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Big Chance Dog Rescue #2
Lucky Chance Cowboy: A Veteran Rancher Woos an Overworked and Jaded Woman into Believing in Love
This emotional, hopeful, contemporary cowboy romance is perfect for readers looking Marcus Talbott is a soldier through and through, and he's not going to let an injury keep him from his Army unit. Sure, his last mission nearly broke his back, but that's nothing his positive attitude and work ethic can't fix, right? In the meantime, he's got a place on the board at the Big Chance Dog Rescue, and flirting with his best friend's sassy sister, Emma, is a welcome distraction. Emma Stern is barely scraping by while working and caring for her elderly grandfather, but she's running out of options?and hope. The last thing she has time for is Marcus and his flirting, sexy as he might be. But every time Emma thinks she's reached the end of her rope, Marcus is there to lend a hand. Maybe there's more to the handsome playboy after all... Praise for Big Chance Cowboy : "A real page turner with a sexy cowboy you can root for, a sassy heroine you can fall in love with, and an ugly dog that brings them together."―CAROLYN BROWN, New York Times bestselling author "Love...and puppies... Be prepared to fall in love with this cast of characters and this book."―JENNIE MARTS, USA Today bestselling author of the Cowboys of Creedence series "Big Chance Cowboy is a tail-wagging good read. I was hooked from start to finish."―DEBBIE BURNS, acclaimed author of the Rescue Me series "Inspiring... Stanley hits the mark with wonderfully complex, caring characters; catchy dialogue; and lessons in self-esteem, loyalty, and forgiveness."― Publishers Weekly
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published January 28, 2020
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116 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
February 1, 2020
Slick’s review
2.5 stars
What is up with this title? There were no cowboys in this story or in this series for that matter and it does the book a disservice. This series revolves around a ranch that plans to take shelter dogs and teach them to help veterans in need, the Big Chance Dog Rescue is more than a dog rescue, it’s a place for injured veterans to find their way back from all sorts of situations they survived while serving their country. I love the premise of this series, but for me this book was too predictable, a bit disappointing, and I just didn’t feel the connection between the hero and heroine.
Marcus Talbot is at his buddy’s ranch to finish his rehabilitation before proving to the medical board he is ready to go back to combat. While there he is training Patton to be a mobility support dog one he is relying on while getting back into shape.
Emma Stern sits on the board of directors at her brother’s dog rescue and will do anything to help him succeed except train dogs even though she’s good at it. She wants to deny the attraction she feels towards Marcus, her brother’s Army buddy and friend, but she can’t; she can however stay far away as she knows that he has demons she can’t help because she’s tried before and failed.
Both Marcus and Emma have a lot of baggage and it doesn’t help that they are both hiding a big part of themselves from the world and each other. Marcus flirts, we are told it excites Emma but I just didn’t feel it. I felt for so much of this book they were at odds, then they’d move a little closer, then at odds again, then closer, and then back to being at odds, and honestly it was exhausting. I get Emma had been hurt and was still harboring a lot of frustration and guilt from what happened with her husband, but I felt like she was putting all of that onto Marcus. Marcus was no better he refused to believe he had a problem, he lied to himself and others about how bad his injury was still affecting him, and he wouldn’t talk about either one. It took far too long for them to open up to each other and even when they did then it was two steps back.
Add in two major setbacks at the ranch, one of which seemed contrived and the other that seemed added to kick them when they were down and I grew very weary while reading this because it seemed like it just went from one crisis to another without very much good in between to make it satisfying.
I’ve read Ms. Stanley in the past and have enjoyed her work, but Lucky Chance Cowboy which contained no cowboy, very little romance, and way too much drama was not the book for me.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
2.5 stars
What is up with this title? There were no cowboys in this story or in this series for that matter and it does the book a disservice. This series revolves around a ranch that plans to take shelter dogs and teach them to help veterans in need, the Big Chance Dog Rescue is more than a dog rescue, it’s a place for injured veterans to find their way back from all sorts of situations they survived while serving their country. I love the premise of this series, but for me this book was too predictable, a bit disappointing, and I just didn’t feel the connection between the hero and heroine.
Marcus Talbot is at his buddy’s ranch to finish his rehabilitation before proving to the medical board he is ready to go back to combat. While there he is training Patton to be a mobility support dog one he is relying on while getting back into shape.
Emma Stern sits on the board of directors at her brother’s dog rescue and will do anything to help him succeed except train dogs even though she’s good at it. She wants to deny the attraction she feels towards Marcus, her brother’s Army buddy and friend, but she can’t; she can however stay far away as she knows that he has demons she can’t help because she’s tried before and failed.
Both Marcus and Emma have a lot of baggage and it doesn’t help that they are both hiding a big part of themselves from the world and each other. Marcus flirts, we are told it excites Emma but I just didn’t feel it. I felt for so much of this book they were at odds, then they’d move a little closer, then at odds again, then closer, and then back to being at odds, and honestly it was exhausting. I get Emma had been hurt and was still harboring a lot of frustration and guilt from what happened with her husband, but I felt like she was putting all of that onto Marcus. Marcus was no better he refused to believe he had a problem, he lied to himself and others about how bad his injury was still affecting him, and he wouldn’t talk about either one. It took far too long for them to open up to each other and even when they did then it was two steps back.
Add in two major setbacks at the ranch, one of which seemed contrived and the other that seemed added to kick them when they were down and I grew very weary while reading this because it seemed like it just went from one crisis to another without very much good in between to make it satisfying.
I’ve read Ms. Stanley in the past and have enjoyed her work, but Lucky Chance Cowboy which contained no cowboy, very little romance, and way too much drama was not the book for me.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
January 8, 2020
· “You can love someone without losing yourself in the process.” ·
*I got an ARC of this book through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
I must admit that when I requested an ARC of this book, I was mislead by the title and the cover and was actually expecting a more cowboy story and that . . . well, that didn’t quite happen. But my dissappointment was soon forgotten when I found myself turning the pages non-stop!
After Emma lost her husband to a war, the last thing she wants to do is fall in love with another soldier. . . Especially one that’s just buying time while he recovers to return to the front. However, fate has a funny way of sending your way not what you want but what you need. And this is precisely how Marcus comes into her life. In the time they’ll spend together working towards building a non-profit that will help vets and rescue dogs equally, Marcus will break through Emma’s walls, making her face her past in a way she hasn’t brought herself to do yet, feel pretty much alive and fill her with fear of not being able to save yet another man.
Marcus, on his side, has one goal in mind only—heal his back as much as possible to get back to the only thing he knows he’s good at—being a soldier. However, there’s a high chance his back is more damaged than he cares to admit (even to himself) and the fact that Emma won’t support his decision of returning to the line of duty can prove more hurtful than he’d ever thought possible.
During the weeks they spend together at Big Chance, Emma and Marcus overcome several obstacles (namely, Emma’s prejudice when it comes to Marcus) and the atraction they feel grows more and more. However, as time goes by and Marcus’ medical examination approaches, the tension and the fear also arise. Much as Emma’d like to let go of the past, she can’t put herself through the same, and she can’t bring herself to hope this time around things will go well either. So, under those circumstances, is letting Marcus go the right thing to do? Or did she make the biggest mistake of her life?
“Lucky Chance Cowboy” is book #2 in Teri’s series, though it can perfectly be read (and enjoyed!) as a standalone. This was also the first book I ever read by her, and I really loved her style—she really knows how to build her characters, settings, drama, tension, passion and the much desired happy ever after. I’m looking forwards to more!!!
*I got an ARC of this book through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
I must admit that when I requested an ARC of this book, I was mislead by the title and the cover and was actually expecting a more cowboy story and that . . . well, that didn’t quite happen. But my dissappointment was soon forgotten when I found myself turning the pages non-stop!
After Emma lost her husband to a war, the last thing she wants to do is fall in love with another soldier. . . Especially one that’s just buying time while he recovers to return to the front. However, fate has a funny way of sending your way not what you want but what you need. And this is precisely how Marcus comes into her life. In the time they’ll spend together working towards building a non-profit that will help vets and rescue dogs equally, Marcus will break through Emma’s walls, making her face her past in a way she hasn’t brought herself to do yet, feel pretty much alive and fill her with fear of not being able to save yet another man.
Marcus, on his side, has one goal in mind only—heal his back as much as possible to get back to the only thing he knows he’s good at—being a soldier. However, there’s a high chance his back is more damaged than he cares to admit (even to himself) and the fact that Emma won’t support his decision of returning to the line of duty can prove more hurtful than he’d ever thought possible.
During the weeks they spend together at Big Chance, Emma and Marcus overcome several obstacles (namely, Emma’s prejudice when it comes to Marcus) and the atraction they feel grows more and more. However, as time goes by and Marcus’ medical examination approaches, the tension and the fear also arise. Much as Emma’d like to let go of the past, she can’t put herself through the same, and she can’t bring herself to hope this time around things will go well either. So, under those circumstances, is letting Marcus go the right thing to do? Or did she make the biggest mistake of her life?
“Lucky Chance Cowboy” is book #2 in Teri’s series, though it can perfectly be read (and enjoyed!) as a standalone. This was also the first book I ever read by her, and I really loved her style—she really knows how to build her characters, settings, drama, tension, passion and the much desired happy ever after. I’m looking forwards to more!!!
January 31, 2020
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
I absolutely loved the first book in this series and I was really looking forward to this one. Unfortunately, it just didn’t quite work for me. Marcus is one of the injured soldiers recovering at Big Chance Dog Rescue and Emma is the sister of Adam, the man who started the dog rescue ranch.
On their own, both Marcus and Emma are complicated, likeable characters. Emma struggles to make ends meet while caring for her grandfather and working for her former inlaws. Marcus is desperate to speed up his recovery and return to active duty. They both have interesting, complex histories and I feel like I should have engaged with them more than I did.
I think it’s the romance that misses the mark for me. Emma doesn’t trust Marcus at all - she does have her reasons though - and I hate the judgemental assumptions she makes about him. Marcus is possibly a little bit selfish and a little too single minded to really see Emma or try to forge a healthier relationship with her. Something about the hot and cold relationship strewn with miscommunication and mistrust feels like something I’d warn a girlfriend about - not encourage.
The writing in this story feels much choppier than the writing in the first book and it took me a long time to read because my attention kept dropping off. The pacing is a little slow, the characters don’t feel quite as human as they did in the first book and I kept picking the book up and putting it down for far too long. I still love the concept and I really hope this story is a blip and the next book is as good as the first one.
I absolutely loved the first book in this series and I was really looking forward to this one. Unfortunately, it just didn’t quite work for me. Marcus is one of the injured soldiers recovering at Big Chance Dog Rescue and Emma is the sister of Adam, the man who started the dog rescue ranch.
On their own, both Marcus and Emma are complicated, likeable characters. Emma struggles to make ends meet while caring for her grandfather and working for her former inlaws. Marcus is desperate to speed up his recovery and return to active duty. They both have interesting, complex histories and I feel like I should have engaged with them more than I did.
I think it’s the romance that misses the mark for me. Emma doesn’t trust Marcus at all - she does have her reasons though - and I hate the judgemental assumptions she makes about him. Marcus is possibly a little bit selfish and a little too single minded to really see Emma or try to forge a healthier relationship with her. Something about the hot and cold relationship strewn with miscommunication and mistrust feels like something I’d warn a girlfriend about - not encourage.
The writing in this story feels much choppier than the writing in the first book and it took me a long time to read because my attention kept dropping off. The pacing is a little slow, the characters don’t feel quite as human as they did in the first book and I kept picking the book up and putting it down for far too long. I still love the concept and I really hope this story is a blip and the next book is as good as the first one.
January 29, 2020
Despite a serious spine injury that almost left him cripple, Marcus Talbott intend to redeploy as soon as the doc clear him. While they're trying to recover, him and an other injured friend followed their other Army buddy in Texas, to help him with the non profit organization he started to rehabilitate rescued dogs and offer support to other veterans.
The first time he met Emma, his buddy's sister, they both felt the attraction. But something happened that reminded her of a sad part of her life and that put a stop to any chance for something more so Emma acted instead as if she couldn't stand him. She have enough on her plate already anyway, what with taking care of her cranky and absentminded grandfather. Well, tell that to the smooth and charming Marcus with whom she have to spend time for the Big Chance Dog Rescue and that she can't help but to fall for.
Marcus is the funny guy, the one who always try to see the positive side in everything, a "people" person. Which also means he can hide better than anyone the pain he feels. This book tackles serious subjects but without making the reader feel despair over it. Hope and second chance are well represented. I love how it never felt as if the author put a Black hero just to represent diversity. Marcus is Marcus and that's it. The same with Emma and her tattoos, piercings and spiky blue hair. I love how she immediately think about him as her guy when she met him.
I felt in love in the series with book 1 and felt hard again with this one. I hope we'll get the chance to read Jake's story!
The first time he met Emma, his buddy's sister, they both felt the attraction. But something happened that reminded her of a sad part of her life and that put a stop to any chance for something more so Emma acted instead as if she couldn't stand him. She have enough on her plate already anyway, what with taking care of her cranky and absentminded grandfather. Well, tell that to the smooth and charming Marcus with whom she have to spend time for the Big Chance Dog Rescue and that she can't help but to fall for.
Marcus is the funny guy, the one who always try to see the positive side in everything, a "people" person. Which also means he can hide better than anyone the pain he feels. This book tackles serious subjects but without making the reader feel despair over it. Hope and second chance are well represented. I love how it never felt as if the author put a Black hero just to represent diversity. Marcus is Marcus and that's it. The same with Emma and her tattoos, piercings and spiky blue hair. I love how she immediately think about him as her guy when she met him.
I felt in love in the series with book 1 and felt hard again with this one. I hope we'll get the chance to read Jake's story!
January 26, 2020
For me this book was a disappointment; too much drama, not enough communication, a contrived setback for the ranch, and not near enough time between Marcus and Emma when they weren't aruging, distrusting of each other, or talking about her late husband. Where was the romance?
January 23, 2020
I enjoyed my trip back to Big Chance Ranch and the gang there. This story focuses on Marcus and Emma and their attraction to each other but fighting it every step of the way.
I really enjoy the premise of this series - veterans training dogs to be service animals for veterans suffering from PTSD and a myriad of other issues.
There is a bad guy that I saw coming a mile away and he set off my internal red flags right from the start. Thankfully there is a good resolution to this situation.
Looking forward to reading the next in this series. I wonder who it will focus on since there are several veterans still there and so many stories to tell!
I really enjoy the premise of this series - veterans training dogs to be service animals for veterans suffering from PTSD and a myriad of other issues.
There is a bad guy that I saw coming a mile away and he set off my internal red flags right from the start. Thankfully there is a good resolution to this situation.
Looking forward to reading the next in this series. I wonder who it will focus on since there are several veterans still there and so many stories to tell!
November 26, 2022
This was more of a 3.5, but I love the dogs. I liked the premise of the book and talking about the needs of wounded service men and women. I struggled a bit with Emma and how traumatized she was from her previous marriage and all the assumptions she made. I think all of them could have done with therapy. A lot of therapy.
January 27, 2020
First book that I have read from this author. Second book in the series. It was an ok read for me. Marcus and Emma were a good couple. Good story line.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
December 6, 2019
This 2nd book in the series does not disappoint, Emma is an emotionally scarred widow taking care of her grandfather with dementia & Marcus is an injured Army ranger struggling to heal and get back to his unit. The characters have depth which make them interesting with real life issues to overcome.
I've read both books in this series & now I'm hooked. Can't wait to read more by this author.
I've read both books in this series & now I'm hooked. Can't wait to read more by this author.
September 13, 2020
Thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca and NetGalley for a free e-arc of this title for review.
Lucky Chance Cowboy is the second installment in the Big Chance Dog Rescue series - I would recommend reading the first in the series (Big Chance Cowboy) before giving this one a try. Do note that these books feature veterans and service dogs in training, not cowboys.
Big Chance is a ranch where veterans help other veterans, and also dogs who need a home, with the dogs being trained to provide even further assistance to veterans over time. Well, it's a ranch in development - the startup of this nonprofit venture is the backbone of the book, and how our main characters come to be connected.
And that, really, is where the books shine for me. I love how they integrate information on PTSD, disability, and service animals. The way previously unwanted dogs can find loving homes and truly change the lives of veterans? Just beautiful.
I didn't find the romance in this book as swoon-y as that of the first in the series, I think (at least in part) because of the assumptions Emma made about Marcus. While they were understandable given her past, they made me uncomfortable (and I think, a little less apt to root for them to get together). But I'm glad I read this one as I do certainly want to continue on with the series - I loved getting to see the progress that's been made at Big Chance Rescue Ranch.
Content warnings: dementia, injuries from active duty (TBI, physical disability, PTSD), opioid dependency, reference to previous drug addiction and anger issues, reference to a fatal car accident in the past, recollection of animal abuse (resulting in the dog's death), suicidal ideation, reference to one's parents having died in an accident when the were young
Lucky Chance Cowboy is the second installment in the Big Chance Dog Rescue series - I would recommend reading the first in the series (Big Chance Cowboy) before giving this one a try. Do note that these books feature veterans and service dogs in training, not cowboys.
Big Chance is a ranch where veterans help other veterans, and also dogs who need a home, with the dogs being trained to provide even further assistance to veterans over time. Well, it's a ranch in development - the startup of this nonprofit venture is the backbone of the book, and how our main characters come to be connected.
And that, really, is where the books shine for me. I love how they integrate information on PTSD, disability, and service animals. The way previously unwanted dogs can find loving homes and truly change the lives of veterans? Just beautiful.
I didn't find the romance in this book as swoon-y as that of the first in the series, I think (at least in part) because of the assumptions Emma made about Marcus. While they were understandable given her past, they made me uncomfortable (and I think, a little less apt to root for them to get together). But I'm glad I read this one as I do certainly want to continue on with the series - I loved getting to see the progress that's been made at Big Chance Rescue Ranch.
Content warnings: dementia, injuries from active duty (TBI, physical disability, PTSD), opioid dependency, reference to previous drug addiction and anger issues, reference to a fatal car accident in the past, recollection of animal abuse (resulting in the dog's death), suicidal ideation, reference to one's parents having died in an accident when the were young
November 18, 2019
This series revolves around a ranch started by an Army veteran with the intend of matching service dogs with vets needing some type of emotional and/or physical support. Having loved book one, I knew this was a must read and it truly was.
This story belongs to Emma Stern and Marcus Talbott.
Emma, the sister of Adam, founder of the rescue ranch, is also a widow of a veteran that came back ill and addicted to pain killers. She has not recovered from her past and has no desire to get involved with another soldier.
Marcus was injured in the same mission that ended Adam’s career, and is at the ranch while he recovers from his injury. He’s determined to get well and go back to war.
But fate has a way of changing their lives both personally and career wise.
While the characters were complex and likable, the story was engaging and at times heartbreaking.
Once again, thanks to this talented author we are reminded the effects of war on the troops. The need to help, not only as a nation but also as individuals these brave men and women who risk their lives for our freedom.
Another wonderful story in this series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
This story belongs to Emma Stern and Marcus Talbott.
Emma, the sister of Adam, founder of the rescue ranch, is also a widow of a veteran that came back ill and addicted to pain killers. She has not recovered from her past and has no desire to get involved with another soldier.
Marcus was injured in the same mission that ended Adam’s career, and is at the ranch while he recovers from his injury. He’s determined to get well and go back to war.
But fate has a way of changing their lives both personally and career wise.
While the characters were complex and likable, the story was engaging and at times heartbreaking.
Once again, thanks to this talented author we are reminded the effects of war on the troops. The need to help, not only as a nation but also as individuals these brave men and women who risk their lives for our freedom.
Another wonderful story in this series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
May 4, 2020
Marcus Talbott is a soldier through and through, and he's not going to let an injury keep him from his Army unit. Sure, he nearly broke his back, but that's nothing his positive attitude and work ethic can't fix, right? In the meantime, he's got a place on the board at the Big Chance Dog Rescue, and flirting with his friend's sassy sister, Emma, is a welcome distraction. Emma Stern is barely scraping by while working and caring for her elderly grandfather, but she's running out of options—and hope. The last thing she has time for is Marcus and his flirting, sexy as he might be. But every time Emma thinks she's reached the end of her rope, Marcus is there to lend a hand. Maybe there's more to the handsome playboy after all.
This sounded like a good book, misleading title or not. However, this book fails in a way that annoys me when authors do this, misunderstanding and lack of communication between the two main characters. I liked both characters to a point, but it let me down when it came to their relationship.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed this book
This sounded like a good book, misleading title or not. However, this book fails in a way that annoys me when authors do this, misunderstanding and lack of communication between the two main characters. I liked both characters to a point, but it let me down when it came to their relationship.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed this book
August 8, 2025
***MINOR SPOILERS ***
This book is the second in the Big Chance Dog Rescue series. It can be read as a standalone but I think it would be better to read this book after the first one. This first book had more interactions between the main characters and the secondary characters. It is still more than a romance and includes storylines related to family, friendship, pain, and honor. It deals with those issues in a robust way and that is why I gave it 5 stars.
Marcus was injured by an IED in Afghanistan. He is spending some time recovering with his friend, Adam, who was part of the team affected by the IED. Marcus is loyal and has spent time while recovering with another teammate, Jake, who suffered a brain injury. He shows up at Adam’s home and asks if they can stay for a while. Adam agrees.
Marcus hopes that he will make a full recovery so he can go back to active duty, though (spoiler) it is rather obvious early on that he will not. He is also hoping that Jake will be able to stay with Adam when he goes back. There is a reference, either in the first or second book, that Jake’s family is embarrassed by his brain injury. It will be interesting to see how this is handled in the later books in the series, as I hope he recovers as much as possible.
While Marcus is there, he meets Adam’s sister, Emma, and immediately is interested in her. She is interested in him as well but does not want anything to do with him. He reminds her of her late husband who suffered injuries and came back with PTSD. He became addicted to pain killers and turned to gambling to try to make enough money to buy street drugs. Eventually, their relationship had bottomed out. I thought it was good of the author to show that some relationships cannot overcome the mental and physical injuries sustained by soldiers for whatever reason.
The handling of the PTSD is well done, in my opinion, as it is done with care and sensitivity. Side note: a character named Max was introduced in the first book but does not appear in this book. I wish the author had provided more information about what happened to him.
Emma is somewhat shy and lacks confidence in herself. I thought Marcus’ outgoing nature and overall ability to charm people was a good balance for her. In turn, Emma is a straight shooter and when he takes too many pain pills near the beginning of the story, her confrontation with him makes him realize the path he is on, and he decides to stop taking the pain meds. Unlike her late husband, he is able to do this successfully though he often wishes afterwards that he could have one due to the pain he is in. I am not sure if it is because of Marcus’ character that he is able to over come this downhill slide or because it was caught earlier or both.
Marcus’ physical limitations are many though towards the end of the book he has a surgery that could help him recover some of his capabilities. I laud Emma’s willingness to take on someone who will have a lifetime of pain and who will not ever be able to do certain things. It was moving when Marcus leaves a doctor’s appointment after being told the prognosis and he breaks down on the phone with his parents. You feel for him realizing he will never again have the body he used to have.
As the Big Chance Dog Rescue begins to get off the ground, the author touches on stories of other veterans and what happened to them. One, Tanner, joins the group on a permanent basis. It makes me glad that there are groups out there who help.
I also liked the dogs in the story, and it was informative to see how much Patton helped Marcus.
As I mentioned at the beginning, I like this book because it is a robust story including its handling of PTSD and the needs of veterans and dogs. It also creates realistic friendships and conveys the bonds that veterans from the same team feel for each other. I plan to read the third book in the series which is about Tanner and a new character.
This book is the second in the Big Chance Dog Rescue series. It can be read as a standalone but I think it would be better to read this book after the first one. This first book had more interactions between the main characters and the secondary characters. It is still more than a romance and includes storylines related to family, friendship, pain, and honor. It deals with those issues in a robust way and that is why I gave it 5 stars.
Marcus was injured by an IED in Afghanistan. He is spending some time recovering with his friend, Adam, who was part of the team affected by the IED. Marcus is loyal and has spent time while recovering with another teammate, Jake, who suffered a brain injury. He shows up at Adam’s home and asks if they can stay for a while. Adam agrees.
Marcus hopes that he will make a full recovery so he can go back to active duty, though (spoiler) it is rather obvious early on that he will not. He is also hoping that Jake will be able to stay with Adam when he goes back. There is a reference, either in the first or second book, that Jake’s family is embarrassed by his brain injury. It will be interesting to see how this is handled in the later books in the series, as I hope he recovers as much as possible.
While Marcus is there, he meets Adam’s sister, Emma, and immediately is interested in her. She is interested in him as well but does not want anything to do with him. He reminds her of her late husband who suffered injuries and came back with PTSD. He became addicted to pain killers and turned to gambling to try to make enough money to buy street drugs. Eventually, their relationship had bottomed out. I thought it was good of the author to show that some relationships cannot overcome the mental and physical injuries sustained by soldiers for whatever reason.
The handling of the PTSD is well done, in my opinion, as it is done with care and sensitivity. Side note: a character named Max was introduced in the first book but does not appear in this book. I wish the author had provided more information about what happened to him.
Emma is somewhat shy and lacks confidence in herself. I thought Marcus’ outgoing nature and overall ability to charm people was a good balance for her. In turn, Emma is a straight shooter and when he takes too many pain pills near the beginning of the story, her confrontation with him makes him realize the path he is on, and he decides to stop taking the pain meds. Unlike her late husband, he is able to do this successfully though he often wishes afterwards that he could have one due to the pain he is in. I am not sure if it is because of Marcus’ character that he is able to over come this downhill slide or because it was caught earlier or both.
Marcus’ physical limitations are many though towards the end of the book he has a surgery that could help him recover some of his capabilities. I laud Emma’s willingness to take on someone who will have a lifetime of pain and who will not ever be able to do certain things. It was moving when Marcus leaves a doctor’s appointment after being told the prognosis and he breaks down on the phone with his parents. You feel for him realizing he will never again have the body he used to have.
As the Big Chance Dog Rescue begins to get off the ground, the author touches on stories of other veterans and what happened to them. One, Tanner, joins the group on a permanent basis. It makes me glad that there are groups out there who help.
I also liked the dogs in the story, and it was informative to see how much Patton helped Marcus.
As I mentioned at the beginning, I like this book because it is a robust story including its handling of PTSD and the needs of veterans and dogs. It also creates realistic friendships and conveys the bonds that veterans from the same team feel for each other. I plan to read the third book in the series which is about Tanner and a new character.
January 17, 2020
Big Chance Dog Rescue is having financial troubles. The vets pull out all stops to keep it running.
She first set eyes on him in the Big Chance Dairy Queen when she and her grandfather stopped in to get a bite to eat. There he was, a tall, well-built man who oozed sexuality and hotness. The guy with him didn't even register. Emma Collins Stern, emotionally depleted widow, was so discombobulated she couldn't even place her order. When she turned around to check on her grandfather who suffers from dementia and sometimes wanders she found him sitting down with the hot guy who just happened to pay for their order. Emma walked over to collect her grandfather and thank the hot guy when he invited her to join them. As she was about to sit down at their booth to join them the hot guy's bottle of the prescription painkiller Percocet fell to the floor and rolled her way. Game changer! She collected her grandfather and told the guys she was getting their food to go. Emma wasn't going to travel that road again. Too much emotional upheaval along that road. But too bad Emma couldn't avoid the hot guy since it turned out he was her brother Adam's friend and would be staying with Adam at the Big Chance Dog Rescue.
Marcus Talbot was instantly attracted to the pretty lady he first saw at the Dairy Queen. Fortunately he would still have a chance to get to know her when he found out she is his friend's sister. He isn't planning to stay in Big Chance since he's sure his recuperation from the major back injury he sustained in a bomb blast in Afghanistan would end up seeing him back with his Army unit if he worked hard enough. Couldn't hurt to get to know Emma though. Maybe get to "know" her very well.
Lucky Chance Cowboy by Teri Anne Stanley is the second book in her Big Chance Dog Rescue series. I loved the first book in the series, Big Chance Cowboy. Teri Anne Stanley continues her excellent storytelling about wounded vets and rescue dogs being trained to assist them in this story. This was an emotional read . When you are talking injured vets, whether physically or emotionally, there's going to be lots of emotion involved in the story. Teri Anne Stanley handles the emotional parts of the story extremely well. Her words make you feel and make you want to do whatever you can to make the situation better. I enjoyed watching the two main characters, Emma and Marcus, realize that they would be happier together than apart. Emma was hesitant because her deceased husband returned home from deployment in the Middle East with PTSD exacerbated with drugs and alcohol. Marcus doesn't think he can be anything but a combat soldier. They both need each other and so this was a joyful HEA for me.
She first set eyes on him in the Big Chance Dairy Queen when she and her grandfather stopped in to get a bite to eat. There he was, a tall, well-built man who oozed sexuality and hotness. The guy with him didn't even register. Emma Collins Stern, emotionally depleted widow, was so discombobulated she couldn't even place her order. When she turned around to check on her grandfather who suffers from dementia and sometimes wanders she found him sitting down with the hot guy who just happened to pay for their order. Emma walked over to collect her grandfather and thank the hot guy when he invited her to join them. As she was about to sit down at their booth to join them the hot guy's bottle of the prescription painkiller Percocet fell to the floor and rolled her way. Game changer! She collected her grandfather and told the guys she was getting their food to go. Emma wasn't going to travel that road again. Too much emotional upheaval along that road. But too bad Emma couldn't avoid the hot guy since it turned out he was her brother Adam's friend and would be staying with Adam at the Big Chance Dog Rescue.
Marcus Talbot was instantly attracted to the pretty lady he first saw at the Dairy Queen. Fortunately he would still have a chance to get to know her when he found out she is his friend's sister. He isn't planning to stay in Big Chance since he's sure his recuperation from the major back injury he sustained in a bomb blast in Afghanistan would end up seeing him back with his Army unit if he worked hard enough. Couldn't hurt to get to know Emma though. Maybe get to "know" her very well.
Lucky Chance Cowboy by Teri Anne Stanley is the second book in her Big Chance Dog Rescue series. I loved the first book in the series, Big Chance Cowboy. Teri Anne Stanley continues her excellent storytelling about wounded vets and rescue dogs being trained to assist them in this story. This was an emotional read . When you are talking injured vets, whether physically or emotionally, there's going to be lots of emotion involved in the story. Teri Anne Stanley handles the emotional parts of the story extremely well. Her words make you feel and make you want to do whatever you can to make the situation better. I enjoyed watching the two main characters, Emma and Marcus, realize that they would be happier together than apart. Emma was hesitant because her deceased husband returned home from deployment in the Middle East with PTSD exacerbated with drugs and alcohol. Marcus doesn't think he can be anything but a combat soldier. They both need each other and so this was a joyful HEA for me.
January 28, 2020
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Lucky Chance Cowboy is the second title in the Big Chance Dog Rescue series, and like the first story, Marcus and Emma’s romance is an emotional journey.
Marcus truly believes that his only role in life is as a soldier, he doesn’t really know any other lifestyle. So in spite of an injury during his last mission, Marcus is convinced that he’ll be back to his job just as soon as this pesky rehab and exam are over and done with. The truth is, even Marcus will admit in his dark, quiet moments to wondering if that can possibly be his future but since he knows no other way but to power through and get the job done he puts those concerns aside for now. Fortunately, his rehab has brought him to his friend’s dog rescue operation and a very lovely, very vulnerable, very untrusting woman who will capture his heart. Now to help her heal hers.
Emma has endured just about all that she can handle, and then she handles more. A widow who watched her husband’s battle with pain medication addiction, she is about at the end of her rope now. Her grandfather is living through dementia, she’s trying to make ends meet and simply survive. She has no time for healing her own demons she’s got too many other things to deal with. Her first impression of Marcus isn’t the best, and to discover that this handsome man who gets on her last nerve will be around the rescue center is annoying. Yet, Marcus is polite, flirty, and always there whenever it seems that Emma is in trouble or needs some help. Something has to give – maybe two wounded hearts finding a home.
Lucky Chance Cowboy flows easily, believably as Marcus and Emma dance around the attraction between them. Both are stubborn, although Emma probably wins the award for the most stubborn, bull-headed, opinionated even when she’s wrong of the two. I understood her reasons but that didn’t stop me from flinching from some of her words or actions. Marcus is a good example of still waters run deep, what you see on the surface hides a lot – not bad, just things he’s conditioned to keep from sight. Together they’ll end up healing each other but to get to that happy ending will involve some pretty amazing pups, a vile bad guy, and overcoming the past for them both. I enjoyed their romance very much, it’s believable, even relatable and it’s filled with temper, laughter, heartache and discovering that love comes when you least expect it and you have to be open to that discovery.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Lucky Chance Cowboy is the second title in the Big Chance Dog Rescue series, and like the first story, Marcus and Emma’s romance is an emotional journey.
Marcus truly believes that his only role in life is as a soldier, he doesn’t really know any other lifestyle. So in spite of an injury during his last mission, Marcus is convinced that he’ll be back to his job just as soon as this pesky rehab and exam are over and done with. The truth is, even Marcus will admit in his dark, quiet moments to wondering if that can possibly be his future but since he knows no other way but to power through and get the job done he puts those concerns aside for now. Fortunately, his rehab has brought him to his friend’s dog rescue operation and a very lovely, very vulnerable, very untrusting woman who will capture his heart. Now to help her heal hers.
Emma has endured just about all that she can handle, and then she handles more. A widow who watched her husband’s battle with pain medication addiction, she is about at the end of her rope now. Her grandfather is living through dementia, she’s trying to make ends meet and simply survive. She has no time for healing her own demons she’s got too many other things to deal with. Her first impression of Marcus isn’t the best, and to discover that this handsome man who gets on her last nerve will be around the rescue center is annoying. Yet, Marcus is polite, flirty, and always there whenever it seems that Emma is in trouble or needs some help. Something has to give – maybe two wounded hearts finding a home.
Lucky Chance Cowboy flows easily, believably as Marcus and Emma dance around the attraction between them. Both are stubborn, although Emma probably wins the award for the most stubborn, bull-headed, opinionated even when she’s wrong of the two. I understood her reasons but that didn’t stop me from flinching from some of her words or actions. Marcus is a good example of still waters run deep, what you see on the surface hides a lot – not bad, just things he’s conditioned to keep from sight. Together they’ll end up healing each other but to get to that happy ending will involve some pretty amazing pups, a vile bad guy, and overcoming the past for them both. I enjoyed their romance very much, it’s believable, even relatable and it’s filled with temper, laughter, heartache and discovering that love comes when you least expect it and you have to be open to that discovery.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
April 5, 2020
I will say this was the first book I've read by this author. What caught my attention to this book was the cover and the back cover blurb.
However, it wasn't what I expected. This book was about interracial relationship. So I felt the cover was misleading.
But I did enjoy reading the book. Ms. Stanley covered a topic that is a real problem in this country. Opioid abuse, and military vets that have been injured in combat and the people that go through the problems with them.
The two main characters are Marcus Talbott. Marcus is a Army Ranger, a soldier through and through. He has been injured by a IAD. He's determine not to let his injury hold him back. He's pushing himself to get physically back into shape so he can go back to his unit. His back was nearly broke from the device explosion.
His Sargent was also injured also, he was discharged with a Medical retirement. He goes home to Texas to start the Big Chance Dog Rescue. A rescue for dogs and a rescue for vets. The Rescue is to help dogs be trained by the vets to be service dogs. It's to help the vets readjust to life back in society and working with the dogs to train them for other vet's to use as service dogs.
Marcus has a place on the board at the Big Chance Dog Rescue, his positive attitude is a great asset to them.
Emma Stern is barely scraping by, she is working and caring for her grandfather who is suffering with Dementia. Emma first meets Marcus in the Dairy Queen along with his friend Jake who was also injured in the same IAD. Emma immediately thinks Marcus is cute. Those two flirt with each other. Her grandfather and her decide to share a table with Jake and Marcus. Marcus moves over to make room and his pills fall out of his pocket. Emma takes one look at the container and knows exactly what they are. She grabs her grandfather and belines out of the Dairy Queen.
Emma has ghosts in her past that is hindering her ability to move forward in a relationship, especially involving a military man. You see Emma was married to a military man who was injured. He was taking opioids and it caused him to really have problems. So because of this, she really has problems trusting anyone who takes pills.
I don't want to say too much, for I don't want to give away to much of the book. But I will say this, I love grandpa in this book. I will definitely be reading more of Ms. Stanley's books. She really did a good job covering the problems of opioids abuse and rehabilitation for vet's and the dogs.
However, it wasn't what I expected. This book was about interracial relationship. So I felt the cover was misleading.
But I did enjoy reading the book. Ms. Stanley covered a topic that is a real problem in this country. Opioid abuse, and military vets that have been injured in combat and the people that go through the problems with them.
The two main characters are Marcus Talbott. Marcus is a Army Ranger, a soldier through and through. He has been injured by a IAD. He's determine not to let his injury hold him back. He's pushing himself to get physically back into shape so he can go back to his unit. His back was nearly broke from the device explosion.
His Sargent was also injured also, he was discharged with a Medical retirement. He goes home to Texas to start the Big Chance Dog Rescue. A rescue for dogs and a rescue for vets. The Rescue is to help dogs be trained by the vets to be service dogs. It's to help the vets readjust to life back in society and working with the dogs to train them for other vet's to use as service dogs.
Marcus has a place on the board at the Big Chance Dog Rescue, his positive attitude is a great asset to them.
Emma Stern is barely scraping by, she is working and caring for her grandfather who is suffering with Dementia. Emma first meets Marcus in the Dairy Queen along with his friend Jake who was also injured in the same IAD. Emma immediately thinks Marcus is cute. Those two flirt with each other. Her grandfather and her decide to share a table with Jake and Marcus. Marcus moves over to make room and his pills fall out of his pocket. Emma takes one look at the container and knows exactly what they are. She grabs her grandfather and belines out of the Dairy Queen.
Emma has ghosts in her past that is hindering her ability to move forward in a relationship, especially involving a military man. You see Emma was married to a military man who was injured. He was taking opioids and it caused him to really have problems. So because of this, she really has problems trusting anyone who takes pills.
I don't want to say too much, for I don't want to give away to much of the book. But I will say this, I love grandpa in this book. I will definitely be reading more of Ms. Stanley's books. She really did a good job covering the problems of opioids abuse and rehabilitation for vet's and the dogs.
March 29, 2020
Check out our LUCKY CHANCE COWBOY post on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Sarah – ☆☆☆
I absolutely loved the first book in this series, and I was really looking forward to this one. Unfortunately, it just didn’t quite work for me. Marcus is one of the injured soldiers recovering at Big Chance Dog Rescue and Emma is the sister of Adam, the man who started the dog rescue ranch.
On their own, both Marcus and Emma are complicated, likeable characters. Emma struggles to make ends meet while caring for her grandfather and working for her former in-laws. Marcus is desperate to speed up his recovery and return to active duty. They both have interesting, complex histories and I feel like I should have engaged with them more than I did.
I think it’s the romance that misses the mark for me. Emma doesn’t trust Marcus at all – she does have her reasons though – and I hate the judgmental assumptions she makes about him. Marcus is possibly a little bit selfish and a little too single minded to really see Emma or try to forge a healthier relationship with her. Something about the hot and cold relationship strewn with miscommunication and mistrust feels like something I’d warn a girlfriend about – not encourage.
The writing in this story feels much choppier than the writing in the first book and it took me a long time to read because my attention kept dropping off. The pacing is a little slow, the characters don’t feel quite as human as they did in the first book, and I kept picking the book up and putting it down for far too long. I still love the concept and I really hope this story is a blip and the next book is as good as the first one.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
February 7, 2020
I almost stopped reading the book due to the story was too slow. I glad that I stuck with the story - it has several holes in the story - but not enough to really drive the reader crazy. The main characters in the story are each dealing with their own PTSD. Emma is still trying to keep the guilt she has about her husband killing himself and the death of her dog. She still lives and works for her in-laws and has kept her husband addiction problems to herself to protect their memories of him. Emma has also taken on the daily care of her grandfather who is getting harder to control (he has dementia and is reverting to childish behavior more and more daily). I pains her to see the one great man slowly stop functioning in the world he once loved.
Marcus has returned to his friend's farm - that has been turned into camp / training facility for assistance dogs trained to help returning veterans with PTSD and other medical / physical needs. Marcus is attempting to hid how bad his pain is - he is afraid he will be forced out of the Army Rangers due to his back injury. Marcus also O.Ds on pain meds and Emma finds him just in time to get him the help he needs. She is taken back to her husband's battle with paid killer abuse and decides to fight her attraction for Marcus.
Marcus is afraid of his attraction to Emma - he is not sure if he can accept himself if he is kicked out of the army. All he has ever been good at is fighting - he feels lacks the focus to attend school and is bored silly with desk work. The ranch gives him a chance to see that he is a people person - he can see what people need to heal themselves / and what the program can do help them heal (PTSD , emotional support, and physical assistance).
There are some major hiccups in the story with funding - a supposed investor is really running a sham and steals money from non-profits, and the continued decline of their grandfather.
Marcus has returned to his friend's farm - that has been turned into camp / training facility for assistance dogs trained to help returning veterans with PTSD and other medical / physical needs. Marcus is attempting to hid how bad his pain is - he is afraid he will be forced out of the Army Rangers due to his back injury. Marcus also O.Ds on pain meds and Emma finds him just in time to get him the help he needs. She is taken back to her husband's battle with paid killer abuse and decides to fight her attraction for Marcus.
Marcus is afraid of his attraction to Emma - he is not sure if he can accept himself if he is kicked out of the army. All he has ever been good at is fighting - he feels lacks the focus to attend school and is bored silly with desk work. The ranch gives him a chance to see that he is a people person - he can see what people need to heal themselves / and what the program can do help them heal (PTSD , emotional support, and physical assistance).
There are some major hiccups in the story with funding - a supposed investor is really running a sham and steals money from non-profits, and the continued decline of their grandfather.
December 29, 2020
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
This is a story that I just got lost in. It is the second one in a series and can really be read as a stand-alone but I would highly recommend reading the first story "Big Chance Cowboy". It will really help to get a feel for the characters and the situation regarding the rescue mission.
Marcus is just the all-around "people-schmoozer". Due to injuries sustained during war, he was injured along with the rest of his team, he is on limited disability status. Marcus' back was severely injured but being a soldier was all he ever wanted. He is trying to get back to the teams and go to war again. He meets Emma and there is an immediate attraction between the two. Emma is a widow as well as the sister of his sargent. Her husband has been gone for two years and Emma can't get over the feeling that she failed her PTSD husband. Between the lying and drugs it was rough for her.
I adored these two characters and loved being able to read how they overcame their obstacles to get to their HFN ending. I loved the dual POV format that this book is written in as well. Getting that glimpse into the character's thoughts really helped me to connect with the character.
The plot just flowed beautifully. I couldn't wait to see what the author had in store for these two. Unfortunately that meant that the book was over before I really wanted to be! I just hope there are more stories coming about the rescue ranch.
This is a slightly sexy read. There was some action BUT the author I think did a great job in not having overly graphic detail. It was really all about the two characters and their story.
If you adore the wounded protagonists (especially a sexy Army Ranger!) and don't mind a slightly sexy read, then I highly recommend this story (actually the prior book as well) especially if you are over 18.
This is a story that I just got lost in. It is the second one in a series and can really be read as a stand-alone but I would highly recommend reading the first story "Big Chance Cowboy". It will really help to get a feel for the characters and the situation regarding the rescue mission.
Marcus is just the all-around "people-schmoozer". Due to injuries sustained during war, he was injured along with the rest of his team, he is on limited disability status. Marcus' back was severely injured but being a soldier was all he ever wanted. He is trying to get back to the teams and go to war again. He meets Emma and there is an immediate attraction between the two. Emma is a widow as well as the sister of his sargent. Her husband has been gone for two years and Emma can't get over the feeling that she failed her PTSD husband. Between the lying and drugs it was rough for her.
I adored these two characters and loved being able to read how they overcame their obstacles to get to their HFN ending. I loved the dual POV format that this book is written in as well. Getting that glimpse into the character's thoughts really helped me to connect with the character.
The plot just flowed beautifully. I couldn't wait to see what the author had in store for these two. Unfortunately that meant that the book was over before I really wanted to be! I just hope there are more stories coming about the rescue ranch.
This is a slightly sexy read. There was some action BUT the author I think did a great job in not having overly graphic detail. It was really all about the two characters and their story.
If you adore the wounded protagonists (especially a sexy Army Ranger!) and don't mind a slightly sexy read, then I highly recommend this story (actually the prior book as well) especially if you are over 18.
January 28, 2020
Sexy soldiers with loads of heart! With the second book in her Big Chance Dog Rescue series Teri Anne Stanley delights with another wounded soldier finding love in LUCKY CHANCE COWBOY. If you read the first book in the series you will recognize and reconnect with most of the characters quickly.
Marcus is an enjoyable character. He is a good guy trying to heal enough from his back injury to get back to active duty with his team. He doesn't want to admit the pain he's truly in on a daily basis, and the distraction of flirting with Emma is too good to pass up.
Emma is easy to connect with. She's in over her head trying to take care of her cantankerous grandfather, work at the feed store and find time to help her brother Adam with the dog rescue here and there ... the last thing she has time for is a man. Too bad Marcus seems to get to her more than anyone ever has.
I recommend this book and the entire series to anyone who enjoys a heartwarming yet sexy read about former soldier's helping rescue dogs with some romance thrown in as they each stumble across their happily ever after.
Marcus is an enjoyable character. He is a good guy trying to heal enough from his back injury to get back to active duty with his team. He doesn't want to admit the pain he's truly in on a daily basis, and the distraction of flirting with Emma is too good to pass up.
Emma is easy to connect with. She's in over her head trying to take care of her cantankerous grandfather, work at the feed store and find time to help her brother Adam with the dog rescue here and there ... the last thing she has time for is a man. Too bad Marcus seems to get to her more than anyone ever has.
I recommend this book and the entire series to anyone who enjoys a heartwarming yet sexy read about former soldier's helping rescue dogs with some romance thrown in as they each stumble across their happily ever after.
January 27, 2020
A wonderful second book in this series. Marcus Talbott is positive with time and rehab his back injury will heal so that he can rejoin his unit. Emma Stern, Adam’s sister, has survived the tragedy of losing her military husband to PTSD. Although attracted to Marcus, when she realizes that he might be depending on the drugs the doctors prescribed, she just can’t get involved. Adam, founder of the Rescue, relies on Emma to handle some of the rescue operations while she works full time and takes care of their granddad who is suffering from dementia. A heart wrenching, yet uplifting story that deals with the possible end results of military service while offering hope to the veterans who can be helped by trained assistance dogs. Loved this story, the bluntness of granddad’s remarks and hoping for a story for Jake. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (by paytonpuppy)
November 4, 2020
A nice entry, but I didn't like it as well as the first book. Obviously flawed characters, our hero and heroine, and it took them forever to really start talking to each other. The sexual tension is there - no doubt about that. But I do wish they would have opened up to each other sooner. Not because it would have made for a better romance or anything, but because it felt like they both had so much going on that could have been explored. When she finally opens up about her now-deceased husband, it's as if our hero is all "Let me hold you" and then that's it. Nothing about how he completely understands how the husband felt, being a soldier himself, and definitely not much in the way of I-get-how-seductive-the-drugs-are talk, either.
I do enjoy the other guys at the ranch, and wonder if one of them will get a book. Guess I'll just have to wait and see. OH! And for a book about a dog rescue, there just were not enough dog scenes! A few, but not as many as I wanted.
I do enjoy the other guys at the ranch, and wonder if one of them will get a book. Guess I'll just have to wait and see. OH! And for a book about a dog rescue, there just were not enough dog scenes! A few, but not as many as I wanted.
January 19, 2024
Second in the Big Chance saga and things become more serious while somehow getting better. Marcus, the big, friendly guy with the smooth manner, has serious spinal injuries but insists he will be ready to return to duty soon. The infant rescue business has problems, and two major setbacks occur. Meanwhile, Adam's widowed sister, Emma, is trying not to fall in love with Marcus. She is closed off and quiet and seems to carry heavy burdens in addition to her grandfather's care. When a savior appears, things look up, until the bottom falls out. Marcus and Emma have their ups and downs, too. Marcus gets some bad news, as well as a visit from a complicated friend. This all ties together in a not-so-believable way. As a person of color, I am not sure of the interracial romance aspect of the book. It doesn't seem plausible but to each their own. The characters have their quirky charm.
January 22, 2020
I was given an advanced copy for my honest opinion. This is the second book in the series.
I throughly enjoyed this book. Emma, our heroine, is a loyal, tattooed widow. She has a big heart. Emma tried to take care of her grandfather, who has dementia.
Marcus, our hero, is an injured vet with a positive attitude and gets along with everyone. He and Emma don’t usually get along but they have crazy sexual tension.
Emma and Marcus have to go to a vet service conference together for Emma’s brothers vet dog service he’s trying to start up. Marcus takes a training service dog.
The two have quite the journey to their HEA as they get to know one another. There’s so much angsty with their backstories! It was great watching them learn to trust and love. I do recommend this book for those who enjoy opposite attracts & cute dogs! All thoughts are my own!
I throughly enjoyed this book. Emma, our heroine, is a loyal, tattooed widow. She has a big heart. Emma tried to take care of her grandfather, who has dementia.
Marcus, our hero, is an injured vet with a positive attitude and gets along with everyone. He and Emma don’t usually get along but they have crazy sexual tension.
Emma and Marcus have to go to a vet service conference together for Emma’s brothers vet dog service he’s trying to start up. Marcus takes a training service dog.
The two have quite the journey to their HEA as they get to know one another. There’s so much angsty with their backstories! It was great watching them learn to trust and love. I do recommend this book for those who enjoy opposite attracts & cute dogs! All thoughts are my own!
December 10, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️
I read Big Chance Cowboy before this and enjoyed it, so I was looking forward to this one. Overall, it was a cute read with a touch of spice. Some of the military tropes leaned heavily on stereotypes, which made me cringe at times, but it wasn’t unbearable. I felt the character development could have been stronger, and the Mr. Thornhill storyline fell flat for me. Additionally, the author had an opportunity to meaningfully address opioid recovery but concluded the topic in a dismissive way. This felt like a disservice to the opioid epidemic and the pervasive overprescribing that impacts the veteran population. That said, I appreciated the overarching theme of Marcus navigating life with physical challenges.
Side note: As another reviewer mentioned, there are no cowboys in this novel.
I read Big Chance Cowboy before this and enjoyed it, so I was looking forward to this one. Overall, it was a cute read with a touch of spice. Some of the military tropes leaned heavily on stereotypes, which made me cringe at times, but it wasn’t unbearable. I felt the character development could have been stronger, and the Mr. Thornhill storyline fell flat for me. Additionally, the author had an opportunity to meaningfully address opioid recovery but concluded the topic in a dismissive way. This felt like a disservice to the opioid epidemic and the pervasive overprescribing that impacts the veteran population. That said, I appreciated the overarching theme of Marcus navigating life with physical challenges.
Side note: As another reviewer mentioned, there are no cowboys in this novel.
November 6, 2019
Loved this book! The characters were interesting and had a depth that made them feel real and come alive on the pages. Emma is an emotionally scarred widow just trying to survive while surrounded by her husband's memories everywhere she turns. Marcus is an injured Army ranger who is struggling to heal and get back to his unit. Despite all the complications, they can't seem to stay apart.
I found myself deeply engrossed in this novel and hated to put it down. I loved the characters and their story, especially how it was set in a vet/dog rescue. The vet/dog program is such an integral part of the story that it almost became a character in its own right. Add in the quirky grandfather other characters, and this book is a winner.
If you enjoy the genre, you will love this book.
I found myself deeply engrossed in this novel and hated to put it down. I loved the characters and their story, especially how it was set in a vet/dog rescue. The vet/dog program is such an integral part of the story that it almost became a character in its own right. Add in the quirky grandfather other characters, and this book is a winner.
If you enjoy the genre, you will love this book.
December 3, 2019
I liked this story, specifically the premise of the plot - a rescue created to train dogs for veterans in need of canine assistance for whatever reason (and the reasons varied). Having worked with this population professionally, the plot was extremely important to me. Most of the details were accurate; a few were not, which impacted my overall rating. It also wasn't clear why the title referenced a cowboy when there weren't cowboys involved. Either way, Marcus and Emma were great characters with significant back stories that both hindered and helped them. This relationship kept me invested in the book, and I had to know what happened between the two of them. Dogs made the reading the story that much more enjoyable!
November 7, 2019
Big Chance Dog Rescue is a program to unite rescued shelter dogs with veterans who need them. Marcus hides the extent of his injuries, probably because he can’t accept it and the consequences it will bring. Emma, trains dogs and assists her brother Adam in running the program. She has her own baggage due to being a widow of a veteran that struggled after coming home. The characters are multifaceted and the concept is intriguing. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 19, 2022
Marcus comes to Big Chance to work at his friend Adams ranch. Marcus has brought Jake another friend that served together with Adam. Adam has started a dog rescue and training for dogs for vets. Emma is a widow and Adam's sister. When they first meet, they are attracted to each other. When Marcus finds out Emma is Adam's sister he backs off.
Emma has been taking care of her grandfather and needs help with him. Marcus is a smooth talker and Emma's husband died after returning from Afghanistan.
Marcus wants to recover enough to return to active duty.
Emma has been taking care of her grandfather and needs help with him. Marcus is a smooth talker and Emma's husband died after returning from Afghanistan.
Marcus wants to recover enough to return to active duty.
January 11, 2020
Lucky Chance Cowboy is the second instalment in Teri Anne Stanley’s Big Chance Dog Rescue, and I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline and the plot. The author did an exceptional job of developing Marcus and Emma’s characters and outlining their individual backstories. But as always, the real winners in this story were the dogs! The references to the training and the funny moments were a breath of fresh air. I’m looking forward to the next in this series.
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