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Big Chance Dog Rescue #1
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
At Big Chance Dog Rescue,
Even humans get a second chance
After a disastrous mistake disbanded his Army unit, Adam Collins has returned home to Big Chance, Texas. He just wants to sell the family ranch, set up his sister and grandfather with the funds, and then ride off into the sunset.
Lizzie Vanhook has landed back in her hometown, heartbroken and jobless. Adding to her troubles is the unruly stray who's claimed her as his own. Lizzie knows she's in over her head. Enter Adam—not only does he work with dogs, he's also tall, dark, handsome, and the one who got away...
Adam wants nothing to do with other people, much less dogs. But when his old flame asks him to help her train her scruffy dog, he can't say no. As his reluctant heart opens up, the impossible seems possible: a second chance with the woman he's always loved in a place where he, his friends, and the other strays who show up can heal and call home, Big Chance, Texas.
More praise for Big Chance Cowboy:
"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
384 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 27, 2017
116 people are currently reading
260 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
August 12, 2019
Cowboys and dog rescue- I'm in. Adam was a K9 handler in the Army and after a mission gone horribly wrong he is now home on his family ranch. His goal is only to fix it up and sell it, give the money to his sister who is now caring for the man who raised them both their Granddad. Adam isolates himself on the ranch, his case of PTSD is in full bloom and was well written by the author.
When Lizzie returns to Big Chance with a broken heart and no job, back living with her parents bringing along a beast of a dog who got in her car at a gas station and refused to get out. Lizzie's mom doesn't do dogs, so she turns to her friend Emma who is Adam's sister and of course she takes the dog to the ranch. Adam is none too happy. He and Lizzy have history too. So there's a story there.
As the story unfolds, a couple of his team members call and then show up at the ranch. Adam is at a loss for what to do, weighing his guilt and debt he owes these guys yet these things disrupt his long term goals. He's already told Lizzie he plans to sell and leave, she's given him instructions to fix the place up before it's even marketable. Meanwhile a couple more dogs join the group and Adam's instincts kick in.
I think this book had a good plot, the writing at times was a little convoluted but still readable and the characters I enjoyed reading about. The story was focused more on Adam and his development and the romance between he and Lizzie was a little low key through most of the book. It's a good read and I'll definitely read more of the Big Chance ranch books.
Arc from NetGalley and publisher for an honest review
When Lizzie returns to Big Chance with a broken heart and no job, back living with her parents bringing along a beast of a dog who got in her car at a gas station and refused to get out. Lizzie's mom doesn't do dogs, so she turns to her friend Emma who is Adam's sister and of course she takes the dog to the ranch. Adam is none too happy. He and Lizzy have history too. So there's a story there.
As the story unfolds, a couple of his team members call and then show up at the ranch. Adam is at a loss for what to do, weighing his guilt and debt he owes these guys yet these things disrupt his long term goals. He's already told Lizzie he plans to sell and leave, she's given him instructions to fix the place up before it's even marketable. Meanwhile a couple more dogs join the group and Adam's instincts kick in.
I think this book had a good plot, the writing at times was a little convoluted but still readable and the characters I enjoyed reading about. The story was focused more on Adam and his development and the romance between he and Lizzie was a little low key through most of the book. It's a good read and I'll definitely read more of the Big Chance ranch books.
Arc from NetGalley and publisher for an honest review
August 22, 2019
This is going to be a good series...wounded veterans, dogs, small Texas town....couldn't ask for more!
I love small towns and when they are set in Texas...well then I'm all in! Big Chance is one of those dying towns, but Lizzie returns home to help her family and has big hopes and dreams for this sleepy little town. There are only a few things standing in her way, but nothing that can't be resolved. Adam has also returned home to Big Chance, but just to help get the family ranch ready to sell to help out his grandfather that has dementia and his sister that cares for him. He doesn't realize that perhaps this is where he is meant to be and there might just be someone that will keep him here.
I really enjoyed this story between Lizzie and Adam. They have a past that didn't quite end well but have the possibility to start fresh. Their interactions weren't rushed and made me chuckle at times. Then there are the dogs. First, there is D-Day, a mutt of some sort that decides that Lizzie's car is the one to ride in when she stops at a rest stop on the way home. He is a sad looking creature but there is potential. My heart broke when they found a mother pit bull and her puppies and they knew that someone was up to now good on that land. Adam doesn't want anything to do with any of the dogs despite his background and training and he is really the perfect person to help these dogs. Then some of his buddies from his Army unit show up, perhaps not what Adam wants but sometimes the last thing you want is the one you need. It is like this ranch is becoming a second chance for many to heal and become better versions of themselves.
Parts of this book are predictable but the story weaves a tale that while you might know the end result, you don't know the path it will take to get there. The characters have real problems and are ones you might meet in your own town or may even be people you know.
We give this 4 paws up and can't wait to see what is in store for Big Chance, Texas!
I love small towns and when they are set in Texas...well then I'm all in! Big Chance is one of those dying towns, but Lizzie returns home to help her family and has big hopes and dreams for this sleepy little town. There are only a few things standing in her way, but nothing that can't be resolved. Adam has also returned home to Big Chance, but just to help get the family ranch ready to sell to help out his grandfather that has dementia and his sister that cares for him. He doesn't realize that perhaps this is where he is meant to be and there might just be someone that will keep him here.
I really enjoyed this story between Lizzie and Adam. They have a past that didn't quite end well but have the possibility to start fresh. Their interactions weren't rushed and made me chuckle at times. Then there are the dogs. First, there is D-Day, a mutt of some sort that decides that Lizzie's car is the one to ride in when she stops at a rest stop on the way home. He is a sad looking creature but there is potential. My heart broke when they found a mother pit bull and her puppies and they knew that someone was up to now good on that land. Adam doesn't want anything to do with any of the dogs despite his background and training and he is really the perfect person to help these dogs. Then some of his buddies from his Army unit show up, perhaps not what Adam wants but sometimes the last thing you want is the one you need. It is like this ranch is becoming a second chance for many to heal and become better versions of themselves.
Parts of this book are predictable but the story weaves a tale that while you might know the end result, you don't know the path it will take to get there. The characters have real problems and are ones you might meet in your own town or may even be people you know.
We give this 4 paws up and can't wait to see what is in store for Big Chance, Texas!
August 13, 2020
Dogs, their masters and mistresses, and redemption.
I’m a sucker for dog books. Look through my previous reviews and you’ll see it. I like my dog books. I like the work of this author, too. Teri Anne Stanley has penned a story that kept me on the edge of my seat needing to know what would happen next. I liked the characters, even when they annoyed me, and I wanted to know more. My favorite character has to be D-Day.
The characters are flawed and it’s a good thing. I got emotionally involved with them right away. D-Day is a big, goofy dog that wants to belong. He ends up in Lizzie’s SUV and won’t leave. I know it’s a bit of a stretch for a stray to become a service dog so fast, but I liked how D-Day attached to Adam and helped him with his PTSD. Lizzie is a piece of work in that she’s headstrong, but I liked it. She knew what she wanted and why she wanted to stay around Big Chance. I wish she wouldn’t have worried about her past so much, but who hasn’t got things they wish they could change? You know? Then there’s Adam. I wasn’t a fan of the way he referred to D-Day as ‘it’, but he grew on me. I also wasn’t a fan of his constant insistence on leaving Big Chance. He knew a lot, but not everything. I also liked Loretta, the poor pit bull left for dead with her pups. I won’t get into the details, but if animal abuse is a trigger for you, Lortta’s part of the story and mentions in other places in the story will be triggers. Unfortunately, animals aren’t always treated like royalty and this book doesn’t glorify it, but it does show another way to handle the aftermath.
If you’re looking for a romance that’s got flawed characters, dogs and redemption, then this is the book for you. Grab a copy.
I’m a sucker for dog books. Look through my previous reviews and you’ll see it. I like my dog books. I like the work of this author, too. Teri Anne Stanley has penned a story that kept me on the edge of my seat needing to know what would happen next. I liked the characters, even when they annoyed me, and I wanted to know more. My favorite character has to be D-Day.
The characters are flawed and it’s a good thing. I got emotionally involved with them right away. D-Day is a big, goofy dog that wants to belong. He ends up in Lizzie’s SUV and won’t leave. I know it’s a bit of a stretch for a stray to become a service dog so fast, but I liked how D-Day attached to Adam and helped him with his PTSD. Lizzie is a piece of work in that she’s headstrong, but I liked it. She knew what she wanted and why she wanted to stay around Big Chance. I wish she wouldn’t have worried about her past so much, but who hasn’t got things they wish they could change? You know? Then there’s Adam. I wasn’t a fan of the way he referred to D-Day as ‘it’, but he grew on me. I also wasn’t a fan of his constant insistence on leaving Big Chance. He knew a lot, but not everything. I also liked Loretta, the poor pit bull left for dead with her pups. I won’t get into the details, but if animal abuse is a trigger for you, Lortta’s part of the story and mentions in other places in the story will be triggers. Unfortunately, animals aren’t always treated like royalty and this book doesn’t glorify it, but it does show another way to handle the aftermath.
If you’re looking for a romance that’s got flawed characters, dogs and redemption, then this is the book for you. Grab a copy.
March 23, 2020
Big Chance Cowboy is a good start to a series. I really enjoyed this romance between Adam, a former Army K-9 handler, and Lizzie, a woman who's life in the city implodes causing her to return to her small hometown and work for her father's realty company. These two wonderful characters made the storyline interesting and kept my attention. I'm looking forward to reading the next book.
July 28, 2019
- Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review -
3.5 stars.
A tortured hero, stoically carrying the burden of survivor’s guilt, and a heroine with insecurities feature in “Big Chance Cowboy”, by Teri Anne Stanley.
Exploring the “I’ve loved you for years” trope, “Big Chance Cowboy” is an enjoyable read with likeable characters and a group of dogs that will touch your heart.
Adam, the tortured hero, and Lizzie, the well-rounded heroine, have their second chance at love, while the story introduces what I suppose is a gallery of wounded heroes that will feature in the Big Chance Dog Rescue Series, with serious, painful, realistically depicted injuries and afflictions.
Talbott is the quintessential stoical wounded hero downplaying his injuries, and I can’t wait to read his story; the same for Jake, trying to recover from a debilitating and frustrating traumatic brain injury.
3.5 stars.
A tortured hero, stoically carrying the burden of survivor’s guilt, and a heroine with insecurities feature in “Big Chance Cowboy”, by Teri Anne Stanley.
Exploring the “I’ve loved you for years” trope, “Big Chance Cowboy” is an enjoyable read with likeable characters and a group of dogs that will touch your heart.
Adam, the tortured hero, and Lizzie, the well-rounded heroine, have their second chance at love, while the story introduces what I suppose is a gallery of wounded heroes that will feature in the Big Chance Dog Rescue Series, with serious, painful, realistically depicted injuries and afflictions.
Talbott is the quintessential stoical wounded hero downplaying his injuries, and I can’t wait to read his story; the same for Jake, trying to recover from a debilitating and frustrating traumatic brain injury.
August 27, 2019
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for a free e-arc for review.
Some books just make your heart swell. Big Chance Cowboy was one of those books for me. I loved this one.
Big Chance Cowboy begins with Adam, who nine months ago was in Afghanistan with his IED-detecting dog. Now he's back in the small town where he grew up. And so is Lizzie, coming off a rough breakup and trying to be there for her dad while he undergoes treatment for prostate cancer.
I was instantly wrapped into this story. On the surface, it's a cute, light love story, but it also makes clear the real pain, fear, and stress that can come with time served. The plot features dogs, which I loved, but also the town and the people in it.
The writing style didn't leave anything to be desired. It was occasionally quippy, but not overly so. Toward the end, when I definitely could have been pushed to tears, the author made me laugh out loud instead.
I thoroughly recommend this book, and am so excited to explore this author's backlist. I almost can't believe Big Chance Cowboy is the first in a series - I can't wait to get my hands on the second!
Some books just make your heart swell. Big Chance Cowboy was one of those books for me. I loved this one.
Big Chance Cowboy begins with Adam, who nine months ago was in Afghanistan with his IED-detecting dog. Now he's back in the small town where he grew up. And so is Lizzie, coming off a rough breakup and trying to be there for her dad while he undergoes treatment for prostate cancer.
I was instantly wrapped into this story. On the surface, it's a cute, light love story, but it also makes clear the real pain, fear, and stress that can come with time served. The plot features dogs, which I loved, but also the town and the people in it.
The writing style didn't leave anything to be desired. It was occasionally quippy, but not overly so. Toward the end, when I definitely could have been pushed to tears, the author made me laugh out loud instead.
I thoroughly recommend this book, and am so excited to explore this author's backlist. I almost can't believe Big Chance Cowboy is the first in a series - I can't wait to get my hands on the second!
August 23, 2019
4.5 Stars
Big Chance Cowboy is the first book in Teri Anne Stanley’s new series, Big Chance Dog Rescue. I adore dogs, so when I read the book description, I eagerly accepted the invitation from the publisher, via Net-Galley, to read and review. My opinions are my own and are not influenced in any way.
This is the first book I have read by Teri Anne Stanley, and I thoroughly enjoyed this emotionally-charged romance. The premise for this book is excellent and very believable. The secondary characters are intriguing, and I can’t wait to read their stories. The pacing is perfect and kept me turning the pages.
Lizzie Vanhook’s character is immediately appealing. Her sassy, yet vulnerable personality, is endearing, and I fell in love with her right away. No wonder she has a poor body image! Not only did her ex-boyfriend constantly harp on her weight, he also made light of her career goals as well. While his character is not actually in this book, Ms. Stanley gave me enough in Lizzie’s backstory to make me detest the jerk. The heroine deserved much better, so I truly wanted her to find her happy ending.
Adam Collins is my favorite kind of hero. He’s tortured and has shouldered a ton of guilt when his k-9 didn’t sense the explosives that killed and injured several of his team. My heart ached for him. He’s such a great guy and was not responsible for the explosion. I also wanted him to get the girl!
Lizzie and Adam knew each other in high school and even shared an intimate moment, but he left for the army, leaving a heartbroken Lizzie behind. When they meet again, the sparks fly immediately. The chemistry between them is combustible, and I loved the banter between the pair. They are perfect for each other.
Big Chance Cowboy sets up the rest of the books in this series. His teammates who show up at his ranch are as broken as Adam, with not only emotional scars, but physical ones as well. Each one of the guys will make great heroes!
I must mention the amazing dogs. D-Day, the rescue Lizzie can’t resist when he hops in her car uninvited and won’t leave, Loretta and her adorable newborn puppies that Adam and Lizzie save when they find her torn up, clearly used and abused by a dog fighting ring, and last but by no means least, Patton, the rescue who ends up tied to the mailbox, all will make outstanding service animals. I can’t wait to see the guys train these remarkable dogs.
If you enjoy contemporary romance with plenty of heart and characters you’ll want to love, then you’ll be as delighted as I with Big Chance Cowboy. I can’t wait to see which of these great guys will be the next hero. Happy reading!
Big Chance Cowboy is the first book in Teri Anne Stanley’s new series, Big Chance Dog Rescue. I adore dogs, so when I read the book description, I eagerly accepted the invitation from the publisher, via Net-Galley, to read and review. My opinions are my own and are not influenced in any way.
This is the first book I have read by Teri Anne Stanley, and I thoroughly enjoyed this emotionally-charged romance. The premise for this book is excellent and very believable. The secondary characters are intriguing, and I can’t wait to read their stories. The pacing is perfect and kept me turning the pages.
Lizzie Vanhook’s character is immediately appealing. Her sassy, yet vulnerable personality, is endearing, and I fell in love with her right away. No wonder she has a poor body image! Not only did her ex-boyfriend constantly harp on her weight, he also made light of her career goals as well. While his character is not actually in this book, Ms. Stanley gave me enough in Lizzie’s backstory to make me detest the jerk. The heroine deserved much better, so I truly wanted her to find her happy ending.
Adam Collins is my favorite kind of hero. He’s tortured and has shouldered a ton of guilt when his k-9 didn’t sense the explosives that killed and injured several of his team. My heart ached for him. He’s such a great guy and was not responsible for the explosion. I also wanted him to get the girl!
Lizzie and Adam knew each other in high school and even shared an intimate moment, but he left for the army, leaving a heartbroken Lizzie behind. When they meet again, the sparks fly immediately. The chemistry between them is combustible, and I loved the banter between the pair. They are perfect for each other.
Big Chance Cowboy sets up the rest of the books in this series. His teammates who show up at his ranch are as broken as Adam, with not only emotional scars, but physical ones as well. Each one of the guys will make great heroes!
I must mention the amazing dogs. D-Day, the rescue Lizzie can’t resist when he hops in her car uninvited and won’t leave, Loretta and her adorable newborn puppies that Adam and Lizzie save when they find her torn up, clearly used and abused by a dog fighting ring, and last but by no means least, Patton, the rescue who ends up tied to the mailbox, all will make outstanding service animals. I can’t wait to see the guys train these remarkable dogs.
If you enjoy contemporary romance with plenty of heart and characters you’ll want to love, then you’ll be as delighted as I with Big Chance Cowboy. I can’t wait to see which of these great guys will be the next hero. Happy reading!
August 24, 2019
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This was a completely unexpected reading treat. I was hooked by the idea of veterans, cowboys and dogs but I really didn’t expect such complex, beautifully written characters and a story I couldn’t put down.
Lizzie is a fabulous heroine. Back in her small town, she’s nursing a broken heart and taking care of her family business when she finds herself suddenly saddled with an enormous dog to care for. I love Lizzie’s heart and the way she chases her passions. Adam is an equally wonderful leading man - even if he spends the first half of the story being as miserable as he can and chasing away anyone who tries to get close. His military experiences feel real and raw and when we meet him, PTSD is breaking his spirit. I loved Adam’s journey in this book and I love the animals who force him to feel again.
Even though this book tackles some tough topics sensitively and thoughtfully, it isn’t a dark or a heavy read. The wonderful dogs in this book keep the story relatively light and the motley mix of oddball characters that congregate on Adam’s ranch kept me smiling. I love Adam and Lizzie’s town and I love the quirky mix of characters. This is a low heat romance with great sexual tension between Adam and Lizzie. I love the little bit of action at the end and I love the way Adam and his friends slowly grow into a sense of purpose on the tumble down ranch.
This was a completely unexpected reading treat. I was hooked by the idea of veterans, cowboys and dogs but I really didn’t expect such complex, beautifully written characters and a story I couldn’t put down.
Lizzie is a fabulous heroine. Back in her small town, she’s nursing a broken heart and taking care of her family business when she finds herself suddenly saddled with an enormous dog to care for. I love Lizzie’s heart and the way she chases her passions. Adam is an equally wonderful leading man - even if he spends the first half of the story being as miserable as he can and chasing away anyone who tries to get close. His military experiences feel real and raw and when we meet him, PTSD is breaking his spirit. I loved Adam’s journey in this book and I love the animals who force him to feel again.
Even though this book tackles some tough topics sensitively and thoughtfully, it isn’t a dark or a heavy read. The wonderful dogs in this book keep the story relatively light and the motley mix of oddball characters that congregate on Adam’s ranch kept me smiling. I love Adam and Lizzie’s town and I love the quirky mix of characters. This is a low heat romance with great sexual tension between Adam and Lizzie. I love the little bit of action at the end and I love the way Adam and his friends slowly grow into a sense of purpose on the tumble down ranch.
January 2, 2020
“Big Chance Cowboy” by Teri Anne Stanley has my favorite things in a romance: fun banter, steamy chemistry, and…dogs!
Military vet, Adam Collins is back home in Big Chance, Texas to fix up his family’s ranch so he can sell it to help out his sister, who takes care of their ailing grandfather. He doesn’t plan on staying.
Lizzie Vanhook is back home to heal after a relationship gone bad and to help out her father’s real estate business while he goes through cancer treatment. She is also searching for a new purpose.
Both Adam and Lizzie have their baggage. Adam with his PTSD and Lizzie with her insecurity so neither feel they belong together. But their hearts, if they can get past the chatter in their own heads, tells them otherwise.
Along with Adam and Lizzie, we meet Adam’s team from his last tour in the military. As she does with Adam, Ms. Stanley writes about Talbott’s and Jake’s issues with compassion.
There are also the dogs—D-Day, Patton, and Loretta and her puppies—whose antics will grab your heart (if Adam already hasn’t).
Ms. Stanley touches on PTSD and dementia, two issues that can either come across as unrealistic or overdone (in my opinion), but she finds the balance and handles them perfectly. Personally, I think better than other authors I have read.
“Big Chance Cowboy” is the first book I have read by this author and it will definitely not be the last. Ms. Stanley has earned a spot on my auto-buy list.
Military vet, Adam Collins is back home in Big Chance, Texas to fix up his family’s ranch so he can sell it to help out his sister, who takes care of their ailing grandfather. He doesn’t plan on staying.
Lizzie Vanhook is back home to heal after a relationship gone bad and to help out her father’s real estate business while he goes through cancer treatment. She is also searching for a new purpose.
Both Adam and Lizzie have their baggage. Adam with his PTSD and Lizzie with her insecurity so neither feel they belong together. But their hearts, if they can get past the chatter in their own heads, tells them otherwise.
Along with Adam and Lizzie, we meet Adam’s team from his last tour in the military. As she does with Adam, Ms. Stanley writes about Talbott’s and Jake’s issues with compassion.
There are also the dogs—D-Day, Patton, and Loretta and her puppies—whose antics will grab your heart (if Adam already hasn’t).
Ms. Stanley touches on PTSD and dementia, two issues that can either come across as unrealistic or overdone (in my opinion), but she finds the balance and handles them perfectly. Personally, I think better than other authors I have read.
“Big Chance Cowboy” is the first book I have read by this author and it will definitely not be the last. Ms. Stanley has earned a spot on my auto-buy list.
June 14, 2019
Adam often times has trouble concentrating, "all he could do was nod and say, “Sure,” because the wetter her sheer T-shirt and lacy bra got, the less blood there was going to his brain." I liked thia book, I liked Adam.
September 8, 2019
"And there she went, thinking about Adam again. Her secret fantasy knight in dusty cowboy boots."
Who can tell what would have happened to Lizzie and Adam if he'd have accepted her offer when she threw herself at him the night before he went to boot camp? Well, heartbreak and Army happened but now they're both back in Big Chance, Texas.
Lizzie Vanhook came back because she's down-on-her-luck right now and to see her father who's been diagnosed with cancer. The last person she expect to meet in town is her teenage crush. Back in the days, Adam Collins couldn't wait to leave their hometown, but after a tragic accident in Afghanistan that was no one fault, he left the Army and he's back, but just for the time to sell the family ranch and make sure his sister and his grandfather doesn't lack for anything.
Adam lives like an hermit on his grandfather's ranch and intend to keep his distance, from anyone and any kind of commitment. But after a not so obedient dog climbed into her car and refuse to bulge, Lizzie need help and there's no better person to help her than the man who once trained dogs. All Adam wants is to be left alone but Lizzie, a couple of strays and his army's buddies won't make things easy for him.
This book was sweet but with more depth than I expected. Learning to live with PTSD and war injuries, loved one's illness and disorder are just an example of what I'm trying to say. I felt for the cranky cowboy who feels guilty about the tragedy. Some people could be turned off by his way of thinking about dogs in the beginning but maybe it's easier for me to not hold it against him because I could see and undertsand his desire of not getting attached to anyone. No matter what, it's easy to see that's the total opposite. He care. I felt in love with Marcus and Jake, his brothers-in-arm who brought something touching, bittersweet and funny to the story. There's a dose of reality too, with the fact that not everyone love dogs and see them for the special creatures and human being they are. Maybe that's just my own interpretation, but this book remind me that sometimes romance novel is about learning to get your shit together.
My only complain is that I wished I felt more of a connection between the MC during their intimate moments.
So happy to learn the next book is about Marcus and Emma (Adam's sister)!!!😀
Who can tell what would have happened to Lizzie and Adam if he'd have accepted her offer when she threw herself at him the night before he went to boot camp? Well, heartbreak and Army happened but now they're both back in Big Chance, Texas.
Lizzie Vanhook came back because she's down-on-her-luck right now and to see her father who's been diagnosed with cancer. The last person she expect to meet in town is her teenage crush. Back in the days, Adam Collins couldn't wait to leave their hometown, but after a tragic accident in Afghanistan that was no one fault, he left the Army and he's back, but just for the time to sell the family ranch and make sure his sister and his grandfather doesn't lack for anything.
Adam lives like an hermit on his grandfather's ranch and intend to keep his distance, from anyone and any kind of commitment. But after a not so obedient dog climbed into her car and refuse to bulge, Lizzie need help and there's no better person to help her than the man who once trained dogs. All Adam wants is to be left alone but Lizzie, a couple of strays and his army's buddies won't make things easy for him.
This book was sweet but with more depth than I expected. Learning to live with PTSD and war injuries, loved one's illness and disorder are just an example of what I'm trying to say. I felt for the cranky cowboy who feels guilty about the tragedy. Some people could be turned off by his way of thinking about dogs in the beginning but maybe it's easier for me to not hold it against him because I could see and undertsand his desire of not getting attached to anyone. No matter what, it's easy to see that's the total opposite. He care. I felt in love with Marcus and Jake, his brothers-in-arm who brought something touching, bittersweet and funny to the story. There's a dose of reality too, with the fact that not everyone love dogs and see them for the special creatures and human being they are. Maybe that's just my own interpretation, but this book remind me that sometimes romance novel is about learning to get your shit together.
My only complain is that I wished I felt more of a connection between the MC during their intimate moments.
So happy to learn the next book is about Marcus and Emma (Adam's sister)!!!😀
September 30, 2019
This was cute
Not bad and nothing to really get excited over, but it was cute and I finished it, which is not for nothing
Not bad and nothing to really get excited over, but it was cute and I finished it, which is not for nothing
August 7, 2025
***MINOR SPOILERS ***
This book is the first in the Big Chance Dog Rescue series. I started this book thinking it was a 4 star but i upgraded it because there were several things that were handled well. In the end, this is more than a romance. It is a story of friendship, pain, and honor. It deals with those issues in a robust way and that is why I gave it 5 stars.
Adam was a soldier in Afghanistan and handled a bomb sniffing dog. A high pressure raid resulted in death for a team member and the dog. Several other team members were seriously injured. All of the survivors are dealing with PTSD. Two had serious injuries that they will have to deal with for the rest of their lives.
Adam no longer wants responsibilities because he blames himself for what happened during the raid. His two recovering teammates ask him if they can stay and he reluctantly agrees. Very gradually they get integrated into his efforts to fix up the house (which he wants to sell so he can become a nomad). Later, (spoiler) he realizes that they are still a team, and they mutually need and help each other.
The handling of the PTSD is well done, in my opinion, as it is done with care and sensitivity. Max’s breaking point with his wife is realistic and awful yet you care about him.
Lizzie comes back to town because her father is ill, and she has a breakup with her old boyfriend. She is an interesting blend of confidence about work and insecure about relationships. I thought she was quite clever to come up for a plan for the property next to Adam’s home. Lizzie wants to open a park to try to regenerate the town. I admired her pluck and persistence.
There is an event in Adam and Lizzie’s past that was pivotal to both of them but particularly to her. It should have been brought out more with a conversation between them or left out.
Lizzie brings a dog to Adam to train. He reluctantly agrees. He is good at it though the author makes the dog almost intuitive about reading him at first. Spoiler…other dogs start appearing in the story and at the end of the book it becomes no surprise that Adam decides to open a dog rescue/training center using veterans to help him. It is moving to see the positive effects the dogs have on the veterans.
Lizzie has known Adam since before he became a soldier and sees him as good and decent man. He is now more abrupt and pushes her and others away. She is surprisingly resilient at dealing with it because he rejected her as a teenager. Because she cares for him and because she lacks confidence, she accepts what he can give her. Adam needs her caring but wants to reject more ties. Lizzie’s last boyfriend was very critical, and Adam is supportive but tries to do it from a distance. There is a painful conversation in the hospital that Lizzie overhears as Adam makes a last ditch effort to try to push everyone away. Lizzie’s acceptance of Adam and who he is helps him with accepting what he will do next.
The is another story line about dog fighting that shows off Adam’s honor and results in a change of life for a minor secondary character. It also bonds the veterans. Lizzie works with Adam for part of this storyline and it binds them.
There is a reference to Adam having a fair amount of sexual experience that I did not think was necessary.
This book can be read as a stand-alone but the characters from the next book appear in this one and I rooted for them to have their own happily ever after. There are several other appealing secondary characters that could appear in future books.
As I mentioned at the beginning, I like and recommend 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 second book in the series which is about Adam’s sister and one of his teammates.
This book is the first in the Big Chance Dog Rescue series. I started this book thinking it was a 4 star but i upgraded it because there were several things that were handled well. In the end, this is more than a romance. It is a story of friendship, pain, and honor. It deals with those issues in a robust way and that is why I gave it 5 stars.
Adam was a soldier in Afghanistan and handled a bomb sniffing dog. A high pressure raid resulted in death for a team member and the dog. Several other team members were seriously injured. All of the survivors are dealing with PTSD. Two had serious injuries that they will have to deal with for the rest of their lives.
Adam no longer wants responsibilities because he blames himself for what happened during the raid. His two recovering teammates ask him if they can stay and he reluctantly agrees. Very gradually they get integrated into his efforts to fix up the house (which he wants to sell so he can become a nomad). Later, (spoiler) he realizes that they are still a team, and they mutually need and help each other.
The handling of the PTSD is well done, in my opinion, as it is done with care and sensitivity. Max’s breaking point with his wife is realistic and awful yet you care about him.
Lizzie comes back to town because her father is ill, and she has a breakup with her old boyfriend. She is an interesting blend of confidence about work and insecure about relationships. I thought she was quite clever to come up for a plan for the property next to Adam’s home. Lizzie wants to open a park to try to regenerate the town. I admired her pluck and persistence.
There is an event in Adam and Lizzie’s past that was pivotal to both of them but particularly to her. It should have been brought out more with a conversation between them or left out.
Lizzie brings a dog to Adam to train. He reluctantly agrees. He is good at it though the author makes the dog almost intuitive about reading him at first. Spoiler…other dogs start appearing in the story and at the end of the book it becomes no surprise that Adam decides to open a dog rescue/training center using veterans to help him. It is moving to see the positive effects the dogs have on the veterans.
Lizzie has known Adam since before he became a soldier and sees him as good and decent man. He is now more abrupt and pushes her and others away. She is surprisingly resilient at dealing with it because he rejected her as a teenager. Because she cares for him and because she lacks confidence, she accepts what he can give her. Adam needs her caring but wants to reject more ties. Lizzie’s last boyfriend was very critical, and Adam is supportive but tries to do it from a distance. There is a painful conversation in the hospital that Lizzie overhears as Adam makes a last ditch effort to try to push everyone away. Lizzie’s acceptance of Adam and who he is helps him with accepting what he will do next.
The is another story line about dog fighting that shows off Adam’s honor and results in a change of life for a minor secondary character. It also bonds the veterans. Lizzie works with Adam for part of this storyline and it binds them.
There is a reference to Adam having a fair amount of sexual experience that I did not think was necessary.
This book can be read as a stand-alone but the characters from the next book appear in this one and I rooted for them to have their own happily ever after. There are several other appealing secondary characters that could appear in future books.
As I mentioned at the beginning, I like and recommend 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 second book in the series which is about Adam’s sister and one of his teammates.
October 13, 2019
Our Veterans deserve much better treatment than they get. I believe that all our men in uniform, soldiers, police, firemen ..etc, who keep us safe, should be paid what the bureaucrats and politician in DC are paid- and the bureaucrats and politicians deserve the salaries that our first responders are paid. This is the first book in a new series about veterans coping with PTSD and physical impairments and abandoned dogs who can be trained to help them.
Adam and Emma Collins' parents were killed in an auto accident and they came to live with their grandparents at their ranch in Big Chance, Texas, where their grandfather trained dogs. Emma's BBF was Lizzie Vanhook, who had a crush on Adam. Adam was angry and didn't think he was good enough for Lizzie and left for the military right after high school graduation. As a Ranger he trained dogs, but on one mission, Tank, his dog failed to detect a bomb, which went off. Meanwhile, Lizzie is also returning to Big Chance after her business partner/ boyfriend turned out to be not a nice person and her father has prostate cancer. She is coming home to help him with his real estate business. On the way, when she stops at a gas station, a large dog stows away in her car. The dog had been abandoned and the attendant had named him D-Day and he refused to get out of Lizzie's car.
Emma is now a widow, their grandfather is suffering from dementia and Adam's has been living at the ranch, trying to fix it up so he can sell it, give Emma money to start over, get their grandfather in a home and then disappear. Along with the PTSD, he feels that the FUBAR is his fault and does not want to be responsible for anyone. But then Lizzie comes for assistance with D-Day, several of his men come to the ranch for help and more rescue dogs show up. There is a mystery about a missing dead and illegal dog fights. Adam finds that both Lizzie and D-Day calm him. Will he realize that those people and dogs needing him also are there for him as well, before it is too late?
This is a beautifully written story, with wonderful characters, easy, witty banter, endearing dogs and I look forward to reading the next book in the series. I have read several similar stories about veterans coming home and finding ways to help their fellows with working on ranches and farms. More of these facilities are needed and deserve funding more than the waste of tax dollars by those in DC who just want to buy votes.
I read an ARC from NetGalley.com. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
Adam and Emma Collins' parents were killed in an auto accident and they came to live with their grandparents at their ranch in Big Chance, Texas, where their grandfather trained dogs. Emma's BBF was Lizzie Vanhook, who had a crush on Adam. Adam was angry and didn't think he was good enough for Lizzie and left for the military right after high school graduation. As a Ranger he trained dogs, but on one mission, Tank, his dog failed to detect a bomb, which went off. Meanwhile, Lizzie is also returning to Big Chance after her business partner/ boyfriend turned out to be not a nice person and her father has prostate cancer. She is coming home to help him with his real estate business. On the way, when she stops at a gas station, a large dog stows away in her car. The dog had been abandoned and the attendant had named him D-Day and he refused to get out of Lizzie's car.
Emma is now a widow, their grandfather is suffering from dementia and Adam's has been living at the ranch, trying to fix it up so he can sell it, give Emma money to start over, get their grandfather in a home and then disappear. Along with the PTSD, he feels that the FUBAR is his fault and does not want to be responsible for anyone. But then Lizzie comes for assistance with D-Day, several of his men come to the ranch for help and more rescue dogs show up. There is a mystery about a missing dead and illegal dog fights. Adam finds that both Lizzie and D-Day calm him. Will he realize that those people and dogs needing him also are there for him as well, before it is too late?
This is a beautifully written story, with wonderful characters, easy, witty banter, endearing dogs and I look forward to reading the next book in the series. I have read several similar stories about veterans coming home and finding ways to help their fellows with working on ranches and farms. More of these facilities are needed and deserve funding more than the waste of tax dollars by those in DC who just want to buy votes.
I read an ARC from NetGalley.com. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
September 3, 2019
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
There is something about the unconditional love of a dog (or any pet, really) that instantly draws me into a story. BIG CHANCE COWBOY begins the Big Chance Dog Rescue series with a heartbreaking – and a heartwarming – story of unconditional love leading to the forever kind of romance that I adore.
The cover description really gives you a good idea of what you’ll find in this story should you pick it up. What it doesn’t tell you about are the emotional connections you’ll make with the citizens of this small town, the ragtag group of lost souls that will find not only refuge but the promise of a future at the Big Chance Dog Rescue ranch or the love between one stubborn woman and one soul wounded man who need each other to find their way back from the past and forward to their future.
Adam will break your heart for all he’s gone through and eventually healing from. Somethings will never really go away, but they can fade to memories as life moves on. His reactions from start to finish make sense for what he’s experienced. PTSD is a very real experience that can destroy a person, no matter how it began. Lizzie and one rambunctious pup will bring Adam a peace he never expected to find. Lizzie returns home with the weight of the world on her shoulders. A second chance with the man she loved and one stubborn pup who knows what he wants will bring her the happiness that has eluded her so many times. Add to that mix the former members of Adam’s unit who seem to be finding their way to him for a job, for someone who understands what they went through, and perhaps, a second chance at a life that could include happiness and peace.
I loved BIG CHANCE COWBOY for so many reasons, and if you love a really good, realistic romance, believable healing from horrific events, a quirky small town, and two wounded, in different ways, people who get that second chance to get love right this time – oh, and adorable (maybe not in appearance but in attitude), mischievous pups galore – then you’ll want to grab this one. I had a blast and I’d recommend this one with no hesitation – now I need the next story, like right now. *grin*
*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.*
There is something about the unconditional love of a dog (or any pet, really) that instantly draws me into a story. BIG CHANCE COWBOY begins the Big Chance Dog Rescue series with a heartbreaking – and a heartwarming – story of unconditional love leading to the forever kind of romance that I adore.
The cover description really gives you a good idea of what you’ll find in this story should you pick it up. What it doesn’t tell you about are the emotional connections you’ll make with the citizens of this small town, the ragtag group of lost souls that will find not only refuge but the promise of a future at the Big Chance Dog Rescue ranch or the love between one stubborn woman and one soul wounded man who need each other to find their way back from the past and forward to their future.
Adam will break your heart for all he’s gone through and eventually healing from. Somethings will never really go away, but they can fade to memories as life moves on. His reactions from start to finish make sense for what he’s experienced. PTSD is a very real experience that can destroy a person, no matter how it began. Lizzie and one rambunctious pup will bring Adam a peace he never expected to find. Lizzie returns home with the weight of the world on her shoulders. A second chance with the man she loved and one stubborn pup who knows what he wants will bring her the happiness that has eluded her so many times. Add to that mix the former members of Adam’s unit who seem to be finding their way to him for a job, for someone who understands what they went through, and perhaps, a second chance at a life that could include happiness and peace.
I loved BIG CHANCE COWBOY for so many reasons, and if you love a really good, realistic romance, believable healing from horrific events, a quirky small town, and two wounded, in different ways, people who get that second chance to get love right this time – oh, and adorable (maybe not in appearance but in attitude), mischievous pups galore – then you’ll want to grab this one. I had a blast and I’d recommend this one with no hesitation – now I need the next story, like right now. *grin*
*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.*
August 14, 2019
Big Chance Cowboy by Teri Anne Stanley is one of a new breed of romances featuring those soldiers damaged at war: either PTSD, missing limbs, other injuries, and their attempts to fit themselves back in to society. This story opens with Adam, the dog handler whose dog died during an attack on a terrorist's hideout. In that same attack, one of Adam's compatriots had died, three had walked away with serious injuries, and Adam with survivor's guilt and PTSD. He had returned home to Bog Chance, Texas, something he swore he would never do, to fix up his grandfather's farm for sale so the money could be used for his grandfather's care (dementia), freeing up his sister to have a life. Enter Lizzie, who has always had a crush on Adam, but is currently returning to Big Chance to make a life after dumping her fiancé and quitting her job in Houston. She knows she has no chance with Adam and really isn't looking for one. One by one Adam acquires dogs that need homes and disable veterans that he feels duty-bound to help.
The reader can feel Adam's PTSD. It is so real that it vibrates through his character. Stanley has done us a favor by trying to put it into words so we readers can all understand what happened to him as a result of his service. Talbott and Jake concisely show other injuries and Granddad explores the mystery that is dementia and the challenges with caring for each of these injuries. Heart wrenching describes it but heart-warming as things improve, slowly and sometimes temporarily. Lizzie's recovery from the emotional abuse she suffered at the hands of her fiancé is another startling revelation. This is a book about survival and recovery and it's charmingly couched in the genre of romance. It is complicated and difficult, sometimes, but warm and wonderful as well. I recommend it. In the end it is an upliftng read. I recommend it.
I received a free ARC of Big Chance Cowboy. All opinions and interpretations contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #bigchancecowboy
The reader can feel Adam's PTSD. It is so real that it vibrates through his character. Stanley has done us a favor by trying to put it into words so we readers can all understand what happened to him as a result of his service. Talbott and Jake concisely show other injuries and Granddad explores the mystery that is dementia and the challenges with caring for each of these injuries. Heart wrenching describes it but heart-warming as things improve, slowly and sometimes temporarily. Lizzie's recovery from the emotional abuse she suffered at the hands of her fiancé is another startling revelation. This is a book about survival and recovery and it's charmingly couched in the genre of romance. It is complicated and difficult, sometimes, but warm and wonderful as well. I recommend it. In the end it is an upliftng read. I recommend it.
I received a free ARC of Big Chance Cowboy. All opinions and interpretations contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #bigchancecowboy
September 6, 2019
Check out our Big Chance Cowboy post on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Sarah – ☆☆☆☆☆
This was a completely unexpected reading treat. I was hooked by the idea of veterans, cowboys, and dogs, but I really didn’t expect such complex, beautifully written characters and a story I couldn’t put down.
Lizzie is a fabulous heroine. Back in her small town, she’s nursing a broken heart and taking care of her family business when she finds herself suddenly saddled with an enormous dog to care for. I love Lizzie’s heart and the way she chases her passions. Adam is an equally wonderful leading man – even if he spends the first half of the story being as miserable as he can and chasing away anyone who tries to get close. His military experiences feel real and raw and when we meet him, PTSD is breaking his spirit. I loved Adam’s journey in this book, and I love the animals who force him to feel again.
Even though this book tackles some tough topics sensitively and thoughtfully, it isn’t a dark or a heavy read. The wonderful dogs in this book keep the story relatively light and the motley mix of oddball characters that congregate on Adam’s ranch kept me smiling. I love Adam and Lizzie’s town and I love the quirky mix of characters. This is a low heat romance with great sexual tension between Adam and Lizzie. I love the little bit of action at the end and I love the way Adam and his friends slowly grow into a sense of purpose on the tumble down ranch.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
December 4, 2019
An ARC of Big Chance Cowboy found it's way to me through the bookstore I work at. Overall I like the setting (I'm a sucker for a small town romance), the characters are all easy to cheer for, and I would definitely consider reading about Jake or Talbott in future books.
I gave this one two stars because of the plot and the overall lack of steaminess in the sex scenes.
Mild spoilers below.
Since Big Chance Cowboy is the first in a series the foundation of the dog rescue seems like it should have been the focus of the plot. The climactic confrontation over dog fighting, while dramatic, seemed unnecessary and overall underdeveloped. The two characters who were given the most "screen time" in reference to fighting dogs were ultimately redeemed, and their involvement in the practice was not needed for the furthering of the romance or the overall plot.
The other big shortfall for me was the romance itself. Often I found myself wanting to hear more about the platonic relationships between characters, or their relationships with their dogs, and the romance took a back seat. When Adam and Lizzie do finally get together, it felt underwhelming. I will also be the first to admit I like a bit more lead up to sex in my romance novels, but this one feels like it would have been fine without the action on the page. It might have even benefited from it; I like it when an author can go all in or keep you wanting more by leaving physical intimacy up to the imagination.
I have other nitpicky problems with mechanics of the book, but I also recognize this is for fun and I'm just being a judgey bookseller with an English major if I go into every little thing that bothered me.
Overall I'm glad I read this one, but I want to see what the author does in the future before I pick up another of her books.
I gave this one two stars because of the plot and the overall lack of steaminess in the sex scenes.
Mild spoilers below.
Since Big Chance Cowboy is the first in a series the foundation of the dog rescue seems like it should have been the focus of the plot. The climactic confrontation over dog fighting, while dramatic, seemed unnecessary and overall underdeveloped. The two characters who were given the most "screen time" in reference to fighting dogs were ultimately redeemed, and their involvement in the practice was not needed for the furthering of the romance or the overall plot.
The other big shortfall for me was the romance itself. Often I found myself wanting to hear more about the platonic relationships between characters, or their relationships with their dogs, and the romance took a back seat. When Adam and Lizzie do finally get together, it felt underwhelming. I will also be the first to admit I like a bit more lead up to sex in my romance novels, but this one feels like it would have been fine without the action on the page. It might have even benefited from it; I like it when an author can go all in or keep you wanting more by leaving physical intimacy up to the imagination.
I have other nitpicky problems with mechanics of the book, but I also recognize this is for fun and I'm just being a judgey bookseller with an English major if I go into every little thing that bothered me.
Overall I'm glad I read this one, but I want to see what the author does in the future before I pick up another of her books.
July 28, 2019
Dieses Buch war ganz anders als ich es von dem bunten Cover erwartet hätte. Ich dachte, ich lese eine leichte fluffige Liebesgeschichte und dann kommt Teri Anne Stanley und belehrt mich eines Besseren. Das Setting ist düster. Lizzy kommt nach einer bitteren Trennung in ihre alte Heimatstadt Big Chance zurück und zieht erst mal wieder zu ihren Eltern, ihr Vater ist schwer krank und kann ihre Unterstützung in seiner kleinen Immobilienfirma gut gebrauchen. Kaum angekommen kreuzt sich ihr Weg mit Adam, der ihr vor vielen Jahren das Herz gebrochen hat. Adam lebt zurückgezogen auf der Farm seiner Familie. Er will die Farm renovieren und dann schnellstmöglich verkaufen, um diesen Ort seiner Kindheit endgültig zu verlassen. Seine Zeit im Krieg hat große Wunden in seiner Seele hinterlassen. Während Lizzi sich sofort in die Arbeit stürzt und neue Pläne schmiedet, will Adam nur eins: keine Verpflichtungen und keine Verbindungen zu anderen aufbauen. Ehe er sich versieht, ist er umgeben von Hunden, für die es keine zweite Chance zu geben scheint und von ehemaligen Kameraden, für die das Gleiche zutrifft.
Ich mochte die beiden Hauptfiguren sofort, Lizzy mit ihrer tiefen Unsicherheit und Adam, für den ein normales Leben nach dem Krieg nicht mehr möglich zu sein scheint. Und dann sind da noch die wunderbaren Hunde: Streuner oder gerettet aus Hundekämpfen- sie heilen gemeinsam mit ihren Menschen. Das Buch erzählt auf sehr berührende Weise, dass das Leben manchmal die eigenen Pläne durchkreuzt um etwas viel Besseres entstehen zu lassen.
Tolle Geschichte- mit viel Spannung, Tiefe und Herz.
Ich mochte die beiden Hauptfiguren sofort, Lizzy mit ihrer tiefen Unsicherheit und Adam, für den ein normales Leben nach dem Krieg nicht mehr möglich zu sein scheint. Und dann sind da noch die wunderbaren Hunde: Streuner oder gerettet aus Hundekämpfen- sie heilen gemeinsam mit ihren Menschen. Das Buch erzählt auf sehr berührende Weise, dass das Leben manchmal die eigenen Pläne durchkreuzt um etwas viel Besseres entstehen zu lassen.
Tolle Geschichte- mit viel Spannung, Tiefe und Herz.
August 29, 2019
Dieses Buch war ganz anders als ich es von dem bunten Cover erwartet hätte. Ich dachte, ich lese eine leichte fluffige Liebesgeschichte und dann kommt Teri Anne Stanley und belehrt mich eines Besseren. Das Setting ist düster. Lizzy kommt nach einer bitteren Trennung in ihre alte Heimatstadt Big Chance zurück und zieht erst mal wieder zu ihren Eltern, ihr Vater ist schwer krank und kann ihre Unterstützung in seiner kleinen Immobilienfirma gut gebrauchen. Kaum angekommen kreuzt sich ihr Weg mit Adam, der ihr vor vielen Jahren das Herz gebrochen hat. Adam lebt zurückgezogen auf der Farm seiner Familie. Er will die Farm renovieren und dann schnellstmöglich verkaufen, um diesen Ort seiner Kindheit endgültig zu verlassen. Seine Zeit im Krieg hat große Wunden in seiner Seele hinterlassen. Während Lizzi sich sofort in die Arbeit stürzt und neue Pläne schmiedet, will Adam nur eins: keine Verpflichtungen und keine Verbindungen zu anderen aufbauen. Ehe er sich versieht, ist er umgeben von Hunden, für die es keine zweite Chance zu geben scheint und von ehemaligen Kameraden, für die das Gleiche zutrifft.
Ich mochte die beiden Hauptfiguren sofort, Lizzy mit ihrer tiefen Unsicherheit und Adam, für den ein normales Leben nach dem Krieg nicht mehr möglich zu sein scheint. Und dann sind da noch die wunderbaren Hunde: Streuner oder gerettet aus Hundekämpfen- sie heilen gemeinsam mit ihren Menschen. Das Buch erzählt auf sehr berührende Weise, dass das Leben manchmal die eigenen Pläne durchkreuzt um etwas viel Besseres entstehen zu lassen.
Tolle Geschichte- mit viel Spannung, Tiefe und Herz.
Ich mochte die beiden Hauptfiguren sofort, Lizzy mit ihrer tiefen Unsicherheit und Adam, für den ein normales Leben nach dem Krieg nicht mehr möglich zu sein scheint. Und dann sind da noch die wunderbaren Hunde: Streuner oder gerettet aus Hundekämpfen- sie heilen gemeinsam mit ihren Menschen. Das Buch erzählt auf sehr berührende Weise, dass das Leben manchmal die eigenen Pläne durchkreuzt um etwas viel Besseres entstehen zu lassen.
Tolle Geschichte- mit viel Spannung, Tiefe und Herz.
October 24, 2021
Wow! Powerfully emotional
I wasn't sure how much I would like this, so I thought I would give it a try. I am blown away by the concept and how well it was delivered. This is a very emotionally deep story with some nice lighter moments. There is also a bit of action in here. It deals with some heavy issues, like PTSD, animal abuse and dealing with major injuries. It is not all gloom and doom though, thankfully. If it was, I would not have given it 5 stars.
Adam is back from his last tour in Afghanistan, and has been hiding out on his ranch. Hiding doesn't work when his sister brings over her friend who found a huge stray dog that is not listening to her! Now, 2 of his buddies from his unit who were damaged worse than he was show up, then a dog with puppies and another dog... All during this, Adam keeps planning on leaving, even though he is seriously attracted to his sister's friend Lizzie. I won't say any more so that I don't spoil the story, but this is a dynamite intro to a new series. I can't wait to read book 2.
The pace is fast and the tone is uncertain yet hopeful with a character oriented storyline that has some action and some steamy scenes, but without a ton of details. The characters are vivid and engaging. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
I wasn't sure how much I would like this, so I thought I would give it a try. I am blown away by the concept and how well it was delivered. This is a very emotionally deep story with some nice lighter moments. There is also a bit of action in here. It deals with some heavy issues, like PTSD, animal abuse and dealing with major injuries. It is not all gloom and doom though, thankfully. If it was, I would not have given it 5 stars.
Adam is back from his last tour in Afghanistan, and has been hiding out on his ranch. Hiding doesn't work when his sister brings over her friend who found a huge stray dog that is not listening to her! Now, 2 of his buddies from his unit who were damaged worse than he was show up, then a dog with puppies and another dog... All during this, Adam keeps planning on leaving, even though he is seriously attracted to his sister's friend Lizzie. I won't say any more so that I don't spoil the story, but this is a dynamite intro to a new series. I can't wait to read book 2.
The pace is fast and the tone is uncertain yet hopeful with a character oriented storyline that has some action and some steamy scenes, but without a ton of details. The characters are vivid and engaging. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
December 26, 2020
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
This was a delightful story and I couldn't put it down book it is a wonderful take in the first in a series. I so look forward to more of the charming town and army veterans that made appearances here.
Adams Collins comes home to Big Chance, Texas after his last mission in the army goes awry killing one and wounding the others. Adams carries the guilt around with him like a heavy mantle. He wants to sale the family ranch and help his sister with their grandfather whiling getting out of town.
Lizzie Vanhook is back in town after a break-up with her boyfriend. Her father also needs help is his real estate business as he is dealing with a medical issue.
This was a delightful tale. I adored reading how Adam overcomes his military experiences and finds a true calling.
I loved how this story was written in a dual POV format. This is my favorite as I can read their thoughts in a given scene. It really helps me to better understand a character.
It is a sexy read. Nothing overtly graphic and it a "less is more" type of romance. I would highly recommend this story to anyone over the age of 18.
This was a delightful story and I couldn't put it down book it is a wonderful take in the first in a series. I so look forward to more of the charming town and army veterans that made appearances here.
Adams Collins comes home to Big Chance, Texas after his last mission in the army goes awry killing one and wounding the others. Adams carries the guilt around with him like a heavy mantle. He wants to sale the family ranch and help his sister with their grandfather whiling getting out of town.
Lizzie Vanhook is back in town after a break-up with her boyfriend. Her father also needs help is his real estate business as he is dealing with a medical issue.
This was a delightful tale. I adored reading how Adam overcomes his military experiences and finds a true calling.
I loved how this story was written in a dual POV format. This is my favorite as I can read their thoughts in a given scene. It really helps me to better understand a character.
It is a sexy read. Nothing overtly graphic and it a "less is more" type of romance. I would highly recommend this story to anyone over the age of 18.
July 29, 2019
This is the first book I read by this author, and now I am hooked.
Adam Collins, a former MP Army Ranger, is back in Big Chance after his last mission. One that not only changed his life, but also that of his unit. He’s now become a hermit and suffers from PTSD.
Lizzie Vanhook has decided to return home jobless, heartbroken and with little self esteem.
A dog not only brings them together, but also gives Adam and his friends a purpose in life.
This was a touching story that at times was heartbreaking, and one in which the author reminds us of the effects war has on the brave men and women who fight for our freedom. Some return with physical injuries, others with psychological and emotional ones. We as a nation, need to help them integrate back to civil life and in this case a way to help might be with support dogs.
This was a well written , engaging story with complex characters you will come to love. The secondary characters were just as interesting and have the potential of having their own story in the future.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley and Sourcebooks. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Adam Collins, a former MP Army Ranger, is back in Big Chance after his last mission. One that not only changed his life, but also that of his unit. He’s now become a hermit and suffers from PTSD.
Lizzie Vanhook has decided to return home jobless, heartbroken and with little self esteem.
A dog not only brings them together, but also gives Adam and his friends a purpose in life.
This was a touching story that at times was heartbreaking, and one in which the author reminds us of the effects war has on the brave men and women who fight for our freedom. Some return with physical injuries, others with psychological and emotional ones. We as a nation, need to help them integrate back to civil life and in this case a way to help might be with support dogs.
This was a well written , engaging story with complex characters you will come to love. The secondary characters were just as interesting and have the potential of having their own story in the future.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley and Sourcebooks. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
December 13, 2019
This was so good! Someone had donated it to my library branch, and I was looking for something light-hearted after finishing The Snowman. It's not quite as frothy as I thought it would be, but in a good way. I enjoyed the pace of the romance, as well as the subtly done sex scenes (also that there weren't a million sex scenes in the book, either).
I just read a review of this from Publisher's Weekly, and I have to say, I'm not sure if the reviewer and I read the same book. Yes, Lizzie and Adam knew each other when they were in high school, but I they weren't a couple, not then (unless I missed something?). Lizzie knew Adam because she was best friends with his sister, Emma, and so she was able to see him/spend time around him. And yes, the book is a bit "busy" but it's clear it's setting up a series, and so there are several characters introduced. I'm happy to see that the next book should come out next month, and I'm keeping my fingers crossed that I'll snag a copy of that one, too!
I just read a review of this from Publisher's Weekly, and I have to say, I'm not sure if the reviewer and I read the same book. Yes, Lizzie and Adam knew each other when they were in high school, but I they weren't a couple, not then (unless I missed something?). Lizzie knew Adam because she was best friends with his sister, Emma, and so she was able to see him/spend time around him. And yes, the book is a bit "busy" but it's clear it's setting up a series, and so there are several characters introduced. I'm happy to see that the next book should come out next month, and I'm keeping my fingers crossed that I'll snag a copy of that one, too!
March 24, 2020
Teri Anne Stanley's book, Big Chance Cowboy, takes place in Big Chance, Texas. Lizzie Vanhook returns home for a fresh start after being dumped by her boyfriend in Houston. In addition to her family, she has friends there-- Emma Collins-Stern and her brother Adam Collins. Emma married Adam's best friend and is now a widow. As a teenager, Lizzie had had a huge crush on Emma's older brother. He recently returned from Afghanistan with PTSD and keeps to himself making repairs out at the family's ranch. When Lizzie discovers a stray dog in her car after stopping at Big American Fuel, she can tell the dog needs a fresh start too. With Emma's help she gets Adam to agree to keep him at the ranch temporarily and help her teach him basic obedience. Then Adam's two best friends from Afghanistan, Marcus Talbott and Jake Williams, who are still recovering from serious injuries, come to stay with him too. So much for Adam trying to keep to himself! This book covers a lot of topics besides second chances. It deals with animal cruelty, dog rescues, Dementia, Cancer, PTSD, and friends who become as close as family. It is a feel good entertaining book!
August 27, 2019
I so enjoyed this first book in the series and really look forward to reading the next. Lizzie Vanhook is back in Big Chance, Texas. She has no job and is living with her parents. Stopping to check her tire pressure, she finds a large dog in the backseat, a stray that refuses to leave. Lizzie approaches former military and dog handler Adam Collins to help her with D-Day, the dog. Adam is dealing with PTSD, his guilt over the loss of his K-9 Tank and a mission that went so wrong. His plan is to sell the ranch, make enough money for his sister and grandfather (who has dementia) and then head out of town. That is before he meets Lizzie who turns his life upside down. Such a wonderful story of a man who feels responsible for everyone around him, his former military buddies who show up at the ranch and the dogs that need his care. Danger soon enters his world as a dog fighting ring has been exposed. Can he save the dogs and his future with Lizzie? I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (by paytonpuppy)
September 3, 2019
4 1/2 STARS!
BIG CHANCE COWBOY is the first book in the delightful new Big Chance Dog Rescue series by Teri Anne Stanley and brings us the story of a former soldier and a fill-in realtor who are each returning home and reconnecting.
Adam catches a reader's heart quickly with the pain he's wearing on his sleeve when he returns home after his last mission gone wrong with a broken heart and soul. He wants nothing to do with anyone, but life just won't leave him alone and keeps foisting one lost soul after another off on him to take care of.
Lizzie is a complex character who isn't thrilled to be back in town either. Her dreams were shattered and now her dad's sick and she needs to be useful. She crushed on Adam years ago, but the man who has returned home isn't he man who left.
I highly recommend this story to anyone looking for a band of soldiers with hearts of gold, some adorable animals in the mix, and most of all a gentle love story in the making as the world slowly falls into place. I'm looking forward to more to come in this heartwarming series!
BIG CHANCE COWBOY is the first book in the delightful new Big Chance Dog Rescue series by Teri Anne Stanley and brings us the story of a former soldier and a fill-in realtor who are each returning home and reconnecting.
Adam catches a reader's heart quickly with the pain he's wearing on his sleeve when he returns home after his last mission gone wrong with a broken heart and soul. He wants nothing to do with anyone, but life just won't leave him alone and keeps foisting one lost soul after another off on him to take care of.
Lizzie is a complex character who isn't thrilled to be back in town either. Her dreams were shattered and now her dad's sick and she needs to be useful. She crushed on Adam years ago, but the man who has returned home isn't he man who left.
I highly recommend this story to anyone looking for a band of soldiers with hearts of gold, some adorable animals in the mix, and most of all a gentle love story in the making as the world slowly falls into place. I'm looking forward to more to come in this heartwarming series!
August 23, 2019
Lizzie Vanhook is driving home to Big Chance, Texas with a broken heart encased with insecurities and great concern for her father receiving chemo treatments for prostate cancer. Her tire low pressure indicator comes on so she pulls into Big America Fuel which has a free air pump. She hesitates when she sees a big black dog with patches of fur missing sitting next to the air pump. But he is wagging, so probably friendly. After all her tires are checked and pressure is good she and the Big America attendant surmise the indicator light clicked on incorrectly. The attendant tells her the dog has been hanging around for a while and guesses he was abandoned. They have been calling him D-Day. If he reports him he will be taken to a shelter and probably euthanized. Lizzie doesn't like that idea at all but there is nothing she can do. Her mom doesn't allow dogs in the house. She hops in her car and as she is about to pull out of Big America Fuel she notices a large, black dog head looking at her in her rearview mirror. "That dog got into my car somehow." D-Day refuses to to get out of her back seat. Looks like he is going home with Lizzie. Little does she know that D-Day's arrival is just the beginning of big changes in her life.
Big Chance Cowboy is the first book in Teri Anne Stanley's Big Chance Dog Rescue series. All I need to see is dog rescue in the title or description of a book and I have to have it. This one was an absolute delight! There's humor, drama, a little mystery and lots of doggy kisses. Lizzie goes to her high school crush, Adam Collins for help training D-Day as well as a place to keep him since her mom wants him out of the house. Adam has PTSD after a very bad experience in Afghanistan with his team and IED detector dog. The author brings these two together with trials, smiles and great attraction. This is a beautifully written story and one I wanted to never end. I can't wait for the next installment in the series.
Big Chance Cowboy is the first book in Teri Anne Stanley's Big Chance Dog Rescue series. All I need to see is dog rescue in the title or description of a book and I have to have it. This one was an absolute delight! There's humor, drama, a little mystery and lots of doggy kisses. Lizzie goes to her high school crush, Adam Collins for help training D-Day as well as a place to keep him since her mom wants him out of the house. Adam has PTSD after a very bad experience in Afghanistan with his team and IED detector dog. The author brings these two together with trials, smiles and great attraction. This is a beautifully written story and one I wanted to never end. I can't wait for the next installment in the series.
August 6, 2019
Quite frankly, this book had me at dog rescue. Throw in a veteran turned cowboy, second chance romance, small town drama, a little intrigue and you have an emphatic yes from me. I found the writing a little disjointed and the actual romance only lightly delved into (it seemed to be a secondary story to Adam’s emotional development) but the story line and character development kept my attention to the end. The author touches on some serious topics such as PTSD and dog fighting but does so in a perceptive and realistic fashion. Looking forward to reading more about the characters at Big Chance Ranch Rescue.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley. This review was posted voluntarily.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley. This review was posted voluntarily.
September 18, 2019
This was exactly the book my heart needed this week. Adam and Lizzie both end up back in their hometown of Big Chance, Texas.
Adam is returning after serving in Afghanistan - and is working through a lot of intense emotions from the way things ended there. Lizzie is back in town to help her dad through cancer treatments. When a big, unruly, lovable stray dog brings the two together - they are both reminded of the chemistry between them.
This was a book that deftly managed both heavier topics and a lighter romance. And as a friend told me when I said I was starting it - it’s a book you just want to hug. I’m looking forward to reading more books by the author.
Thank you to Sourcebooks and Netgalley for the free advance reading copy.
Adam is returning after serving in Afghanistan - and is working through a lot of intense emotions from the way things ended there. Lizzie is back in town to help her dad through cancer treatments. When a big, unruly, lovable stray dog brings the two together - they are both reminded of the chemistry between them.
This was a book that deftly managed both heavier topics and a lighter romance. And as a friend told me when I said I was starting it - it’s a book you just want to hug. I’m looking forward to reading more books by the author.
Thank you to Sourcebooks and Netgalley for the free advance reading copy.
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