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Top Dog Dude Ranch #2
The Cowboy's Christmas Retreat
His love life has gone to the dogs—in the best of ways in USA TODAY bestselling author Catherine Mann's latest book in the Top Dog Dude Ranch series!
After they’ve opened gifts
Maybe he’ll unwrap her heart.
Instead of his winter wonderland wedding, Riley Stewart has been jilted. This rodeo champ needs an understanding shoulder, so Riley invites his best friend, Lucy Snyder, her son and their scruffy pooch on his “honeymoon.” But moonlit doggy walks, romantic fires, the glow of Christmas lights—everything is conspiring against their “just friends” resolve. Will this fake honeymoon ignite the real spark Riley and Lucy have denied for so long?
After they’ve opened gifts
Maybe he’ll unwrap her heart.
Instead of his winter wonderland wedding, Riley Stewart has been jilted. This rodeo champ needs an understanding shoulder, so Riley invites his best friend, Lucy Snyder, her son and their scruffy pooch on his “honeymoon.” But moonlit doggy walks, romantic fires, the glow of Christmas lights—everything is conspiring against their “just friends” resolve. Will this fake honeymoon ignite the real spark Riley and Lucy have denied for so long?
281 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 26, 2021
9 people are currently reading
71 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Mann
597 books1,247 followersUSA Today bestseller Catherine Mann has written women's fiction, romance, and romantic suspense for Lake Union, Harlequin, HQN, Berkley, Tule, and Sourcebooks, with titles released in more than 30 countries. Catherine’s novels have won numerous awards, including a RITA Award, the Romantic Times Magazine Reviewer’s Choice Award, and the Bookseller’s Best Award.
A South Carolinian at heart, after years of moving around the country Catherine has settled back in her home state with her Harley-riding husband. Empty nesters, they have a blended family of nine children, nine grandchildren, two dogs, and three feral cats, who all provide endless inspiration for new novels. For more information, visit: http://catherinemann.com
A South Carolinian at heart, after years of moving around the country Catherine has settled back in her home state with her Harley-riding husband. Empty nesters, they have a blended family of nine children, nine grandchildren, two dogs, and three feral cats, who all provide endless inspiration for new novels. For more information, visit: http://catherinemann.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
November 7, 2021
Four years ago, while she was giving birth to their child, her scumbag of a husband was cheating on her. But what hurt Lucy Snyder the most, it's seeing her son's sadness as not being able to spend Christmas with his two parents.
Her best friend since 9th grade, Riley Stewart hasn't been lucky in love either. He was supposed to be a married man at Christmas but his fiancé called off the wedding a few weeks before to go with another man.
Since the trip was already paid for his honeymoon at the Top Dog Dude Ranch, Riley ask Lucy, little Georges and their dog Pickles, to go with him to the winter wonderland fest. Lucy is happy to help a friend and for the happy memories it'll give her son. But what if true love had been hiding right under their nose all this time ?
"She made morning look good."
This second book in the Top Dog Dude Ranch confirm my delight at having found a new series to read. And I can't get over how much I love this cover! What I like best about Catherine Mann's books is that she takes daily living moments and capture the raw emotions of it so well.
Her best friend since 9th grade, Riley Stewart hasn't been lucky in love either. He was supposed to be a married man at Christmas but his fiancé called off the wedding a few weeks before to go with another man.
Since the trip was already paid for his honeymoon at the Top Dog Dude Ranch, Riley ask Lucy, little Georges and their dog Pickles, to go with him to the winter wonderland fest. Lucy is happy to help a friend and for the happy memories it'll give her son. But what if true love had been hiding right under their nose all this time ?
"She made morning look good."
This second book in the Top Dog Dude Ranch confirm my delight at having found a new series to read. And I can't get over how much I love this cover! What I like best about Catherine Mann's books is that she takes daily living moments and capture the raw emotions of it so well.
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October 2, 2021Categories
Contemporary Romance, Holiday Romance, Western Romance, Small Town & Rural Fiction
Miniseries
Top Dog Dude Ranch (Book #2)
Contemporary Romance, Holiday Romance, Western Romance, Small Town & Rural Fiction
Miniseries
Top Dog Dude Ranch (Book #2)
November 2, 2021
Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. A positive review is not required
This review can also be found in Currant7 Recommends.
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
Lucy Snyder is a divorcee, a single parent to George, her son from her first marriage, and a fur-mommy to Pickles. Her failed marriage made her question her judgment to jump into any relationship besides friendship. The only thing that makes her have any relationship is her friendship with Riley, who has been her rock and supporter since they were both in middle grade.
Riley Stewart wants to settle down. He's been traveling on the rodeo circuit and has been wanting to "settle" soon. He's already started to look for properties for a potential business and is planning to move from city to country-side soon. He is recently engaged and is excited about all the settling prospects in the works. His only hesitation is leaving his childhood best friend, Lucy, to pursue "again" his dreams. (Hint: there's a heavy yet beautiful backstory on this.)
The Cowboy's Christmas Retreat is a first-person, from both Riley's and Lucy's POV. It is written well and is true to the Harlequin Romance of sweet, undeniable love with a bit of complication to add spice to the storyline.
Pros:
- Warm and cozy book tone. Plus, the fact that most of the scenes are in a retreat adds to its calmness of the mood. It gives me the "Silent Night" feels of an animal nativity scene peppered with a Jingle Bells Rock of line dancing moments.
- A great Christmas read to place readers through the holiday feels with the many festive activities partaken by the characters.
- I love second chance/redemption books that this book has in full blast, especially when both main characters are finally "on the same life stage" to be there for each other. Both are finally single, though not yet ready to be in a relationship at the start.
- I appreciated the story not being an "insta-love" approach. Instead, Lucy's and Riley's long-term friendship becomes the foundation that brought genuine healing and authenticity.
Cons:
- The story's build-up was slower than expected due to so many internal conflicts for both main characters. Although Lucy and Riley mentioned many repetitive details on taking their relationship beyond friendship, the author reminds readers that these characters' flaws still need to be "worked on." It was realistic with the slow-burning pace.
- I had trouble connecting or caring for the characters. Initially, I got excited about how flawed Lucy and Riley were. They made me want to unravel them and understand them, BUT I found their unresolved and traumatic troubled pasts came up too often that it felt repetitive. Granted that these issues were "not resolved," I would have appreciated if the author mentioned that either character sought external help or anyone mentioned this since many "red flags" signaled this need.
- Cheated partners get mentioned often and cause doubt and frustration. Note: Some readers might not see this coming into the scenes. BUT, there surely wouldn't be a story without these characters who hurt the main characters. I have an issue with an ex-partner's reactions, which didn't seem realistic to me. Granted that his particular partner was "in the wrongs," but after what one of the main characters said...the reaction was too calm and "controlled." There were no rebuffs or drama when the main character confessed the truth to the ex-partner, and then, this ex-partner, of two years, left quietly.
Overall, The Cowboy's Christmas Retreat is a light and easy-going read with minimal conflicts. This book came at a perfect time - just when I wanted an escapism book. The pace in some parts was slower than I was used to, and the "push-pull" moments were not to my liking, BUT I understood the author's purpose for this. The heavier pace moments balance the internal conflict between Lucy and Riley. These conflicts became barriers in having Lucy and Riley progressing and helping each other until the last few chapter or two. I think I've been out of the sweet romance genre for too long. This book is something I would recommend to a reader who loves second chances, single-parent tropes, pet-lovers, and Harlequin romance reader fans.
This review can also be found in Currant7 Recommends.
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
Lucy Snyder is a divorcee, a single parent to George, her son from her first marriage, and a fur-mommy to Pickles. Her failed marriage made her question her judgment to jump into any relationship besides friendship. The only thing that makes her have any relationship is her friendship with Riley, who has been her rock and supporter since they were both in middle grade.
Riley Stewart wants to settle down. He's been traveling on the rodeo circuit and has been wanting to "settle" soon. He's already started to look for properties for a potential business and is planning to move from city to country-side soon. He is recently engaged and is excited about all the settling prospects in the works. His only hesitation is leaving his childhood best friend, Lucy, to pursue "again" his dreams. (Hint: there's a heavy yet beautiful backstory on this.)
The Cowboy's Christmas Retreat is a first-person, from both Riley's and Lucy's POV. It is written well and is true to the Harlequin Romance of sweet, undeniable love with a bit of complication to add spice to the storyline.
Pros:
- Warm and cozy book tone. Plus, the fact that most of the scenes are in a retreat adds to its calmness of the mood. It gives me the "Silent Night" feels of an animal nativity scene peppered with a Jingle Bells Rock of line dancing moments.
- A great Christmas read to place readers through the holiday feels with the many festive activities partaken by the characters.
- I love second chance/redemption books that this book has in full blast, especially when both main characters are finally "on the same life stage" to be there for each other. Both are finally single, though not yet ready to be in a relationship at the start.
- I appreciated the story not being an "insta-love" approach. Instead, Lucy's and Riley's long-term friendship becomes the foundation that brought genuine healing and authenticity.
Cons:
- The story's build-up was slower than expected due to so many internal conflicts for both main characters. Although Lucy and Riley mentioned many repetitive details on taking their relationship beyond friendship, the author reminds readers that these characters' flaws still need to be "worked on." It was realistic with the slow-burning pace.
- I had trouble connecting or caring for the characters. Initially, I got excited about how flawed Lucy and Riley were. They made me want to unravel them and understand them, BUT I found their unresolved and traumatic troubled pasts came up too often that it felt repetitive. Granted that these issues were "not resolved," I would have appreciated if the author mentioned that either character sought external help or anyone mentioned this since many "red flags" signaled this need.
- Cheated partners get mentioned often and cause doubt and frustration. Note: Some readers might not see this coming into the scenes. BUT, there surely wouldn't be a story without these characters who hurt the main characters. I have an issue with an ex-partner's reactions, which didn't seem realistic to me. Granted that his particular partner was "in the wrongs," but after what one of the main characters said...the reaction was too calm and "controlled." There were no rebuffs or drama when the main character confessed the truth to the ex-partner, and then, this ex-partner, of two years, left quietly.
Overall, The Cowboy's Christmas Retreat is a light and easy-going read with minimal conflicts. This book came at a perfect time - just when I wanted an escapism book. The pace in some parts was slower than I was used to, and the "push-pull" moments were not to my liking, BUT I understood the author's purpose for this. The heavier pace moments balance the internal conflict between Lucy and Riley. These conflicts became barriers in having Lucy and Riley progressing and helping each other until the last few chapter or two. I think I've been out of the sweet romance genre for too long. This book is something I would recommend to a reader who loves second chances, single-parent tropes, pet-lovers, and Harlequin romance reader fans.
October 28, 2021
Riley and Lucy have been friends forever, supporting each other through life’s ups and downs. A kiss in high school hinted at the possibility of something more but the timing wasn’t right. Now, for the first time, they are in the same place and single at the same time. While they may tell everyone that there is nothing romantic between them, some long buried feelings are starting to surface. And spending time together at a romantic getaway, even with a small chaperone, is only making things more complicated.
Neither Riley nor Lucy has had the greatest history, and trusting in their emotions is hard, so taking a chance on losing a friendship that means so much to both of them is scary. But I felt like Mann does a good job of having them work through their feelings, understanding the seriousness of risking what they have for something more, and making sure that their attraction is real.
Blending together tender moments, holiday charm, and just a smidge of spice to heat things up a bit, Mann’s latest is the perfect read for those looking for a feel-good story to curl up with and while away a few hours. A delightful mix of friends-to-lovers and Christmas enchantment, it’ll leave you happy and satisfied, maybe even wanting a little more of the magic the Top Dog Dude Ranch can bring.
(I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
Neither Riley nor Lucy has had the greatest history, and trusting in their emotions is hard, so taking a chance on losing a friendship that means so much to both of them is scary. But I felt like Mann does a good job of having them work through their feelings, understanding the seriousness of risking what they have for something more, and making sure that their attraction is real.
Blending together tender moments, holiday charm, and just a smidge of spice to heat things up a bit, Mann’s latest is the perfect read for those looking for a feel-good story to curl up with and while away a few hours. A delightful mix of friends-to-lovers and Christmas enchantment, it’ll leave you happy and satisfied, maybe even wanting a little more of the magic the Top Dog Dude Ranch can bring.
(I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
June 20, 2024
Single mom Lucy needs a break and her best friend Riley invites her to Top Dog Dude Ranch which was supposed to be his honeymoon trip but the wedding was cancelled. The time spent together in close proximity helps propel their relationship into something more, something which should've could've maybe would've happened a long time ago.
I loved how Lucy and Riley came together, they were both very likeable characters with understandable insecurities and reservations. They both had issues they had to work through and even though, as it often happens with best friend stories, sometimes it can get frustrating when they're dancing around each other. It was a sweet ending and I enjoyed seeing them come together.
This was my second book from the author and second from this series - the first being Book #7, Their Convenient Christmas Engagement, which was a very sweet and romantic book, so I was excited to read this too. The stories are all very well written and also not too lengthy so it was easy to get through in a day.
After I read this book I read 2 others from this series and I have to say I enjoyed them all a lot. I think the books are alright to be read as standalones but I really like the whole Top Dog Dude Ranch world so it was nice to read the books in the series. So far my favorite is The Lawman's Surprise.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved how Lucy and Riley came together, they were both very likeable characters with understandable insecurities and reservations. They both had issues they had to work through and even though, as it often happens with best friend stories, sometimes it can get frustrating when they're dancing around each other. It was a sweet ending and I enjoyed seeing them come together.
This was my second book from the author and second from this series - the first being Book #7, Their Convenient Christmas Engagement, which was a very sweet and romantic book, so I was excited to read this too. The stories are all very well written and also not too lengthy so it was easy to get through in a day.
After I read this book I read 2 others from this series and I have to say I enjoyed them all a lot. I think the books are alright to be read as standalones but I really like the whole Top Dog Dude Ranch world so it was nice to read the books in the series. So far my favorite is The Lawman's Surprise.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 15, 2022
This is book two in The Top Dog Dude Ranch Series and it is Riley and Lucy's story. When Riley is jilted he decided to get away to the place where he booked the honeymoon so that he could be away from everything and regroup so that he could decide what to do next and he asked his best friend Lucy her son and there dog to go along with him for moral support and a shoulder when he needed it. While they were away Riley and Lucy connected in a different way that neither one was expecting but always seemed to be there simmering under the surface of there friendship but they both had baggage, trust issue's and two like they are not really ready to move forward into a relationship as they both wonder if it just the situation that caused this complication between them but love works in mysterious ways and sometimes you have to go with the flow as you have no way in it when true love strikes. I absolutely loved Riley and Lucy as they were so perfect for each other and made a great family but they will have to let there walls down and trust that they are making the right decision to get the happy ending and future that they deserved. The characters and storyline pulled you in and kept your attention and I couldn't put this book down as it was a real page turner and totally addictive and I can't wait to read more book's in the future.
I Voluntarily Reviewed a Copy of This Book.
I Voluntarily Reviewed a Copy of This Book.
June 22, 2024
The Cowboy's Christmas Retreat is a standalone contemporary romance by Catherine Mann, and is the second book of the Top Dog Dude Ranch series.
The set up for the Top Dog Dude Ranch is a super sweet and charming background. Set on an idyllic ranch and the titular Top Dog Ranch, the series has a heart warming atmosphere that is so easy to connect to. Where couples are brought together as they work or live near the Top Dog Dude Ranch, a place for holidays and healing - for guests and employees alike.
The Cowboy's Christmas Retreat is a classic best friends to lovers, slow burn and heartwarming romance. The titular cowboy, is strong and totally sweet, after breaking up with his fiancé, he decides to have his honeymoon with his best friend in the world. Even though they've known each other since they were kids, life just never lined up, with them both being single and ready for a relationship - Riley has been engaged and Lucy has been married previously is now a single mum. However, all that is about to change. The magic of Christmas, a small town, a picturesque ranch, a sweet kid and two best friends - a wonderful, classic formula for romance.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The set up for the Top Dog Dude Ranch is a super sweet and charming background. Set on an idyllic ranch and the titular Top Dog Ranch, the series has a heart warming atmosphere that is so easy to connect to. Where couples are brought together as they work or live near the Top Dog Dude Ranch, a place for holidays and healing - for guests and employees alike.
The Cowboy's Christmas Retreat is a classic best friends to lovers, slow burn and heartwarming romance. The titular cowboy, is strong and totally sweet, after breaking up with his fiancé, he decides to have his honeymoon with his best friend in the world. Even though they've known each other since they were kids, life just never lined up, with them both being single and ready for a relationship - Riley has been engaged and Lucy has been married previously is now a single mum. However, all that is about to change. The magic of Christmas, a small town, a picturesque ranch, a sweet kid and two best friends - a wonderful, classic formula for romance.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 4, 2024
Catherine Mann touches the heart with her enchanting contemporary romance, The Cowboy's Christmas Retreat.
When he was planning his winter wonderland wedding, Riley Stewart never imagined that he would end up jilted, heartbroken and humiliated! Desperate for a shoulder to cry on, Riley asks his best friend Lucy Snyder, her son and their scruffy and adorable pooch to come along on his honeymoon - and he quickly realizes that his feelings for Lucy are far from platonic.
Being so close to Lucy makes him see her in a completely different light. Sparks soon begin to fly between them leading both of them to wonder whether they should take a chance on true love - or whether they are better off as just friends?
Catherine Mann's The Cowboy's Christmas Retreat is a heart-warming, uplifting and feel-good cozy romance I thoroughly enjoyed. A wonderful tale with two characters readers cannot help but root for and fall in love with, The Cowboy's Christmas Retreat is an enjoyable western romance by Catherine Mann readers are going to love.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When he was planning his winter wonderland wedding, Riley Stewart never imagined that he would end up jilted, heartbroken and humiliated! Desperate for a shoulder to cry on, Riley asks his best friend Lucy Snyder, her son and their scruffy and adorable pooch to come along on his honeymoon - and he quickly realizes that his feelings for Lucy are far from platonic.
Being so close to Lucy makes him see her in a completely different light. Sparks soon begin to fly between them leading both of them to wonder whether they should take a chance on true love - or whether they are better off as just friends?
Catherine Mann's The Cowboy's Christmas Retreat is a heart-warming, uplifting and feel-good cozy romance I thoroughly enjoyed. A wonderful tale with two characters readers cannot help but root for and fall in love with, The Cowboy's Christmas Retreat is an enjoyable western romance by Catherine Mann readers are going to love.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 13, 2022
His love life has gone to the dogs--in the best of ways in USA TODAY bestselling author Catherine Mann's latest book in the Top Dog Dude Ranch series!
After they've opened gifts
Maybe he'll unwrap her heart.
Instead of his winter wonderland wedding, Riley Stewart has been jilted. This rodeo champ needs an understanding shoulder, so Riley invites his best friend, Lucy Snyder, her son and their scruffy pooch on his "honeymoon." But moonlit doggy walks, romantic fires, the glow of Christmas lights--everything is conspiring against their "just friends" resolve. Will this fake honeymoon ignite the real spark Riley and Lucy have denied for so long?
From Harlequin Special Edition: Believe in love. Overcome obstacles. Find happiness.
This was a sweet second chance romance book, sprinkled with Christmas moments. A lovely way to spend a couple of hours.
I think I shall have to go and binge the rest of the series now.
Thank you to #booksprout for a copy of this book in return for my honest review.
After they've opened gifts
Maybe he'll unwrap her heart.
Instead of his winter wonderland wedding, Riley Stewart has been jilted. This rodeo champ needs an understanding shoulder, so Riley invites his best friend, Lucy Snyder, her son and their scruffy pooch on his "honeymoon." But moonlit doggy walks, romantic fires, the glow of Christmas lights--everything is conspiring against their "just friends" resolve. Will this fake honeymoon ignite the real spark Riley and Lucy have denied for so long?
From Harlequin Special Edition: Believe in love. Overcome obstacles. Find happiness.
This was a sweet second chance romance book, sprinkled with Christmas moments. A lovely way to spend a couple of hours.
I think I shall have to go and binge the rest of the series now.
Thank you to #booksprout for a copy of this book in return for my honest review.
October 24, 2021
The Cowboy’s Christmas Retreat - Catherine Mann
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Lola’s Blog Tours and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Instead of his winter wonderland wedding, Riley Stewart has been jilted. This rodeo champ needs an understanding shoulder, so Riley invites his best friend, Lucy Snyder, her son and their scruffy pooch on his “honeymoon.” But moonlit doggy walks, romantic fires, the glow of Christmas lights—everything is conspiring against their “just friends” resolve. Will this fake honeymoon ignite the real spark Riley and Lucy have denied for so long?
This is the second book in the Top Dog Dude Ranch series but I have read it as a stand alone. This is a cosy read, perfect to read curled up under a blanket on a cold day. It is a feel-good romance full of emotion, set in a beautiful location.
If you enjoy friends to lovers and Christmas romances then this is the book for you.
Rating: 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Lola’s Blog Tours and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Instead of his winter wonderland wedding, Riley Stewart has been jilted. This rodeo champ needs an understanding shoulder, so Riley invites his best friend, Lucy Snyder, her son and their scruffy pooch on his “honeymoon.” But moonlit doggy walks, romantic fires, the glow of Christmas lights—everything is conspiring against their “just friends” resolve. Will this fake honeymoon ignite the real spark Riley and Lucy have denied for so long?
This is the second book in the Top Dog Dude Ranch series but I have read it as a stand alone. This is a cosy read, perfect to read curled up under a blanket on a cold day. It is a feel-good romance full of emotion, set in a beautiful location.
If you enjoy friends to lovers and Christmas romances then this is the book for you.
Rating: 4/5
December 30, 2022
Lucy and Riley have been friends, best friends for over fifteen years. They have always supported each other, even when they had doubts or it seemed the other was making a mistake or seemed to be leaving the other behind. Through his rodeo career that often took him away from her, through her marriage to her cheating ex and the both of her son, they stayed friends and offered each other support. Now, Riley’s engagement has ended and he has invited Lucy to go on what was to be his honeymoon and she accepted. Both have always had to push down their attraction and desire for each other, to hide it behind guards so as to not ruin their friendship. On this trip, they have finally decided to take their relationship beyond friendship. Will they let their past experiences and doubts cloud their thoughts and feelings or will they take the leap and focus on building a future together?.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 1, 2023
This is the 2nd book in the “Top Dog Dude Ranch Series”. This is an entertaining small-town romance. Riley who is a rodeo cowboy and Lucy have been best friends since for some time. The two shared a kiss in high school but it was nothing series for the two of them so they thought. They have been there for each other thru life’s happy and unhappy times. The two went their separate ways with Lucy marrying and now she’s single. Lucy has a son with an adorable dog. Riley was all set to marry but ends up jilted and guess who is there for him; none other than Lucy. Riley invites Lucy and her son and their dog on his holiday Christmas honeymoon. Things take a turn for the better. The two get more than they bargained for.
Will this holiday honeymoon result in a real honeymoon, can these best two best friends go from being friends to have an HEA that they both desire?
I received an ARC via Booksprout and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
Will this holiday honeymoon result in a real honeymoon, can these best two best friends go from being friends to have an HEA that they both desire?
I received an ARC via Booksprout and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
July 3, 2024
Top Dog Dude Ranch comes through again in this great series with strong emotions, vivid locales and events, great backstories and lots of dogs and horses. Riley is on the rodeo circuit, wanting to settle down but his engagement is called off. His lifelong friend Lucy is divorced with a young son who is staying with his father for a while. Can these friends help each other heal from past relationship trauma and open up for a better future? Can they take a chance of things going badly and losing the only deep friendship they both have? Terrific characters, lots of sass and understanding, emerging longing for more and a storyline that rocks their worlds. The author is a real artist at getting to all your feels. Enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 29, 2021
A holiday getaway like no other! With the second book in her Top Dog Dude Ranch series Catherine Mann brings the heart of a friendship to life when two best friends who have been burned by love get taken in by the magic of a winter wonderland and start wondering "what if?" in THE COWBOY'S CHRISTMAS RETREAT. The holiday ambiance is magical and the characters are a joy to get to know.
Riley is a sweetheart. I loved his outlook on life and his devotion to Lucy.
Lucy revolves her entire world around making her son the most well-adjusted kid as possible and it shows with what a little doll he is.
I recommend this book and the entire series to anyone who loves a small town romance filled with friendship, love and happily ever afters with a whole lot of adorableness mixed in.
Riley is a sweetheart. I loved his outlook on life and his devotion to Lucy.
Lucy revolves her entire world around making her son the most well-adjusted kid as possible and it shows with what a little doll he is.
I recommend this book and the entire series to anyone who loves a small town romance filled with friendship, love and happily ever afters with a whole lot of adorableness mixed in.
January 1, 2023
Forever friends Riley and Lucy have always been there fore each other and for the first time they are single together with Lucy now divorced and Riley breaking up with his fiancé. Riley had already paid for a two week trip to Top Dude Ranch so Lucy and her son George go with him which leads the feelings they have for each other finally coming to the surface as well as working through emotions that are holding them back. I loved seeing some friendly faces again and the joy and support that Top Dude Ranch provides as well as two friends finally realise there is more between them and the highs and lows that go with them finally getting a HEA.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 22, 2021
Best friends Riley Stewart and Lucy Snyder have always been there for each other - through Lucy's divorce, and now, when Riley's fiancee jilts him right before the wedding, leaving Riley with a two week vacation at the Top Dog Dude Ranch instead of a honeymoon. So he asks Lucy and her son, George, to go with him for the two weeks. But on arriving, they find that the whole focus of the ranch is on relationships - improving, mending. But Lucy and Riley don't have that kind of relationship, do they?
Nice story in the series, and Nina and her husband and kids from the first book make brief appearances.
Nice story in the series, and Nina and her husband and kids from the first book make brief appearances.
December 29, 2022
This is a "friends to lovers" romance with single mom Lucy and her best friend Riley. Things just never work out for them to go beyond the surprise kiss they shared at senior prom but now she is single and his engagement just broke off. Riley ask her and George to go on the honeymoon he planned to Top Dog Dude Ranch and it is everything they hoped. When Emily comes back to try and get Riley back he tells her he is really in love with Lucy something she never expected him to say. After all those years as friends will Lucy and Riley finally find their HEA?.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 8, 2023
They have been best friends for years; he was there for her during her marriage the birth of her son and her divorce now it's her turn to be there for him. He was supposed to get married on Christmas eve but now it isn't going to happen and this will be her first Christmas without her son, so he invites them to share his honeymoon trip. They go to a ranch that is geared towards couples, families, pets and healing. They have a ton of fun until the ex comes to get his son, then things begin to change hopefully for the better. This is a cute, sweet romance. I like books with kids and dogs in them.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 30, 2024
Lucy and Riley are best friends who dated others and never admitted to feeling anything more for each other until they were cheated on and both single. He has to overcome her uncertainty and fears to convince her they should be together without losing their friendship. Riley did just break up with his fiancé soon before they were to be married and skipped several steps in a romantic relationship with Lucy so I can understand her uncertainty about them. Young George was high energy but enthusiastic about everything especially all the activities at the ranch they stayed at. I loved reading about all the activities at the ranch but didn’t strike me as a honeymoon kind of place.
December 3, 2025
This is a friends to lovers story. This book wasn’t spicy.
This story is about a guy named Riley Stewart. Instead of his winter wonderland wedding ❄️❄️ he gets jilted. The rodeo champ needs an understanding shoulder so he invites his best friend Lucy Snyder and her young son and their little pooch on his “honeymoon”.
However moonlit doggy walks, romantic fires 🔥 and the glow of Christmas lights everything is conspiring against their “just friends” resolve. Will the fake honeymoon ignite the real spark Riley and Lucy have denied for so long ? This was a cute friend’s to lovers romance. I enjoyed their banter and I liked reading this book.
This story is about a guy named Riley Stewart. Instead of his winter wonderland wedding ❄️❄️ he gets jilted. The rodeo champ needs an understanding shoulder so he invites his best friend Lucy Snyder and her young son and their little pooch on his “honeymoon”.
However moonlit doggy walks, romantic fires 🔥 and the glow of Christmas lights everything is conspiring against their “just friends” resolve. Will the fake honeymoon ignite the real spark Riley and Lucy have denied for so long ? This was a cute friend’s to lovers romance. I enjoyed their banter and I liked reading this book.
July 4, 2024
The Cowboy's Christmas Retreat by Catherine Mann is a good, and enjoyable single mom snowbound friends to lovers cowboy holiday romance read. The story has a good entertaining world building story line with an easy to read story line. The characters are good, wonderful, realistic, witty, and they have good chemistry. This story is an entertaining holiday romance read with a happily ever after ending. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 14, 2021
Read if you like:
Friends to lovers
Close proximity
Christmas romance
Grab your cup of hot chocolate and your favorite cozy blanket! Be sure to add this book to your holiday reading list! It’s a feel good romance with a lot of emotion packed in. Picture a snowy Christmas cabin in the woods and all the cute holiday activities to go along with it! Christmas magic, heartfelt moments, and some sexiness too!
Friends to lovers
Close proximity
Christmas romance
Grab your cup of hot chocolate and your favorite cozy blanket! Be sure to add this book to your holiday reading list! It’s a feel good romance with a lot of emotion packed in. Picture a snowy Christmas cabin in the woods and all the cute holiday activities to go along with it! Christmas magic, heartfelt moments, and some sexiness too!
July 12, 2024
This is book two in the "Top Dog Dude Ranch" series but stands alone. This is a heartwarming holiday story. It is a sweet romance about Riley and Lucy, who have been best friends since they were nine. Lucy found out her husband was cheating on her while she was giving birth to their son. Riley's wedding has just been called off. With a honeymoon trip already paid for he decides to invite Lucy and her son to join him on the trip. Such a good story!
June 29, 2024
Great friends to lovers story. Riley and Lucy were best friends when they are finally both single at the same time, they explore what could be between them. A little drama from their exes, but mainly them remembering their friendship and how it had evolved over the years. Sweet with a little steam.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 30, 2024
This is a well written second chance romance with strong characters in Riley and Lucy. The author takes you into their lives as they struggle with their feelings for each other. She brings all the feels and delivers a sweet holiday read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.
July 15, 2024
Second chance for love to the school sweetheart.
She is resent divorce and he wants to settle down. Will time be good for them this time or maybe they need little help from Pickles, the dog?
Very sweet and entertaining read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
She is resent divorce and he wants to settle down. Will time be good for them this time or maybe they need little help from Pickles, the dog?
Very sweet and entertaining read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 25, 2022
I didn't really care for the book and couldn't get into it. I would have just withdrawn rather than leave a low review, but Booksprout punishes me for doing withdrawals.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 29, 2022
A charming look at heartache. Catherine Mann finds humor in moments of vulnerability. Riley and Lucy bring hope and heart in the most endearing of ways. From heartache to heartwarming, The Cowboys Christmas Retreat is a delightfully honest snapshot of love.
January 9, 2023
what a great read - jilted and trying to forgive and forget - maybe just a little help from a friend will make everything way better than he ever thought! Catherine has written another great book in this series!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 19, 2023
Cowboy's Christmas Retreat was a treat of a read. Christmas time, an adorable pup and a lovely couple, all elements of a great book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews