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Gold Valley #2
Verliefd op de cowboy
Gold Valley
Sexy, ruig, onbeteugeld... de knapste cowboys vind je in Gold Valley, Oregon!
Deel 2
Van sommige dingen moet je gewoon afblijven, vindt Bennett Dodge. Zoals zijn vriendschap met Kaylee Capshaw. Ze zijn al jaren beste vrienden en hebben samen zelfs een dierenkliniek opgezet. Wanneer Bennett tot zijn verbijstering ineens een zoon blijkt te hebben - een puber bovendien! - heeft hij haar harder nodig dan ooit. Maar net wanneer hij dacht dat zijn wereld niet nóg meer op zijn kop kon worden gezet, kust Kaylee hem... En wat ze daarmee bij hem losmaakt, overtreft zijn stoutste dromen!
Sexy, ruig, onbeteugeld... de knapste cowboys vind je in Gold Valley, Oregon!
Deel 2
Van sommige dingen moet je gewoon afblijven, vindt Bennett Dodge. Zoals zijn vriendschap met Kaylee Capshaw. Ze zijn al jaren beste vrienden en hebben samen zelfs een dierenkliniek opgezet. Wanneer Bennett tot zijn verbijstering ineens een zoon blijkt te hebben - een puber bovendien! - heeft hij haar harder nodig dan ooit. Maar net wanneer hij dacht dat zijn wereld niet nóg meer op zijn kop kon worden gezet, kust Kaylee hem... En wat ze daarmee bij hem losmaakt, overtreft zijn stoutste dromen!
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 19, 2018
296 people are currently reading
747 people want to read
About the author
Maisey Yates
1,165 books3,004 followersNew York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Maisey Yates lives in rural Oregon with her three children and her husband, whose chiseled jaw and arresting features continue to make her swoon. She feels the epic trek she takes several times a day from her office to her coffee maker is a true example of her pioneer spirit. In 2009, at the age of twenty-three Maisey sold her first book.
Since then it’s been a whirlwind of sexy alpha males and happily ever afters, and she wouldn’t have it any other way. Maisey divides her writing time between dark, passionate category romances set just about everywhere on earth and light sexy contemporary romances set practically in her back yard.
She believes that she clearly has the best job in the world.
Since then it’s been a whirlwind of sexy alpha males and happily ever afters, and she wouldn’t have it any other way. Maisey divides her writing time between dark, passionate category romances set just about everywhere on earth and light sexy contemporary romances set practically in her back yard.
She believes that she clearly has the best job in the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
June 9, 2022
This is a Friends to Lovers Cowboy Romance, and this is the second book in the Gold Valley series. I have to say this book was to slow moving for my liking. I liked the characters, and I loved the vet stuff that was in this book. If this book was faster moving I would love this book. I found the friends to lovers in this book ok. I loved how Bennett took on fatherhood, and I loved all of his family.
July 28, 2018
4.5 Stars
Kaylee has been in love with her best friend Bennett Dodge since they were teenagers but hasn’t ever revealed her feelings and has had to endure the pain of watching him date other women. I felt Kaylee’s yearning and pain acutely.
Yes, I wanted to smack Bennett for being so clueless, he did have some reasons why he just never let his brain go there, think of his best friend in that way, but still! His circumstances change abruptly, he has a son that he didn’t know about dumped on his door, and the emotional upheaval it produces causes him to need and rely on Kaylee like he’s never had to before. Finally, Bennett starts to see Kaylee as more than his best friend!
I was happy once things were out in the open there were no games played. Just honest feelings and the delight of falling romantically for someone you already know and love so well. And these two had some delicious, hot chemistry so it made it worth the wait!
I was invested in everything working out with Bennett’s son, Dallas, I felt bad for that kid! Selfishness and neglect leave an emotional mark, and it was hard for Dallas to believe he’d be cared for and loved. Kaylee, given her upbringing, was the perfect person to listen and understand Dallas, and it was fortunate Bennett had her for support and mediation.
As usual Maisey Yates brings all the feels out with Untamed Cowboy! Bennett losing his mother at a young age, Dallas having a crap one, and Kaylee’s neglectful, unloving parents added a real emotional aspect that made me teary here and there! Then there was the romance. Unrequited love has a special sort of pain, and Kaylee’s was palpable, but that just made their all the more sweet!
As if that wasn’t enough to make you want to run out and read this, there’s a bonus short story, Mail Order Cowboy. Surprise baby, bewildered cowboy, and sweet nanny make for a short, hot read!
A copy was kindly provided by HQN via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Kaylee has been in love with her best friend Bennett Dodge since they were teenagers but hasn’t ever revealed her feelings and has had to endure the pain of watching him date other women. I felt Kaylee’s yearning and pain acutely.
Yes, I wanted to smack Bennett for being so clueless, he did have some reasons why he just never let his brain go there, think of his best friend in that way, but still! His circumstances change abruptly, he has a son that he didn’t know about dumped on his door, and the emotional upheaval it produces causes him to need and rely on Kaylee like he’s never had to before. Finally, Bennett starts to see Kaylee as more than his best friend!
I was happy once things were out in the open there were no games played. Just honest feelings and the delight of falling romantically for someone you already know and love so well. And these two had some delicious, hot chemistry so it made it worth the wait!
I was invested in everything working out with Bennett’s son, Dallas, I felt bad for that kid! Selfishness and neglect leave an emotional mark, and it was hard for Dallas to believe he’d be cared for and loved. Kaylee, given her upbringing, was the perfect person to listen and understand Dallas, and it was fortunate Bennett had her for support and mediation.
As usual Maisey Yates brings all the feels out with Untamed Cowboy! Bennett losing his mother at a young age, Dallas having a crap one, and Kaylee’s neglectful, unloving parents added a real emotional aspect that made me teary here and there! Then there was the romance. Unrequited love has a special sort of pain, and Kaylee’s was palpable, but that just made their all the more sweet!
As if that wasn’t enough to make you want to run out and read this, there’s a bonus short story, Mail Order Cowboy. Surprise baby, bewildered cowboy, and sweet nanny make for a short, hot read!
A copy was kindly provided by HQN via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 24, 2020
This book is long. Really long. 12 hours of audio book. I am glad I finished it. This is a very sweet and loving story about best friend to lovers romance. It packs with so many morale messages. Love, family, acceptance, forgiveness.
Miss Yates telling her story with peeling every layers/ aspects of characters. She is taking her time to build that connection between the reader and the characters/ story. The connection is so powerful that when I read this, I want to prolong it further. It is a very sweet story indeed.
4 stars
Miss Yates telling her story with peeling every layers/ aspects of characters. She is taking her time to build that connection between the reader and the characters/ story. The connection is so powerful that when I read this, I want to prolong it further. It is a very sweet story indeed.
4 stars
July 3, 2018
Beguiling, touching, and downright swoon-worthy!
Untamed Cowboy is a sweet, provocative tale about the intelligent, kindhearted Kaylee who's finding it harder and harder to keep her attraction for her best friend a secret, and the easygoing, handsome Bennett who may just discover that sometimes things happen for a reason, and everything he’s ever wanted may be standing right in front of him.
The prose is lighthearted and sultry. The characters are amusing, entertaining and supportive. And the plot is a wonderful combination of light drama, heartache, parenthood, family, friendship, fervour, introspection, and undeniable chemistry.
Untamed Cowboy is the second title in the Gold Valley series, and once again Yates has written an engaging, tender, romantic tale with just the right amount of heart, humour, and heat to be truly satisfying.
Thank you to Harlequin Books for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
All my reviews can be found on my blog at https://whatsbetterthanbooks.com
Untamed Cowboy is a sweet, provocative tale about the intelligent, kindhearted Kaylee who's finding it harder and harder to keep her attraction for her best friend a secret, and the easygoing, handsome Bennett who may just discover that sometimes things happen for a reason, and everything he’s ever wanted may be standing right in front of him.
The prose is lighthearted and sultry. The characters are amusing, entertaining and supportive. And the plot is a wonderful combination of light drama, heartache, parenthood, family, friendship, fervour, introspection, and undeniable chemistry.
Untamed Cowboy is the second title in the Gold Valley series, and once again Yates has written an engaging, tender, romantic tale with just the right amount of heart, humour, and heat to be truly satisfying.
Thank you to Harlequin Books for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
All my reviews can be found on my blog at https://whatsbetterthanbooks.com
February 21, 2019
Untamed Cowboy is book two in the Gold Valley series by Maisey Yates.
Kaylee and Bennett where super sweet together. It’s the best friends to lover storyline. These two have been friends since high school, went to collage together, and now they have a vet practice together. They craved being around each other, but it took quite a while for them to realize they should be a couple.
The surprise kid that pops up in Bennett’s life was interesting. Bennett has to learn how to be a father to a teenager. Watching Bennett and the rest of the family interact with Dallas was spectacular. Bennett identifies with Dallas and makes a promise to never lie to him. It was such a strong first meeting and then working out the kinks along the way.
We get a whirl wind of emotions from all the characters. From dealing with a new family member, to starting a new relationship, and running a vet practices is a lot of pressure. Kaylee and Bennett handled it like mature adults, leaned on each other for support, and both helped Dallas out.
Kaylee, Bennett, and Dallas where very well developed characters. It was sweet to see them all bond with animals and the help of animals. We get hope, happiness, and love. I will say it was nice to have Dallas enter Bennett’s life before the relationship with Kaylee got going in the romance department.
As before I loved the secondary characters. Their are just so many to enjoy.
Audio: Suzanne Elise Freeman did another wonderful job with her narration. I actually had a better time with the male voices. I think the more I listen the more they grow on me.
Untamed Cowboy was a wonderful listen. I loved Dallas and the friends to lovers romance. I’d recommend the audiobook or reading the Gold Valley series. Can’t wait to pick up the next installment.
Rated: 4 Stars
Narration: 4 Stars
Kaylee and Bennett where super sweet together. It’s the best friends to lover storyline. These two have been friends since high school, went to collage together, and now they have a vet practice together. They craved being around each other, but it took quite a while for them to realize they should be a couple.
The surprise kid that pops up in Bennett’s life was interesting. Bennett has to learn how to be a father to a teenager. Watching Bennett and the rest of the family interact with Dallas was spectacular. Bennett identifies with Dallas and makes a promise to never lie to him. It was such a strong first meeting and then working out the kinks along the way.
We get a whirl wind of emotions from all the characters. From dealing with a new family member, to starting a new relationship, and running a vet practices is a lot of pressure. Kaylee and Bennett handled it like mature adults, leaned on each other for support, and both helped Dallas out.
Kaylee, Bennett, and Dallas where very well developed characters. It was sweet to see them all bond with animals and the help of animals. We get hope, happiness, and love. I will say it was nice to have Dallas enter Bennett’s life before the relationship with Kaylee got going in the romance department.
As before I loved the secondary characters. Their are just so many to enjoy.
Audio: Suzanne Elise Freeman did another wonderful job with her narration. I actually had a better time with the male voices. I think the more I listen the more they grow on me.
Untamed Cowboy was a wonderful listen. I loved Dallas and the friends to lovers romance. I’d recommend the audiobook or reading the Gold Valley series. Can’t wait to pick up the next installment.
Rated: 4 Stars
Narration: 4 Stars
June 15, 2018
Bennett and Kaylee are so super sweet together. Best friends since high school, all through vet school and even started their practice together. Their personalities craved being around the other, fate knew all along how this would play out but it took quite a while for their brains to catch up. Watching Bennett interact with Dallas, willing to go all out from the first moment he met him, truly identifies him as father first and foremost. A whirl wind of emotions hit Kaylee, to watch the love of her life introducing her to his son. Gathering courage to tackle the vet practice, raise a child, and work on their relationship is a lot of pressure. The couple handled it like mature adults, leaning on each other for support, helping Dallas out whenever possible. Only when it came time for her to accept Bennett’s love did she stumble. Once they overcame the hurdle Kaylee had set in place, everything came together in a very natural way.
Ms. Yates has another great novel to add to her resume. Untamed Cowboy had a great cast of characters, each one leaving paths in your memory. Kaylee, Bennett and Dallas were very well developed characters, relatable to in many ways. To watch how all of the characters bond over animals is heartwarming. The feeling of hope and happiness were carried throughout the novel, rarely did negative emotions enter the picture. I personally loved that Dallas entered Bennett’s life prior to their relationship starting; many times it the other way around and I feel puts unneccesary stress on the relationship. They really worked together as a true team both at work and at home, making Untamed Cowboy a great read. The Dodge family has me hooked, I cannot wait to see what happens next!
February 4, 2019
ARC provided by NetGalley and Harlequin in exchange for an honest review.
I struggled with this one....
Kaylee is in love with her best friend, Bennet since high school. She's tried dating other men and none can come close to what she feels for her best friend Bennet. Kaylee's home-life was unhealthy and her parents were neglectful, so she escaped to Bennet's home. Kaylee learned to be independent and care for herself, she's learned she doesn't trust easily or love easily. Kaylee also suffers from low self-esteem (in my humble opinion it's a little overplayed). Her and Bennet started a veterinary clinic together and they work well together, as well as spend a lot of time together of course. Kaylee has never let on to Bennet about her true feelings. She even stood by him during his engagement of two years as well as the break up.
Bennet, is reserved and like to control situations and things. It's part of his issues of loosing his mother at a young age and then watching over his little sister. He's experienced a difficult breakup at a young age with a girlfriend who lost their baby. And he's now finding out that baby that he thought was lost was actually alive. And this totally blindsides Bennet, a fifteen year old son. A son who has trust issues and who could blame him. He turns to Kaylee for help with his son and this is when things between them begin to change and he see's Kaylee in a different light as she help him adjust in his new chaotic world.
Okay, I love MY as an author as normally really love her books. But there are some things that I struggled with in this book. And this just might be my issues but here they are. I found the repeated inter struggle that Kaylee with her self esteem to be overplayed and made me sad for her. And Bennet and his two year engagement and the past girlfriend and baby issue did not endear me to him and his handling of either. I at times found him to distant and his choice somewhat irritating as well. The storyline wasn't my favorite I guess as I found there was too much past issue/relationship drama.
I struggled with this one....
Kaylee is in love with her best friend, Bennet since high school. She's tried dating other men and none can come close to what she feels for her best friend Bennet. Kaylee's home-life was unhealthy and her parents were neglectful, so she escaped to Bennet's home. Kaylee learned to be independent and care for herself, she's learned she doesn't trust easily or love easily. Kaylee also suffers from low self-esteem (in my humble opinion it's a little overplayed). Her and Bennet started a veterinary clinic together and they work well together, as well as spend a lot of time together of course. Kaylee has never let on to Bennet about her true feelings. She even stood by him during his engagement of two years as well as the break up.
Bennet, is reserved and like to control situations and things. It's part of his issues of loosing his mother at a young age and then watching over his little sister. He's experienced a difficult breakup at a young age with a girlfriend who lost their baby. And he's now finding out that baby that he thought was lost was actually alive. And this totally blindsides Bennet, a fifteen year old son. A son who has trust issues and who could blame him. He turns to Kaylee for help with his son and this is when things between them begin to change and he see's Kaylee in a different light as she help him adjust in his new chaotic world.
Okay, I love MY as an author as normally really love her books. But there are some things that I struggled with in this book. And this just might be my issues but here they are. I found the repeated inter struggle that Kaylee with her self esteem to be overplayed and made me sad for her. And Bennet and his two year engagement and the past girlfriend and baby issue did not endear me to him and his handling of either. I at times found him to distant and his choice somewhat irritating as well. The storyline wasn't my favorite I guess as I found there was too much past issue/relationship drama.
June 11, 2018
I was excited to see Bennett getting his own story. I was definitely intrigued to get more of him after seeing the relationship with Olivia.
I liked Kaylee and Bennett. They’re both compatible and I thought their friendship was sweet. Of course the rest of the family was in it and I enjoy their dynamic, especially with the addition of a somewhat sullen teenager.
Plot wise, it was okay? Between Bennett’s need to plan and Kaylee’s uncertainty about Bennett, it got repetitive. I didn’t see their chemistry and would have loved scenes of them dating or something. Instead it was a lot of inner monologue.
Overall, it was the characters that kept me reading, but I wanted a lot more out of them. Annnnnd I’ll be over here waiting for Lindy’s book.
**Huge thanks to HQN Books for providing the arc free of charge**
I liked Kaylee and Bennett. They’re both compatible and I thought their friendship was sweet. Of course the rest of the family was in it and I enjoy their dynamic, especially with the addition of a somewhat sullen teenager.
Plot wise, it was okay? Between Bennett’s need to plan and Kaylee’s uncertainty about Bennett, it got repetitive. I didn’t see their chemistry and would have loved scenes of them dating or something. Instead it was a lot of inner monologue.
Overall, it was the characters that kept me reading, but I wanted a lot more out of them. Annnnnd I’ll be over here waiting for Lindy’s book.
**Huge thanks to HQN Books for providing the arc free of charge**
September 19, 2018
3.5 Stars
Untamed Cowboy features a delightful friends to lovers romance with an amazing set of characters and I really enjoyed it.
Kaylee Capshaw has been in love with her best friend Bennett Dodge since high school, but never voiced her feelings as she didn’t want to ruin their friendship. Together they started a veterinary clinic and everything is as great as it has always been. Then Bennett finds out he has a fifteen year old son and his world is turned upside down causing him to need Kaylee more than ever. But when Kaylee unexpectedly kisses him, nothing between them will ever be the same.
Bennett is a man who always has a plan for any situation and someone who dislikes relinquishing control. After losing his mother at the age of seven, Bennett became more reserved as he felt his new sister needed the attention more than he did. Losing his mother also put him on the path to becoming a veterinarian as he felt a need to help but didn’t think he could handle losing people.
Kaylee didn’t have the best home life growing up so after moving to Gold Valley and becoming friends with Bennett, she fled to his house as often as possible. Kaylee’s parents ignored her entirely leading to Kaylee having to learn how to take care of herself from a very young age. Kaylee has serious trust issues as the people who were supposed to love her the most, felt nothing for her.
Bennett and Kaylee have been best friends since they were thirteen and their friendship is one of the best parts of this book. They do have a bit of a co-dependent relationship, but when you spend most of your time with one person, that does tend to happen. It took me a little while to buy into the romantic connection between them, but their physical relationship was fantastic from the start. The scenes are incredibly hot and had me hoping for more time alone for the two of them.
The side characters are one of the best parts of Maisey Yates’ books as they’re so incredibly well done. The author writes families really well and gets you invested in their happiness very quickly. I love the Dodge family dynamics and how clear it is how much they love each other. I enjoyed seeing Olivia and Luke, the couple from Smooth-Talking Cowboy, return and getting to see how happy they are. Bennett’s son introduces some interesting changes to the family as at fifteen he’s never had someone truly care about him and has a hard time accepting love. I enjoyed watching Bennett and Dallas bond and loved how their relationship turned out.
Untamed Cowboy was very quick to get through and perfect for fans of friends to lovers romances. I’m excited to read about the rest of the Dodge family soon and I highly recommend this author if you’re a fan of small-town or cowboy romances.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
Untamed Cowboy features a delightful friends to lovers romance with an amazing set of characters and I really enjoyed it.
Kaylee Capshaw has been in love with her best friend Bennett Dodge since high school, but never voiced her feelings as she didn’t want to ruin their friendship. Together they started a veterinary clinic and everything is as great as it has always been. Then Bennett finds out he has a fifteen year old son and his world is turned upside down causing him to need Kaylee more than ever. But when Kaylee unexpectedly kisses him, nothing between them will ever be the same.
Bennett is a man who always has a plan for any situation and someone who dislikes relinquishing control. After losing his mother at the age of seven, Bennett became more reserved as he felt his new sister needed the attention more than he did. Losing his mother also put him on the path to becoming a veterinarian as he felt a need to help but didn’t think he could handle losing people.
Kaylee didn’t have the best home life growing up so after moving to Gold Valley and becoming friends with Bennett, she fled to his house as often as possible. Kaylee’s parents ignored her entirely leading to Kaylee having to learn how to take care of herself from a very young age. Kaylee has serious trust issues as the people who were supposed to love her the most, felt nothing for her.
Bennett and Kaylee have been best friends since they were thirteen and their friendship is one of the best parts of this book. They do have a bit of a co-dependent relationship, but when you spend most of your time with one person, that does tend to happen. It took me a little while to buy into the romantic connection between them, but their physical relationship was fantastic from the start. The scenes are incredibly hot and had me hoping for more time alone for the two of them.
The side characters are one of the best parts of Maisey Yates’ books as they’re so incredibly well done. The author writes families really well and gets you invested in their happiness very quickly. I love the Dodge family dynamics and how clear it is how much they love each other. I enjoyed seeing Olivia and Luke, the couple from Smooth-Talking Cowboy, return and getting to see how happy they are. Bennett’s son introduces some interesting changes to the family as at fifteen he’s never had someone truly care about him and has a hard time accepting love. I enjoyed watching Bennett and Dallas bond and loved how their relationship turned out.
Untamed Cowboy was very quick to get through and perfect for fans of friends to lovers romances. I’m excited to read about the rest of the Dodge family soon and I highly recommend this author if you’re a fan of small-town or cowboy romances.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
June 20, 2021
A cowboy and a veterinarian, be still my heart !!!
Seventeen years ago, a boy with a loving family but who lost his mother when he was younger and a girl who had to learn to take care of herself because her parents couldn't care less became friends . They went to vet school together and now own a clinic where they take care of pets and livestock.
Kaylee Capshaw dates men. But there's always the same problem : they're not Bennett Dodge. All these years, she never told her best friend that she's in love with him nor let her feelings show. She would probably tell it's because she didn't want to destroy their friendship but the young woman is about to discover it's maybe more complicated than that.
Bennett is totally clueless about what she really feel for him. Anyway, it wouldn't have been part of his plan because you see, Bennett needs control in his life. That's why his whole life was already planned. He was supposed to marry Olivia, a friend of the family, but as we saw in the previous book, the arrangement derailed when Luke Hollister enter the scene and gets the girl. The very last thing that Bennett intended was to fall in love and with the only woman that could wreck the scenario he imagined. And he's not even out of the woods with love yet, because an other unexpected life changing experience await him : a son he didn't know he had.
If you already know this author, I don't need to tell you how well this author play with words and emotions. I know that when I open a Maisey Yates's book, it's gonna be a bumpy road that will left me totally satisfied at the end and with a smile on my face because these people, they fight for love. Her characters's reaction are always like real life people so that I'm not always happy with how they act or react but it's also what make these novels so good so I can't complain. The same could be said about the fact it took too much time before the friendship became a romance, but usually when I read a friends-to-lovers trope, I find the feelings change too fast so yeah, still no complain from me.
What makes a hero is not just about how he is with the heroine. It's also about how he interact with the other characters and deal with the different emotions those persons bring in his life. The way he handled the unanticipated arrival of his teenage son and welcomed him and included him right away in his life showed he was worthy of his hero title ;p By the way, Dallas was a pretty great addition to the story; a fifteen-year-old smart-ass who had to overcome his fear of abandonment and I like how the heroine and him became like friend, relating to the others about parents neglect.
Seventeen years ago, a boy with a loving family but who lost his mother when he was younger and a girl who had to learn to take care of herself because her parents couldn't care less became friends . They went to vet school together and now own a clinic where they take care of pets and livestock.
Kaylee Capshaw dates men. But there's always the same problem : they're not Bennett Dodge. All these years, she never told her best friend that she's in love with him nor let her feelings show. She would probably tell it's because she didn't want to destroy their friendship but the young woman is about to discover it's maybe more complicated than that.
Bennett is totally clueless about what she really feel for him. Anyway, it wouldn't have been part of his plan because you see, Bennett needs control in his life. That's why his whole life was already planned. He was supposed to marry Olivia, a friend of the family, but as we saw in the previous book, the arrangement derailed when Luke Hollister enter the scene and gets the girl. The very last thing that Bennett intended was to fall in love and with the only woman that could wreck the scenario he imagined. And he's not even out of the woods with love yet, because an other unexpected life changing experience await him : a son he didn't know he had.
If you already know this author, I don't need to tell you how well this author play with words and emotions. I know that when I open a Maisey Yates's book, it's gonna be a bumpy road that will left me totally satisfied at the end and with a smile on my face because these people, they fight for love. Her characters's reaction are always like real life people so that I'm not always happy with how they act or react but it's also what make these novels so good so I can't complain. The same could be said about the fact it took too much time before the friendship became a romance, but usually when I read a friends-to-lovers trope, I find the feelings change too fast so yeah, still no complain from me.
What makes a hero is not just about how he is with the heroine. It's also about how he interact with the other characters and deal with the different emotions those persons bring in his life. The way he handled the unanticipated arrival of his teenage son and welcomed him and included him right away in his life showed he was worthy of his hero title ;p By the way, Dallas was a pretty great addition to the story; a fifteen-year-old smart-ass who had to overcome his fear of abandonment and I like how the heroine and him became like friend, relating to the others about parents neglect.
April 25, 2019
Untamed Cowboy by Maisey Yates is the second story in her Gold Valley series, and is a heartwarming and sensual friends to lovers story.
Bennett Dodge and Kaylee Capshaw have been best friends since they were kids. They work together at a veterinarian clinic and spend a fair amount of their free time with each other. Though Kaylee has had a long standing crush on Bennett, she’s not been willing to risk their friendship by telling him and has kept it hidden, even when he was on the verge of marrying someone else. But with that engagement off, when Bennett wants to bring Kaylee along as his ‘wingman’ to get his dating life back on track, she suggests they spend a night together instead.
Bennett has only recently started to notice Kaylee in a new light. She’s been his friend for so long that he’s always considered her off limits. But now, things aren’t so clear. When the sudden appearance of a teenaged son Bennett never knew about rocks his world, it’s Kaylee who helps him adjust. There’s a lot of change to get used to – will it also start Bennett and Kaylee on the path to more?
I really enjoyed this romance! Bennett’s family is a close one, his mother having died during childbirth with his younger sister. As a result the siblings know loss and have all dealt with it in different ways. Bennett copes by always having a plan, and the most recent iteration included getting married and having kids. With his broken engagement and the appearance of his son, his plans have to change. There’s a good portion of time spent in developing the relationship between the two of them, as well as the growing confusion of feelings between Kaylee and Bennett.
Kaylee had a tough time growing up and depended on her friendship with Bennett. She still relies on him, though she’s been trying hard to keep an emotional distance. That all changes when his engagement is broken and his son shows up. She can identify with his son who has lived in foster homes the last few years. This helps her be a mentor to him, and a go between for father and son.
Kaylee and Bennett share some sexy scenes together as their relationship changes. Their love scenes are imbued with emotion, even as they want to pretend that it’s just sex. There are lots of heartfelt moments in the story and introspection for both main characters as they think about what brought them to this place in their lives. It’s not an easy road, but they make it to their happy ending. Untamed Cowboy is a really lovely romance and I definitely plan to read more of the series.
This review also appears at Harlequin Junkie at: http://harlequinjunkie.com/review-unt...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher for review.
Bennett Dodge and Kaylee Capshaw have been best friends since they were kids. They work together at a veterinarian clinic and spend a fair amount of their free time with each other. Though Kaylee has had a long standing crush on Bennett, she’s not been willing to risk their friendship by telling him and has kept it hidden, even when he was on the verge of marrying someone else. But with that engagement off, when Bennett wants to bring Kaylee along as his ‘wingman’ to get his dating life back on track, she suggests they spend a night together instead.
Bennett has only recently started to notice Kaylee in a new light. She’s been his friend for so long that he’s always considered her off limits. But now, things aren’t so clear. When the sudden appearance of a teenaged son Bennett never knew about rocks his world, it’s Kaylee who helps him adjust. There’s a lot of change to get used to – will it also start Bennett and Kaylee on the path to more?
I really enjoyed this romance! Bennett’s family is a close one, his mother having died during childbirth with his younger sister. As a result the siblings know loss and have all dealt with it in different ways. Bennett copes by always having a plan, and the most recent iteration included getting married and having kids. With his broken engagement and the appearance of his son, his plans have to change. There’s a good portion of time spent in developing the relationship between the two of them, as well as the growing confusion of feelings between Kaylee and Bennett.
Kaylee had a tough time growing up and depended on her friendship with Bennett. She still relies on him, though she’s been trying hard to keep an emotional distance. That all changes when his engagement is broken and his son shows up. She can identify with his son who has lived in foster homes the last few years. This helps her be a mentor to him, and a go between for father and son.
Kaylee and Bennett share some sexy scenes together as their relationship changes. Their love scenes are imbued with emotion, even as they want to pretend that it’s just sex. There are lots of heartfelt moments in the story and introspection for both main characters as they think about what brought them to this place in their lives. It’s not an easy road, but they make it to their happy ending. Untamed Cowboy is a really lovely romance and I definitely plan to read more of the series.
This review also appears at Harlequin Junkie at: http://harlequinjunkie.com/review-unt...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher for review.
June 15, 2018
➳ Rate: 4,3 / 5 stars
This was my first Maisey Yates book and I gotta say I really enjoyed it. I'm sucker for best friends to lovers so that fact called out to me, but once I met all the characters and the story started flowing you learn that this book is so much more than the romance.
Bennett and Kaylee have been best friends ever since she moved into town. Bennett was Kaylee's escape from her home life, he gave her strength, helped her turn her life around and gave her a life plan. Besides being best-friends, they are also co-owners of the local Vet.
Kaylee has been in love with him for many years, but has always been afraid to take that step and lose him. So she always stood by his side, being there for him in any way she could but watching him be in a relationship with someone else. He just got out of a two year relationship which would have eventually ended in marriage if it hadn't truly ended. Bennett is now free but Kaylee is still afraid to show him she likes him as more than a best-friend. She tries to move on and date but it turns out to be impossible, her heart has Bennett tattooed on it.
Bennett is not doing so well, the break up and having just found out that Olivia is having a baby with someone else brings back old memories of his first real girlfriend and the baby they lost. And then said baby shows up on his doorstep, as a skittish fifteen year old who has had it rough and is very hard to trust Bennett and his intentions.
Bennett is completely blindsided and doesn't know what to do, so he goes to Kaylee for help as he always does. Kaylee helps him with Dallas, she and him had very similar upbringings and share the same kind of scars so they have that empathy. Bennett had no idea Kaylee had it so rough growing up, she never shared that part of her life with him, and he sees how much it affected her when it threatens to ruin everything they could be now that they know they love each other and they could have a future.
Untamed Cowboy was a good story, not just because of the beautiful love story but because it shows how a parent should love and support his kid. Bennett became a parent in a blink of an eye and despite the fact that he had no idea what he was doing, he knew that from the moment that kid showed up on his door step, he loved him because he was his. He was the kid he had wanted 15 years ago and was still not over losing. And now he had that kid, and he had the chance to turn the kid's life around. Even though it hurt to not have been there for the past 15 years, specially since they were so hard, now he had the duty to love him and give him everything he needed.
I enjoyed so much more to see the relationship between Dallas and Bennett, and the rest of the family, grow and become a true parental relationship, then I actually enjoyed Bennett and Kaylee. For me that was the best part of the book. Don't get me wrong, I did enjoy the romance too. It was hot, sweet and even angst-y, aka super enjoyable.
➳ARC kindly provided by publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
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This was my first Maisey Yates book and I gotta say I really enjoyed it. I'm sucker for best friends to lovers so that fact called out to me, but once I met all the characters and the story started flowing you learn that this book is so much more than the romance.
Bennett and Kaylee have been best friends ever since she moved into town. Bennett was Kaylee's escape from her home life, he gave her strength, helped her turn her life around and gave her a life plan. Besides being best-friends, they are also co-owners of the local Vet.
Kaylee has been in love with him for many years, but has always been afraid to take that step and lose him. So she always stood by his side, being there for him in any way she could but watching him be in a relationship with someone else. He just got out of a two year relationship which would have eventually ended in marriage if it hadn't truly ended. Bennett is now free but Kaylee is still afraid to show him she likes him as more than a best-friend. She tries to move on and date but it turns out to be impossible, her heart has Bennett tattooed on it.
Bennett is not doing so well, the break up and having just found out that Olivia is having a baby with someone else brings back old memories of his first real girlfriend and the baby they lost. And then said baby shows up on his doorstep, as a skittish fifteen year old who has had it rough and is very hard to trust Bennett and his intentions.
Bennett is completely blindsided and doesn't know what to do, so he goes to Kaylee for help as he always does. Kaylee helps him with Dallas, she and him had very similar upbringings and share the same kind of scars so they have that empathy. Bennett had no idea Kaylee had it so rough growing up, she never shared that part of her life with him, and he sees how much it affected her when it threatens to ruin everything they could be now that they know they love each other and they could have a future.
Untamed Cowboy was a good story, not just because of the beautiful love story but because it shows how a parent should love and support his kid. Bennett became a parent in a blink of an eye and despite the fact that he had no idea what he was doing, he knew that from the moment that kid showed up on his door step, he loved him because he was his. He was the kid he had wanted 15 years ago and was still not over losing. And now he had that kid, and he had the chance to turn the kid's life around. Even though it hurt to not have been there for the past 15 years, specially since they were so hard, now he had the duty to love him and give him everything he needed.
I enjoyed so much more to see the relationship between Dallas and Bennett, and the rest of the family, grow and become a true parental relationship, then I actually enjoyed Bennett and Kaylee. For me that was the best part of the book. Don't get me wrong, I did enjoy the romance too. It was hot, sweet and even angst-y, aka super enjoyable.
➳ARC kindly provided by publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
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May 29, 2018
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
I would have liked this so much better if it was shorter. I was all in from the beginning because single dad romances are some of my favorite books to read.
We have Kaylee and Bennett who have been best friends since forever. Kaylee has been pining for Bennett for half of that time. Bennett has a teenage son that he didn’t know about turn up. Throw in an unexpected kiss with Kaylee and his world is spinning out of control.
My main reasons I couldn't rate this book higher was because while I did like the characters, I didn't feel really connected to them. The romance between them was sweet, but I didn't really feel the love they had for each other. Also, because of the constant thoughts of Kaylee's doubts about Bennett and Bennett going on about his life he had planned out. It became a little too much. I'm all for angst but it seriously could have been cut in half.
There was a short second story at the end of this one and is it wrong to say I liked it better?
While it was a heartwarming story, it could have been shorter. (I know, I know. I keep saying that) If you are a fan of cowboy stories with a lot of angst, then this one is for you.
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I would have liked this so much better if it was shorter. I was all in from the beginning because single dad romances are some of my favorite books to read.
We have Kaylee and Bennett who have been best friends since forever. Kaylee has been pining for Bennett for half of that time. Bennett has a teenage son that he didn’t know about turn up. Throw in an unexpected kiss with Kaylee and his world is spinning out of control.
My main reasons I couldn't rate this book higher was because while I did like the characters, I didn't feel really connected to them. The romance between them was sweet, but I didn't really feel the love they had for each other. Also, because of the constant thoughts of Kaylee's doubts about Bennett and Bennett going on about his life he had planned out. It became a little too much. I'm all for angst but it seriously could have been cut in half.
There was a short second story at the end of this one and is it wrong to say I liked it better?
While it was a heartwarming story, it could have been shorter. (I know, I know. I keep saying that) If you are a fan of cowboy stories with a lot of angst, then this one is for you.
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April 7, 2018
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup. (posting to blog 6/18/19)
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2qdznvB
Untamed Cowboy touched the heart and made me feel so much for two best friends who have spent a lifetime being there for one another.
The Gist: Bennett's perfectly ordered life has blown up in his face in the form of a troubled 15 year old boy. Who just so happens to be his kid. One he had no idea about and finds himself responsible for. Thankfully his best friend is there to help both of them figure it all out.
I really liked both Bennett and Kaylee. They're good people. Kind hearted, giving, reliable. They care for animals and each other and are just kind of adorable. They're people you'd want to know and be around in real life, ya know?
They're best friends, business partners, each other's safety and comfort. But there are secrets they've both kept hidden for 17 years of friendship. I loved seeing them together. Everything knocking them about and them to finally realize that maybe they were more than just best friends. The awkward moments, the risky ones of admitting feelings and the sexy ones as they uncover sides of each other they'd never seen. That's always such an interesting moment between best friends and really threw them both for a loop.
And then there was Bennett's son and finding out he was a father. It was heart breaking and just incredibly sad. Hard moments of telling his family the truth, realizing all the milestone they'd missed, the struggles each faced with fear and uncertainty. because of the mother's choices (she told him she'd had a miscarriage). It was incredibly touching and gave a girl all the feels as the two tried to work things out and Kaylee stood with them-- she had her own issues that related. There was some humor added to the mix, too, thankfully.
All in all, Untamed Cowboy grabbed my heart. It made me laugh, cry, smile over these two, well, three, really. I loved seeing them each heal and find what they needed in life not just what they thought they wanted. There are struggles, moments of panic and uncertainty but also those of hope, comfort and unending love. It was a lovely story.
*I did have a book grumble with the book ending at 79%. I wasn't mentally prepared for that and thought I'd have more story with them. So that irked with suddenly it was done and a novella began.
June 12, 2018
I liked the surprise son - but otherwise a bit slow and not a lot of passion.
Realllllly want Grant's story. Review to come
Realllllly want Grant's story. Review to come
April 6, 2019
The idea for this book was simple but great. I'm usually a fan of friends to lovers stories where we can see the characters development and the inner struggle that comes with their changing relationship. I often value characterization more than the plot. Insta-love stories just aren't my cup of tea.
Kids appearing out of the blue in MC's lives are a big plus for me. Nothing can shake a character's world like arrival of a child you never knew about. Such relationships include a wide range of emotions that need to be dealt with and if the writting is remarkable it can lead to a 4 or 5 star rating from me.
The major problems for me here were some of the monologues which were repetitive but the dialogues were the worst. They were over the top and even melodramatic, especially between MC's and Dallas.
Some parts were like reading a self help book which is not realistic when a 31-year old dad talks with his previously problematic 15 year old son he had just met.
Overall, the story was enjoyable but nothing special.
Kids appearing out of the blue in MC's lives are a big plus for me. Nothing can shake a character's world like arrival of a child you never knew about. Such relationships include a wide range of emotions that need to be dealt with and if the writting is remarkable it can lead to a 4 or 5 star rating from me.
The major problems for me here were some of the monologues which were repetitive but the dialogues were the worst. They were over the top and even melodramatic, especially between MC's and Dallas.
Some parts were like reading a self help book which is not realistic when a 31-year old dad talks with his previously problematic 15 year old son he had just met.
Overall, the story was enjoyable but nothing special.
June 20, 2018
I received this book for free from Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I think this was my first Maisey Yates book but I've been tempted to pick up her books for years now. In my quest for trying to read cowboy romances this year, I couldn't pass this one up. I absolutely adored the premise of UNTAMED COWBOY. Kaylee and Bennett have been best friends since high school. They went to college together, both became veterinarians and now own a practice together back in their small town. Kaylee's crush is now a full blown obsession but Bennett has never seen her as anything more than his best friend. But now it's time for things to change or for Kaylee to move on with her life.
I'll be honest, there were some bumps along the way for me. I found some parts of the writing to be repetitive and I also thought that Bennett could come off as a bit of an asshole at times. I guess he's a typical clueless man but that also made me feel like he didn't really see Kaylee as a love interest and maybe the outcome was out of convenience? Obviously I didn't feel like that all the time, but he did have his moments where I wasn't so in love with him when it came to the relationship aspect. What I did love about this was Dallas. Bennett gets an unexpected surprise sometime into the book and everything about how that shook his life was so adorably sweet. I loved how Dallas connected with Kaylee and how he fit into the family.
The one thing about cowboy romances, or any small town romance, is the family aspect. The Dodge family is the perfect example of that. This is the kind of thing that I love to read about in the summer! The siblings are all different but you can feel the unity and the love. They're there for each other but also bust each others' balls.
UNTAMED COWBOY was ultimately a sweet story. Untamed? I'm not sure if the title really fit. I found Bennett to be the most bland out of the brothers without much needing to be tamed about him. But while I can't say I have much love for the hero, he did grow on me and I was happy to get to their HEA. Will I continue with the series? I could be tempted to read about another sexy cowboy from the Dodge family for sure because I thought Wyatt and Grant definitely have lots of potential. We shall see.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Francesca❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
June 18, 2018
I really enjoyed the storyline of Untamed Cowboy. I read it all in one weekend because I didn’t want to put the book down. Although I could have done with a little less repetition of Kaylee and Bennett’s issues.
My very favorite part of Untamed Cowboy was definitely Dallas! He has had to grow up fast and he could be bitter and closed off from the life he has lived. Instead he ends up acting the least immature and childish of the main characters!
“I wanted to make sure that she knew she wasn’t by herself.”
Those words, quiet and serious, stopped Bennett’s heart. In them was a wealth of pain, a wealth of meaning. Dallas had been alone. When he was sick, no one had held him. When he’d been scared, there had been no one to chase away monsters.”
Young Dallas makes Bennett open his eyes to all the good that is right in front of him. Bennett has to see that Kaylee is just what he needs and wants instead of walking with blinders on just trying to make the world around him fit into the mold of how he thinks his life should be.
-4 Stars!-
My very favorite part of Untamed Cowboy was definitely Dallas! He has had to grow up fast and he could be bitter and closed off from the life he has lived. Instead he ends up acting the least immature and childish of the main characters!
“I wanted to make sure that she knew she wasn’t by herself.”
Those words, quiet and serious, stopped Bennett’s heart. In them was a wealth of pain, a wealth of meaning. Dallas had been alone. When he was sick, no one had held him. When he’d been scared, there had been no one to chase away monsters.”
Young Dallas makes Bennett open his eyes to all the good that is right in front of him. Bennett has to see that Kaylee is just what he needs and wants instead of walking with blinders on just trying to make the world around him fit into the mold of how he thinks his life should be.
-4 Stars!-
June 19, 2018
She was everything. Everything he had wanted her to be. Everything he had needed her to be. And then some.
I have to admit, I was a little nervous going into Untamed Cowboy, for the sole reason that I can be a little picky when it comes to friends-to-lovers romance. Don’t get me wrong—I love them, and consider them to be one of my favorite tropes, but I wasn’t sure what this story would deliver.
Ultimately, it delivered what I have come to expect of Maisey Yates, and that is a charming, sexy and likable love story. Bennett and Kaylee’s relationship developed well, and the added dimension of Bennett’s newly discovered son complemented it perfectly. It made this book incredibly easy to read, and it gave me lots of reasons to smile.
In fact, the appearance of Dallas and the way he impacted both Bennett and Kaylee’s life was my favorite part of Untamed Cowboy, and made some of the repetition of Bennett and Kaylee’s problems/issues/concerns a little easier to deal with.
Not that that repetition was a deal breaker. It wasn’t, but it is worth noting, just as the sometimes-one-sided nature of their friendship is worthy of a mention. Ms. Yates worked that into their story seamlessly, and made the development of their feelings—and well as some elements of their history, which readers of this series would be familiar with—that much more authentic and engaging.
Which is part of the reason why, only two—and a half, if you include the quick-but-enjoyable novella tucked into the back of Untamed Cowboy—books into the Gold Valley series, I’m already addicted. And not at all nervous about reading more . . .
It was like lightning. A moment that cracked the sky wide-open and lit up . . . everything. Just for a moment, a blinding, brilliant moment, everything was clear.
~ FOUR STARS ~
I have to admit, I was a little nervous going into Untamed Cowboy, for the sole reason that I can be a little picky when it comes to friends-to-lovers romance. Don’t get me wrong—I love them, and consider them to be one of my favorite tropes, but I wasn’t sure what this story would deliver.
Ultimately, it delivered what I have come to expect of Maisey Yates, and that is a charming, sexy and likable love story. Bennett and Kaylee’s relationship developed well, and the added dimension of Bennett’s newly discovered son complemented it perfectly. It made this book incredibly easy to read, and it gave me lots of reasons to smile.
In fact, the appearance of Dallas and the way he impacted both Bennett and Kaylee’s life was my favorite part of Untamed Cowboy, and made some of the repetition of Bennett and Kaylee’s problems/issues/concerns a little easier to deal with.
Not that that repetition was a deal breaker. It wasn’t, but it is worth noting, just as the sometimes-one-sided nature of their friendship is worthy of a mention. Ms. Yates worked that into their story seamlessly, and made the development of their feelings—and well as some elements of their history, which readers of this series would be familiar with—that much more authentic and engaging.
Which is part of the reason why, only two—and a half, if you include the quick-but-enjoyable novella tucked into the back of Untamed Cowboy—books into the Gold Valley series, I’m already addicted. And not at all nervous about reading more . . .
It was like lightning. A moment that cracked the sky wide-open and lit up . . . everything. Just for a moment, a blinding, brilliant moment, everything was clear.
~ FOUR STARS ~
June 20, 2018
Untamed Cowboy
Maisey Yates
Yates welcomes fans back to Oregon with full-length novel #2 in her new Gold Valley series staring two BFF Veterinarians in a classic with a few twists and turns friends to lovers story. The storyline deals with some sobering issues but the author is not afraid to raise a little Cain and have some fun as well, and offers her audience that winning combination of featuring animals and kids, even though the animals are aging rescue horses plus side of the road varmint saves and the kid just happens to be surprise fifteen-year-old surly teenager. The father-son and family dynamics are realistic and the dueling Vet stars are a complicated pair, he’s a Mr. Fix-It and she’s a product of an unhappy past who doesn’t believe she’s deserving of love. The wilds of Oregon settings complete the bucolic feel and the perfect HEA ending makes the tears shed worth it.
SUMMARY:
Bennett Dodge just got blown away when a surly fifteen-year-old mini me showed up at his door accompanied by a social worker that in no uncertain terms said; congratulations it’s a boy. He needs his BFF Kaylee more than ever to help him through this but all of a sudden he’s looking at her as a beautiful desirable woman and not his pal, and that’s the last thing he needs. Kaylee Capshaw has been Bennett’s best friend since they were kids, they now run a Veterinary clinic together and now that Bennett’s life has been turned upside down he needs her more than ever. The trouble is that she’s also been in love with him since forever and although helping him in a time of need is a no brainer she has to wonder how she’s going to keep her desire for him a secret.
Maisey Yates
Yates welcomes fans back to Oregon with full-length novel #2 in her new Gold Valley series staring two BFF Veterinarians in a classic with a few twists and turns friends to lovers story. The storyline deals with some sobering issues but the author is not afraid to raise a little Cain and have some fun as well, and offers her audience that winning combination of featuring animals and kids, even though the animals are aging rescue horses plus side of the road varmint saves and the kid just happens to be surprise fifteen-year-old surly teenager. The father-son and family dynamics are realistic and the dueling Vet stars are a complicated pair, he’s a Mr. Fix-It and she’s a product of an unhappy past who doesn’t believe she’s deserving of love. The wilds of Oregon settings complete the bucolic feel and the perfect HEA ending makes the tears shed worth it.
SUMMARY:
Bennett Dodge just got blown away when a surly fifteen-year-old mini me showed up at his door accompanied by a social worker that in no uncertain terms said; congratulations it’s a boy. He needs his BFF Kaylee more than ever to help him through this but all of a sudden he’s looking at her as a beautiful desirable woman and not his pal, and that’s the last thing he needs. Kaylee Capshaw has been Bennett’s best friend since they were kids, they now run a Veterinary clinic together and now that Bennett’s life has been turned upside down he needs her more than ever. The trouble is that she’s also been in love with him since forever and although helping him in a time of need is a no brainer she has to wonder how she’s going to keep her desire for him a secret.
June 21, 2018
I was lucky enough to read book 1 in this series and OMG! I think I liked this story so MUCH more than the first! First, both characters are veterinarians - so I love them already! Secret loves and secret sons and this book is just totally a captivating read from beginning to end. So often I don't click with a story like this but Bennett and Kaylee had my attention from the get go. I wanted to shake Bennett and just give Kaylee some encouragement to find another guy other than Bennett. Another series I will be keeping an eye out for!
I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 28, 2018
I love a good cowboy story. Untamed Cowboy by Maisey Yates does it for me. Kaylee and Bennett wer good together. Although, their chemistry in the beginning was slow to build. This is because neither one woul admit thier true feelings to one another or make the first move. Yet, when they did finally hook up; sparks were definitely flying.
Kaylee and Bennett were not the only ones that were charming. All of the other characters from Bennett's brother and sister to his son. None of them played just minor or secondary roles. They helped bring the story alive.
This book has everything from humor, love, second chances and a happy ending. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
Kaylee and Bennett were not the only ones that were charming. All of the other characters from Bennett's brother and sister to his son. None of them played just minor or secondary roles. They helped bring the story alive.
This book has everything from humor, love, second chances and a happy ending. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
June 29, 2018
After coming off of the high of Maisey Yates' Smooth Talking Cowboy (you can read the review here), I was so ready for Untamed Cowboy. Unfortunately everything that made Smooth Talking Cowboy work seemed to be lacking in Untamed Cowboy.
First off, it's really rare that I don't like heroes in romance novels. I mean, they're the ultimate reason we read romances, right? However, Bennett goes from being wishy-washy and bland to a jerk in 0-60. Even at the end, I don't feel he ever redeemed himself in my eyes. I also didn't get over his attitude, as a veterinarian, that there was a hierarchy of animals which should be saved and those which should not. In fact, his attitude about becoming a vet stymied me because it seemed that he went into it rather than being a people doctor was because he couldn't deal with people dying rather than to help the animals.
Kaylee is a decent heroine. I wanted so much more for her than Bennett. With description of Bennett's older brother, I thought, he'd be a much better choice for Kaylee, except we already know that he's going to end up with Lindy because they hate each other.
My favorite couple in the book had little to do with romance. It was Bennett's newly revealed secret son, Dallas, and the horse, Lucy. Now this was where my heartstrings were pulled as Lucy becomes ill, and Dallas shows just how attached he's become.
Untamed Cowboy (not sure how they came up with that title because Bennett is pretty tame) goes on for too long and has a great deal of repetition, which gets really monotonous after a while. If there were the slightest spark between Kaylee and Bennett, or, if, they actually had some fun scenes together, I'm sure I wouldn't have minded all of the exposition.
This is the second book I've read by Maisey Yates and the second book in the Gold Valley series. I will read other books by hers counting on the fact that Untamed Cowboy may be the fluke and Smooth Talking Cowboy the real deal.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
First off, it's really rare that I don't like heroes in romance novels. I mean, they're the ultimate reason we read romances, right? However, Bennett goes from being wishy-washy and bland to a jerk in 0-60. Even at the end, I don't feel he ever redeemed himself in my eyes. I also didn't get over his attitude, as a veterinarian, that there was a hierarchy of animals which should be saved and those which should not. In fact, his attitude about becoming a vet stymied me because it seemed that he went into it rather than being a people doctor was because he couldn't deal with people dying rather than to help the animals.
Kaylee is a decent heroine. I wanted so much more for her than Bennett. With description of Bennett's older brother, I thought, he'd be a much better choice for Kaylee, except we already know that he's going to end up with Lindy because they hate each other.
My favorite couple in the book had little to do with romance. It was Bennett's newly revealed secret son, Dallas, and the horse, Lucy. Now this was where my heartstrings were pulled as Lucy becomes ill, and Dallas shows just how attached he's become.
Untamed Cowboy (not sure how they came up with that title because Bennett is pretty tame) goes on for too long and has a great deal of repetition, which gets really monotonous after a while. If there were the slightest spark between Kaylee and Bennett, or, if, they actually had some fun scenes together, I'm sure I wouldn't have minded all of the exposition.
This is the second book I've read by Maisey Yates and the second book in the Gold Valley series. I will read other books by hers counting on the fact that Untamed Cowboy may be the fluke and Smooth Talking Cowboy the real deal.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 28, 2019
This was a quick and fun read, why haven't I read it sooner?
Bennett could be such a dodohead sometimes I felt like screaming "SHE LOVES *YOU*, STUPID" in his face because dude was so oblivious, poor Kaylee who's been in love with him forever, but I love how he stepped up to take responsibility of his son. Loved the dynamics of the Dodge family, can't wait to read the rest of the series.
E-ARC is received thanks to the publisher via Netgalley.
Bennett could be such a dodohead sometimes I felt like screaming "SHE LOVES *YOU*, STUPID" in his face because dude was so oblivious, poor Kaylee who's been in love with him forever, but I love how he stepped up to take responsibility of his son. Loved the dynamics of the Dodge family, can't wait to read the rest of the series.
E-ARC is received thanks to the publisher via Netgalley.
June 19, 2018
Let me start by saying that I am a huge fan of Maisey Yates' novels, was eagerly looking forward to reading this second novel in her Gold Valley series, and, once again, I found this this one almost impossible to put down, but I did have a few minor issues with it, which I why I can only give it a 4.5 star rating.
Bennett Dodge and Kaylee Capshaw have been best friends since they first met when Kaylee was 13 years old. She was the lonely and scared new kid in school, when young Bennett joined her at her lunch table, and the two have been best friends for the past 17 years, even attending the same veterinary school together and opening a joint veterinary practice in Gold Valley.
Kaylee's childhood and home life was anything but ideal, her parents were selfish alcoholics, but from the very first, Bennett drew her into his family dynamic and gave her the sort of stability her own parents never provided. Is it any wonder that she fell in love with the handsome guy and has secretly carried a torch for him ever since? Not wanting to risk losing their friendship, she's kept her feelings to herself, even when Bennett became engaged to marry another woman, but her relief when his engagement fell apart was palpable. When she finally had the chance to make her feelings known, she remained silent, not wanting to risk their friendship if Bennett didn't return her feelings. Although she's dated several men over the years in the hopes of getting over her love for Bennett, no man has ever measured up to him, and Bennett is clueless enough to make fun of the fact that her dating relationships don't last very long.
Bennett Dodge lost his mother when he was only seven years old--she died shortly after giving birth to his younger sister, Jamie, and ever since that sad event he's wanted to control and plan his life down to the last detail, keeping everything in order, so that he'll have no more unpleasant surprises. His friendship with Kaylee has been a constant in his life, he knows he can turn to her, rely on her, and has never seemed to notice Kaylee as the attractive woman she's become, or noticed that she's interested in far more than merely being his best friend, but when it comes to Kaylee and her feelings for him, he's utterly clueless, and it's his utter cluelessness that is the reason I couldn't give this this novel 5 stars--it was simply maddening.
When 16-year-old Bennett impregnated his first high school girlfriend, he was prepared to do the right thing and marry her, but she told him that she'd had a miscarriage and left Gold Valley for good, so you can imagine his surprise when a social worker with a moody, snarky, distant and difficult teenage boy in tow shows up at the Dodge ranch and he learns that the miscarriage was a lie and that he now has a 15-year-old son, Dallas. Fathering a teenager certainly wasn't in his life plans, and who is the first person he calls? It's Kaylee, of course, and once again, she's there for him, and she totally understands Dallas and his situation when he admits that his mother was a drug addict, one who would ignore and leave him alone even at a very young age, preferring drugs to motherhood. He's a troubled teenager, has been shuttled from foster home to foster home, and was in danger of going to jail for shoplifting when he finally admitted to knowing that Bennett Dodge was his father. Bennett, although stunned by these revelations, is quick to be the responsible adult, thrilled to have a son, and tries to get through to Dallas, but his life plan has been irrevocably altered, and will soon be even more so.
When a stressed-out Bennett admits to his best friend Kaylee that he really needs to hook up with someone to get his head on straight, she finally has to act on her feelings for Bennett and volunteers herself to help him out physically. For Kaylee, having sex with Bennett that night is the culmination of her lifelong secret love for him, a life long fantasy of hers, and it's a life-altering event, but afterwards, Bennett simply thanks her, and for him it's back to the status quo, thinking it's a one-off and expecting nothing to change. As I said, utterly clueless, but we soon learn that he's not the only clueless character in this novel.
The remainder of this un-put-downable novel is about about these changing relationships and how her characters adapt to them, about keeping secrets, and about self-realization for all the characters involved, and as such, it's a gripping and emotional read that at one point had me in tears. Ms. Yates shows real insight into these complicated family dynamics, a deep understanding of the lies these characters tell themselves, and the walls they hide behind in order to protect themselves from being left hurt and alone, and she does so brilliantly. It was an absolutely excellent read.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
Bennett Dodge and Kaylee Capshaw have been best friends since they first met when Kaylee was 13 years old. She was the lonely and scared new kid in school, when young Bennett joined her at her lunch table, and the two have been best friends for the past 17 years, even attending the same veterinary school together and opening a joint veterinary practice in Gold Valley.
Kaylee's childhood and home life was anything but ideal, her parents were selfish alcoholics, but from the very first, Bennett drew her into his family dynamic and gave her the sort of stability her own parents never provided. Is it any wonder that she fell in love with the handsome guy and has secretly carried a torch for him ever since? Not wanting to risk losing their friendship, she's kept her feelings to herself, even when Bennett became engaged to marry another woman, but her relief when his engagement fell apart was palpable. When she finally had the chance to make her feelings known, she remained silent, not wanting to risk their friendship if Bennett didn't return her feelings. Although she's dated several men over the years in the hopes of getting over her love for Bennett, no man has ever measured up to him, and Bennett is clueless enough to make fun of the fact that her dating relationships don't last very long.
Bennett Dodge lost his mother when he was only seven years old--she died shortly after giving birth to his younger sister, Jamie, and ever since that sad event he's wanted to control and plan his life down to the last detail, keeping everything in order, so that he'll have no more unpleasant surprises. His friendship with Kaylee has been a constant in his life, he knows he can turn to her, rely on her, and has never seemed to notice Kaylee as the attractive woman she's become, or noticed that she's interested in far more than merely being his best friend, but when it comes to Kaylee and her feelings for him, he's utterly clueless, and it's his utter cluelessness that is the reason I couldn't give this this novel 5 stars--it was simply maddening.
When 16-year-old Bennett impregnated his first high school girlfriend, he was prepared to do the right thing and marry her, but she told him that she'd had a miscarriage and left Gold Valley for good, so you can imagine his surprise when a social worker with a moody, snarky, distant and difficult teenage boy in tow shows up at the Dodge ranch and he learns that the miscarriage was a lie and that he now has a 15-year-old son, Dallas. Fathering a teenager certainly wasn't in his life plans, and who is the first person he calls? It's Kaylee, of course, and once again, she's there for him, and she totally understands Dallas and his situation when he admits that his mother was a drug addict, one who would ignore and leave him alone even at a very young age, preferring drugs to motherhood. He's a troubled teenager, has been shuttled from foster home to foster home, and was in danger of going to jail for shoplifting when he finally admitted to knowing that Bennett Dodge was his father. Bennett, although stunned by these revelations, is quick to be the responsible adult, thrilled to have a son, and tries to get through to Dallas, but his life plan has been irrevocably altered, and will soon be even more so.
When a stressed-out Bennett admits to his best friend Kaylee that he really needs to hook up with someone to get his head on straight, she finally has to act on her feelings for Bennett and volunteers herself to help him out physically. For Kaylee, having sex with Bennett that night is the culmination of her lifelong secret love for him, a life long fantasy of hers, and it's a life-altering event, but afterwards, Bennett simply thanks her, and for him it's back to the status quo, thinking it's a one-off and expecting nothing to change. As I said, utterly clueless, but we soon learn that he's not the only clueless character in this novel.
The remainder of this un-put-downable novel is about about these changing relationships and how her characters adapt to them, about keeping secrets, and about self-realization for all the characters involved, and as such, it's a gripping and emotional read that at one point had me in tears. Ms. Yates shows real insight into these complicated family dynamics, a deep understanding of the lies these characters tell themselves, and the walls they hide behind in order to protect themselves from being left hurt and alone, and she does so brilliantly. It was an absolutely excellent read.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
June 23, 2018
4.5 stars
I’ve anticipated this one for a long time ever since Christmastime Cowboy , which featured Olivia and Bennett as a couple while Kaylee watched jealously on as they interacted at the bar. Kaylee would just give her these looks that spoke how much she was in love with Bennett and how much she disliked Olivia just because she was with Bennett. In that book, Olivia broke up with Bennett because he didn’t propose to her in a timely manner. And this lead to the setup of Gold Valley with the first in the series, Smooth Talking Cowboy Untamed Cowboy > featured Bennett and Kaylee’s story. I have to admit I was looking forward to Bennett and Kaylee’s story more than Olivia especially since their story was a friends to story, which is my favorite trope of all time in romance, but I have to admit that liked Olivia’s story a little bit better than Bennett and Kaylee, and I was expecting that. Not to say this one was a bad book, because I really did like and enjoy especially when Kaylee and Bennett actually got together then the book really took off for me, but Olivia’s book just had a little oomph of something extra that took it over the top.
I expected a lot more sexual tension between Kaylee and Bennett than there actually was especially considering the trope. Don’t get me wrong they had spurts of attraction during certain moments that caused a good deal of sexual tension between them, but it almost seemed few and far between until they finally got together. I understand that they had other things to focus on when his son Dallas came onto the scene and I also understood that there was a great deal of denial between both of them when it came to their physical attraction to one another, but I think it could have been amped up a little bit more. At least for my liking. It was there on her side because she had been in love with Bennett forever, but it seemed take awhile for him to get there in the book. It felt forever.
Also at times I wasn’t really digging Kaylee. I did feel bad for her that she had a horrible childhood and faced much neglect from her partners. And I also felt bad that she had this deep unrequited love of Bennett for almost 17 years that had just grew and grew and at times became unbearable for her, but she kept suppressing her feelings because she didn’t want to ruin the friendship between her and Bennett. I get all that, but I felt sometime she was too much of a martyr especially when it came to Bennett. She only focused on his wants, his needs, and what she could do for and basically sacrificing herself in the process. I get she was in love with him, but it just went a little over the top at times. Yes, it was due to her self-esteem issues too, but still I felt like at times that she was a doormat to Bennett. Not that it was Bennett’s fault, Kaylee allowed this to happen again and again without asking anything in return. She gave a lot to him. But also another thing about her was when she finally had Bennett she was in this self-protect moment all the time, which I understand that was due to her background, but after awhile it just got too much. She was giving way too much and she was not asking for what she wanted and just focused on Bennett. So, at the start of them coming together their relationship became very unbalanced because of that.
Until Bennett finally stepped up to the plate and realized what she was doing, and refused to let her hid away. He wanted to give more to her than what he was getting back. He wanted to take care of her and show he appreciated her, but Kaylee did make that a difficult task for him, but he kept pushing her until finally she began to open up to him than the book got to be so much better. It felt like more of an equal relationship and they had something to build on from their friendship to something deeper and more meaningful. They finally broke through barriers and let go with each other completely so they could love each other. And that was one of the things that I loved story.
Another thing I loved about this story was Dallas and his relationship to Kaylee. They had such a great report going on because they really understood each other having gone through similar childhoods. I loved seeing that bond develop between them and also by Kaylee understanding Dallas then she could relate to Bennett what Dallas was going through emotionally and how to conduct their relationship in a positive way. And I enjoyed seeing Bennett develop a relationship with Dallas which took time but he handled with extreme patience, and it was good see that type of relationship developing while his relationship was growing with Kaylee.
I also enjoyed all the metaphors that were going on in this book, which is weird to say romance, but it was obvious. When Kaylee was talking about something whether it was Dallas or a horse or animal, what she was really doing was describing what she was feeling without having blatantly having to say so. In her way that was how she revealed herself to Bennett even if it took Bennett a long time to get it. But I appreciated that was in there and I thought very cleverly done and handled.
Once they finally got together, the story got so much better because that was when Bennett finally opened his eyes, and not just about their sexual attraction to one another, but more open to Kaylee and who she actually was instead of what she portrayed. He finally could see behind her layers and the walls she had built up around herself. He made mistakes for sure, but was quickly to remedy them once he realized it. He learned a lot when developing relationships in this book, and though it took awhile he learned. He was definitely one of the more self-aware heroes I have read, and I enjoyed him immensely.
The passionate scenes were as good as I thought be with some simmering scenes along the way. Wasn’t expecting that their first time together would have happened that way, but for them it worked. I enjoyed the last one because that was the one where love flowed between them because all of the barriers were broken down and all that was there was each other. It was a nice, beautiful moment between them. And it showed me that they could work as a couple with their love, friendship and passion.
Overall this was a very enjoyable book, and something that Maisey Yates has thrived with these longer cowboy books of her. This one may have not been perfect for me, but this was still really great book with a great friends to lovers story. I loved Dallas and Bennett so much. Kaylee it took me awhile to warm up to her and found that she was too much of martyr at times, but she had to learn throughout how to deal with having a relationship with Bennett when feelings were reciprocated. It was hard for both of them but seemingly for Kaylee, and I understand that because she wanted Bennett her entire life and never believing she would have him and even accepted that to finally having him, she just didn’t know what to do with all that. And I felt it took a little long to get to the romance portion for the book, I get why, but I wish there was a first kiss a little bit sooner then the denial could have come. They had chemistry for sure, but not a lot of angst as I would have liked in a friends to lovers story. That would have amplified it for me a ton if I felt more the angst between the two. I didn’t get the angsty read that I was looking, but I got over that when they were at the Gold Valley Saloon and she finally told Bennett she wanted him then it just heaps and bounds better. I think if that happened a little sooner too I would have give this a five stars, but this one was pretty darn good and warranted a four and half stars, so not bad at all.
Can’t wait to read more stories in the Gold Valley > series. Believe it or not I am looking forward to Bea’ book the most after reading this one. It was teased about Bea’s feelings for Dane, as was it in other books too, and just how she needed to grow up before she could take him on, which is why book is not coming out until next year. The wait will kill me but I understand why now that it’s going to take so long after reading this book. Also I am looking forward to Jaimie’s book too, but I think she’s not until next year either, but I can see what emotional issues she’s going to have to deal with in her book in order to get her happily ever after. Until then Wyatt and Grant’s stories will be next in the series, Grant’s probably my most anticipated out of the two, but we will see .
I’ve anticipated this one for a long time ever since Christmastime Cowboy , which featured Olivia and Bennett as a couple while Kaylee watched jealously on as they interacted at the bar. Kaylee would just give her these looks that spoke how much she was in love with Bennett and how much she disliked Olivia just because she was with Bennett. In that book, Olivia broke up with Bennett because he didn’t propose to her in a timely manner. And this lead to the setup of Gold Valley with the first in the series, Smooth Talking Cowboy Untamed Cowboy > featured Bennett and Kaylee’s story. I have to admit I was looking forward to Bennett and Kaylee’s story more than Olivia especially since their story was a friends to story, which is my favorite trope of all time in romance, but I have to admit that liked Olivia’s story a little bit better than Bennett and Kaylee, and I was expecting that. Not to say this one was a bad book, because I really did like and enjoy especially when Kaylee and Bennett actually got together then the book really took off for me, but Olivia’s book just had a little oomph of something extra that took it over the top.
I expected a lot more sexual tension between Kaylee and Bennett than there actually was especially considering the trope. Don’t get me wrong they had spurts of attraction during certain moments that caused a good deal of sexual tension between them, but it almost seemed few and far between until they finally got together. I understand that they had other things to focus on when his son Dallas came onto the scene and I also understood that there was a great deal of denial between both of them when it came to their physical attraction to one another, but I think it could have been amped up a little bit more. At least for my liking. It was there on her side because she had been in love with Bennett forever, but it seemed take awhile for him to get there in the book. It felt forever.
Also at times I wasn’t really digging Kaylee. I did feel bad for her that she had a horrible childhood and faced much neglect from her partners. And I also felt bad that she had this deep unrequited love of Bennett for almost 17 years that had just grew and grew and at times became unbearable for her, but she kept suppressing her feelings because she didn’t want to ruin the friendship between her and Bennett. I get all that, but I felt sometime she was too much of a martyr especially when it came to Bennett. She only focused on his wants, his needs, and what she could do for and basically sacrificing herself in the process. I get she was in love with him, but it just went a little over the top at times. Yes, it was due to her self-esteem issues too, but still I felt like at times that she was a doormat to Bennett. Not that it was Bennett’s fault, Kaylee allowed this to happen again and again without asking anything in return. She gave a lot to him. But also another thing about her was when she finally had Bennett she was in this self-protect moment all the time, which I understand that was due to her background, but after awhile it just got too much. She was giving way too much and she was not asking for what she wanted and just focused on Bennett. So, at the start of them coming together their relationship became very unbalanced because of that.
Until Bennett finally stepped up to the plate and realized what she was doing, and refused to let her hid away. He wanted to give more to her than what he was getting back. He wanted to take care of her and show he appreciated her, but Kaylee did make that a difficult task for him, but he kept pushing her until finally she began to open up to him than the book got to be so much better. It felt like more of an equal relationship and they had something to build on from their friendship to something deeper and more meaningful. They finally broke through barriers and let go with each other completely so they could love each other. And that was one of the things that I loved story.
Another thing I loved about this story was Dallas and his relationship to Kaylee. They had such a great report going on because they really understood each other having gone through similar childhoods. I loved seeing that bond develop between them and also by Kaylee understanding Dallas then she could relate to Bennett what Dallas was going through emotionally and how to conduct their relationship in a positive way. And I enjoyed seeing Bennett develop a relationship with Dallas which took time but he handled with extreme patience, and it was good see that type of relationship developing while his relationship was growing with Kaylee.
I also enjoyed all the metaphors that were going on in this book, which is weird to say romance, but it was obvious. When Kaylee was talking about something whether it was Dallas or a horse or animal, what she was really doing was describing what she was feeling without having blatantly having to say so. In her way that was how she revealed herself to Bennett even if it took Bennett a long time to get it. But I appreciated that was in there and I thought very cleverly done and handled.
Once they finally got together, the story got so much better because that was when Bennett finally opened his eyes, and not just about their sexual attraction to one another, but more open to Kaylee and who she actually was instead of what she portrayed. He finally could see behind her layers and the walls she had built up around herself. He made mistakes for sure, but was quickly to remedy them once he realized it. He learned a lot when developing relationships in this book, and though it took awhile he learned. He was definitely one of the more self-aware heroes I have read, and I enjoyed him immensely.
The passionate scenes were as good as I thought be with some simmering scenes along the way. Wasn’t expecting that their first time together would have happened that way, but for them it worked. I enjoyed the last one because that was the one where love flowed between them because all of the barriers were broken down and all that was there was each other. It was a nice, beautiful moment between them. And it showed me that they could work as a couple with their love, friendship and passion.
Overall this was a very enjoyable book, and something that Maisey Yates has thrived with these longer cowboy books of her. This one may have not been perfect for me, but this was still really great book with a great friends to lovers story. I loved Dallas and Bennett so much. Kaylee it took me awhile to warm up to her and found that she was too much of martyr at times, but she had to learn throughout how to deal with having a relationship with Bennett when feelings were reciprocated. It was hard for both of them but seemingly for Kaylee, and I understand that because she wanted Bennett her entire life and never believing she would have him and even accepted that to finally having him, she just didn’t know what to do with all that. And I felt it took a little long to get to the romance portion for the book, I get why, but I wish there was a first kiss a little bit sooner then the denial could have come. They had chemistry for sure, but not a lot of angst as I would have liked in a friends to lovers story. That would have amplified it for me a ton if I felt more the angst between the two. I didn’t get the angsty read that I was looking, but I got over that when they were at the Gold Valley Saloon and she finally told Bennett she wanted him then it just heaps and bounds better. I think if that happened a little sooner too I would have give this a five stars, but this one was pretty darn good and warranted a four and half stars, so not bad at all.
Can’t wait to read more stories in the Gold Valley > series. Believe it or not I am looking forward to Bea’ book the most after reading this one. It was teased about Bea’s feelings for Dane, as was it in other books too, and just how she needed to grow up before she could take him on, which is why book is not coming out until next year. The wait will kill me but I understand why now that it’s going to take so long after reading this book. Also I am looking forward to Jaimie’s book too, but I think she’s not until next year either, but I can see what emotional issues she’s going to have to deal with in her book in order to get her happily ever after. Until then Wyatt and Grant’s stories will be next in the series, Grant’s probably my most anticipated out of the two, but we will see .
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 8, 2019
This is a friend to lover romance, that shows even the smartest of men can be dumber than a bag of rocks. lol
Bennett Dodge is a planner, everything has there place. After losing his mother, Bennett drew into himself. His mother is the main part of why he became a veterinarian. Bennett is about to get a shock of a lifetime what he does with said surprise will change his life completely.
Kaylee Capshaw's story just broke my heart, her relationship with her parents is strained to say the least. Kaylee has been half in love with Bennett for years, all the Dodge’s at some point played a roll in sculpting who she became, but most of all Bennett was the leader.
Kaylee and Bennett heat things up after one kiss changes everything, but can or will things progress? Kaylee is unsure about Bennett’s staying power. The people she loved always left her. Bennett likes his life in compartments, but he did not know in what slot to put Kaylee in. After that one kiss his views on Kaylee have definitely changed.
Supporting characters in Untamed Cowboy are amazing, giving Bennett and Kaylee just the right balance. I can’t wait for the other Dodge siblings to fall under the love spell. Wyatt is going to be fun. The plot is a marvelous friends to lover romance with a few surprises throughout. Misty Yates continues to surprise me with her books.She creates such wonderful romances that heat you up and wraps around your heart. I for one can’t wait for more on the A Gold Valley Series.
Rated 5 Stilettos by Deb!
Bennett Dodge is a planner, everything has there place. After losing his mother, Bennett drew into himself. His mother is the main part of why he became a veterinarian. Bennett is about to get a shock of a lifetime what he does with said surprise will change his life completely.
Kaylee Capshaw's story just broke my heart, her relationship with her parents is strained to say the least. Kaylee has been half in love with Bennett for years, all the Dodge’s at some point played a roll in sculpting who she became, but most of all Bennett was the leader.
Kaylee and Bennett heat things up after one kiss changes everything, but can or will things progress? Kaylee is unsure about Bennett’s staying power. The people she loved always left her. Bennett likes his life in compartments, but he did not know in what slot to put Kaylee in. After that one kiss his views on Kaylee have definitely changed.
Supporting characters in Untamed Cowboy are amazing, giving Bennett and Kaylee just the right balance. I can’t wait for the other Dodge siblings to fall under the love spell. Wyatt is going to be fun. The plot is a marvelous friends to lover romance with a few surprises throughout. Misty Yates continues to surprise me with her books.She creates such wonderful romances that heat you up and wraps around your heart. I for one can’t wait for more on the A Gold Valley Series.
Rated 5 Stilettos by Deb!
June 13, 2018
3.5*
Bennet and Kaylee have been best friends since they were kids... she has been following Bennet all her life because she has always wanted to escape her reality and Bennet and his family were that for her...
Bennet has always wanted his life in order, everything that comes in his life needs to be planned so he knows what to expect and what to do.
But when Bennet’s life gives a 180* Turn nothing is like he planned and the only thing that stays the same is Kaylee’s friendship... until that changes too.
Never in his life Bennet saw Kaylee as anything than his best friend, like a sister, but when hard times comes, so some declarations that give Bennet something to think about.
When it comes to love, men are so blind, you need to put it so clear so they can understand, but Bennet had so much in his plate that the last thing he was thinking was how Kaylee’s interest changed.
Even with all that I loved how their friendship reminded intact and both knew that that was the most important thing.
It was so sweet when Kaylee put first Bennet’s problems before following her heart, and how Bennet took responsibility of everything even when he had to deal with all of his “out-of-plan” life.
I really enjoyed the story, of Bennet figuring out his new life and the support he had from this family, because even when nothing was like he wanted, in that moment I felt he was never happier. Plus we had a naked-torso Cowboy to drool over and a beautiful story of friendship, love and family.
Bennet and Kaylee have been best friends since they were kids... she has been following Bennet all her life because she has always wanted to escape her reality and Bennet and his family were that for her...
Bennet has always wanted his life in order, everything that comes in his life needs to be planned so he knows what to expect and what to do.
But when Bennet’s life gives a 180* Turn nothing is like he planned and the only thing that stays the same is Kaylee’s friendship... until that changes too.
Never in his life Bennet saw Kaylee as anything than his best friend, like a sister, but when hard times comes, so some declarations that give Bennet something to think about.
When it comes to love, men are so blind, you need to put it so clear so they can understand, but Bennet had so much in his plate that the last thing he was thinking was how Kaylee’s interest changed.
Even with all that I loved how their friendship reminded intact and both knew that that was the most important thing.
It was so sweet when Kaylee put first Bennet’s problems before following her heart, and how Bennet took responsibility of everything even when he had to deal with all of his “out-of-plan” life.
I really enjoyed the story, of Bennet figuring out his new life and the support he had from this family, because even when nothing was like he wanted, in that moment I felt he was never happier. Plus we had a naked-torso Cowboy to drool over and a beautiful story of friendship, love and family.
July 26, 2018
2.75
Bennett Dodge managed to dodge an unhappy marriage when his ex-girlfriend Olivia left him. However, now he has started to have feelings for his best friend Kaylee Capshaw and that terrifies him more than anything. Kaylee has spent her entire life convincing herself she could love someone other than Bennett Dodge, but now she isn't so sure. Will they be able to overcome their fear of ruining their friendship in order to see if they could have a relationship?
This was a cure story, but I wasn't too sure about all of the elements. To me the only thing holding them back was themselves and the reasoning for both of them just felt a little off. Do I think they make a great couple, yes. Do I think it would have taken 17 years and they would have had so many issues with being together, no. I also started to skim read near the end because the story was not holding my attention. Not a bad story, just not the story for me.
Bennett Dodge managed to dodge an unhappy marriage when his ex-girlfriend Olivia left him. However, now he has started to have feelings for his best friend Kaylee Capshaw and that terrifies him more than anything. Kaylee has spent her entire life convincing herself she could love someone other than Bennett Dodge, but now she isn't so sure. Will they be able to overcome their fear of ruining their friendship in order to see if they could have a relationship?
This was a cure story, but I wasn't too sure about all of the elements. To me the only thing holding them back was themselves and the reasoning for both of them just felt a little off. Do I think they make a great couple, yes. Do I think it would have taken 17 years and they would have had so many issues with being together, no. I also started to skim read near the end because the story was not holding my attention. Not a bad story, just not the story for me.
March 28, 2019
This was an easy read that has some tropes I really love, so I feel like I should have liked it more. Buuut, I lost patience with the heroine's issues by the end, and she made some truly mind-boggling choices which felt like the author injecting drama purely for the sake of the typical together-breakup/BigMis-together4eva romance ending. That is a trope I am well over. So few authors can make it feel authentic to the characters and the situation. We should just agree that it should no longer be a thing.
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