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Iron Horse #1

London is Falling

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The only thing fancy about London Kelly was her name.
She was a jeans and boots kind of girl.
Her perfume was the smell of hay.
And her days were spent in the saddle.
Except for a few bumps in the road she had a pretty good life.

Until…
Her dad died.
Now, she’s left running the family cattle ranch and horse stables.
The sexy sheriff has decided that he wants more than a one night stand.
And her employees believe that she has no business running a ranch.

Sometimes the strongest cowboys aren’t boys…
They’re women.

First published July 19, 2018

875 people are currently reading
773 people want to read

About the author

Danielle Norman

49 books2,202 followers
Before becoming a romance writer, Danielle was a body double for Heidi Klum and a backup singer for Adele. Now, she spends her days trying to play keep away from Theo James who won’t stop calling her or asking her out.
And all of this happens before she wakes up and faces reality where in fact she is a 50 something mom with grown kids, she's been married longer than Theo’s been alive, and now get her kicks riding a Harley.
As far as her body, she can thank, Ben & Jerry’s for that as well as gravity and vodka. But she says that she could never be Adele’s backup since she never stops saying the F-word long enough to actually sing.
Danielle writes about kickass women with even better shoes and the men that try to tame them (silly silly men).


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Displaying 1 - 30 of 198 reviews
Profile Image for The Sassy Bookworm.
4,064 reviews2,873 followers
July 17, 2018
description

I'm still playing catch up from being away on vacation for two weeks, so this review is going to be a bit on the short side. That said, this author just keeps getting better and better. This was my favorite book of hers to date. It was well written and well paced. It was told in a dual POV format. The plot was engaging (even if it is very obvious who the "baddie" is right from the beginning). It was was super low angst. There wasn't any OW or OM drama. I loved the secondary characters (the sisters especially), and I assume we will see Paris and Asher as a couple and Reid and Holland as a couple in upcoming books. It was humorous and full of great banter. The heroine was very likable (not a virgin), and the hero was just as likable (not a manwhore). Add in some spice and a sweet epilogue, and you pretty much have the perfect way to spend a couple of hours. Bring on book two!


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Profile Image for Janie.
873 reviews81 followers
July 21, 2018
This is my first read by this author and definitely won’t be my last. As a matter of fact I think I’ll dig into another of hers. Good storyline with good MCs along with a nice cast of secondary characters. I’m looking forward to Paris and Holland getting their HEAs. I’m also hoping that Marcus gets a story as well.
Profile Image for Coco.V.
50k reviews128 followers
Want to read
May 2, 2020
💝FREE on Amazon today (9/16/18)!💝

Blurb:
The only thing fancy about London Kelly was her name.
She was a jeans and boots kind of girl.
Her perfume was the smell of hay.
And her days were spent in the saddle.
Except for a few bumps in the road she had a pretty good life.

Until…
Her dad died.
Now, she’s left running the family cattle ranch and horse stables.
The sexy sheriff has decided that he wants more than a one night stand.
And her employees believe that she has no business running a ranch.

Sometimes the strongest cowboys aren’t boys…
They’re women.
Profile Image for Natshane.
536 reviews52 followers
July 17, 2018
A fun and quick read with a dose of angst & thriller.

Danielle Norman delivered yet another spectacular tale with strong ladies taking the center stage, although it is slightly different from the IRON ORCHIDS universe, I'm falling in love with the ranch and all of its animals!

Adore this one and so excited for the next!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book.
Profile Image for Mary Dean.
747 reviews1 follower
July 20, 2018
What a cool book. I loved this story from beginning to end. London and her sisters Paris and Holland have just lost their father. Their mother took off years before. Now they have to run his ranch. And they have faith in each other. They each have their responsibilities and they know they can do it. Everyone else isn't so sure. But London is a strong woman that is determined to prove everyone wrong. She really doesn't need any distractions. Enter Braden a local law enforcement hottie who London has crushed on since she was a teenager. Turns out he crushed on her too. Matters of the heart can be tricky and they sure are for London. She also has to deal with other surprises that I won't reveal because that would spoil things. This book keeps the reader on the edge of their seat the whole time.
I loved the characters in this story. Especially the bond between these sisters. This is basically London's story but I felt a connection to all three sisters. And I hope there is more about their stories in the future. I highly suggest this book to romance fans and also fans of just a great story about a strong woman proving her place in life no matter who doubts her. Want romance? Got it. Want steamy scenes? Got it. Want surprises around every corner? Definately got it. Trust me. You won't be able to put this book down. Go read it today!
Profile Image for MJ's Book Blog and Reviews.
3,054 reviews65 followers
July 17, 2018
Review by: Jennifer
(4 stars)

Stetson starts this new series off, introducing us to a cast of characters that promise to have entertaining books. London and her sisters have taken over the ranch after their father dies, all three busting their butts to make sure that what they have stays theirs and in working order. For London, as the oldest she feels she has more on her shoulders. When she ends up having a one night stand with an old crush, she wakes up the next day more determined to not let anyone distract her. When certain mishaps start happening on the ranch, Braden ends up back in London's presence once again, and she isn't all that happy about it at first. When Braden makes sure that London realizes that he is wanting more than just the one night, will London be able to resist?

This was such an entertaining read! There was so much going for it; the mystery, danger, steamy hot sexy times, and a few funny bits. I am excited for the next installment of this story. I give this 4 stars.
Profile Image for Isha Coleman.
8,977 reviews173 followers
July 10, 2018
Stetson is caught between two worlds. It has all the heartache of a country song, but twice the drama of any prime-time soap. London is learning how to be a woman, caught in a man's world. Her spirit is as wild as the land she works, but behind the fierce determination lies an abundance of self - doubt. Braden is the one man who can get inside her head and talk her down from the ledge, but when it comes to her heart it will take more than a gentle tone and understanding to tame the fire inside. As they navigate the emotional side of their relationship, danger slowly rears it's ugly head. Can this stallion claim his filly before it's too late? Stetson is complicated made simple. With an edge of mystery, no shortage of heart and a feisty female lead, Norman sets the stage for a tempting battle that proves to be a thrilling yet unpredictable ride.
Profile Image for Susan.
1,170 reviews43 followers
May 25, 2019
Got to love a book with strong, feisty women and hot men. Stetson definitely delivers on that! Filled with lots of sass, sweet moments, and sexy time. Danielle Norman has quickly become my go-to for romantic comedies!
Profile Image for Lisa Mcintire.
614 reviews8 followers
July 25, 2018
This was a good quick read. I’m excited to read about the other two sisters now
Profile Image for Nicole.
69 reviews1 follower
July 19, 2018
Cowgirl up

As the first book in a new series from Danielle Norman, I was so excited. I have loved her previous books, and I am so glad shes got a new series. "Stetson" introduces the Kelly sisters who have an amazing relationship with each other. After the death of their father they are forced to take over the ranch. Working the ranch they love means being strong women in a mans world (which lets admit is a battle we are all fighting). Trying to balance work on the ranch and relationships both with new people and those on the ranch is a hard balance. London "wo"mans the ranch and does her best to step into her fathers shoes. She has to balance potential sabotage, and a budding relationship all while supporting and maintaining the ranch that is her families livelihood. Danielle opens this new series with enough snark "I spun the wheel of attitude, it landed on sarcastic bitch, again" and love "once you figure out who you want to spend the rest of your life with, you want the rest of your life to start that very moment" and suspense to keep you coming back for more. Danielle does just enough world building to set the scene without being wordy, and introduces enough fringe characters to build the story without going off on tangents that distract from London and Braden. If you like horses, ranch life, strong women, Florida lifestyle, or just well written romance then give "Stetson" a read, you will NOTbe disappointed.
Profile Image for Katie Silvi .
483 reviews22 followers
July 3, 2018
Ms. Norman has outdone herself with Stetson!! Stetson is riveting and captivating. It had me on the edge of my seat the entire time and I couldnt put it down.

I adore the names she chose for her characters. London, Holland and Paris. They are so different and so unique. The author definitely knows how to keep herself a step above all the other authors on her genres.

Stetson follows London, the oldest, on her embankment into owning and running her family ranch. Then she runs into Braden. Braden has always had a crush on London.

Unfortunate events lead London and Braden on a collision course that it spectacular. I was so enamored with them and their relationship.

I cannot wait to see how this series progresses and what comes about within this world!
Profile Image for Lisa Guertin.
572 reviews11 followers
July 20, 2018
London and Braden make for one tumultuous couple. Coming from a Florida ranching family myself, I particularly enjoyed seeing it depicted accurately in a book. I’m looking forward to Holland and Paris’ stories quite impatiently.
Profile Image for Janine - The World Was Hers for the Reading.
1,495 reviews26 followers
July 16, 2018
London Kelly and her sisters had been learning how to run their ranch since they were kids. Now that their father is gone too soon, it’s up to them to keep things running as he left them. Too bad someone seems to be trying to sabotage everything they’ve worked so hard to achieve. With the help of the sexy town sheriff and their friends, these sisters aren’t willing to go down without the fight of their lives!

Stetson was a truly fabulous romance with an amazing cast of characters and a fabulous plot full of suspense. London and her sisters, Paris and Holland, may have fancy names, but they are strong and hard working women, each with their own role to play in the success of their family ranch. It’s clear through their teasing of one another and support how much they care for each other. When things start to go awry they immediately have one another’s backs. London’s intelligence and strength is shown throughout this book . . . it’s fabulous to read a book with a female lead who is anything but a damsel in distress, even when times are tough.

As London is trying to find her footing after her father’s funeral, she reconnects with highschool crush and now sheriff Braden McManus. Now that he’s back in town for good, Braden wants more than the one night stand London is offering and immediately steps up to help her and her sister’s deal with the string of sabotage that starts on their ranch. While Braden is completely alpha in all ways, I adore that he never tries to take control away from London or act like he knows more than she does. He’s the perfect fit for her and we find out that he had a crush on her back in high school as well. Their banter is fun and playful and Braden is super sweet and supportive while also being sexy as can be.

The suspense in this book with the sabotage happening on the ranch keeps the plot pushing forward at breakneck speed. It’s one that you can kind of see coming . . . readers can easily guess who the bad guy is (at least we think we can) but it’s still unexpected with some twists that readers won’t see coming their way.

Between the amazing cast of secondary characters, including Paris and Holland as well as family friends Asher and Marcus, a fantastic plot, a sweet and sexy romance between London and Braden and enough suspense to leave you wondering what could possibly be coming next, Stetson will leave readers thrilled with Danielle Norman’s newest release. 5 Stars for Stetson!
Profile Image for Danielle Spellbound Stories.
826 reviews417 followers
July 20, 2018
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Stetson is the first book in a new series by Danielle Norman. After reading her Iron Orchids series, I knew that the story was one I didn’t want to pass up and I am so glad I signed up to help with promotion through L. Woods PR. As a blogger, I come across new authors and awesome stories all the time, and that’s actually how I found Danielle Norman to start. I’ve greatly enjoyed the last three books that I read by her and of those books that I have read by Danielle, I would tell you her romances are sexy reads that I can endorse wholeheartedly. The previous books I’ve read by Danielle Norman was the Iron Orchids series which is comprised of several standalone MC romances that follow a group of women who love their motorcycles. So, Stetson is an altogether new genre for Danielle Norman as it’s a Western Romance. Otherwise, comparatively speaking, Stetson follows what I am quickly realizing as an author who delivers fun, sexy, entertaining romances.

I rate Stetson at 4.5 stars for a number of reason. It’s a great diversion if you’re looking for a contemporary romance that is a fairly quick read and offers lite sizzle, angst and suspense. The story is well written, easy to read, and was well paced. The humor and banter kept me chuckling. Also, I love duel POV and Stetson was written with both London and Braden perspectives. The Kelly sisters are awesome. After the loss of their father, the take over the ranch that means so much to them but in doing so, they’re thrust into a mans world. Stetson is beautifully woven tale of sisters who are incredibly close and not only find themselves on a journey full of passion and love but also drama, suspense, and ultimately betrayal. I’m truly looking forward to more of the Iron Horses series and if I am being entirely honest, I’m not even much of a western romance fan. Yet, I found Stetson quiet entertaining! Bring on book two… I am anxiously awaiting more of Danielle Norman’s unique brand of romance!

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Profile Image for Sheri.
937 reviews27 followers
July 20, 2018

A rancher/farm story set in Florida? Color me intrigued.

I've read a few books in Danielle Norman's Wild Orchid series, so when I saw she had a new series coming out, I was interested for sure.

London Kelly's father has passed, leaving her and her two sisters, Paris and Holland, in charge of their family ranch. The night of her father's funeral, London ends up at a bar and goes home with Braden "fucking" McManus (that's what she calls him). She's drunk, but they share a fun evening together, and when London wakes up, Braden is gone. And London is pissed.

Braden is a Lt. in the police department and the boy London crushed on in high school. He feels terrible about his night with London, because he feels he took advantage of her when she was drunk. London isn't budging on forgiveness, but when a series of bad things start happening around the ranch, and Braden steps up, her feelings quickly begin to change.

It was pretty obvious who was behind the issues at the farm - and the way it played out, especially the end - I didn't love. But it made the story more interesting.

London was a strong female lead. She didn't like feeling she wasn't as strong as a man, which I liked. She was more than capable of running her family farm. Braden was so sweet to London and her family. He wanted to figure out who was behind everything, and he had a gut feeling who it was - but mostly he wanted to protect London.

I'm excited for the next two books in this series. Holland's will be especially interesting....

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Profile Image for Vettech.
529 reviews14 followers
March 30, 2019
I love this new series about the three Kelly women. First and oldest sister is London....yes, that's right all the sisters have been named after beautiful cities everyone longs to visit. After the death of their father, the girls must take over the family business....a cattle ranch and horse stables. The hot sexy guy in the story is Braden McManus, one of the local cops. It just so happens that London and Braden both have had a crush on one another since high school....but of course neither of them knew it! What follows is one hell of a ride....
I really love Danielle Norman's book....she possesses quite the sense of humor and writes some of the best love scenes, as well as giving the reader a few really great bad guys you love to hate! Up next is sister Paris and her love interest the local veterinarian!
Profile Image for Diane Garner.
Author 3 books44 followers
February 9, 2021
London is downright fiesty and lacks a filter. She and her two younger sisters take over the family ranch for their father after he passes away. Her high school crush is back in town with a badge and a big heart. Everything starts going downhill with things that happen that threaten the running of the ranch.

I really enjoyed the storyline and the style in which it was written. All the charters and the correct placing and were enjoyable to learn about.
Profile Image for Jacinta - Aussie Book Nook .
531 reviews
July 4, 2018
Danielle Norman has this knack for writing captivating exciting stories.
Stetson was no different.
From the very beginning I was enthralled I loved every single second of it. I absolutely adored London, Holland and Paris.
This was exciting and kept me on the edge of my seat. I loved the ending and cannot wait to see what is instore for the other Kelly women.
Brilliant read definitely recommend reading this.
Profile Image for Janet Welch.
140 reviews7 followers
July 18, 2018
Wow!! What a great start to this new series!!! I LOVED London and Braden!!!! London is a strong, independent woman going through some hard times after the death of her father. Braden just oozes masculinity and confidence with out being cocky and ... he just sounds so "lickable". Definitely the kind of man London needs on her side when trouble starts! Someone is out to undermine her, her ranch is in danger and Braden is just the man she needs.... even if she doesn't realize it at first!! I highly recommend this book!
Profile Image for Emma.
2,864 reviews39 followers
July 21, 2018
I normally do not read cowboy books but this an the exception. I loved Ms. Norman's other series Iron Orchids. She has a unique way of writing and I knew that I would love this book. This series, Iron Horse, is a great start. I like how she writes strong female leads, their struggles, their heartaches, their romances and their triumphs. There are two distinct POV’s, London and Braden. It was nice having the different points of view, woman to man, man to woman. We have the three Kelly sisters, London, Holland and Paris. They were named after places her parents longed to visit. Their father dies and leaves the ranch to all three women. This story revolves around London, the ranch and her love interest Braden. London grew up with Braden. They went to the same school. But according to London he never saw her. According to Braden he did see her but after a while he thought she no longer wanted anything to do with him. They grew up and went their separate ways. London stayed on at the ranch and Braden became a sheriff's deputy. After Mr. Kelly's funeral, London slipped away and went to a bar where her dear good friend Marcus worked. There Braden ran into her. I love how the book explains how Braden senses London, "I leaned close and inhaled the combination of hay, flowers, and maple syrup that made her smell like Southern sunshine." I just love that line. Braden escorts a tipsy London home. She invites him in and they have a very passionate night. By morning he was gone and left a note that said "sorry". Well London did not need any more crap in her life. She became angry at Braden, thinking they shared something wonderful and it was the beginning of something special. Now you have to understand that London can be self-righteous sometime and feels men do not respect her intelligence nor her capability to run the ranch. Her father was a very smart man. He made sure that each of his daughters knew how to run the ranch as well as he did. He split the duties according to their talents. It worked very well and proved itself when he became sick and the women had to completely take over. It was no challenge to London, Holland and Paris. A few of the ranch hands quit when Mr. Kelly died. So the women had a ton of extra work to do and it got done. However, their was one ranch employee, Ryan. that was acting out and getting out of hand. He walked around as if he ran the ranch and the ranch kept running well because of him. He also had an unhealthy obsession with London. He was always asking her out for a date and she at first politely turned him down. Now it got to the point where she had to be blunt to his face about it. Ryan wanted to marry London. He said her father encouraged it and felt that women should be at home and should let the men handle the ranch. He also told London that her father said he was the son he always wanted. This shook London. She went to Wally, a trusted friend of the family who had worked there for over twenty years and asked him if what Ryan said was true. Wally told her it was not. That her father said no such thing. This was only the beginning of Ryan's deceit. Getting back to Braden. It had been one month since he spent the night with London and it was driving him to distraction that she had not called nor had she returned any of his calls. Then one night they got a call at the station that there was a fire on one of the pastures at the Kelly ranch. Braden flew out to see London and inform her and her sisters about it. While London gave Braden the cold shoulder, she, Holland and Paris went to the sight. Afterwards they were told it was arson. But who could it be? London had to make arrangements for the cattle to feed. She asked Ryan and Wally to go their neighbors home to see if their cattle could graze on his land. Ryan came back and told her that they could if they reworked the land they used and there would be fee. London was flabbergasted. Ryan again asserted when he was in charge that would never had happened. Again, London firmly set him down and told him he worked for her and not the other way around. Then Ryan stated that the neighbor, Mr. Brooks offered him a job and if he took it their ranch would suffer without him. London told him he had her blessing if he felt he would be happier with a new job she would not stop him. Ryan grumbled away. Why were things not working out for London? Was it because she was incompetent? She felt like she was letting her father down. He had such faith in his girls. Well, this was a thought for another day. London was letting Braden come around and she had not pushed him away. They rode their horses to a secluded place on the ranch and had a picnic. I guess London forgave Branden and gave him another chance because they spent the evening sharing and loving each other. They fell asleep. It was in the wee hours of the morning when London woke up and told Braden they had to pack up and go back. When they arrived, all of the horses in the stable were down, sweating and suffering. Braden went into action. Paris and Holland were called to come and assist. Asher, the vet, came and concluded that the horses had been poisoned. The horses recovered except for a foal. It died. Paris and Holland felt it the worse. Again, the thought came back to Braden, who could have a grudge against the women? He discussed this in detail with London, Paris and Holland. Braden concluded that the possibility of it being an inside job was great. The only disgruntled employee they had was Ryan. Braden told them they had to keep an eye on all the employees. Who on earth would start a fire, cancel the riding lessons and poison the horses? Is it Wally, Ryan or any other of the ranch hands? Could it be Mr. Brooks the neighbor who would be able to buy the ranch for a song if it went downhill? What will the women do to save the ranch? Will they have enough money to cover all these unforeseen problems? Who would they turn to as their father was an only child. Would London ever let Braden completely into her heart? Or will she succumb to believing Ryan's words that her father wanted her to marry him. Will the ranch really survive if they let Ryan go? What of Braden, will he get tired of waiting for the stubborn London to return his affections? What will happen next? Will the perpetrator cause another act of sabotage against the ranch? How much more can the women take before they have to let the ranch go? What of Ryan's aggression? Will it get worse? What countermeasures can London, Holland and Paris take to protect themselves, the employees and the ranch? On another note, will Paris ever realize that Asher is in love with her? Is there a future between Holland and Mr. Brooks? They both love horses and train them. Perhaps the animosity from Holland towards Mr. Brooks is foreplay? Who knows what the heck is going on. I encourage everyone to read this. It is such an excellent book. It is a quick read. It has a smooth pace and the storyline and subplots keep you on the edge of your seat. This is a hard book to put down. From page one it grabbed my interest and held it all throughout the book. I highly recommend this book. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Ashley Carr, LSoR.
4,998 reviews62 followers
July 19, 2018
I’m digging this new series by Danielle Norman. This book is full of angst and drama but in a way that has the readers hooked from the first chapter. London and her sisters are charged with running the ranch for their late father, some people in the town feel like it’s a man’s job to run a ranch. Her and her sisters are out to prove the haters wrong. When a sexy Deputy makes his reappearance in town London is down for one night but Braden wants more. See he has had a crush on London since they were in middle school together and he is determined to make her his. With all of the drama surrounding the ranch and somebody not wanting the girls to succeed London doesn’t have time for Braden, but he inserts himself anyway.

I love how Ms. Norman has female leading characters in all of her books to date. The woman are feisty and sassy and their men balance them out. I can’t wait for the next installment of this series!
Profile Image for Brianna at Renee Entress's Blog.
3,919 reviews118 followers
July 20, 2018
4 Stars!

Danielle Norman never disappoints in her quickies... always delivering swoony heroes, strong heroines, and one storyline that doesnt let go until the pages stop turning. Stetson is the first book in the new Iron Horse series and what a story it was, setting up this series to be looking pretty amazing. Sexy. Intense. Sweet. Suspenseful. Emotional. Taking me by surprise at moments... you can't miss this one.

He wants her. She's resistant. But he's a man who knows what he rants...her. And he he has plans to keep her...forever.

London and Braden lit up my kindle and stole my heart by the end. We have sweet Braden who made my heart beat so fast at times. The way he was with London and always at her back when it got super complicated and dangerous... gah! Swoon to the max y'all. And London, I liked her, especially with him. Together they were magnetic and undeniable.

And yeah, this is one I'd totally recommend.

Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog
Profile Image for Lisa Guertin.
572 reviews11 followers
July 19, 2018
Great start to a new series

London and Braden make for one tumultuous couple. Coming from a Florida ranching family myself, I particularly enjoyed seeing it depicted accurately in a book. I’m looking forward to Holland and Paris’ stories quite impatiently.
Profile Image for Cris.
538 reviews10 followers
July 8, 2018
Stetson is the new instalment for Danielle Norman and probably the beginning of a new series. This book introduces you to the Kelly sisters, London, Paris and Holland, name after the places their mother wanted to visit. At the beginning of the book we learn that their father has died and now the ranch belong to them, London manages the books, Holland manages the horses and Paris is in charge of the house. After the funeral, and a few beers, London has a passionate encounter with her school crush, a local deputy, which sets the beginning of their story and his involvement with the sisters. After their father’s death, the Kelly sisters encounter that not all of their employees believe that they have what it takes to run a ranch, and after a few incidents they must prove them wrong with the help of the neighbors and the local deputy.

This book is really good, the story has a really interesting development and the characters are so well defined and developed that is difficult not to immerse yourself into the story. The love story between London and Braden is beautiful, funny and beyond endearing. I LOVE London’s personality, some of my favorite quotes from her are: “Just remember that today when I woke up and spun the wheel of attitude, it landed on sarcastic bitch, again. So no need to lie to me.” and “If I invite you in, that doesn’t mean I like you. I still might want to buy you a toaster for your bathtub”

And Braden is not that far, he was so cute! Somehow, being 100% honest I wanted him to have a little bit more of a backbone and to stand up to London, because he kinds of let her do whatever she wants and have a say in everything that happen between them. Still, I would love to have my own Braden F** McManus.

Now for the rest of the story, I do have some reservations about it… don’t get me wrong, the book is awesome and I know this is a romance book and nothing else… but… I felt like it could have been so much better if the story about the things that happen to the ranch was developed as a mystery, because in the first 3 lines of the story you know who is causing all of the problems and why and it’s exasperating to see the girls and the deputy following their tails instead of confronting this person or doing something about it. I know they waited until they had proof but they actually waited until the proof landed into their laps instead of looking for it. I just had to remind myself that this was a romance and NOT a mystery even if the story permitted such development, so maybe like me you would need a little reminder.

Now I can’t wait to read about Paris and Archer and I suspect Holland and Reid, and hopefully Marcus. Till my next fix!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Ashley.
304 reviews21 followers
May 12, 2021
I was thinking that this would be a 3 -3.5 star romance book originally and reading/listening to so many meh ones (thank you, Chirp) I just wasn't sure it would be more then that. But between the writing, the story, and then the emotional trigger that was as if I was back in my younger self's head again... Well, that landed a solid 4.5 rounded to 5 via Goodreads standards.

The first things that made me like this book was the descriptions of the cowgirl wannabes/wanting to get lucky girls. I have seen those kind of people but in a reversed role and thought it interesting and true, but the writing style seems so real and wholesome -not fluffy and hit me here and I fell in love with her story telling.

I feel the author has spent time on a ranch/farm and loved that it was not a western romance but a rancher in the east. All this takes place in Florida and back in the day there was many fields for farmers and ranchers that most forget about or don't think of when you say "Florida" and I liked that it took us there.

I enjoy the sister love/bond, I HATED when the main character flies off the handle for something -this kind of reaction makes me hate most women in the real world and books, it also has me actively trying to not be like that and break the stereotype- but I love how she she comes around and knows that she was in the wrong. This little growth was so nice to see/read that I could live with the outburst since she learns from it.

Some things are predictable, but this is a romance novel. (read and see what I mean)

*very important* If you have troubles reading about rape/assaults, this book has this trigger in it. It does it tastefully, I feel so when you are being pulled in there is something that pulls you out of it before jumping back in and completing the scene/event.

For those who ever wanted to know or wondered what a female's thoughts are AS they are being sexually assault/raped, this book nailed it more then any other I have read about this matter.

I look forward to reading about the other sisters and love this series, the author does well mixing realism with flare to make an interesting story.
Profile Image for Tisa.
1,218 reviews7 followers
January 2, 2021
Sheriff Braden McManus, has been crushing on London since elementary school. Friends until they got into high school. Then they went there different ways.
Braden never told London how much he cared about her then.
Became a cop & moved. Now Braden is back in town as the Sherriff. He would love the opportunity to get London's attention.


Being a town in good old Texas, where the good old boys are... Ryan the foreman of the ranch of 17 yrs. doesn't feel that woman should be barefoot & pregnant, Let alone run a ranch. Ryan has mention on several occasions that London's father wanted him to have the ranch. The added bonus of having London all to himself as his woman!
Please!! Dad didn't leave the ranch to him in his will. Dad knew how much his daughters each loved an area of the ranch. Within those areas each sister would be responsible for taking care of them.

London is mending a broken heart. The death of Her father. She & her sisters, Paris & Holland now are fully responsible for taken charge of their ranch.

London needs to drink her sorrows away. Just for little while before she gets back to the responsibilities of the ranch. Chatting with her best friend Marcus guess who walks in the door.? Sheriff Braden McManus. Which could be the biggest mistake or the best thing that has ever happened to London.
Especially now since someone is trying to sabotage the ranch.

After a fire starts on the far end of the Kelly Ranch. Sheriff is called in on the scene. London is caught up with her land being on fire. Not the fact that her one night stand is here to get to the bottom of this fire. Braden insistence are that this fire wasn't an accident and maybe the Kelly sister are in danger. He will watch London from a distance if need be to keep her safe.

Read how the sweet romance blossoms or can disintegrate while continued accidents, & a death with their horse take the front seat over love, The author has provides suspense, drama, deceit & a few love scenes. How a high school crutch becomes protection for true love.
Profile Image for Catty Jane.
385 reviews4 followers
August 17, 2018
*** ARC Received for Honest Review ***
***4 stars***

I heart Danielle Norman and this is just another example of how great she is at creating characters you care about. This is the story of London and Braden. London with her two other sisters are setting out to run their ranch after their father's passing. Braden has been crushing on London since high school. When he runs into her following her father's funeral he jumps at the chance with her. Too bad he screws up his first chance. Lucky for Braden several mishaps on the ranch bring him back to London for a second chance. You will so enjoy watching Braden chase London. On top of their story we get introduced to London's sisters and friends who I can't wait to read more about! This is the beginning of another great series. (Review by Terri "Jane")

****5 STARS****
****ARC Received for Honest Review****

Danielle knows how to write strong female roles, who are just the right amount of sass, just the right amount of kick ass, and just the right amount of sexy. London has to take on, with her sisters, a ranch that was her fathers' legacy, those were big shoes to fill. After her father's funeral, Braden, who is sex on a stick, approaches her....her damn it, and wants her...how can she say no.

Braden has wanted London since he could remember, his ultimate dream girl. So, when he gets his chance to prove his worth and stake his claim, he screws it all to hell. He tries to make it all right with her but she seems to not be having any of it.

This is a story of missteps, miss fires, fresh starts, family, love, chemistry, great hot sex, and falling in love, bonus Danielle makes you laugh all the way throughout to book. This is a one-click book, so do it and thank me later.-Review by Catherine(Catty)
Profile Image for Britt Chaotic Creatives.
1,414 reviews94 followers
July 15, 2018
Someone give Danielle Norman a crown because she has become the queen of unputdownable reads. I picked up Stetson planning to read for a bit and get some work done but next thing I knew, I blinked and hours had gone by while I was completely absorbed in London and Braden’s story. I fell in love with Danielle’s writing with her Iron Orchids series, but man, she has outdone herself with Stetson!
In true Danielle Norman fashion, London is no delicate little flower. Strong, independent, and incredibly smart she exudes girl power. Running a ranch with her two sisters after the loss of her father she’s tough as nails keeping her family’s legacy alive. One thing I love about Danielle’s writing is the always present reminder that women can be who they are, do what they want to do, and do so while supporting other women. There’s always a boost of confidence and empowerment that comes with all the swooning and sizzling heat when I read her books and Stetson has that in spades.
Now, on to the juicy stuff. You know you want to know just how hot Braden is. Well, grab your fans folks, because there’s no hiding the scorching heat that comes from this man! Braden is divine! Not only is this officer wonderfully hot, he’s also equally sweet. Protective without holding London back, he’s constantly there supporting her in ways that will totally melt your heart. Along with the sweetness comes some seriously hot chemistry between these two. I’m talking seriously electric, give you goosebumps, make your heart pound, HOT chemistry.
Mix all that heat and sweet with mystery and some seriously emotional times and Stetson becomes a book that takes over your entire world while you’re reading.
Profile Image for Jodi Bird (Ruby Red Romance Review).
1,169 reviews98 followers
July 18, 2018
5 STAR Review by Jodi for Ruby Red Romance Review

I loved every single wonderful second of this book Stetson was the breath of fresh air I've been missing for some time. Danielle Norman does an amazing job of telling this story and keeping me wanting more with every turn of the page. 

London Kelly has only ever know the ranch. When her father passes away it's her and her sisters' job to keep it running. A series of unfortunate events lead the girls to question loyalty, family, and trust. I loved London Kelly. She is such a strong woman, far stronger than she gives herself credit for. She takes on the weight of the world when she has family she can rely on. I love how much she tries to not fall for Braden. But the truth is, London is so strong that she really doesn't need a man. Not that she doesn't want one.

Braden McManus is everything you could want in a man, and more. He's stable, kind, and has an amazing career. Seeing London in the bar, he knows he wants the one person who was to shy to be his. Braden makes a mistake, one that hurts London, and now he has to do anything and everything to fix it. But when things start happening at the Kelly Ranch, Braden knows he has to help. And help he does. Braden will do anything to make London and her sisters feel safe again. Braden is an amazing man. I love how he never gave up on London. I love how he fought for her.

I'm a huge Danielle Norman fan and this book was everything I've come to know and love from her. I hope you will check out this amazing book.
Profile Image for Franci N (Franci's Fabulous Reads).
2,365 reviews102 followers
July 28, 2018
5 Engaging Stars!!!

I've read everything that Ms. Norman has written and I love how her writing gets better and better with each book she releases. This book, the first book in this new series was a perfect way to make it through my redeye flight home from a long weekend...I can't sleep on planes!

London is a woman in every sense of the word and having to step into her father's shoes to run the family ranch is a lot to take on. But she's got her sisters and their relationship is really at the core of this book. That and her budding romance with her high school crush Braden. I love how this book highlights that a woman can do anything she sets her mind to and London along with Holland and Paris (I love their fancy names) are strong, intelligent and capable women and handle everything that's thrown at them...even the sabotage taking place on the ranch.

One of my favorite things about Ms. Norman's writing is her storylines always revolve around these strong women and she does a phenomenal job of creating stories that draws in the readers and getting us invested in all the character's lives. Her secondary characters are truly pivotal to each storyline allowing us the really engage with everyone in the world she's created.

This book took me away from the crowded plane I was on and made my flight seem to be so much shorter than it was. Braden and London are so wonderful together. There's not a lot of angst happening in this book but there's plenty of heat and an epilogue that's a perfect way to end this first book in her newest series!!
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