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Movie star Trace McBride is in a bit of trouble. More than a bit. He’s taken his bad-boy image too far, too many times, and when he gets arrested for skinny dipping in his producer’s pool – with his producer’s wife, it’s the last straw. His agent comes up with a plan to revamp Trace’s image – by going incognito for a cowboy movie on location - far away from the prying eyes of the Hollywood tabloids. Spending six months in the middle of nowhere sounds like an awful idea, until he runs into Cecilia Sanchez. Literally. Trace is irresistibly drawn to the nosy, sarcastic journalist, even though getting close to her is more than risky- it’s downright dangerous.

Investigative journalist Cecilia Sanchez is one good story away from getting out of the backwater town where she grew up. Forced to return home when her first big-city job backfires – note to self, it’s never a good idea to write an exposé of your boss, even if it’s Pulitzer Prize-winning material - she’s determined to put Prairie on the map for something besides rodeos and tornadoes. CiCi is definitely not interested in cocky newcomer Trace, and doesn’t believe a word out of his sweet-talking mouth, but she can’t seem to resist his kisses.

When CiCi uncovers the story of a lifetime, she’s forced to confront her feelings for Trace, because letting the cat out of the bag this time might cost them both everything. Including each other.

231 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 10, 2020

33 people are currently reading
1036 people want to read

About the author

Tessa Layne

41 books393 followers
Tessa Layne is a five-time USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance across many genres. Known for her high heat "emotionally searing and uplifting" story lines, Tessa’s books take you on an adventure of the heart from the rugged and remote Kansas Flint Hills to the big-city boardroom. Additional pen names include TS Layne (billionaires) and coming in 2024, Tessa Snow (dark fantasy romance). Tessa lives in the heart of the Rocky Mountains with her husband, daughters, and two unruly cats. When she’s not writing, you can find her outside chatting up the bees in her garden, hunting for berries in the woods, or playing in the snow.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Profile Image for Kandace Denys (bookish_kayy).
1,256 reviews
November 9, 2020
Wow. The chemistry between Cecelia & Trace was incredible. Each at a crossroad in their lives, they had no idea in trying to untangle the future they’d find an entirely new path.
I loved them together the growth was phenomenal. A girl with walls high as could be, and the playboy that needed a strong dose of a new reality.
Profile Image for CarolKat.
2,280 reviews29 followers
November 10, 2020
Cecilia 'CiCi' Sanchez has what she knows is one of the best articles she's written as an investigative journalist. Unfortunately for her, the people she's outing want it stopped. So instead of praise she gets fired. Not knowing what else to do she heads home to Prairie. Her mother and grandmother are traveling so she'll have the house to herself at least until Christmas. Plenty of time to decide what she wants to do going forward.

Trace McBride is in big trouble and in order to salvage his career he's heading to Prairie to work on Resolution Ranch. Incognito of course because they don't want or need the paparazzi running all over the place. When he starts getting antsy, Sterling suggests trying Rough Stock Riding School. This really appeals to Trace, he's always wanted to ride a bull and he's been watching Travis' son Dax practicing. Now while he's supposed to be keeping a low profile, he also craves interaction with people. It's after he's had breakfast at Dottie's Diner that he literally runs into Cici. Well her car anyway.

In spite of all the warning signs, CiCi finds she can't resist Trace. He actually takes care of her. She's never had that from anyone other than family. She's still got her doubts but he does convince her to give him a real chance. The chemistry these two have will practically melt your kindle when they hit the sheets.

Trace knows he has to reveal his true identity but knowing she's a journalist he just can't bring himself to do it. He keeps everything he tells her the truth as far as he can. It will come out though and the way it does, well you have to read it for yourself.

This books was so much fun. With the rodeo and all the characters from the other Prairie, Flint Hills books it was like a homecoming. I can't wait to read the next book in this new series.
1,240 reviews10 followers
November 12, 2020
Ride Rough is the second book in the Roughstock Riders series, but can read completely as a stand alone. When Cecilia is fired from her investigative reporting job, she runs back to her hometown, and literally crashes into Trace. They drive each other crazy, but they can’t resist the pull that’s between them. But Trace is hiding a secret. Will Cecilia forgive Trace and let their love flourish, or is the lie too much to forgive?

I really liked reading this book! I loved all of the build up, I loved the chemistry you can feel between Cecilia and Trace, and I loved how much they both grew in these pages! I loved that I slowly got sucked into this book and next thing I knew, I was already half way through the book and I didn’t want to put it down until it was all done! Cecilia was kind of awesome, honestly, never wanting to give up, trying to help and save the underdog in any situation, and trying so hard to find the truth. I loved that she is so prickly and defensive, but I loved Trace even more for seeing beyond and even breaking some of those barriers. Trace was pretty awesome, too, because he had some much self reflection and discovery to do while he was working on being a cowboy. I liked his cockiness just as much as I liked some of his softer sides, and I liked that he trusted his secrets to Cecilia. I loved their connection! I loved their banter and how it was essentially their foreplay, but there’s steamy scenes and sweet moments and a lot of love that blossoms between them. This book was a bit ike coming home, it was so good and I loved it and I can’t wait for the next one!
857 reviews20 followers
November 10, 2020
I have been reviewing Tessa Layne’s books for a while now and I think she is improving all the time. This story is about two people who find themselves in Prairie after something goes wrong in their lives. Neither of them has any interest in a relationship, each with their own baggage from childhood. However, as often happens in romance novels they are inexplicably drawn to each other and the rest is history. As usual Tessa’s books are very steamy and explicit, so don’t read this if that is not your cup of tea. If it is, this is an enjoyable story with a happy ending. The Book can be read on its own, but is better enjoyed if you know the back-story of all the secondary characters that play minor roles. I feel that the characters are well-rounded and the setting is one the author is very comfortable with, having been setting books here for quite some time. She makes me want to visit this small town and see if it is as quaint and friendly as it seems. Cecilia, the heroine, is someone that I could see being friends with - she is intelligent, inquisitive, and professionally driven. The hero, Trace, is a bad boy who reforms, which is always appealing. His attraction to Cecilia makes me swoon, and I suspect that you will as well. I recommend that you read this story to see for yourself.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Whispered Secrets.
647 reviews22 followers
November 10, 2020
Trace and CiCi “bump” into each other and have a automatic dislike for one another...and an amazing physical attraction that is unmistakable to them both. Trace isn’t planning to stick around long he has to get back to his life back in Cali so falling for the hot as heck reporter...oh sorry Investigative Journalist is a no go. He needs to stay away. Everyone who knows his secret tells me to stay away...but he just needs one small taste....
CiCi lost her job after working her butt off uncovering some really shady business. So she heads home where she can lick her wounds and just relax for a bit before deciding her next step. Trace Walker is not it, but man he is gorgeous, and those eyes...she knows she’s seen him before but she just can’t quiet figure out where. When they have a crash meeting she decides then and there she will have nothing to do with this sly talking, fit lookin’ cowboy wanna be, sexy and sin male specimen. She will just avoid him. Nothing good can come of being near him. Except Trace is everywhere...and refuses to leave her alone. Find out what happens for yourself. I was enthralled from page one to the very last sentence. It was definitely a rough ride. I loved every min of it. Grab your copy. Releases Nov 10th!!!
Profile Image for Jennifer Pierson.
11.7k reviews188 followers
November 11, 2020
Trace has made one too many bad boy mistakes in Hollywood, so his agent decides it's time for him to go to ground by going incognito on location for a cowboy movie, and his one goal was to get the hell out of there as soon as possible. CiCi is an investigative journalist who lost her job by writing a story that got her boss fired up, so home she lands until she can get that one good story to get her out of there. She & Trace are antagonistic towards each other from the jump, but the sparks are flying everywhere. Trace looks familiar to her but she can't place him while he knows that it's not a good idea to be around a journalist when he's trying to keep his head down. She is drawn to him though she doesn't even come close to believing anything that comes out of his mouth, but that chemistry they have won't be denied for long. Of course there's also that whole secret of who he is & her career, and secrets always come to light. So, hit those one click buttons to see how it all pans out as I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
1,813 reviews11 followers
November 15, 2020
Entertaining small town cowboy romance. Love CiCi and Trace! The investigative reporter and the movie star turned cowboy. CiCi is terrific as the feisty, unemployed gal that’s returned home to lick her wounds. Trace needs to repair his image and takes the opportunity to learn a new skill for his future action movies in small town mid America. I love the enemies to lovers banter and lusty interaction between Trace and CiCI. When they finally get on the same page it’s sizzling. H.O.T.! The only thing I didn’t really buy is that nobody recognize Trace. He’s a box office action hero with tons of fans. Even with different hair and a beard he should have been recognized by someone. Anyway, it’s still a terrific romance with a dream couple and fantastic secondary characters. Love this small town and all its inhabitants. Cowboy love! I looked forward to more in this series. I love this author’s storytelling, spectacular characters and family and friends setting. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC.
1,280 reviews4 followers
November 10, 2020
Cecilia (CiCi) is an investigative reporter who gets a little too close to the truth and finds herself unceremonioulsy tossed to the curb. She decides to return to her hometown to lick her wounds and make plans for her future. What she didn't count on was running into Trace Walker (McBride), bad boy movie star whose bad boy ways got him fired from his job. He's volunteering in Prairie and learning how to ride a bull and trying to revamp his image. He's trying to keep his nose clean but didn't count on the storm that is Cecilia. They have an interesting beginning and boy do the sparks fly. Plenty of drama for these two as they're each holding secrets while their relationship grows. With the truth ruin everything or will they be able to find a path together... Loved being back in Prairie with some of my favorite characters... Dottie is still a force to be reckoned with and a wealth of knowledge and wisdom. Looking forward to seeing what comes next in this series.
1,280 reviews4 followers
December 22, 2020
Cecilia (CiCi) is an investigative reporter who gets a little too close to the truth and finds herself unceremonioulsy tossed to the curb. She decides to return to her hometown to lick her wounds and make plans for her future. What she didn't count on was running into Trace Walker (McBride), bad boy movie star whose bad boy ways got him fired from his job. He's volunteering in Prairie and learning how to ride a bull and trying to revamp his image. He's trying to keep his nose clean but didn't count on the storm that is Cecilia. They have an interesting beginning and boy do the sparks fly. Plenty of drama for these two as they're each holding secrets while their relationship grows. With the truth ruin everything or will they be able to find a path together... Loved being back in Prairie with some of my favorite characters... Dottie is still a force to be reckoned with and a wealth of knowledge and wisdom. Looking forward to seeing what comes next in this series.
Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
20.1k reviews257 followers
November 9, 2020
This is the 2nd book in this series and is Trace and Cecilia’s story. Cecilia is an investigative journalist who returns to her small town after losing her job in the city, and she is determined to put Prairie on the map in other ways than just rodeos and cowboys. Trace is an actor who needs to redeem himself and his image after his bad boy ways get out of hand, and his agent sends him to Prairie incognito for a cowboy movie on location. These two literally bump into each other and the sparks fly, and the chemistry between them is intense and undeniable. Will Cecilia discover who Trace is, and if she does will this be the end of them? This is a well written flawless story which is an entertaining and all-consuming read. I was totally captivated throughout this addictive page turner, and I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I recommend for all.
Profile Image for Stephanie Erickson.
247 reviews4 followers
November 17, 2020
Tessa Layne writes another amazing story of characters from Prairie, Kansas.

Cecilia is headed back to her hometown of Prairie, Kansas after attempting to bust a trafficking ring. But when her boss lets her go because they do not want to print her investigative reporting into this trafficking ring, she attempts to go home to put herself back together and decide what to do with her life.

Trace McBride was sent to Prairie to straighten out his life. The partying and the women have left a bad taste after he was fired from one of his jobs. Now, helping at Resolution Ranch, Trace is keeping out of the spotlight.

He is told to stay away from Cecilia if he doesn’t want his secret out. However, her sassy attitude draws Trace in and he can’t seem to stay away. The tenacious women who ran her own father out of town and does not forgive.

Something is always pulling Trace to help Cecilia, even when she flat out refuses his help. When he finds out the reason she was let go he attempts to try to help. He uses his connections to send her article that was turned down to another source. As he helps out at the ranch and learns to ride bulls, he connects with Cecilia.

But his help is not without repercussions, it ultimately outs his identity.

But can he get Cecilia to listen to him. Explain. Or is she lost to him forever for his deception?
Profile Image for Kari Hansen.
12.2k reviews91 followers
November 10, 2020

Cecilia is a reporter whose instincts may have led to her to a great story but along the way it cost her the job she enjoyed. She now finds herself back in her hometown as she tries to decide what direction her future will take so the last thing she needs is a distraction in the form of a sexy yet confident cowboy.

Trace is an actor whose offscreen behavior have put his career in jeopardy. He finds himself learning to be a cowboy for an upcoming film so the last thing he needs is a nosy reporter to expose all the secrets he wants to remain hidden.

There is no denying the chemistry between them so they will have to decide between listening to their heads that tell them to avoid each other and their hearts who are drawn to each other like magnets.
Profile Image for Jennie Fortna.
2,540 reviews29 followers
November 12, 2020
ARC for honest review with no compensation Received from BookSprout

Ride Rough is book 2 in the Roughstock Riders series by Tessa Layne. Each book is a standalone in this series but reading in order gives you the background that flows with each book.

Up next is Trace McBride, Hollywood Heartthrob who has gotten into a heap of trouble and now needs to lay low so his agent sends him back to Prairie and Resolution Ranch til things die down. What he doesn’t expect is to meet Cecilia “Cici” Sanchez, investigative journalist, home town girl who has been forced from her job for an expose’ that her publisher wants to bury. Sparks fly, identities are hidden, laughter, steamy, drama, secrets and so much more.

Can’t wait for the next bad boy to appear!! Please write faster...lol!
Profile Image for Vicki Shaff.
412 reviews2 followers
December 2, 2020
Loved it

Trace is a movie star with a bad boy rep. His last fiasco has him black balled from Hollywood. He ends up at Resolution Ranch under a false name where he's to spend the next six to twelve months reevaluating his life. Cecilia is an investigative reporter who writes the story of a lifetime but her editor refuses to publish it because of the big names involved in the scandal. Instead he fires her. Devastated she returns to Prairie to figure out her next move. She and Trace meet - she's feisty, independent and sassy and he can't stay away from her. Lust turns into love but when the truth comes out about Trace it puts their relationship in jeopardy. Excellent reading.
Profile Image for Reading  In the  Red Room .
3,198 reviews72 followers
November 5, 2020
This is book 2 in the Roughstock Riders series. Cecilia is a journalist who has been fired and heading back home to lick her wounds. Trace is an actor who has made some bad decisions. He is heading to a small town to work on a ranch and learn how to ride a bull or two. When these two literally run into each other it’s a bomb of chemistry and frustration. Cecilia is extremely bull headed and quite frankly a little immature for my liking. Trace knows to keep himself low key he should stay clear of this journalist but he can’t help himself. This was a good second book to this series. The beginning of the book definitely dragged for me but it was an enjoyable read.
3,062 reviews17 followers
November 10, 2020
Prairie Heals More Hearts!!

Movie star Trace McBride needs a restart – and must be in Prairie for 6 months to a year to work on a ranch and attend the rodeo school. Investigative journalist Cecilia has a Pulitzer prize winning story with such high-profile names in it she gets fired!

The last thing Trace needs is someone investigating him. But the sarcastic journalist intrigues him, he can’t stay away.

Family is not who has the same blood running through your veins, but who you chose to surround yourself with. Emotional, romantic, and in no way easy – this journey makes a fabulous read!!

**I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book**
Profile Image for Larissa Rye.
1,389 reviews18 followers
November 8, 2020
The best way I can think of to describe Cecilia would be a determined blood hound. She had a fire inside her that made her a very likeable character. The back & forth between her & Trace will make you giggle. Cecilia had mountain high walls to break down & Trace had a past to overcome & grow up from his selfish party boy ways. These two made for a really fun read. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series because this little town has some pretty awesome characters.

I received an arc of this book in return for an honest review.
1,177 reviews4 followers
November 14, 2020
It was worth the wait to get a story from this author. Trace is a Hollywood bad boy sent to the west to hopefully get out of sight and mind of his hiking.
Cece is looking to find that story that will put her on the map and away from small town home.
When these two meet the impact is to more than their cars.
Loved how the story showed Trace really care for Cece . Great romance and cowboy actors and strong women.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Marichus Real.
3,503 reviews27 followers
November 29, 2020
Trace is a movie star who after getting arrested needs a change of scenery. He finally ends in Prairie to learn how to be a bull rider.
Cecilia is a journalist who after an investigation job ends up being sacked. She decides to go back to Prairie.
I liked their chemistry. From the beginning, you can feel they meant to be together. They are so different, but in some aspects, they are equal.
Another great book from Tessa Layne. Looking forward to the next one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,006 reviews10 followers
November 10, 2020
Prairie is the ultimate place to heal and that’s where Trace and Cecilia cross paths as they try to figure out their respective next steps. Their clashing personalities make for some sassy interactions and an undeniable attraction. My favorite thing about them is how they can see past the bravado into their tender and bruised souls. This is an emotional story that is warm, touching and has a bit of dirty talk that you are going to enjoy.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Sally.
417 reviews4 followers
November 9, 2020
This book kept me reading through the night, Trace & Cecilia were Hot 🔥 but also oh so sweet, Ride Rough touched my heart, this beautiful love story of lost souls finding hope in one another. One returning home, and one finding a home.

This is book 2 of the Roughstock Riders series by Tessa Layne

I’m loving these characters ❤️ great read if you love western romance, contemporary romance or love stories with heat 🔥
Profile Image for Lady M..
1,381 reviews12 followers
November 11, 2020
I really enjoyed this one. I read it in one day, it was that good. Enemies to lovers is not my favorite romance trope, but this one was done so well. You could feel the chemistry between these two characters. I enjoyed the stories of both Trace's background and CiCis stuff that she had going on (sorry, trying not to spoil!). First I love yous are my favorite part of a romance, and I adored this one! And the epilogue was just so sweet, and original, which I loved
490 reviews2 followers
November 10, 2020
Finally back in Prairie and such a wonderful story about Trace and Cecelia finding their HEA. Not an easy road and finally getting to the truth of the matter was steamy and hot!! Love this series of cowboy books!!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Samantha Turbyfill.
418 reviews
November 14, 2020
This was my first read of Tessa’s and I’ll definitely read more of her cowboys. I loved that Cecelia and trace were both kind of at this strange turning point in their lives that something had to happen! They back and forth maybe we’re enemies was fantastic and you just knew they would be soooo hot together and they are!
610 reviews
November 20, 2020
Wonderful book

Trace and Cecelia. Their chemistry is off the charts. Their love is forever. But it takes them time to figure it all out. He’s a movie star in trouble. Shes a journalist with a story too hot to publish. This is Book two in this series of hot men and strong women. Anything by this author is top notch and not to be missed. Can’t wait for the next one
Profile Image for Misty.
291 reviews2 followers
November 11, 2020
Love it

Tessa has time it again. Trace and Cecelia are of the charts with their chemistry. From the moment they met and on the flags we flying and their interaction kept you on your toes. Love it.
Profile Image for Jenny H.
544 reviews
November 11, 2020
This was a fun, sweet, small town romance. Loved the connection and chemistry between Trace and Cecilia. Once I started it I couldn't put it down. I can't wait to see what comes next in this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
553 reviews
April 21, 2022
It started out to be an interesting book. But, Cecilia was a whiner and just had a hard time liking her. Story dragged on too much for my taste.
1,586 reviews
June 4, 2023
I enjoyed this book

I enjoyed this story about Trace McBride and Cecilia Sanchez. I enjoyed their journey to them finding their happy ever after.
Profile Image for Sharon Noble.
2,191 reviews6 followers
November 11, 2020
This book was well worth the wait & it didn't disappoint. Reece has lost her job & returns to Praise to pick her wounds, when she arrives she goes strait to Dotties for breakfast, upon leaving her car gets totalled by Trace who is in Praise hiding after the scandal in California, so the last thing he needs is to run in to a journalist. The chemistry between the two main characters is hot!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews

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