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Crossroads #1
Bad in Boots
Sometimes the second time around is even better than the first...
Cort Bellamy’s been avoiding his hometown of Crossroads, Georgia for too long. Who can blame him, when the small town is so thick with memories and everyone recalls that he let the love of his life slip away? However, his father’s summons for help on the family ranch can’t go unanswered much longer—and now he’s offering Cort a share. Returning to hard work is expected…but he never thought he’d see HER again.
Joss Ellis hates returning to her hometown with her tail tucked, a failure in everyone’s eyes. Her aspirations of making a place for herself in the big city have left her defeated and more than a little depressed. But the minute she sees her rugged ex, her emotions take a detour to hot and bothered. It’s impossible not to run into each other. Even the secret fishing hole is a reminder of whispers and promises that never came true.
She’s the same beauty with a big heart that he can’t keep his hands off. He’s sexier and more untamed than ever. To bring them even closer, they’re fighting similar battles in life. While Cort’s determined to show her that happiness is right here in Crossroads, Joss isn’t convinced. All she’s certain of is that sleeping with her ex is a really bad idea…and she definitely won’t fall for him this time around.
Cort Bellamy’s been avoiding his hometown of Crossroads, Georgia for too long. Who can blame him, when the small town is so thick with memories and everyone recalls that he let the love of his life slip away? However, his father’s summons for help on the family ranch can’t go unanswered much longer—and now he’s offering Cort a share. Returning to hard work is expected…but he never thought he’d see HER again.
Joss Ellis hates returning to her hometown with her tail tucked, a failure in everyone’s eyes. Her aspirations of making a place for herself in the big city have left her defeated and more than a little depressed. But the minute she sees her rugged ex, her emotions take a detour to hot and bothered. It’s impossible not to run into each other. Even the secret fishing hole is a reminder of whispers and promises that never came true.
She’s the same beauty with a big heart that he can’t keep his hands off. He’s sexier and more untamed than ever. To bring them even closer, they’re fighting similar battles in life. While Cort’s determined to show her that happiness is right here in Crossroads, Joss isn’t convinced. All she’s certain of is that sleeping with her ex is a really bad idea…and she definitely won’t fall for him this time around.
253 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 24, 2020
431 people are currently reading
190 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
September 5, 2020
Excellent second chance to get it right story!
I loved both Cort and Joss immensely! Normally, I tend to lean more towards one lead than the other, but I seriously love these two on equal footing! They are both so real and relatable to me. They didn’t try and deny their attraction but also didn’t sweep under the rug the reason they didn’t work in the past. I felt that if I knew them, I’d be friends with them! They also each had their own personal struggle trying to figure out who they were (for lack of a better term) today or should be as opposed to who they thought they would be. All this intertwined so beautifully in the story that I couldn’t stop reading once I started! I wanted to read what they would do as if they were my friends! I was invested!
I’ve now read enough stories in several different tropes by this author that I am confident she will be one of my go-to authors in the future. She’s very good at character development and plot unfolding and her stories are ones that I find myself riveted and captivated by from beginning to end!
I loved both Cort and Joss immensely! Normally, I tend to lean more towards one lead than the other, but I seriously love these two on equal footing! They are both so real and relatable to me. They didn’t try and deny their attraction but also didn’t sweep under the rug the reason they didn’t work in the past. I felt that if I knew them, I’d be friends with them! They also each had their own personal struggle trying to figure out who they were (for lack of a better term) today or should be as opposed to who they thought they would be. All this intertwined so beautifully in the story that I couldn’t stop reading once I started! I wanted to read what they would do as if they were my friends! I was invested!
I’ve now read enough stories in several different tropes by this author that I am confident she will be one of my go-to authors in the future. She’s very good at character development and plot unfolding and her stories are ones that I find myself riveted and captivated by from beginning to end!
August 24, 2020
I love Cowboys and Em makes the best western stories. I love how both characters are influx or crossroad in their lives. I love that the character's slowly make sense of their lives and what they will make them happy .
December 10, 2020
First, I'd just like to say that I don't think Em Petrova gets enough love! She's got such a knack for writing adorable good-ol-country-boy romances. If you want a modern Southern romance, you really can't do better. Her heroes are top notch, and the romance is always steamy and sweet.
With that said, this particular story didn't work as well for me as some of her others. The relationship felt really one-sided, with Cort doing all the heavy-lifting, and Joss just along for the ride.
I think I may have felt different if the author had done a better job making me feel like Joss believed that Cort wouldn't amount to much when they were younger. She definitely had the angle worked well between Cort and his father, but it seemed like Joss always felt Cort would do great things. So, since he was such a great guy, I couldn't understand why she felt he would hold her back when she left to follow her dreams. Or if Joss had just invited Cort to come with her to New York. At least then, I would have felt that she had really been in the relationship with Cort before she left. The way it played out, I just didn't feel like she really cared that much about him when they originally dated.
And then when she comes home, she's just so wishy-washy. First, she wants to stop doing fashion, and then Cort gives her her confidence back, and then she says she won't have time for him because she needs to give all her free time to her new business (that he inspired her to create).
She really just crapped on Cort throughout this whole book, and it made me dislike her character so much. Everything else about the story was fine, but since I didn't really like these two MCs together, I didn't enjoy the book as much as I could have.
With that said, this particular story didn't work as well for me as some of her others. The relationship felt really one-sided, with Cort doing all the heavy-lifting, and Joss just along for the ride.
I think I may have felt different if the author had done a better job making me feel like Joss believed that Cort wouldn't amount to much when they were younger. She definitely had the angle worked well between Cort and his father, but it seemed like Joss always felt Cort would do great things. So, since he was such a great guy, I couldn't understand why she felt he would hold her back when she left to follow her dreams. Or if Joss had just invited Cort to come with her to New York. At least then, I would have felt that she had really been in the relationship with Cort before she left. The way it played out, I just didn't feel like she really cared that much about him when they originally dated.
And then when she comes home, she's just so wishy-washy. First, she wants to stop doing fashion, and then Cort gives her her confidence back, and then she says she won't have time for him because she needs to give all her free time to her new business (that he inspired her to create).
She really just crapped on Cort throughout this whole book, and it made me dislike her character so much. Everything else about the story was fine, but since I didn't really like these two MCs together, I didn't enjoy the book as much as I could have.
August 18, 2020
Joss Ellis and Cort Bellamy were high school sweethearts … until high school came to an end, and so did their relationship. She wanted to pursue her dreams far away from their hometown, and then he just had to escape the memories of her and the daily grind with his demanding father. Nearly ten years later they both find themselves having moved back to that hometown, and they are drawn to each other like proverbial moths to flame.
They each have been struggling to find a path in life that is rewarding, happy and meaningful. Joss and Cort can’t deny their chemistry with one another so they don’t even try to resist that. But can they make it work between them so that each is fulfilled more than physically? Can they finally find a future with each other? It was beautiful to watch them each try to figure out the answers to their own meaning-of-life questions, and to simultaneously and selflessly help one another.
There were excellent secondary characters in this story including her sister, his father and his cousin, the workers on Bellamy Ranch, and townspeople of Crossroads. There are also some funny life lessons, such as always make sure you have the information you need, and always be certain you get in your own vehicle. Read the book, and I promise it will make sense!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased a copy on Amazon.
They each have been struggling to find a path in life that is rewarding, happy and meaningful. Joss and Cort can’t deny their chemistry with one another so they don’t even try to resist that. But can they make it work between them so that each is fulfilled more than physically? Can they finally find a future with each other? It was beautiful to watch them each try to figure out the answers to their own meaning-of-life questions, and to simultaneously and selflessly help one another.
There were excellent secondary characters in this story including her sister, his father and his cousin, the workers on Bellamy Ranch, and townspeople of Crossroads. There are also some funny life lessons, such as always make sure you have the information you need, and always be certain you get in your own vehicle. Read the book, and I promise it will make sense!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased a copy on Amazon.
August 14, 2020
Sigh-inducing, charming cowboy romance!
Cort and Jess were made for each other, but they just couldn't see it all those years ago. It took both of them venturing out on their own only to return to their hometown in order for them to realize they never really moved on.
I love the way they surrendered to their undeniable connection even before they could figure out how to make it all work. There was just never any doubt about how they felt together. Maturity really looks good on both of them, as they're now able to recognize what they have, who they are separately, and who they are together.
There's such an undercurrent of romance in every interaction. Cort is rough and short-tempered, but turns into a cowboy poet at just the right moments. Joss is a little bit lost in herself, still trying to figure out if her dreams are worth pursuing, but with Cort she doesn't hesitate to let her heart take the lead.
I loved the side characters, too, and I especially respected the relationships between Cort and his dad, and Joss and her sister. I absolutely adored the rodeo scenes (and especially one in the borrowed truck!) and their HEA was everything I could have hoped for. I can't wait to read more in this delightful new series. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Cort and Jess were made for each other, but they just couldn't see it all those years ago. It took both of them venturing out on their own only to return to their hometown in order for them to realize they never really moved on.
I love the way they surrendered to their undeniable connection even before they could figure out how to make it all work. There was just never any doubt about how they felt together. Maturity really looks good on both of them, as they're now able to recognize what they have, who they are separately, and who they are together.
There's such an undercurrent of romance in every interaction. Cort is rough and short-tempered, but turns into a cowboy poet at just the right moments. Joss is a little bit lost in herself, still trying to figure out if her dreams are worth pursuing, but with Cort she doesn't hesitate to let her heart take the lead.
I loved the side characters, too, and I especially respected the relationships between Cort and his dad, and Joss and her sister. I absolutely adored the rodeo scenes (and especially one in the borrowed truck!) and their HEA was everything I could have hoped for. I can't wait to read more in this delightful new series. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
August 22, 2020
This is a well written second chance romance with strong characters in Cort and Joss. The author does a fantastic job developing their relationship and delivers a realistic love story. She pulled me into the story and had me glued to the pages from start to finish with all the emotions flowing throughout . The story moves fluidly and is an enjoyable read. I loved this book and am looking forward to the next one.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
August 15, 2020
I enjoyed reading Bad In Boots .
It is such a entertaining and heartwarming romance . Two people Joss Ellis and Cort Bellamy both return home where they have been avoiding the painful memories of their young love . Upon seeing each other they really cannot fight their memories and the love they still have . The both hope for that second chance at relationship together . I highly recommend taking the time to read and enjoy .
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It is such a entertaining and heartwarming romance . Two people Joss Ellis and Cort Bellamy both return home where they have been avoiding the painful memories of their young love . Upon seeing each other they really cannot fight their memories and the love they still have . The both hope for that second chance at relationship together . I highly recommend taking the time to read and enjoy .
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 24, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this story! It's a good start to the authors new "Crossroads" series. I love the characters and the plot is nicely developed. Cort and Joss are great and perfect for each other. These two might just get a second chance.
August 23, 2020
A good start to a new series. Cort and Joss coming to Crossroads, both the town and the direction their lives had been going. Ever since Joss left Cort all those years ago, maybe it was needed, neither now had to wonder if the grass was greener on the other side. They still have their own, just as ever, green grass together, complete with pond, old splinter inducing dock, and feelings that have only grown and matured. Each believing and supporting the other where nothing is impossible and all things are better together.
The sex was blazing, the cowboys hot, and the girls sassy. Thimble, the kitty, brought in the aww factor, along with Cort's insight because he never stopped loving that girl who left, but came back the woman who still loved him too.
I read an advance reader's copy provided by Booksprout, my own thoughts are given here voluntarily.
The sex was blazing, the cowboys hot, and the girls sassy. Thimble, the kitty, brought in the aww factor, along with Cort's insight because he never stopped loving that girl who left, but came back the woman who still loved him too.
I read an advance reader's copy provided by Booksprout, my own thoughts are given here voluntarily.
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August 25, 2020
Were they ready for their second chance at love, when both Cort Bellamy and Joss Ellis returned to Crossroads, Georgia just a few days apart. Years earlier Joss broke Cort's heart when she told him she was going to New York for design school. It was not long before Cort left tired of his father always being critical of everything Cort did on the ranch. As time passed Cort's father called Cort, and asked him to return home, because he could use his help on the ranch. Cort got fired from his construction job, so he decided it was as good a time as any to return home. Joss had finished school and landed a position with a great designer, but he criticised whatever she did, and it took everything she made to live in the city. She worked long hours with no social life, and she could only afford one luxury per month, a special coffee from Starbucks. Her sister Jada talked her into returning Crossroads to regroup. Neither ever expected to run into the other one in town. Fate had other plans for them as everywhere they turned the other one was there.
Their old feelings were still there and no matter what they did they could not escape that attraction. If they were anywhere close to each other, they would be drawn together like a moth to a light. They always seemed to bring out the best in each other, never blaming the other for their past, ready to support and encourage dreams or even just being by each other's side for comfort in a time of need. They had a sizzling sexual chemistry, clear down to an extremely humorous time at the local rodeo. All in all this story was about more than just them reconnecting, it was them coming of age maturing and full filling their full potential. A beautifully written romance that you will be hooked on from the first page until the last one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Their old feelings were still there and no matter what they did they could not escape that attraction. If they were anywhere close to each other, they would be drawn together like a moth to a light. They always seemed to bring out the best in each other, never blaming the other for their past, ready to support and encourage dreams or even just being by each other's side for comfort in a time of need. They had a sizzling sexual chemistry, clear down to an extremely humorous time at the local rodeo. All in all this story was about more than just them reconnecting, it was them coming of age maturing and full filling their full potential. A beautifully written romance that you will be hooked on from the first page until the last one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 24, 2020
Cort's boss is always switching his tasks and then complaining. This time though Cort's had enough and walks off the job. Just as he's arriving home he gets a call from his father. Short two hands and his foreman injured, his father needs him back on the Bellamy Ranch. With no other prospects Cort packs up and heads home to Crossroads, Georgia. A place he never really thought to return to after Joss broke his heart. At least she wouldn't be there having gone to the big city to pursue her dreams.
Joss is done, she works too many hours for too little pay, her only splurge is a take out coffee once a month. It's no way to live and working for a designer who takes all the credit for her designs is not what she envisioned. Admitting defeat is difficult but she can't continue this way. Going home to regroup is the best thing. She just hoped she had some time before running into Cort.
Of course that doesn't happen since one of the Bellamy's fences had broken and an ornery steer is blocking the road. That's when she gets her first look at the man she left behind, Cort Bellamy.
Now that may have been the first time she saw him and started to realize she still had feelings buried for him. However, a meeting at the grocery store is far more telling.
The chemistry between these two is off the charts, and as they start meeting up at their favorite fishing spot things hit sizzle quickly.
Knowing her sister needs money, Jada posts a picture of one of the gowns Joss designed on the internet and it sells. Joss was surprised and pleased, but had doubts she could make a living designing here.
Plenty of sizzling heat between Cort and Joss, even as Cort's father continues to be overly critical of everything Cort does.
Both Joss and Cort get second chances in this book and their romance sizzles off the pages.
Joss is done, she works too many hours for too little pay, her only splurge is a take out coffee once a month. It's no way to live and working for a designer who takes all the credit for her designs is not what she envisioned. Admitting defeat is difficult but she can't continue this way. Going home to regroup is the best thing. She just hoped she had some time before running into Cort.
Of course that doesn't happen since one of the Bellamy's fences had broken and an ornery steer is blocking the road. That's when she gets her first look at the man she left behind, Cort Bellamy.
Now that may have been the first time she saw him and started to realize she still had feelings buried for him. However, a meeting at the grocery store is far more telling.
The chemistry between these two is off the charts, and as they start meeting up at their favorite fishing spot things hit sizzle quickly.
Knowing her sister needs money, Jada posts a picture of one of the gowns Joss designed on the internet and it sells. Joss was surprised and pleased, but had doubts she could make a living designing here.
Plenty of sizzling heat between Cort and Joss, even as Cort's father continues to be overly critical of everything Cort does.
Both Joss and Cort get second chances in this book and their romance sizzles off the pages.
August 26, 2020
I received a complimentary copy of this book and I also purchased a copy.
I LOVED this book. It is smokin' HOT! The plot was beautifully done. The scenes were played out like a movie. I could almost picture being there and feeling with the characters. There were some really great scenes here. I really felt for these two.
Cort Bellamy left Crossroads, GA and was working at different jobs. The latest one was construction with an @$$ for a boss. Cort quits and on his way home, he receives a call from his father. His father needs help on the ranch. He needs Cort to come home! Cort doesn't want to go home. He and his father don't see eye to eye. Plus Crossroads is a small town and it holds too many reminders of high school sweetheart, Joss Ellis. Joss also is coming home after her failure in the fashion world. She left Crossroads with hopes of becoming a famous fashion designer. After long hours, low pay and high pressure she also quits to return home.
When this two meet again, fireworks fly! Feelings are still there after all of these years but will they be able to work through their differences? Will small town life fit the dreams? Do dreams die or can new dreams be made?
This is a spicy read. I adored the second chance at a first love. The dual POV is wonderful to see into the characters' thoughts. To understand their actions and speech during the scenes. This is a wonderful beginning to the series and I can't wait for more! I highly recommend this to anyone over the age of 18.
I LOVED this book. It is smokin' HOT! The plot was beautifully done. The scenes were played out like a movie. I could almost picture being there and feeling with the characters. There were some really great scenes here. I really felt for these two.
Cort Bellamy left Crossroads, GA and was working at different jobs. The latest one was construction with an @$$ for a boss. Cort quits and on his way home, he receives a call from his father. His father needs help on the ranch. He needs Cort to come home! Cort doesn't want to go home. He and his father don't see eye to eye. Plus Crossroads is a small town and it holds too many reminders of high school sweetheart, Joss Ellis. Joss also is coming home after her failure in the fashion world. She left Crossroads with hopes of becoming a famous fashion designer. After long hours, low pay and high pressure she also quits to return home.
When this two meet again, fireworks fly! Feelings are still there after all of these years but will they be able to work through their differences? Will small town life fit the dreams? Do dreams die or can new dreams be made?
This is a spicy read. I adored the second chance at a first love. The dual POV is wonderful to see into the characters' thoughts. To understand their actions and speech during the scenes. This is a wonderful beginning to the series and I can't wait for more! I highly recommend this to anyone over the age of 18.
August 22, 2020
This is book one in the new series Crossroads. It takes place in the small town of Crossroads, GA. If the rest of the series follows like this book did, I think it’s going to be a really good series. I’m a huge fan of Em Petrova’s books. I’ve been with her since I started with the Dalton Boys series and I have loved every book since. This book was entertaining. It has a good storyline and is well written. It’s hot and steamy and I’m excited for the next book in the series.
Cort and Joss were high school sweethearts but Joss broke Joss’s heart when she took off for school and said she was never coming back. He thought they were going to be together forever. Cort ended up leaving his father’s ranch and has worked one dead end job after another since then. Years later Cort is called back to the ranch to help out his dad. His dad is willing to let him earn a portion of the ranch for himself but Cort has to agree to do things his way. He figures why not it lost his last job and hand nowhere to be anyways. Joss is back home in Crossroads after walking out on her jerk of a boss. Turns out breaking out into the fashion design world is a lot more difficult then she thought it would be. She’s living with her sister and giving up her dreams. Cort and Joss run into each other and before long they’ve started things back up between them. Will Joss stay this time, or will she leave again?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Cort and Joss were high school sweethearts but Joss broke Joss’s heart when she took off for school and said she was never coming back. He thought they were going to be together forever. Cort ended up leaving his father’s ranch and has worked one dead end job after another since then. Years later Cort is called back to the ranch to help out his dad. His dad is willing to let him earn a portion of the ranch for himself but Cort has to agree to do things his way. He figures why not it lost his last job and hand nowhere to be anyways. Joss is back home in Crossroads after walking out on her jerk of a boss. Turns out breaking out into the fashion design world is a lot more difficult then she thought it would be. She’s living with her sister and giving up her dreams. Cort and Joss run into each other and before long they’ve started things back up between them. Will Joss stay this time, or will she leave again?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 24, 2020
Will they give love a second chance?
Bad in Boots is the first book in the Crossroads series. Cort and Joss dated years ago, but both have been pursuing their own dreams. Now they’re back in Crossroads, striking up a friendship and more, but will they give love a second chance? Or will their careers and dreams drive too much of a wedge between them again?
I really enjoyed reading this book! There was drama, lots of emotions and steam, a lot of coming into your own self, and I loved the connection between Cort and Joss. I think my favorite part of both characters was how much they grew up in these pages. They were both able to realize what’s most important in their lives, but also accept themselves and the challenges that they both have to face, alone and together. Cort is caring and tries to do the right thing, is looking for approval from his father and had never stopped loving Joss. She was perfect for him because they were able to communicate about their trials and feeling like a failure at times, and obviously they had an intense physical connection, too! Joss is really career focused and wanting to be settled before looking into a relationship, but I love that fate doesn’t always work with plans. This is the first book in a series, and you get introduced to a few side characters that I’m already rooting for to find their happily ever afters, too! I’m excited to see where this series might go next!
Bad in Boots is the first book in the Crossroads series. Cort and Joss dated years ago, but both have been pursuing their own dreams. Now they’re back in Crossroads, striking up a friendship and more, but will they give love a second chance? Or will their careers and dreams drive too much of a wedge between them again?
I really enjoyed reading this book! There was drama, lots of emotions and steam, a lot of coming into your own self, and I loved the connection between Cort and Joss. I think my favorite part of both characters was how much they grew up in these pages. They were both able to realize what’s most important in their lives, but also accept themselves and the challenges that they both have to face, alone and together. Cort is caring and tries to do the right thing, is looking for approval from his father and had never stopped loving Joss. She was perfect for him because they were able to communicate about their trials and feeling like a failure at times, and obviously they had an intense physical connection, too! Joss is really career focused and wanting to be settled before looking into a relationship, but I love that fate doesn’t always work with plans. This is the first book in a series, and you get introduced to a few side characters that I’m already rooting for to find their happily ever afters, too! I’m excited to see where this series might go next!
August 18, 2020
Cort Bellamy didn't want to come back to Crossroads, GA but his father was getting older and looking to his son to take a more active role in the ranch. Colt had left town after his girlfriend Joss had left him to go to New York for fashion school about ten years before. He went to college, majored in partying and flunked out, then worked a string of dead-end jobs...but now was back to re-learn the Bellamy Ranch ropes...but his father was a hard taskmaster and double checked everything he did...gave him real confidence in his worth...Meanwhile, Joss was tired of working endlessly without design credit for a designer who was never satisfied...with only a small apartment and almost slave wages where she could only afford a monthly treat of a latte...so moved back to Crossroads to be closer to her sister who worked in a senior home...she needed to get motivated to do something, and after her sister took pictures and posted some of her designs online, thought may be worth looking into, by then she discovered Colt was also back in town and her feelings were all over the place on seeing him again...but you will need to read the story to see if a second chance at love is in the cards for these two people back in the place where their love took root...I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 21, 2020
Bad in Boots is the first book in Em Petrova’s latest cowboy series, Crossroads, and brings two lost souls struggling with the heartbreak of failure and low self-esteem, back to the town and memories they left behind. Joss Ellis and Cort Bellamy were high school sweethearts, but as so often happens, life, dreams and opportunities took them in different directions. But, returning to Crossroads was never in either of their plans and now they are faced with not only the embarrassment of nothing to show for ten years of absence, but the ridicule of a small town and the expectations of rigid parental figures.
Cort and Joss are two complex, passionate and damaged characters with a history that neither has truly let go. The chemistry and connection between them is every bit as combustible as it was all those years ago, but so are the differences that eventually tore them apart. This is a drama filled, emotionally charged and at times heartbreaking story that is sure to be the first of another captivating and addictive series by this talented author. I was thoroughly engrossed in the storyline of Bad in Boots and can’t wait for the next in this series!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Cort and Joss are two complex, passionate and damaged characters with a history that neither has truly let go. The chemistry and connection between them is every bit as combustible as it was all those years ago, but so are the differences that eventually tore them apart. This is a drama filled, emotionally charged and at times heartbreaking story that is sure to be the first of another captivating and addictive series by this talented author. I was thoroughly engrossed in the storyline of Bad in Boots and can’t wait for the next in this series!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 30, 2020
Crossroads Series Book 1 Cort and Joss’s story. High school sweethearts - Cort thought they would be together forever, fresh out of high school figured he’d court Joss for a couple of years at most get married settle down and take over and run the Bellamy Farm since he is the only heir. But...Joss’s dream of hitting it big in fashion design got in the way when she up and moved to New York to achieve her dream. After nine years of being apart and life’s ups and downs they both end up back in their hometown and each thinking and believing they are failures. This is a well written steamy, sweet romantic second chance romance story that flows along very smoothly, you feel as if you really truly become involved, the characters are very down-home-ish and believable. Their journey takes you from beginning to end, with the ups and downs they experience along their path to discovering whether they are or can be or willing to be a couple again. I found it to be a very feel good type of story that grabbed ahold and didn’t let go until I read The End. I am looking forward to more books in this series. A must read. I received an Advance Reader's Copy and am voluntarily leaving my honest thoughts and opinions.
August 25, 2020
Like all Em's books whether her military or cowboy books this flows well the characters engage you and you are drawn into their world Once again I was reading far later than I should be just wanting one more chapter until before I new it it's 3am and I have finished the book Who needs sleep This new series all revolves around Crossroads Georgia and the first story is Cort and Joss's story
Joss Ellis and Cort Bellamy where high school sweethearts but Joss wasn't happy living in small town America she wanted to make her mark in the big city so away she went breaking Cort's heart he could no longer live in a town where everyone knew that he had lost his love so he also left Crossroads. Now he has been called back by his father it is time for him to start working on the family ranch Joss has also come back a failure in her eyes after not achieving what she set out to do. Cort sees this as his chance to finally get the woman that he loves but first he has to convince her that there is nothing wrong with living in Crossroads and that they can a have a happy future together Will he win her over You will have to read to see
Joss Ellis and Cort Bellamy where high school sweethearts but Joss wasn't happy living in small town America she wanted to make her mark in the big city so away she went breaking Cort's heart he could no longer live in a town where everyone knew that he had lost his love so he also left Crossroads. Now he has been called back by his father it is time for him to start working on the family ranch Joss has also come back a failure in her eyes after not achieving what she set out to do. Cort sees this as his chance to finally get the woman that he loves but first he has to convince her that there is nothing wrong with living in Crossroads and that they can a have a happy future together Will he win her over You will have to read to see
August 19, 2020
"Bad in Boots" is the first book in author Em Petrova's new Crossroads Series. A second chance/ cowboy theme, "Bad in Boots" is sure to bring a smile to your face and leave you with all the heart happy feels one can handle. Two ex-lovers knocked down a bit by life, trying to find their career passions and figure out where's home. Once reunited, will they be able to deny their rekindled attraction for one another as they each forge out new paths? Or will they give in to the scorching chemistry between them and realize that together they are stronger than as individuals? That "home" is found in each other.
This book has everything lovely in a romance novel: well developed, interesting characters and dialog; combustible chemistry; a small town, down home setting; an easy flowing, entertaining plot. Reading "Bad in Boots" is the perfect way to while away a summer afternoon. 1-click buy today!
I received a copy of this book through Booksprout in return for an honest review. I loved it so much, I pre-ordered the book on Amazon.
This book has everything lovely in a romance novel: well developed, interesting characters and dialog; combustible chemistry; a small town, down home setting; an easy flowing, entertaining plot. Reading "Bad in Boots" is the perfect way to while away a summer afternoon. 1-click buy today!
I received a copy of this book through Booksprout in return for an honest review. I loved it so much, I pre-ordered the book on Amazon.
August 23, 2020
This first book in the Crossroads series is also the first book I have read by this author and after reading it, it definitely will not be the last one.
The story centers around Cort Bellamy and Joss Ellis. Both natives of Crossroads, Georgia. They were once HS sweethearts but things changed. Joss wanted to leave the town for the city, and Cort, unable and/or unwillingly to stay where memories of Joss were likely to break him, also leaves.
Years later both are back. One has been summoned home while the other’s city dreams came tumbling down.
As fate would have it, they meet again. Though the attraction seems to never have died, feelings and the past has Joss questioning the present and the future.
This was a story filled with an emotional rollercoaster. Will they be able to get a second change in love or will the past remain a memory?
The secondary characters brought color to the story, making it even more appealing.
Looking forward to what else is coming in future books.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my ownb.
The story centers around Cort Bellamy and Joss Ellis. Both natives of Crossroads, Georgia. They were once HS sweethearts but things changed. Joss wanted to leave the town for the city, and Cort, unable and/or unwillingly to stay where memories of Joss were likely to break him, also leaves.
Years later both are back. One has been summoned home while the other’s city dreams came tumbling down.
As fate would have it, they meet again. Though the attraction seems to never have died, feelings and the past has Joss questioning the present and the future.
This was a story filled with an emotional rollercoaster. Will they be able to get a second change in love or will the past remain a memory?
The secondary characters brought color to the story, making it even more appealing.
Looking forward to what else is coming in future books.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my ownb.
August 24, 2020
Second chance with a cowboy…
You know I’m always up for a stroll down cowboy boulevard and Cort and Joss provided all the emotion and heat – and chaps – I craved…
Different goals forced them apart but family and circumstances brought them back together in their hometown. Not sure who was more shocked, dismayed or surprised but seeing the feelings they’d had, grow once more was a sweet treat. I thought I wouldn’t connect with Joss (surprisingly I had no concerns about Cort ), but she proved to be a character I quickly came to like. She and her sister were best friends and struggled on through all the challenges they faced. There was wine, tears and laughter and room for Cort to become a champion for them both. The reunited lovers shared a dedicated work ethic and a need to prove themselves, living up to expectations of others but mostly themselves… More than just a shared past, they were looking to the future, hopefully together.
Loved this first of the series and can’t wait for more!
*I happily reviewed this story
**Thank you to Booksprout
You know I’m always up for a stroll down cowboy boulevard and Cort and Joss provided all the emotion and heat – and chaps – I craved…
Different goals forced them apart but family and circumstances brought them back together in their hometown. Not sure who was more shocked, dismayed or surprised but seeing the feelings they’d had, grow once more was a sweet treat. I thought I wouldn’t connect with Joss (surprisingly I had no concerns about Cort ), but she proved to be a character I quickly came to like. She and her sister were best friends and struggled on through all the challenges they faced. There was wine, tears and laughter and room for Cort to become a champion for them both. The reunited lovers shared a dedicated work ethic and a need to prove themselves, living up to expectations of others but mostly themselves… More than just a shared past, they were looking to the future, hopefully together.
Loved this first of the series and can’t wait for more!
*I happily reviewed this story
**Thank you to Booksprout
August 24, 2020
Cort Bellamy and Joss Ellis were high school sweethearts in Crossroads, Georgia. When their dreams split them apart, with Joss wanting to look for success in the city, and Cort not wanting to drown in painful memories or the inevitable gossip from the small town at losing his woman, they both went their separate ways and left the town behind.
When Cort’s father eventually contacts him to ask for help with the family ranch, and he throws in an offer of a share of the ranch for Cort as an incentive, he decides to go home. Seeing Joss again was not expected when her own dreams crumbled and she returned home feeling like a failure. For both of them, their strong attraction is still there, however. Now it’s a question of whether they are willing to take a risk on a second chance at love? Are they grown up enough now to look for a future together?
This was a good story with characters the reader could like and empathize with. Grab your copy and see if they were able to reconnect and move forward together.
When Cort’s father eventually contacts him to ask for help with the family ranch, and he throws in an offer of a share of the ranch for Cort as an incentive, he decides to go home. Seeing Joss again was not expected when her own dreams crumbled and she returned home feeling like a failure. For both of them, their strong attraction is still there, however. Now it’s a question of whether they are willing to take a risk on a second chance at love? Are they grown up enough now to look for a future together?
This was a good story with characters the reader could like and empathize with. Grab your copy and see if they were able to reconnect and move forward together.
September 10, 2020
Coming back to Crossroads with some big decisions to make
Bad in Boots is the first book in the Crossroads series and is a smoking hot and sexy story to kick off what looks to be a fun new series. The backdrop of the series is about Crossroads, Georgia, a small town with a lot of interesting characters. This story is about Cort Bellamy and Joss Ellis. Both grew up in Crossroads and were high school sweethearts. But they each left town and went separate ways. Now they find themselves returning for different reasons but all the same they are both also at a crossroads in their life. Maybe they have a second chance at a love that they both still feel? But does a future mean staying in Crossroads or leaving together?
This book is a well written and a great read. The story-line is fun, emotional, passionate, romantic, serious and of course has some smoking hot chemistry going on. A very enjoyable read to light up your Kindle late into the wee hours of the morning!
I received a copy of this book for my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
Bad in Boots is the first book in the Crossroads series and is a smoking hot and sexy story to kick off what looks to be a fun new series. The backdrop of the series is about Crossroads, Georgia, a small town with a lot of interesting characters. This story is about Cort Bellamy and Joss Ellis. Both grew up in Crossroads and were high school sweethearts. But they each left town and went separate ways. Now they find themselves returning for different reasons but all the same they are both also at a crossroads in their life. Maybe they have a second chance at a love that they both still feel? But does a future mean staying in Crossroads or leaving together?
This book is a well written and a great read. The story-line is fun, emotional, passionate, romantic, serious and of course has some smoking hot chemistry going on. A very enjoyable read to light up your Kindle late into the wee hours of the morning!
I received a copy of this book for my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
August 25, 2020
Cort left the ranch to escape the memory of a woman, and to find his own way in the world. His father calls him home to help out when they're shorthanded. He has to earn his way, in exchange for a share of the ranch. Joss has been in NYC, busting her tail off while someone else gets the fame and money for her designs. She's back in Crossroads, and worried that she'll be seen as a failure. This book is a hot little number, and Cort and Joss are responsible for that. They've got that physical stuff all figured out, and they're as hot as ever. Now they just need to get everything else together. She's looking for validation that people in Crossroads will really like her designs. He's looking for confirmation from his father that he's not a total screw-up. Best quote in the book - "Pretty sure I kissed the city right out o' you back there."
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 26, 2020
This is steamy, sweet, romantic and entertaining. Cort has to head back to his hometown and help out on the ranch he grew up on after his father asks for help because his foreman is injured. He never liked ranching and he'd left home after a blowout with his father, and getting dumped by the girl he'd loved. Joss broke Cort's heart when she told him that she was going away to design school, then on to the city. After years of working for other designers, she had to leave her job. Not knowing what to do for work, when her sister tells her to come home, she does. When they first meet in town, both are rocked by what they feel. Several days later, they both end up going fishing, and they end up sleeping together. They keep sleeping together, but as friends with benefits. Accidents and disasters plague them, and both come conclusions about their lives. This a great beginning to a new series.
August 30, 2020
I love this book! Em Petrova does an amazing job bringing all of the characters together to unfold the storyline. It doesn't seem rushed, and I love the thought and details that went into the making of this book. There wasn't a part I didn't like.
Cort Bellamy left his sweetheart behind when he left town. He is only returning because his dad is requesting him to come home to help with the family ranch. He doesn't expect to run into the one he left behind. Joss Ellis has returned after not being able to make it in the big city. No matter how much nostalgia seeps in, she is positive that she won't fall for him again. Will she be able to keep her distance and resist him, or will this be the beginning of something new?
I couldn't put this book down. I was waiting for the HEA that seemed destined for these two characters. This book will definitely keep your interest.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Cort Bellamy left his sweetheart behind when he left town. He is only returning because his dad is requesting him to come home to help with the family ranch. He doesn't expect to run into the one he left behind. Joss Ellis has returned after not being able to make it in the big city. No matter how much nostalgia seeps in, she is positive that she won't fall for him again. Will she be able to keep her distance and resist him, or will this be the beginning of something new?
I couldn't put this book down. I was waiting for the HEA that seemed destined for these two characters. This book will definitely keep your interest.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 25, 2020
Em Petrova sure does know how to write western romances with sexy, sweet talkin’, dirty talkin’ Cowboys that make you fall in love with them. What a great start to a new series with a well written storyline and wonderful characters that capture your heart. Cort and Joss were in love in high school but she wanted to follow her dream of becoming a fashion designer and left Cort behind. Cort’s father was hard on him and seemed to always criticize him. He left too and now he’s back because his dad needs help. Joss is back too, after her dreams fell short. When Joss and Cort’s paths cross, the old feelings are still there and they only blossom stronger. There are laugh of loud moments, tough career decisions and plenty of passion. Loved it!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 31, 2022
Bad In Boots is an outstanding contemporary romance by Em Petrova. Ms. Petrova has delivered a book that is well-written and loaded with a stellar cast of characters. Cort was fired from his construction job shortly before his father called and asked him to come home and help at the ranch. He loved the ranch and his father, but he and his father have a history of butting heads. Joss left town to learn the fashion trade. When she loses her job and is forced to return home to her sister, she tries to avoid everyone because she feels like a failure. Joss and Cort's story is packed with drama, humor and sexy bits. I enjoyed this story and look forward to my next Em Petrova book. Bad In Boots is book 1 of the Crossroads Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliffhanger.
August 17, 2020
What a great start to a new series!
Cort is a man who is just trying to find his place. After years of verbal abuse and putdowns, he knows that he doesn't want to stay on the Ranch that is part of his legacy however a phone call changes everything.
Joss is a woman who is at a crossroads in her life. After a disastrous turn in the city, she comes home to lick her wounds. Deciding what's next for her professionally and Cort reentering her world gives Joss a lot to think about.
I loved reading about these two. They both were lost and looking for the passion and purpose. Even though they were looking for different things, the overall sentiment was the same. I loved reading about them coming together to help each other out but also be each others biggest cheerleader and supporter.
Cort is a man who is just trying to find his place. After years of verbal abuse and putdowns, he knows that he doesn't want to stay on the Ranch that is part of his legacy however a phone call changes everything.
Joss is a woman who is at a crossroads in her life. After a disastrous turn in the city, she comes home to lick her wounds. Deciding what's next for her professionally and Cort reentering her world gives Joss a lot to think about.
I loved reading about these two. They both were lost and looking for the passion and purpose. Even though they were looking for different things, the overall sentiment was the same. I loved reading about them coming together to help each other out but also be each others biggest cheerleader and supporter.
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