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Hayden Family #3
The Outlaw
There’s a thin line between being a hero and a villain, and I walk right down the middle of it.
When a late-night mishap earns me community service, I find myself knee-deep in work on the broken down ranch of the woman who hates me.
I show up everyday, ready to work. Ready to prove Jo Shelton wrong. But as determined as I am to remind Jo why we used to be friends, she is equally as determined to despise me.
One day, the unexpected happens. Her blue eyes pierce my callused exterior, seeing deep down into a wound I keep hidden. It’s in this moment, and so many that follow, that I become certain there’s no hope left for me. I’m in love with Jo, and I’m desperate to show her I’m someone worthy of her love in return.
Lucky for me, nobody rises to the occasion quite like an outlaw.
When a late-night mishap earns me community service, I find myself knee-deep in work on the broken down ranch of the woman who hates me.
I show up everyday, ready to work. Ready to prove Jo Shelton wrong. But as determined as I am to remind Jo why we used to be friends, she is equally as determined to despise me.
One day, the unexpected happens. Her blue eyes pierce my callused exterior, seeing deep down into a wound I keep hidden. It’s in this moment, and so many that follow, that I become certain there’s no hope left for me. I’m in love with Jo, and I’m desperate to show her I’m someone worthy of her love in return.
Lucky for me, nobody rises to the occasion quite like an outlaw.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 6, 2021
602 people are currently reading
3675 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Millikin
25 books2,077 followersJennifer Millikin is a two-time recipient of the Readers Favorite award. She writes contemporary fiction with elements of romance, emotion, and hard-learned lessons. Her characters are flawed and authentic, and some parts of her stories are more fact than fiction.
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October 3, 2025
The Patriot - 4 stars
The Maverick - 4.25 stars
The Outlaw - 3.5-4 stars
The Calamity - tbr/October 2021
Ok, so technically I’m still undecided, but 3.5-4 stars is closest accurate range for my rating as I can get, I think 🤷🏻♀️. As there were elements to The Outlaw I loved, liked, felt pretty meh about & a thing or two I could’ve done without.
The Maverick - 4.25 stars
The Outlaw - 3.5-4 stars
The Calamity - tbr/October 2021
Ok, so technically I’m still undecided, but 3.5-4 stars is closest accurate range for my rating as I can get, I think 🤷🏻♀️. As there were elements to The Outlaw I loved, liked, felt pretty meh about & a thing or two I could’ve done without.
The loves & the likes
Wyatt - The groundwork for Wyatt has been gradually been laid out through his older brothers’ books, The Patriot/book one & The Maverick/book two of the Hayden family series. So well that I’ve eagerly been awaiting his book & Wyatt did not disappoint🥰. He was a lovable blend of charming, sensitive, troublemaker, man’s man. Oh yeah, we now know he’s not only a horse whisperer, but a baby whisper too & a swoony one at that with his newest nephew. He has a real soft spot for anyone who needs a hand. Although on the flipside of all that, some of his “outlaw” logic left me scratching my head a little a few times.
Wyatt’s Flashbacks - Finding out what made Wyatt the enigma he was in the first two Hayden books wasn’t the angle I thought it would be. The one flashback with his best friend when they are in their teens had me tearing up some 😭.
Gramps - He might be a little ornery, yet he’s also so insightful when the Hayden boys need it & with that Gramps just becomes more endearing with each book.
The Hayden siblings, spouses & kiddos - I enjoyed the glimpses of past hs & Hs now, creating their very own families & developing friendships/relationships between the brothers & their wives. I know it’s Wyatt & Jo’s book & this was haphazardly thrown in as a subplot, but I wouldn’t have minded a little more time spent on what was going on with sweet little Colt. I’d totally go for a little Wes & Dakota novella focused on the topic & how they navigated through it as couple & as parents actually.
The meh & the wouldn’t miss it if it were gone
Jo - Honest? She has been my biggest hang-up writing this review & the source of my indecision rating The Outlaw. It’s one of those things, it wasn’t so much that Jo was entirely unsympathetic(I genuinely felt for her with all the upheaval she went through growing up with her flighty mother)& I did slowly warm up to her some beginning around the midway point as I learned her history before moving to town in high school. Just the same, she wasn’t quite what had I hoped for Wyatt(sort of a so-so choice, I guess). Tbh Jo was kind of a stick in the mud - more so in the beginning - & I most certainly have a few bones to pick with some of her actions early on & at the time their first hookup (off-page nearly two years ago before the book’s present day, although it’s partially flashbacked to) as I found her behavior to be both immature & unaccountable as far as Wyatt was concerned.
Jo’s flashbacks - They weren’t all bad, but I could’ve done w/o the details of her first sexual partner’s inept knowledge of sex 🤦🏻♀️ .
Beau - Ok…yeah, he made amends of sorts, but the skeptic in me doesn’t quite buy toxic behavior changes so swiftly.
Mrs. Calhoun - Basically not confirming for the reader to know if she ok or not.
September 10, 2021
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
The Outlaw" is the third book in the Hayden Family series by Jennifer Millikin. While this can be read as a standalone, I recommend reading the first two books because they are both quality, and it will increase your reading enjoyment of this one.
"Love out loud, and love internal, is still love. It's strength, no less fierce. It's voice, no less heard."
Jo crushed on Wyatt in high school, she threw caution to the wind and acted on those feelings one night but come morning he didn't remember it at all. It's been over a year, she's shoved those feelings down and turned them into anger towards him. She finally has the opportunity to make her dreams of opening a teen therapeutic ranch come true. Only she needs labor, and she can't refuse the offer of free labor even if it is in the form of Wyatt Hayden. Everyone thinks the worst of Wyatt, and he ignores it while he continues to help the people he cares about in the only way he knows how. He has to help out Jo as his community service, and while he's at it, he's determined to find out why she hates him and prove to her that he's not what the town has painted him as.
"What I do know is how it makes me feel, to be someone she thinks deserves defending."
I have been anticipating Wyatt's book because I knew he was so much more than meets the eye, and I'm glad I was right! I don't even know where to start. Wyatt just evoked all the emotions from me between living under the weight of his father's disapproval, trying to take care of his best friend's family without turning on him, bonding with his nieces & nephews, and helping out elderly citizens who have no one. He was sensitive in the best ways, his ways might not be conventional, but he shows how much he cares with his actions. Jo is such a strong character, working hard her whole life to keep her head above water and having an end goal of helping troubled teens. While they tip toe around each other in the beginning there is some serious sexual tension between them.🔥 However, the actual intimate scenes were surprisingly low steam. They were good, but I just wanted a bit more from them. Both Joe and Wyatt just have such huge hearts, they are perfect for one another. I loved the communication and trust between them from the start.
"I'd never utter a word I don't mean when it comes to Jo. Wild ways and desperado-like behavior aside, Jo gets the best of me."
The Outlaw has the enemies to lovers trope meshed a bit with the second chance trope. Jo is in a relationship at the start but it dissolved before anything physical happened between her and Wyatt. NO cheating makes me a happy reader. The Outlaw is definitely my favorite of this series. Wyatt stole my heart and never let it go. A romance with emotion, a bit of danger, family, and mending relationships.
The Outlaw" is the third book in the Hayden Family series by Jennifer Millikin. While this can be read as a standalone, I recommend reading the first two books because they are both quality, and it will increase your reading enjoyment of this one.
"Love out loud, and love internal, is still love. It's strength, no less fierce. It's voice, no less heard."
Jo crushed on Wyatt in high school, she threw caution to the wind and acted on those feelings one night but come morning he didn't remember it at all. It's been over a year, she's shoved those feelings down and turned them into anger towards him. She finally has the opportunity to make her dreams of opening a teen therapeutic ranch come true. Only she needs labor, and she can't refuse the offer of free labor even if it is in the form of Wyatt Hayden. Everyone thinks the worst of Wyatt, and he ignores it while he continues to help the people he cares about in the only way he knows how. He has to help out Jo as his community service, and while he's at it, he's determined to find out why she hates him and prove to her that he's not what the town has painted him as.
"What I do know is how it makes me feel, to be someone she thinks deserves defending."
I have been anticipating Wyatt's book because I knew he was so much more than meets the eye, and I'm glad I was right! I don't even know where to start. Wyatt just evoked all the emotions from me between living under the weight of his father's disapproval, trying to take care of his best friend's family without turning on him, bonding with his nieces & nephews, and helping out elderly citizens who have no one. He was sensitive in the best ways, his ways might not be conventional, but he shows how much he cares with his actions. Jo is such a strong character, working hard her whole life to keep her head above water and having an end goal of helping troubled teens. While they tip toe around each other in the beginning there is some serious sexual tension between them.🔥 However, the actual intimate scenes were surprisingly low steam. They were good, but I just wanted a bit more from them. Both Joe and Wyatt just have such huge hearts, they are perfect for one another. I loved the communication and trust between them from the start.
"I'd never utter a word I don't mean when it comes to Jo. Wild ways and desperado-like behavior aside, Jo gets the best of me."
The Outlaw has the enemies to lovers trope meshed a bit with the second chance trope. Jo is in a relationship at the start but it dissolved before anything physical happened between her and Wyatt. NO cheating makes me a happy reader. The Outlaw is definitely my favorite of this series. Wyatt stole my heart and never let it go. A romance with emotion, a bit of danger, family, and mending relationships.
December 20, 2023
Wyatt Hayden walks a thin line between hero and villain, with a reputation that proceeds him. One fateful night, he finds himself in the back of a police car, but the Hayden family name buys him some leniency. Instead of jail time, he is sentenced to community service at the Circle B Ranch, recently owned by Jo Shelton. Despite Jo's initial dislike for Wyatt, he shows up to work every day, determined to prove himself.
As they work together, Wyatt finds himself drawn to Jo, but she is already in a committed relationship. Nevertheless, he can't help but feel possessive of her time and attention. Over time, Jo sees past Wyatt's rough exterior to the man he truly is, and Wyatt realizes that he is in love with her. He is determined to prove himself worthy of Jo's love, and he rises to the occasion, working to show her his true worth.
In the end, Wyatt's outlaw ways are no match for the power of love and redemption.
"I'd never utter a word I don't mean when it comes to Jo. Wild ways and desperado-like behavior aside, Jo gets the best of me."
I want to start off by saying that I cannot get enough of the Hayden family and I'm a little bummed that I've got just one book left after having finished this one! I absolutely love the dynamics that Jennifer Millikin has introduced throughout all of these books and love the fact that we get to see the mechanics of each individual relationship from so many different perspectives. It's just so fun and refreshing and I am thoroughly enjoying each and every single book from this series so far!
I was probably the most intrigued by the potential in Wyatt's story. There's a lot of mystery behind him as an individual throughout the first two books and he's often portrayed as a partier that doesn't have his priorities together. And reading his story and getting to actually read his perspective was both insightful and heartbreaking. I have always had a thing for sensitive male characters and I really loved the approach with Wyatt as a whole, especially given his rancher background and the truth behind how sensitivity and emotions are often stomped out and seen as something shameful and unmanly. I just think this take on him and his story was lovely and really wanted to showcase that in my particular review because it was one of my favorite parts of this book.
The entire town that he's grown up in has a very messed up and skewed idea of who he is as a person and you get to really see that in this book with how he's treated by every single person around him. I loved the growth that we saw there, not only for Wyatt himself but for the people that were in contact with him as well. ESPECIALLY this one scene towards the end of the book with a whole meeting interaction that I thought was iconic and wonderful.
Jo has a heart of gold and it's basically impossible not to like her and not to root for her. I really love the fact that she's one of the main characters in this story because I was hoping she would be considering the setup in the first two books. I think she's really sweet and I love how uplifting she is to the people around her. Getting to read her story and her struggles was also heartbreaking, for different reasons than Wyatt's, but it just made me feel like they were right for each other in the best possible way. Loads of chemistry and I really liked the build-up between them and the entire journey that they had to take in order to get to the same place and wind up together.
This book was such a good read from start to finish. I even cried during the epilogue (good tears, I promise) which hasn't happened in a very long time! I cannot wait to see what The Calamity has in store and to continue diving into Jennifer Millikin's books!
- small town romance
- cowboy romance
- misunderstood mmc
- enemies to lovers (ish)
- second chance (ish)
- town "bad boy"
- black sheep of his family
- mental health / struggles
September 14, 2021
#Outlaw
#HaydenFamily
#BlackSheep
#HorseWhisperer
#Secrets
#SmallTown
#Farm
#FollowYourDreams
#OneNightStand
#BrokenSouls
#BringOnTheCalamity
#WildFlowers
#HaydenFamily
#BlackSheep
#HorseWhisperer
#Secrets
#SmallTown
#Farm
#FollowYourDreams
#OneNightStand
#BrokenSouls
#BringOnTheCalamity
#WildFlowers
July 14, 2025
I don't know how to rate this book, because I'm not exactly sure what sort of book this wanted to be.
Was it a charming enemies-to-lovers second-chance romance where a woman with big dreams and a man who likes to break the rules come (back) together after he's forced to work for her by the sheriff?
Was it a gritty crime mystery about drug lords infiltrating a town and attempting to lure vulnerable youths to the dark side of drugs?
Or is it a mafia-esque crime story where men meet dubious ends at the hands of a powerful family?
Or maybe it's a family drama about a woman's estrangement from her family after she escapes a religious cult?
Or another kind of family drama where a son feels unwanted and a father doesn't know how to communicate? Where the family ranch is at risk of collapsing and every time the patriarch opens his mouth, he pushes his son further away.
Or maybe! It's a hopeful story about a woman building a ranch designed to treat troubled teens, and the narrow-minded townsfolk who push back against having such a thing in their town?
Oh, oh, wait - could it be a story about a man who's got a bad reputation in town for sleeping with married women, but who's really just stepping in between his drunk best friend and his wife and kids so the best friend doesn't get hauled in to jail on assault charges, leaving said wife and children destitute?
Do you see what the issue is?
There is SO MUCH going on in this story, it doesn't feel like this is a cohesive book. The first half of the story is the love story - but Wyatt and Jo have already admitted their love for each other by 45% of the way through. At that point, their story's basically all over except for the inevitable proposal and marriage scene in the epilogue. The next 55% of the story is something else ENTIRELY.
Don't get me wrong - a lot of the story is really interesting. The nefarious dudes, the chance the town demands Jo's ranch be shut down. Her dealing with her younger brother Travis; Wyatt and his father finally finding common ground...all of that is good stuff - but those are all major plots that could have had whole books dedicated to them - and instead they're squashed together into what is, really, a confusing book to read.
When Beau and Jessie's POVs show up 85% of the way through the story, I about lost it. At that point, this was no longer a romance. It had evolved into something else completely. Something that either should have had it's own series dedicated to it, or something that should have been about 200 pages longer to properly flesh out all of the intricate plots that erupted out of nowhere.
As it is, things get solved ENTIRELY too quickly. Stuff gets brushed over and smoothed out without being given any depth or detail. There are red herring plots that crop up but ultimately go nowhere. There are problems that have been simmering for 3 books that get resolved in half a chapter. Mysteries that, when they come to light, are entirely underwhelming. And parts of a storyline that ultimately get abandoned and left with loose ends.
Now, MAYBE some of that will be fixed in the 4th book in this series. But some of it? I know good and well it's done and dusted. It's just going to be left the way it is.
Which leaves me with a pretty significant dilemma. Because I don't know what the fuck I just read. How do you rate a book that you thought was going to be a romance, but only the first half actually was? And then the back half had about 7 different plotlines - all of them interesting, but surface level and too-quickly solved to be truly satisfying?
3 stars.
Was it a charming enemies-to-lovers second-chance romance where a woman with big dreams and a man who likes to break the rules come (back) together after he's forced to work for her by the sheriff?
Was it a gritty crime mystery about drug lords infiltrating a town and attempting to lure vulnerable youths to the dark side of drugs?
Or is it a mafia-esque crime story where men meet dubious ends at the hands of a powerful family?
Or maybe it's a family drama about a woman's estrangement from her family after she escapes a religious cult?
Or another kind of family drama where a son feels unwanted and a father doesn't know how to communicate? Where the family ranch is at risk of collapsing and every time the patriarch opens his mouth, he pushes his son further away.
Or maybe! It's a hopeful story about a woman building a ranch designed to treat troubled teens, and the narrow-minded townsfolk who push back against having such a thing in their town?
Oh, oh, wait - could it be a story about a man who's got a bad reputation in town for sleeping with married women, but who's really just stepping in between his drunk best friend and his wife and kids so the best friend doesn't get hauled in to jail on assault charges, leaving said wife and children destitute?
Do you see what the issue is?
There is SO MUCH going on in this story, it doesn't feel like this is a cohesive book. The first half of the story is the love story - but Wyatt and Jo have already admitted their love for each other by 45% of the way through. At that point, their story's basically all over except for the inevitable proposal and marriage scene in the epilogue. The next 55% of the story is something else ENTIRELY.
Don't get me wrong - a lot of the story is really interesting. The nefarious dudes, the chance the town demands Jo's ranch be shut down. Her dealing with her younger brother Travis; Wyatt and his father finally finding common ground...all of that is good stuff - but those are all major plots that could have had whole books dedicated to them - and instead they're squashed together into what is, really, a confusing book to read.
When Beau and Jessie's POVs show up 85% of the way through the story, I about lost it. At that point, this was no longer a romance. It had evolved into something else completely. Something that either should have had it's own series dedicated to it, or something that should have been about 200 pages longer to properly flesh out all of the intricate plots that erupted out of nowhere.
As it is, things get solved ENTIRELY too quickly. Stuff gets brushed over and smoothed out without being given any depth or detail. There are red herring plots that crop up but ultimately go nowhere. There are problems that have been simmering for 3 books that get resolved in half a chapter. Mysteries that, when they come to light, are entirely underwhelming. And parts of a storyline that ultimately get abandoned and left with loose ends.
Now, MAYBE some of that will be fixed in the 4th book in this series. But some of it? I know good and well it's done and dusted. It's just going to be left the way it is.
Which leaves me with a pretty significant dilemma. Because I don't know what the fuck I just read. How do you rate a book that you thought was going to be a romance, but only the first half actually was? And then the back half had about 7 different plotlines - all of them interesting, but surface level and too-quickly solved to be truly satisfying?
3 stars.
September 4, 2021
This one took my breath away!
Oh, yes. I finally got me some Wyatt Hayden. The horse whisperer (and a baby whisperer while I'm at it), the black sheep of the family, the one who's never serious. Nobody sees the man who always ups and leaves to help and to rescue people who are to ashamed to ask for it. He senses it. And he's right.
And then we have a smart, independend and hopeful Jo. She had been wronged as a girl and the aftermath is heavy and still very painful. It weights her down.
When Wyatt and Jo's world collided it was a like a siren call to me. I couldn't stop reading! The intensity of their life story, the goosebumps when they were alone in a room, getting lost in their moments,... They had personality and depth that made them feel like real people. I was easily drawn into their world and found myself empathizing with them throughout the book.
This was a fantastic, emotional, and engaging read. Even the scenery is vividly depicted.
I find The Outlaw as a great story of family, relationships, and finding your true self.
What I love about this whole series is the theme of hardwork, strong family and friendship, love and community ties.
The author wrote from the heart and it showed on every page.
This one's a must read!
Oh, yes. I finally got me some Wyatt Hayden. The horse whisperer (and a baby whisperer while I'm at it), the black sheep of the family, the one who's never serious. Nobody sees the man who always ups and leaves to help and to rescue people who are to ashamed to ask for it. He senses it. And he's right.
And then we have a smart, independend and hopeful Jo. She had been wronged as a girl and the aftermath is heavy and still very painful. It weights her down.
When Wyatt and Jo's world collided it was a like a siren call to me. I couldn't stop reading! The intensity of their life story, the goosebumps when they were alone in a room, getting lost in their moments,... They had personality and depth that made them feel like real people. I was easily drawn into their world and found myself empathizing with them throughout the book.
This was a fantastic, emotional, and engaging read. Even the scenery is vividly depicted.
I find The Outlaw as a great story of family, relationships, and finding your true self.
What I love about this whole series is the theme of hardwork, strong family and friendship, love and community ties.
The author wrote from the heart and it showed on every page.
This one's a must read!
September 6, 2021
Wyatt has been developing in the background for two books now, and he’s probably the most mysterious and intriguing of the brothers. And Jo is another interesting character that was introduced when Dakota started The Orchard. Both are strong yet flawed, loving but unwavering when it comes to sticking up for those they love.
My favorite part about Millikin’s books is that she doesn’t write the typical romance where the entire book is developing the romance. There’s more to her plot than just finding the love of your life. All of her characters have incredible depth and complexities to them that it’s so easy to get lost in her storytelling. And once the main characters find their romance, it’s never just a cakewalk. They continue to face struggles & challenges. Nothing is as it seems, and is hardly ever as predictable as it seems. There is more than just romance in her books which keeps me coming back for more.
It cannot be easy writing a bad-boy character either. Who isn’t afraid to make the difficult decisions and say screw it when it comes between breaking the rules and doing what they want; consequences be damned. And Millikin takes us to the next level by giving us a bad boy who is publically reckless but privately is probably the most compassionate individual in the entire town. He’s always doing what’s right, regardless if anyone knows it or not. Both Wyatt and Jo are inspirations for the individuals we should aspire to be in our own lives. And naturally, this book made me bawl by the end.
I’m really blown away by this latest installment in the Hayden Family legacy series and canNOT wait to see what will happen with Calamity Jessie in the conclusion to this family’s story. I hope the best is yet to come!
My favorite part about Millikin’s books is that she doesn’t write the typical romance where the entire book is developing the romance. There’s more to her plot than just finding the love of your life. All of her characters have incredible depth and complexities to them that it’s so easy to get lost in her storytelling. And once the main characters find their romance, it’s never just a cakewalk. They continue to face struggles & challenges. Nothing is as it seems, and is hardly ever as predictable as it seems. There is more than just romance in her books which keeps me coming back for more.
It cannot be easy writing a bad-boy character either. Who isn’t afraid to make the difficult decisions and say screw it when it comes between breaking the rules and doing what they want; consequences be damned. And Millikin takes us to the next level by giving us a bad boy who is publically reckless but privately is probably the most compassionate individual in the entire town. He’s always doing what’s right, regardless if anyone knows it or not. Both Wyatt and Jo are inspirations for the individuals we should aspire to be in our own lives. And naturally, this book made me bawl by the end.
I’m really blown away by this latest installment in the Hayden Family legacy series and canNOT wait to see what will happen with Calamity Jessie in the conclusion to this family’s story. I hope the best is yet to come!
September 4, 2021
Heart full to bursting
The Outlaw (Hayden Family Series Book 3) by Jennifer Millikin is a wonderfully well written romance that is full of heart, heat and dreams. Wyatt is a complex man just like his brothers but in his own unique way. I have been anticipating his story and was absolutely NOT disappointed. He is a little bit flawed and a little bit perfect! Swoon-worthy to the max Cowboy with a heart of gold, charm and a sinfully sweet talker to boot. Who could resist? Jo certainly tried, gave in and got burned. She’s also a feisty one, well suited for Wyatt, they just hadn’t been given the chance to figure it out. I could go on and on about the characters themselves, but what I really love about this book is the author. She brought these characters to life for me and made me fall in love with them individually and as a couple. Not to mention the Hayden Family as a whole and Jo’s unconventional upbringing. The insight of Wyatt and Jo’s own family dynamics made this book emotionally complex, complements each other for understanding and acceptance.
Between the characters and the emotional complexity of the plot and subplots, I was totally and completely invested, anticipating turning the next page as my heart strings were pulled continuously. I loved the progressions and development of Wyatt and Jo’s relationship along with all the hiccups along the way.
Overall, aside from being a fantastic romance with plenty of other elements to keep any reader invested and compelled, this author has yet to disappoint me as a reader. As I had been ”patiently” waiting for Wyatt’s story, I was extremely pleased! I love a great HEA, Wyatt and Jo’s ticks that box with a lot of promise for a very happy future.
I read an ARC of this book via Valentine PR and voluntarily share my review.
The Outlaw (Hayden Family Series Book 3) by Jennifer Millikin is a wonderfully well written romance that is full of heart, heat and dreams. Wyatt is a complex man just like his brothers but in his own unique way. I have been anticipating his story and was absolutely NOT disappointed. He is a little bit flawed and a little bit perfect! Swoon-worthy to the max Cowboy with a heart of gold, charm and a sinfully sweet talker to boot. Who could resist? Jo certainly tried, gave in and got burned. She’s also a feisty one, well suited for Wyatt, they just hadn’t been given the chance to figure it out. I could go on and on about the characters themselves, but what I really love about this book is the author. She brought these characters to life for me and made me fall in love with them individually and as a couple. Not to mention the Hayden Family as a whole and Jo’s unconventional upbringing. The insight of Wyatt and Jo’s own family dynamics made this book emotionally complex, complements each other for understanding and acceptance.
Between the characters and the emotional complexity of the plot and subplots, I was totally and completely invested, anticipating turning the next page as my heart strings were pulled continuously. I loved the progressions and development of Wyatt and Jo’s relationship along with all the hiccups along the way.
Overall, aside from being a fantastic romance with plenty of other elements to keep any reader invested and compelled, this author has yet to disappoint me as a reader. As I had been ”patiently” waiting for Wyatt’s story, I was extremely pleased! I love a great HEA, Wyatt and Jo’s ticks that box with a lot of promise for a very happy future.
I read an ARC of this book via Valentine PR and voluntarily share my review.
September 9, 2021
I read this as a standalone as I hadn't previously read the other Hayden Family books. It does not suffer for not knowing the other family members. You get enough backstory to feel warmth and love for the Hayden family and their significant others.
The Outlaw is Wyatt's story. He is such an emotionally intuitive, caring and kind man who has spent his life feeling unloved and unfavoured. To his family he appears unfocused and irresponsible but in actuality be helps and cares widely for the people of the town in which he lives. He just hasn't found his hearts purpose just yet.
Jo is a fiercely loyal and determined woman. She has her heart set on a therapy ranch for young people and when the opportunity arises she buys the dilapidated Circle B. She wants a home and a place for her troubled brother to feel settled.
I wrongly assumed The Outlaw would be an antihero type story. Instead Wyatt is more of a law bender with his own softer form of teaching to help people (although don't get wrong, he can fight if the need arises). He is sensitive and caring and finds a purpose within the story. It is so much more emotional than I was expecting. Both Wyatt and Jo have emotional trauma to overcome and understand. This is a slow burn with low steam. But the story is stronger for it. As a reader you build trust in the characters as they build trust with one another.
This book has left me feeling warm and fulfilled. I really fell for this family and will definitely go back to read Wes and Warner's earlier books.
The Outlaw is Wyatt's story. He is such an emotionally intuitive, caring and kind man who has spent his life feeling unloved and unfavoured. To his family he appears unfocused and irresponsible but in actuality be helps and cares widely for the people of the town in which he lives. He just hasn't found his hearts purpose just yet.
Jo is a fiercely loyal and determined woman. She has her heart set on a therapy ranch for young people and when the opportunity arises she buys the dilapidated Circle B. She wants a home and a place for her troubled brother to feel settled.
I wrongly assumed The Outlaw would be an antihero type story. Instead Wyatt is more of a law bender with his own softer form of teaching to help people (although don't get wrong, he can fight if the need arises). He is sensitive and caring and finds a purpose within the story. It is so much more emotional than I was expecting. Both Wyatt and Jo have emotional trauma to overcome and understand. This is a slow burn with low steam. But the story is stronger for it. As a reader you build trust in the characters as they build trust with one another.
This book has left me feeling warm and fulfilled. I really fell for this family and will definitely go back to read Wes and Warner's earlier books.
September 1, 2021
Oh my heart! It's so very happy right now, but feeling the sting of closing this unputdownable book. Wyatt has always called upon my curiosity as I knew he had hidden depths. Jennifer Millikin gave us another beautifully written Hayden Family story with unforgettable characters and one addictive plot.
Wyatt is more sensitive than his older brothers. He feels things more deeply and has a totally different view of his world than the other rough and tumble members of his family. He questions his worth and his place. Secretly, he's doing all he can to make his town a better place, to be a force for good. And his actions are heroworthy. He's the quintessential good guy. You have to love how he does things his own way, even when it makes him a bit of an outlaw.
Jo is secretive too. And her secret hit me in the feels long before she confessed it. She's one strong lady and she's doing her part to make the world better than it is. I absolutely liked her and was cheering for her straight away.
Together these two are magical! They make things better and watching their push and pull is just so very entertaining.
I laughed and I cried and I didn't want to set this aside. Jennifer Millikin has a way with heart wrenching stories that will stick with you long after you've closed the book.
Wyatt is more sensitive than his older brothers. He feels things more deeply and has a totally different view of his world than the other rough and tumble members of his family. He questions his worth and his place. Secretly, he's doing all he can to make his town a better place, to be a force for good. And his actions are heroworthy. He's the quintessential good guy. You have to love how he does things his own way, even when it makes him a bit of an outlaw.
Jo is secretive too. And her secret hit me in the feels long before she confessed it. She's one strong lady and she's doing her part to make the world better than it is. I absolutely liked her and was cheering for her straight away.
Together these two are magical! They make things better and watching their push and pull is just so very entertaining.
I laughed and I cried and I didn't want to set this aside. Jennifer Millikin has a way with heart wrenching stories that will stick with you long after you've closed the book.
September 27, 2021
My favorite of the series so far! Wyatt was EVERYTHING!
September 10, 2021
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 STARS
I loved Jo and Wyatt's story! I was eager to find out about this Hayden brother, and I can easily say he is my absolute favourite! I was captivated from the beginning, right up until the end. I'm eager to read The Calamity. The Outlaw by Jennifer Millikin is an EPIC read that will join the ranks of the BIBLIO-ARISTOCRACY!!!
I loved Jo and Wyatt's story! I was eager to find out about this Hayden brother, and I can easily say he is my absolute favourite! I was captivated from the beginning, right up until the end. I'm eager to read The Calamity. The Outlaw by Jennifer Millikin is an EPIC read that will join the ranks of the BIBLIO-ARISTOCRACY!!!
September 8, 2021
This was my favorite of the two I’ve read so far. My heart broke many times for poor Wyatt and I just wanted to hug him. Those scenes with his father were so relatable and heartbreaking! Gah!! I loved Wyatt’s story arc so much and thought it was better than the actual romance - it developed a bit too quickly but his character growth made it worth it.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
August 31, 2021
The Outlaw by Jennifer Millikin is the the much anticipated book featuring Wyatt Hayden & Jo Shelton.
I read books 1 & 2 so I was more than ready to find out what this bad boy's reputation was all about and much to my relief, Wyatt Hayden was a man of honor, of deep emotion, and of a complicated past. The Hayden's are ranching royalty in some respects but even in families with money or status, there are complicated inner workings and as the youngest son of a strong ranching patriarch, he had a lot on his shoulders and giant footsteps to follow in his brother's wake.
I fell for this story hard. I loved how much it preached communication and vulnerability were not weaknesses but rather strengths that should be taught and shared with the next generation.
The story follows a typical enemies to lovers scenario except not typical at all because only one party knows what the issue is and she's not talking... I loved how the author used that to create a fun plot twist that the characters had to work through and overcome. For a decent chunk of the book, Jo is actually dating someone else which gives Wyatt and Jo a chance to build a relationship built on friendship and respect before they transition into something more romantic. Jo for her part was an enigmatic character to read with some skeletons in her closet and a big heart. Once their romance got going, Wyatt proved himself to be my favorite romantic hero complete with epic grand gesture and affection.
If I was going to complain about anything it would only be to say I wish there was more involving Wes and Warner but they did already get to shine in their own books :)
I read books 1 & 2 so I was more than ready to find out what this bad boy's reputation was all about and much to my relief, Wyatt Hayden was a man of honor, of deep emotion, and of a complicated past. The Hayden's are ranching royalty in some respects but even in families with money or status, there are complicated inner workings and as the youngest son of a strong ranching patriarch, he had a lot on his shoulders and giant footsteps to follow in his brother's wake.
I fell for this story hard. I loved how much it preached communication and vulnerability were not weaknesses but rather strengths that should be taught and shared with the next generation.
The story follows a typical enemies to lovers scenario except not typical at all because only one party knows what the issue is and she's not talking... I loved how the author used that to create a fun plot twist that the characters had to work through and overcome. For a decent chunk of the book, Jo is actually dating someone else which gives Wyatt and Jo a chance to build a relationship built on friendship and respect before they transition into something more romantic. Jo for her part was an enigmatic character to read with some skeletons in her closet and a big heart. Once their romance got going, Wyatt proved himself to be my favorite romantic hero complete with epic grand gesture and affection.
If I was going to complain about anything it would only be to say I wish there was more involving Wes and Warner but they did already get to shine in their own books :)
October 10, 2025
Rating: 5⭐️
Tropes:
- Small Town Romance
- Cowboy Romance
- Forced Proximity
- Friends to Enemies to Lovers
- Second Chance vibes
Wyatt and Jo are my favorite couple of the series!! 🥹
I appreciated how the plot wasn’t super “far fetched”, like some can be. It was realistic and raw, and I loved every second of it. And that plot twist GOT ME!!
I fell in love with Jo and Wyatt’s relationship. They both have things they are working through, and the way that they work through not only on their own, but together was so beautiful.
Wyatt is definitely the “black sheep” of his family, and the things that set him apart from his brothers I loved. Josephine is strong-willed, feisty and knows what she wants in life. Her character portrays living your dream, no matter your background and I loved that!
Cannot wait to continue onto the last book of the series, The Calamity!
Tropes:
- Small Town Romance
- Cowboy Romance
- Forced Proximity
- Friends to Enemies to Lovers
- Second Chance vibes
Wyatt and Jo are my favorite couple of the series!! 🥹
I appreciated how the plot wasn’t super “far fetched”, like some can be. It was realistic and raw, and I loved every second of it. And that plot twist GOT ME!!
I fell in love with Jo and Wyatt’s relationship. They both have things they are working through, and the way that they work through not only on their own, but together was so beautiful.
Wyatt is definitely the “black sheep” of his family, and the things that set him apart from his brothers I loved. Josephine is strong-willed, feisty and knows what she wants in life. Her character portrays living your dream, no matter your background and I loved that!
Cannot wait to continue onto the last book of the series, The Calamity!
October 31, 2025
I really love Wyatt and Jo! I think Wyatt was my favorite of the brothers. He’s wildly misunderstood and he’s compassion knows no bounds! I didn’t love the fact he got so drunk he didn’t remember Jo, that bit still burns my heart for her. He does make up for it. Jo is such a strong woman and I adored her! The twist with Travis broke my heart and I loved it. The whole bath tub thing absolutely made me fall in love with Wyatt and how he was with Jo when he found out about Travis…I melted. Now his relationship with his dad…I really hated the way Beau treated him. He didn’t know Wyatt at all. I loved that Wyatt stood up for himself and spoke his truth. Beau took steps and I loved seeing them build a bond they didn’t have before. This story was so good.
Read: Audible 🎧
MMC: Wyatt Hayden
FMC: Jo Shelton
Spice: 2🌶️
Tropes: Small Town, Cowboy, Forced Proximity, Second Chance, Hate to Love, Slow Burn
Read: Audible 🎧
MMC: Wyatt Hayden
FMC: Jo Shelton
Spice: 2🌶️
Tropes: Small Town, Cowboy, Forced Proximity, Second Chance, Hate to Love, Slow Burn
January 21, 2025
Meet the Outlaw...will be be tamed?
The third of four books in the Hayden Family series and I have to say, my favourite so far. I love Wyatt and Jo. Their stories while so different are so similar. Both wanting to be loved and feel worthy. Forced together after Wyatt gets himself into some trouble, a romance years in the making erupts full force. Soon, all of the secrets each of them holds come out. Neither of them is exactly as the other thought, and not in a bad way. Wyatt learns he is not the disappointment he thought he was for so long and Jo makes her wildest dreams come true. I really connected with this story on a personal level and look forward to reading all about Calamity Jessie next!
The third of four books in the Hayden Family series and I have to say, my favourite so far. I love Wyatt and Jo. Their stories while so different are so similar. Both wanting to be loved and feel worthy. Forced together after Wyatt gets himself into some trouble, a romance years in the making erupts full force. Soon, all of the secrets each of them holds come out. Neither of them is exactly as the other thought, and not in a bad way. Wyatt learns he is not the disappointment he thought he was for so long and Jo makes her wildest dreams come true. I really connected with this story on a personal level and look forward to reading all about Calamity Jessie next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2021
The Outlaw by J. Millikin is the third stand-alone in the Hayden Family Series. For best reading experience I recommend to read the books in order. The previous books are The Patriot and The Maverick , the books are in KU.
This is Wyatt and Jo's story. Wyatt is the youngest of the Hayden brothers and he's kind of a jack of all trades. Nobody knows where he disappears and what he does when he's away. Lets just say Wyatt is a good man with some issues. And now he has to serve community service and just at the woman's ranch that's a mystery to him.
Jo Shelton has had a rough past. But working hard and being determined brought her to a good place. A place where she became the owner of a ranch, a dream of hers. Only she herself has some secrets.
Wyatt likes her just fine, but Jo keeps him at arms length.
This fast paced, complex, emotional gave me all the feels. Next up is the book of the fourth Hayden sibling and I can't wait to read Jessie's story.
This is Wyatt and Jo's story. Wyatt is the youngest of the Hayden brothers and he's kind of a jack of all trades. Nobody knows where he disappears and what he does when he's away. Lets just say Wyatt is a good man with some issues. And now he has to serve community service and just at the woman's ranch that's a mystery to him.
Jo Shelton has had a rough past. But working hard and being determined brought her to a good place. A place where she became the owner of a ranch, a dream of hers. Only she herself has some secrets.
Wyatt likes her just fine, but Jo keeps him at arms length.
This fast paced, complex, emotional gave me all the feels. Next up is the book of the fourth Hayden sibling and I can't wait to read Jessie's story.
September 11, 2021
This is only the second book I've read by the author and Wyatt's story is one I have been anticipating after reading Warner's story. Wyatt could possibly be my favourite Hayden brothers out of all of them. His story didn't disappoint either. Wyatt is one misunderstood character but now we know who he truly is and also why Jo hates him. And also for him to discover why she hates him.
So it's them working through their issues together and also for Wyatt and his dad. They get to really know each other. These two have amazing chemistry and tension. I loved every minute of it. And not just the scenes with these two but also with other characters. I highly, highly recommend this one.
I can't wait for Calamity's story next even though I didn't want this series to end.
So it's them working through their issues together and also for Wyatt and his dad. They get to really know each other. These two have amazing chemistry and tension. I loved every minute of it. And not just the scenes with these two but also with other characters. I highly, highly recommend this one.
I can't wait for Calamity's story next even though I didn't want this series to end.
May 27, 2024
Wyatt was the baby of the family until his sister came twelve years after him. He’s always felt different from his brothers and knows that his parents wanted a girl.
To everyone in his family it looks like he’s the one who screws off, but the reality is much different.
Jo works in town and everyone loves her. She’s always had a crush on Wyatt but when they spend the night together and he doesn’t remember, she’s devastated.
When Wyatt starts coming around and showing interest in Jo again she’s conflicted. She is heartbroken that he doesn’t remember their time together and is trying to get over him, but yet she’s still enamored.
To everyone in his family it looks like he’s the one who screws off, but the reality is much different.
Jo works in town and everyone loves her. She’s always had a crush on Wyatt but when they spend the night together and he doesn’t remember, she’s devastated.
When Wyatt starts coming around and showing interest in Jo again she’s conflicted. She is heartbroken that he doesn’t remember their time together and is trying to get over him, but yet she’s still enamored.
September 7, 2021
Wyatt has lots of layers, and I am enjoying reading about all of them. He is his own man and does not care what others think. Jo has dreams and past she is less than proud of. But, her hard work and a little luck land her the Circle B Ranch property. Together Jo and Wyatt are better, and their story is recommended reading.
Wyatt’s form of justice gets the job done, not always on the right side of the law. But, as Wyatt loves to remind us, he is an outlaw.
Bring on Calamity, although I will be sorry to see this series come to a close.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Wyatt’s form of justice gets the job done, not always on the right side of the law. But, as Wyatt loves to remind us, he is an outlaw.
Bring on Calamity, although I will be sorry to see this series come to a close.
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
November 15, 2024
4.35⭐️ Unlike the other ones in the series this one was more complex and pretty sad which I did not expect. But also he boiled multiple pots of water to fill a bath sooo. I did love the mention of wilderness therapy camps, how the siblings truly look out for each other, the random comedic moments but unlike the others this book delved DEEP into complicated family dynamics and parent-child relationships. Honestly if you want a feel good happy Cowboy book this is not it.
September 1, 2021
4*
Wyatt is the Hayden who knows what's happening around him more than he's given credit for. However his last decision had the sheriff giving him a task to complete.
Jo has a dream and is determined to make it happen, a chance break has the plans moving forward quicker than expected.
The two thrown together means they have to work together as a team.
I've enjoyed reading this series and loved the character of Wyatt.
Another nice addition to the series.
Wyatt is the Hayden who knows what's happening around him more than he's given credit for. However his last decision had the sheriff giving him a task to complete.
Jo has a dream and is determined to make it happen, a chance break has the plans moving forward quicker than expected.
The two thrown together means they have to work together as a team.
I've enjoyed reading this series and loved the character of Wyatt.
Another nice addition to the series.
June 3, 2024
This book started slower than the first two, but it ended up having so many side stories that were really great. We even got a Beau chapter which I was very excited about and was much needed. From the first book Beau (the dad) was a favorite character, but I started to question that in this book. I should probably slow down because I've been flying through this series.
September 27, 2021
Sweet and swoony
I am so happy to see Wyatt and Jo get their HEA! 😍 They are so sweet together. I appreciated that the whole book wasn't spent on the enemies with very little lovers. It was the perfect blend.
I am so happy to see Wyatt and Jo get their HEA! 😍 They are so sweet together. I appreciated that the whole book wasn't spent on the enemies with very little lovers. It was the perfect blend.
November 24, 2025
Este me ha gustado más que los dos anteriores. El siguiente pinta también muy bien
September 14, 2021
It’s official that Wyatt is now my favorite Hayden 😍
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December 18, 2025
Dnf 75%
Just wasn’t for me.
Just wasn’t for me.
November 20, 2021
This was a good read. Jo grew up a with a crazy mother and eventually had to leave. Now she is given the chance to live her dream. Her and Wyatt had a fling and he sadly didn't remember and it upset her. She soon finds out he isn't the person everybody thinks he is. They both have some issues to deal with but in the end everything works out between them.
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