California sounded awesome and I felt like I could picture the town clearly and it is somewhere I would love to visit. I have already told the boy I want to live in Texas so this place would be perfect! I have always wanted to go and visit a ranch and a quaint American town like this one.
So we can all tell where the story is going..but that does not matter. Who cares if you know the end already, it is the adventure we go to with them and you know what you may guess the ending but Mr Amooi always gives you more than you thought.
I can never and will never get bored with his books. Each time I see his name on a book I want, so much, in fact, I think I may go and treat myself to a few more... I mean I do deserve it, I have been good already so far this year!!
This book had me smiling throughout with the comedic aspect as well as the love, I mean I do love a happy ending and a good romance book.
It still amazes me how well he gets into a woman’s psyche (yes I know I said that last time!) but his portrayal of women is spot on in my mind. He gets the angst, the love, the need and desire spot on, and add in a mans’ point of view in this book and you are onto a winner in my eyes.
Each book I read, I fall in love more and more with the different characters but the magic of his writing and stories that are told. I love the covers of the books they emanate fun and cute perfectly which is exactly what this story is. Wow, this is a lot of gushing but it is so thoroughly deserved!
Amy Weaver had only gone to the Double Deuce bar to help her niece get over the fact that her fiancé had called off their wedding by text message so the last thing she wanted was to get involved with a cowboy…even one that she was convinced was just playing a part… but somehow that’s exactly what happened. Luke Jenkins was in the bar purely to let off some steam after a business meeting had not gone quite to plan. Although Amy was definitely his type he was just not looking for a relationship, but when Amy’s niece accidentally posted a picture of them together, he got slightly more than he bargained for. I have read a couple of books by this author and I have to say they always make me chuckle, with a great mix of humour and sadness. I absolutely loved Amy’s grandparents who were still in love after more than 60 years of marriage but were not beyond causing a bit of mischief and mayhem when they felt like it. A fabulously addictive book, that will see you not wanting to put it down until you finish, yet at the same time hoping that it doesn’t end too soon.
After a misleading Facebook photo makes it seem like Amy has a fiance, Amy hires the 'actor' to play the part of a cowboy-love-interest, to finally get her family off her back. What she wasn't anticipating, is how charming Luke can be...
I recieved a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Amy is focussed on her career, and her passion for baking. After escaping the family business, and a dad who keeps trying to force her back into a relationship with her ex; Amy has made a life for herself. She has no interest in dating right now, and just wants to keep all her attention on her work. Cue a night out with her niece, a borrowed ring (come on, we've all done that trick, to get a hassle-free night), and a competition with a rodeo bull and a gorgeous cowboy... and photos end up on Facebook, of Amy kissing her 'fiance'. The problem is, it's Grandpa Leo's birthday next week, and the whole family is now expecting her to bring him along.
This book was fun and flirty, and corny as hell in places! I enjoyed following Amy and Luke, as they find out how perfect they are for each other. But Grandpa Leo absolutely stole the show - and any scenes he was in. As Luke has to impress Amy's dad by 'pretending' to be a real cowboy, it made me smile at the mucking out competition (note: I am a champion shit-shoveller and could have beat both boys).
The book is great, as long as you don't pay close attention, because then the cracks show. First of all, Amy's grandparents are in on it from the beginning. They see the Facebook photo, they hear the truth, and they tell Amy to bring the guy along anyways. After this - their knowledge is never brought up again. In fact, Amy and Luke keep up the pretense whenever they're around. It leads to a few cute moments, but completely goes against what was set up. It honestly feels like these were from two different edits of the book, and shouldn't have made it into the finished product. Now, I did have an ARC copy, so maybe this had been changed in the published book.
Why the hell did Amy think Luke was an actor? I mean sure, on the night they met, he was too perfect and too good-looking, and there was tequila involved. What about the next morning, once the hangover had eased off? It never made any sense to think he was anything but a cowboy. And why was Amy so against cowboys? It's never mentioned, apart from her douchebag ex - but that's always negatives against Nathan, not cowboys. Why is Luke not into dating right now? That's thrown in at the beginning, but never brought up again, as he makes doe eyes at Amy.
Luke is... probably the biggest Marty Stu I've come across. He can do everything he turns his hand to. He can cook, he can tame bulls and is a secret goat-whisperer. He's nice, gorgeous, and only has eyes for Amy. He's romantic, and has every female swooning... it was all far too corny!
Overall, this was a 3.5 out of 5 for me. It's a light enjoyable read, as long as you don't notice the cracks.
Well I'd never read anything by this author before but I'll definitely be looking out for more by him in future! This is a contemporary romance with a fake fiancé, a great family of characters and a fun read.
Amy Weaver is planning on returning to her childhood home to celebrate her grandpa's 90th birthday but she's really not looking forward to it as she's fed up of her father trying to get her to marry her ex! When her niece posts a photo of Amy kissing Luke Jenkins on Facebook, her grandparents assume he's her fiancé and invite him to the family celebrations. She decides to pay him to go with her . . . . and so the fun begins!
This is a fun story with a fake relationship that grows more and more real as the two get to know each other - and the attraction between them continues to grow. There are plenty of twists and turns as well as many obstacles strategically placed by her father to part the two of them! She'd actually assumed Luke was an actor and as she discovers he really knows his way around ranching and is really a cowboy she's torn as she's had a rule not to date cowboys, almost as much as he's torn because he has no plans to date at all until his life is more settled! Needless to say, their mutual attraction is difficult for them to resist, but there's one thing for certain - her father will do his best to keep them apart!
With secrets to be revealed, discoveries to be made, pies to be baked and love to be found this is a great contemporary romance that had me laughing out loud at times. Amy's family are all brilliant characters, very quirky and most are fun. Her Dad, however, is another matter! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this and have no hesitation in highly recommending it. I'll definitely be looking out for more by this talented author in future!
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book without obligation. This is my honest review of it after I chose to read the book.
3.5 stars another cute, light story by this writer with characters that are in their 40's. great chemistry b/w amy & luke. a little steamy, some humor. the characters were appealing so even though the story was predictable, I enjoyed it anyway.
Side note: I first read one of this writers books thru a freebie e book newsletter and became a fan. I have to say that he does an exceptional job in a genre that is dominated by female writers.
funny quote: "He's a master at sucking up to your father. Hear that slurping, the man could suck a Big Mac through a screen door."
Rich Amooi never disappoints. Every new release is as good if not better than the last. An older woman/younger man romance, this book will have you giggling from the get go. Amy and Luke are hilarious and adorable. Amy is this fiercely independent albeit defensive to a fault pastry chef. Her habit of making assumptions about Luke does get her into a bit of trouble but Luke is a go with the flow kind of guy and she finds herself being caught off guard and drawn to him a number of times. The dynamic of their relationship is so entertaining and the supporting characters are quirky. All over this is a terrific 5 star read
Advanced Review Copy provided for voluntary review consideration.
After finishing this book I can safely say that there is definitely something about a cowboy. It's made me want to pack my bags, jump on a plane and head on over to Julian, California in search of a cowboy and the perfect apple pie.
I loved this book it was light-hearted and uplifting with a sense of fun and humour. The characters were stereotypical in design which served the story well and they each played their parts to perfection to help create a fun loving and witty plot. Set mainly against the backdrop of Julian, California I adored the American pace of life with family front and centre and food in abundance. The rich and detailed descriptions of homemade pie throughout made sticking to my diet quite a mean feat I tell you.
Getting to know Amy's family was one of my favourite things about this book and I fell in love with Grandpa Leo and Grandma Betty and their charming affection towards one another. Amy and Luke were a perfect match and the underlying chemistry helped moved the story on as I was reading in a frustrated frenzy in the hope that they would get their much needed happy ever after.
There's Something About a Cowboy is a happy, feel-good story that will leave you smiling. I loved my trip to Julian and look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
This book is just like all Rich Amooi's books, it was great and I couldn't put it down. Well just like they say in the south (and you can't get anymore southern then Texas), it was a damn good book and I couldn't stop reading it, even if I wanted to. He did a great job with writing about cowboys and cowgirls; he even gave justice to the cook-offs that I have seen on TV shows that are reminiscent of pitmaster type shows. Luke reminded me of some the pitmasters in Texas, and while Amy reminded me of a couple my friends from a small town in Texas I used to live in (and a couple of my family members too). This book was so relatable for me; it was almost like I was visiting one of my friends or relatives at times. Heck the only problem I had was wanting another Rich Amooi book.
Hon har bestämt sig att hon inte ska bli tillsammas med en cowboy. Men allt ändras efter en kväll när de börjar att slå vad. Hon tror att han är en skådespelare och anställer honom att vara hennes fake fiance, för veckan. Hennes familj har ett äppelpaj företag i en smaltowm som har typ fem olika pajföretag. Som tävlar om första pris. Han snubben vinner med sitt dubbel trubel recept(jag vill testa).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This was the second book I have read by Rich Amooi. I read them back to back. I really love his humor and the pace of his writing. The characters are great and the story entertains you from the first page through the last. I'm SO glad to have run across this author. I definitely recommend this book . It leaves you feeling good! I'm ready for my 3rd Amooi book....which one will be next??
I really enjoyed this book, growing up on a small ranch near the western movie town of Pioneertown Ca this one was like coming home! Well written and so funny as it reminded me of so many moments in our crazy lives! I can't wait to read more from this author!
Rich Amoori writes original and fun characters in his books! They are easy reads and each one has laugh out loud moments. If you want an enjoyable read please check out his books.
Forty-five year old Amy Weaver meets the younger and multi-talented Luke Jenkins whilst out on the town with her niece Jennie. At twenty-two, Jennie is getting over the recent split from her fiancé and is ready to date again, but Amy is not looking for anyone, and fights the attraction she immediately feels for Luke.
Greg Weaver, Amy's father, is determined that she should marry Nathan, her ex-fiancé, and tries to push them together at every opportunity. When Amy goes home to the family farm in Julian for her grandpa's ninetieth birthday, she hires Luke to be her fake fiancé for a week to prevent her father from pushing Nathan at her.
It transpires there is a reason that Greg needs Amy to marry Nathan, but after some serious competition between Luke and Nathan for a date with Amy, Nathan backs off and Amy finds out about the deal between Nathan and Greg.
Just when things start to look as though Luke and Amy will become a permanent item, there's a communication hiccough, caused in part by a disgruntled Greg, that sees the two of them going their separate ways.
What sounds on paper like a formulaic romance, involving a fake boyfriend that turns into the real deal, is really very funny and entertaining. The main characters are particularly well-drawn, but I also loved Grams and Grandpa Leo, a couple who have maintained a long and happy relationship, and are supportive of Amy in her choices. They also quickly take to Luke, and Grandpa Leo helps Luke to beat Nathan and win the date with Amy, obviously realising that Greg will have stacked the deck in Nathans' favour. The reader is not meant to like Greg, and I definitely didn't! He comes across as selfish and controlling, but appears happy in the end, once he steps down as CEO of Pie in the Sky, the family business.
This was another fantastic treat from Amooi - whether you like cowboys or not. It's well written, humorous and easy to follow.
My thanks to author Rich Amooi for a free digital copy of this book to review.
There ia definitely something about any story that this Author writes! That something is feelings, emotion, the enjoyment experienced by the reader as she or he falls in love with his characters. They all become so real that it makes one feel like he, or she, would really like to meet them. The stories that are told about them are realistic and entertaining, as well as humorous! You will need to read the stories to really appreciate them, and, did I mention fall in love with them.
Oh my goodness! This was such a cute book, especially with the inclusion of the farm animals! Amy and Luke are so cute together! I could totally see myself in Amy - making a bet, swearing of cowboys, etc. This story does not disappoint and could be your next poolside read - you will be chuckling! Thank me later!
"There's Something About a Cowboy" by Rich Amooi brings a breath of fresh air to the romance genre by featuring a truly likable and relatable protagonist in Amy. What sets this novel apart is its bold choice to portray a 45-year-old woman as the lead character, challenging traditional age norms in romance literature. Amy's character is not just a departure from the conventional; she's a celebration of maturity, strength, and the enduring nature of love.
Amy's likability stems from her authenticity and relatable qualities. As a 45-year-old woman navigating the complexities of life and love, she brings a depth of experience and wisdom that resonates with readers. Her character is not defined by societal expectations but rather by her individuality, resilience, and the journey of self-discovery she embarks upon.
The decision to pair Amy with a man 10 years her junior adds a layer of freshness to the story. Amooi handles this age gap with sensitivity and grace, challenging stereotypes and demonstrating that love knows no arbitrary bounds. The dynamic between Amy and her younger counterpart adds an extra dimension to the narrative, exploring the nuances of love beyond age differences and societal expectations.
Amy's character becomes a beacon of empowerment for readers who may not often find themselves represented in mainstream romance literature. Her journey of embracing love later in life challenges the notion that romance is exclusive to the young, proving that meaningful connections and passionate relationships can bloom at any age.
Amooi's decision to feature an older female protagonist with a younger love interest is not just a narrative choice; it's a statement about the richness of love stories that can be told outside the confines of age norms. Amy's character serves as a reminder that love is a universal experience, transcending age and societal expectations.
While "There's Something About a Cowboy" by Rich Amooi excels in many aspects, one notable detraction lies in the lack of payoff surrounding the character of Greg, Amy's father. Greg is portrayed as a selfish and manipulative figure, using his daughter for his own personal gain. This subplot introduces an intriguing layer of conflict, but unfortunately, the resolution or consequences of Greg's actions may leave some readers wanting more closure.
Throughout the narrative, Greg's behavior raises questions about accountability and the impact of his actions on Amy's life. His selfish motives and manipulation create tension within the story, adding a layer of complexity to Amy's personal journey. However, the novel seems to fall short in fully addressing the repercussions of Greg's actions, leaving a sense of unresolved tension that may leave readers craving a more satisfying conclusion to this particular aspect of the storyline.
Exploring the aftermath of Greg's behavior could have provided a deeper exploration of family dynamics and personal growth for Amy. A more conclusive resolution regarding Greg's character could have added a layer of emotional catharsis and closure for readers invested in Amy's journey.
Despite this detraction, it's important to note that the novel's strengths, such as its likable characters and refreshing take on age dynamics in romance, contribute significantly to the overall enjoyment of the story. While the lack of payoff regarding Greg may be a notable flaw, the novel's other positive attributes still make it a worthwhile and engaging read.
In conclusion, "There's Something About a Cowboy" offers a captivating romantic tale, but the unresolved issues surrounding Amy's father, Greg, leave a noticeable gap in the narrative. The novel's overall charm and strengths, however, manage to outweigh this detraction, providing an enjoyable reading experience despite the lingering questions surrounding certain plot elements.
Now I have seen various reviews mention fake dates being a popular theme over the years, but as a reader who is relatively new to contemporary romance and Rom-com I cannot make any comment on that. It is great to be able to find a genre that has no real prior expectations. So let’s get onto what I thought…
Amy Weaver has a thing about Cowboy’s for boyfriends, but does not have the best track record. She meets Luke Jenkins in a local bar and a challenge for a bronco bull riding is set. Amy is expected home and she is getting fed up with her father going on about how she should go back to her ex-boyfriend. Amy in her wisdom decides the only thing to do is take along a fake boyfriend and Luke just so happens to fit the stereotype bill.
This is a book I quite happily sat and read in one sitting. I really liked Amy, she is feisty, stubborn and a naturally competitive 40 something. She was such a good character to pit against the handsome and rough around the edges cowboy looking Luke, who also has a competitive streak. Amy believes Luke to be an actor who had been hired by the bar to help add to the atmosphere, well he definitely added atmosphere…
The author did a great job of capturing my attention from the first few pages as I was introduced to the main characters. Others were added along the way as the story required and by the end of the book I knew exactly who was who and a bit about them. I found them easy to remember and this gave me the opportunity to enjoy the story.
As the story unfolds there are some surprising revelations for Amy to deal with. Not everyone has had her best interests at heart and they shock her. They also give her a new sense of direction and a focus that maybe she had lost in her earlier years before she moved away.
This book should come with a literary health warning… Do Not Read On An Empty Stomach… the food and recipes that are mentioned throughout, yes throughout the story are fabulous. Wonderful culinary creations and delights are laid across the pages spare ribs, barbecues, fire pits, pies, crumbles and breads are just some of the delights. They sounded as yummy as Luke himeself…
This is a book that would appeal to contemporary romance and rom-com readers. It has a great storyline and cast and there are some surprises along the way. This is the first time I have read anything by this author and I will definitely be buying more. Ideal if you are looking for an escape into a pleasant, charming, at times humorous story. One I would recommend.
This book made me really want to move, find a cowboy, and learn how to bake apple pies! There was a serious plot/flaw in the book, scroll down and it's there.
When the book first started, I thought it was funny Amy was with her younger niece yet she's the one having to go ride a bull and compete with a man who she thought was an actor! The idea of hiring a fake fiancé did make my skin crawl a bit, I could see all the horrible ideas and things happening but shockingly, I think having Luke be such a lovable and caring man, made the story flow.
The story bloomed and I felt the connection Amy and Luke had, while he did turn out to be a cowboy (and not someone who wore skin tight pants at a cowboy bar), Amy couldn't resist him. I liked how her family was so involved and so loving. My favorite parts or Amooi books are that the female character aren't these 20 something girls who are "struggling" and all this cliche stuff, they are older and it really is a breath of fresh air. There's not any raunchy scenes, there's some kisses and innuendo but nothing X rated, I did enjoy how this book had some cuss words, I thought it was funny (especially the bulls name).
The ONLY ISSUE I had with this book.. at the beginning of the story, Amy got a phone call from Grams and Grandpa while watching Golden Girls and they asked about her fiancé, when she said she didn't have one, THEY KNEW that she didn't have one and gave her the idea to have a fake fiancé as a way to get Nathan (the ex) an her father (who has a book load of issues) off her back. Yet at the end, when it all came and blew up in her face, they seemed shocked that she didn't have a fiancé? But.. at the beginning they knew this? It was weird and that part of the story kind of turned sour to me, that all this time her Grandparents gave her the idea of hiring a fake fiancé (Luke) but then were supposed to be shocked that it wasn't real?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This is a book I was destined to read, it’s my first by this author but I have a good few years of a cowboy experience! They all exude sexiness without really trying, are polite, caring and when I’m called Ma’am my heart melts. Anyway back to the book.
Amy has an ex-fiance and has absolutely no intention of dating any time soon yet she ends up in a bar along with her young niece Jennie who is more than keen to pick up some muscle.
Amy’s problems are about to begin when she has to go to a family gathering, her father Greg is intent on the fiance Nathan resuming the relationship with Amy in order for them to get married and be involved with the family business. Amy has the hair-brained scheme of hiring a boyfriend to take along to the party to interfere with Greg’s plans and who should she choose but Luke, Mr.Cowboy himself.
Now I have read a few books with this theme so I was a bit dubious about whether it would hit the right spot or just become farcical. No fear, Rich Amooi is a fabulous writer with enough talent to create some very believable characters all put into a situation that is never going to be simple yet he manages to portray it with flair.
I liked the cute humour, the almost sweet characters, if you want a good fun/clean rom-com then you won’t be disappointed with There’s Something About a Cowboy. Who will win the girl, will Greg get his way by making Amy marry Nathan ? Greg is one of those irritating people that riled me at first meeting but if you want a good example of a long loving relationship you will love Amy’s grandparents they are full of wisdom one minute and mischief and meddling the next.
I’m so glad I followed my instincts to read this, a highly pleasurable and recommended book. I will be searching out more books by Rich.
Thanks to the author and Rachel at Random’s Resources .. I read and reviewed voluntarily.
There’s Something About a Cowboy is another fun and humorous romantic comedy by Rich Amooi.
Amy and Luke are so funny, and even if they don’t realize at first, they belong together. Amy and her niece are out at a bar when she takes a bet to prove to Jennie that the attractive cowboy really isn’t a cowboy. She would know because she has a weakness for cowboys even if her track record with them is bad. The bet...a ride on a mechanical bull. Luke agrees. If she wins, he has to buy her and Jennie drinks. If he wins, he has to kiss Amy. This is a win for him either way. He noticed Amy as soon as she walked in. However, they both agree that it’s just an innocent kiss since neither one of them are interested in a relationship right now. Luke wins, and he rocks both of their worlds with that kiss!!! Amy thinks this is the last she will see of Luke, but destiny has other plans.
I loved Amy! She is loving, independent, fiesty, and intelligent! I mean this is a woman after my own heart...she watches the Golden Girls on Hallmark!!!! She doesn’t want to disappoint her grandparents who see her and Luke’s picture on social media, and they assume she engaged since she had on Jennie’s engagement ring to ward off suitors at the bar. So, she hires Luke to be her fake fiance. This is where all the fun and laughs start!
Luke is irresistible...not just his looks, but his approach to life and sense of humor. He and Amy were made from one another. She is a pastry chef, and he is a chef whose specialty is a barbecue pitmaster. Neither realize how this charade will impact both their professional and personal lives.
Amooi has created a great romantic comedy with quirky characters, a great cast of secondary characters, and just a great story. His sense of humor comes through in every page and leaves you with a romance that warms your heart.
Life is ok, but not fantastic for Amy Weaver. Sure she's got a good job, but it's not as fulfilling as she'd like. She has wonderful family but her dad is something else-always pushing her ex back on her. And at 45, she just isn't thrilled with her life. Her 22 year old niece (Jennie) takes her to a country bar and there Jennie crazily gets Amy into a bet riding a mechanical bull. The bet is with Luke Jenkins, a younger handsome cowboy that makes the ladies drool. Even Amy is affected although she denies it to Jennie, and clings to her mantra of not dating cowboys.
A trip to her family home to celebrate Gramps' 90th birthday inspires Amy to hire Luke to pose as her fiancé to try and get ex to leave her alone permanently. Strict rules soon dissolve into a hilarious trip of Luke vs the ex, as well as romance.
I am pretty much cowboy neutral, but the further I got into this hilarious story, the more I understood the cowboy appeal for Amy. So many things working together made this oh-too-short read wonderful. Family dynamics (and grandparents questioning if their son was switched at birth), realistic but embarrassing situations, general assumptions that are hilariously wrong, an idyllic setting, and fun characters combine to create a sweet and fun story. I laughed out loud as I stayed up way too late to finish this terrific book. I loved it! No surprise there since it was written by an author who always is a great story teller.