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The Murphys of Meadow Valley #1
Holding Out for a Cowboy
A brand-new sweet and steamy contemporary cowboy romance series from USA Today bestselling author A.J. Pine. Holding out for a Cowboy features:
Second chances at success―and at love.
Childhood sweethearts who broke each other's hearts and are now determined to be friends. Not so easy.
Finding out how to do whatever it takes to live the life you want.
Casey Walsh and Boone Murphy had a bright future together until tragedy tore them apart. Now, more than a decade later, the beauty school dropout runs Meadow Valley's family tavern and steers clear of the boy who once stole her heart―no small feat in such a small town. When Casey's car breaks down on the way to an important interview, she's rescued by none other than Boone himself―on what was supposed to be his wedding day...
Boone Murphy was finally going to put Meadow Valley in his rearview mirror, even if that meant selling his business and leaving his family's horse ranch behind. It also meant leaving Casey Walsh. Except when it came time to say "goodbye" to his hometown and "I do" to his new life, he couldn't do it. Now he's back home and his only dream is winning back the girl he's always loved...
Praise for A.J. Pine:
"A fabulous storyteller who will keep you turning pages."―CAROLYN BROWN, New York Times bestselling author, for Second Chance Cowboy
"Cross my heart, this sexy, sweet romance gives...readers a fantastic ride."―JENNIFER RYAN, New York Times bestselling author, for Second Chance Cowboy
"Sweet and engrossing."―Publishers Weekly for Tough Luck Cowboy
Second chances at success―and at love.
Childhood sweethearts who broke each other's hearts and are now determined to be friends. Not so easy.
Finding out how to do whatever it takes to live the life you want.
Casey Walsh and Boone Murphy had a bright future together until tragedy tore them apart. Now, more than a decade later, the beauty school dropout runs Meadow Valley's family tavern and steers clear of the boy who once stole her heart―no small feat in such a small town. When Casey's car breaks down on the way to an important interview, she's rescued by none other than Boone himself―on what was supposed to be his wedding day...
Boone Murphy was finally going to put Meadow Valley in his rearview mirror, even if that meant selling his business and leaving his family's horse ranch behind. It also meant leaving Casey Walsh. Except when it came time to say "goodbye" to his hometown and "I do" to his new life, he couldn't do it. Now he's back home and his only dream is winning back the girl he's always loved...
Praise for A.J. Pine:
"A fabulous storyteller who will keep you turning pages."―CAROLYN BROWN, New York Times bestselling author, for Second Chance Cowboy
"Cross my heart, this sexy, sweet romance gives...readers a fantastic ride."―JENNIFER RYAN, New York Times bestselling author, for Second Chance Cowboy
"Sweet and engrossing."―Publishers Weekly for Tough Luck Cowboy
360 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 29, 2022
45 people are currently reading
3119 people want to read
About the author
A.J. Pine
29 books888 followersA teen librarian by day and a romance writer by night, A.J. Pine can’t seem to escape the world of fiction, and she wouldn’t have it any other way. She’s the author of the If Only series (Entangled Embrace), the Only You series (Berkley/Intermix), the Kingston Ale House series (Entangled Select), and the Crossroads Ranch series (Forever Romance). When she finds that 25th hour in the day, she might indulge in a tiny bit of TV where she nourishes her undying love of vampires, superheroes, and a certain high-functioning sociopath detective. She hails from the far off galaxy of the Chicago suburbs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
December 5, 2022
This is a Steamy Second Chance Cowboy Romance, and this is the first book in The Murphys of Meadow Valley series. I found the beginning of this book to be slow moving, and it took me a little bit to get into this story. Once, I was pulled into this story I loved every minute I spent with these characters. I really loved those characters. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Sourcebooks Casablanca) or author (A.J. Pine) via NetGalley, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
November 17, 2022
I'll always read a contemporary romance if a cowboy is on the cover ;-) They're my kryptonite. And this cowboy was such an awesome character. I adored Boone. He was such a real and believable character with a big heart. I appreciated that the author chose to write a character who suffered from a learning disability and had some mental health issues as well. She didn't brush it off, but instead slowly revealed his issues and his coping mechanisms. He was even still going to therapy! I saw that as such a huge strength and not at all a weakness.
The reason why I can't rate this book higher is because I really disliked Casey. Her whole deal with wanting to not discuss the past and instead move forward was obviously not going to work given all the baggage and resentment she still held deep down towards Boone. A simple conversation could have eliminated this resentment. It's not until the end of the book that she gives him an opportunity to explain things from 12 years ago when they were just teens. By that point, I was over her. The one thing I did like about her was her dedication to her family. Her family really was sweet and I appreciated that she didn't want to burden them with her money concerns.
The ending was cute. I loved their big gestures to each other as well, although Boone's still came out on top.
The book did drag in spots (I seem to write that often with this author). But it wasn't so bad that I didn't finish the book in a few days.
The heat and spice is pretty low, a level 1 of 5 since it's all fade to black. It's a bit disappointing, but I should have expected that since I've read this author before.
I previously read the Meadow Valley series, so some of the side characters were familiar and that helped me keep track of who was who. But some may have trouble with the other characters who make an appearance since there are a lot and not many details are given about them.
The reason why I can't rate this book higher is because I really disliked Casey. Her whole deal with wanting to not discuss the past and instead move forward was obviously not going to work given all the baggage and resentment she still held deep down towards Boone. A simple conversation could have eliminated this resentment. It's not until the end of the book that she gives him an opportunity to explain things from 12 years ago when they were just teens. By that point, I was over her. The one thing I did like about her was her dedication to her family. Her family really was sweet and I appreciated that she didn't want to burden them with her money concerns.
The ending was cute. I loved their big gestures to each other as well, although Boone's still came out on top.
The book did drag in spots (I seem to write that often with this author). But it wasn't so bad that I didn't finish the book in a few days.
The heat and spice is pretty low, a level 1 of 5 since it's all fade to black. It's a bit disappointing, but I should have expected that since I've read this author before.
I previously read the Meadow Valley series, so some of the side characters were familiar and that helped me keep track of who was who. But some may have trouble with the other characters who make an appearance since there are a lot and not many details are given about them.
October 18, 2022
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A pleasant read, “Holding Out for a Cowboy”, by A.J. Pine (Sourcebooks Casablanca), centers around a couple reuniting after 12 years apart and features a different kind of hero, really struggling with some issues.
I liked the second-chance trope and how the leads still had trust and hope after all the years apart and misunderstandings.
Boone was hurting so much sometimes, I ached for him.
I was really curious about his issues and guessed what they were from the hints the character kept delivering. I liked the author’s strategy of gradually revealing the problems, showing them, before identifying the diagnosis.
I appreciated the role those same issues played in the story and how the wounded hero went through therapy (is still attending, as a matter of fact) and got his HEA despite all the problems and obstacles.
There are a lot of side characters and I had a bit of trouble keeping up with them all.
I struggled with the dialogue and how the characters tended to talk extensively about everything, their feelings and experiences, mostly, even the most puerile things. I felt it was too much.
I also was not a fan of Casey, an example of the mentioned above. Perhaps it’s a sign of youth but her reactions were too irrational and emotional sometimes for me to connect with. So when she and her friend Ivy were talking I had a hard time staying interested in what they were saying. But other readers might enjoy it.
A pleasant read, “Holding Out for a Cowboy”, by A.J. Pine (Sourcebooks Casablanca), centers around a couple reuniting after 12 years apart and features a different kind of hero, really struggling with some issues.
I liked the second-chance trope and how the leads still had trust and hope after all the years apart and misunderstandings.
Boone was hurting so much sometimes, I ached for him.
I was really curious about his issues and guessed what they were from the hints the character kept delivering. I liked the author’s strategy of gradually revealing the problems, showing them, before identifying the diagnosis.
I appreciated the role those same issues played in the story and how the wounded hero went through therapy (is still attending, as a matter of fact) and got his HEA despite all the problems and obstacles.
There are a lot of side characters and I had a bit of trouble keeping up with them all.
I struggled with the dialogue and how the characters tended to talk extensively about everything, their feelings and experiences, mostly, even the most puerile things. I felt it was too much.
I also was not a fan of Casey, an example of the mentioned above. Perhaps it’s a sign of youth but her reactions were too irrational and emotional sometimes for me to connect with. So when she and her friend Ivy were talking I had a hard time staying interested in what they were saying. But other readers might enjoy it.
February 25, 2023
I won this at a Goodreads Giveaway!
Honestly I feel MISLED. Not trying to be a pervert but I thought this was supposed to be steamy. Psssh I've seen steamier.
This book is so sweet and easy to read. It's a little slow in the beginning but it picks up. The ending is crazy fast.
Unfortunately, some of the flirting was too cringe for me and knocked me out of the moment, but you do get a very wholesome romance just as advertised. Besides the main romance arc (no spoilers there), nearly every other person in a town is also in a super cute lovey-dovey relationship. Both the main character's parents' relationship and the BFF's relationship could not be more wholesome.
Honestly I feel MISLED. Not trying to be a pervert but I thought this was supposed to be steamy. Psssh I've seen steamier.
This book is so sweet and easy to read. It's a little slow in the beginning but it picks up. The ending is crazy fast.
Unfortunately, some of the flirting was too cringe for me and knocked me out of the moment, but you do get a very wholesome romance just as advertised. Besides the main romance arc (no spoilers there), nearly every other person in a town is also in a super cute lovey-dovey relationship. Both the main character's parents' relationship and the BFF's relationship could not be more wholesome.
November 5, 2022
AJ Pine does really good cowboys. I read this book in a cozy afternoon at home and was just hooked by Casey and Boone's story. I liked how their second chance backstory unfolded with scattered flashbacks and hints. I LOVE getting more from Meadow Valley. I didn't expect it when I picked up this book, but all of those characters we already know are still around and getting to see them was so much fun. This is easy, but has a little bit of depth. It was steamy and fast and such a good read.
December 29, 2022
HOLDING OUT FOR A COWBOY (The Murphys of Meadow Valley 1) by AJ Pine
3.75stars
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 29, 2022
Second chances at success―and at love.
Childhood sweethearts who broke each other's hearts and are now determined to be friends. Not so easy.
Finding out how to do whatever it takes to live the life you want.
Casey Walsh and Boone Murphy had a bright future together until tragedy tore them apart. Now, more than a decade later, the beauty school dropout runs Meadow Valley's family tavern and steers clear of the boy who once stole her heart―no small feat in such a small town. When Casey's car breaks down on the way to an important interview, she's rescued by none other than Boone himself―on what was supposed to be his wedding day...
Boone Murphy was finally going to put Meadow Valley in his rearview mirror, even if that meant selling his business and leaving his family's horse ranch behind. It also meant leaving Casey Walsh. Except when it came time to say "goodbye" to his hometown and "I do" to his new life, he couldn't do it. Now he's back home and his only dream is winning back the girl he's always loved...
•••••
REVIEW: 3.75stars—HOLDING OUT FOR A COWBOY is the first instalment in AJ Pine’s contemporary adult THE MURPHYS OF MEADOW VALLEY romance series-a spin off from the author’s Meadow Valley series. This is thirty year olds, rancher/mechanic Boone Murphy, and Casey Walsh’s second chance story line.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Casey and Boone) HOLDING OUR FOR A COWBOY follows the rekindling romance and relationship between former childhood sweethearts turned lovers turned enemies Casey Walsh and Boone Murphy. Approximately twelve years earlier Casey Walsh and Boone Murphy’s lives imploded pulling apart our story line couple. Fast forward to present day wherein Boone Murphy, having waited his entire life to rekindle what was, forged a new path towards a future, a future he knew wasn’t for him. An accident, an stranded motorist, and a flash back to the past finds Boone facing the woman he still loved, the woman who never knew the truth about what happened or why. Hoping to rekindle their love, Boone begins a slow seduction of our story line heroine, a woman who continues to move forward, refusing to look back. What ensues is the rebuilding romance and relationship between Boone and Casey, and the potential fall-out as Boone and Casey continue to struggle with what as and what will never be.
Boone Murphy has some issues of mental health that often affect his day to day life but a required regimen and therapy aids in our hero’s fight towards gaining control but sometimes life throws Boone a curve and a hook, and Boone struggles to keep moving forward. Casey Walsh refuses to dwell on the past, so much so, she is unable to talk about what happened or why. With her head buried in the proverbial sand, Casey keeps her eye on the prize, often forgetting their was more than herself affected by the heart ache and pain.
The relationship between Casey and Boone is one of second chances; a rekindling romance and relationship destroy by by secrets, misunderstanding, grief and loss. Working together towards of new future, Casey continues to have issues of trust, especially as it pertains to the man she once loved. The limited and low heat level $ex scenes are passionate.
The secondary and supporting characters include many of whom we met in the original MEADOW VALLEY series including Casey’s best friend Ivy and Carter (Cowboy to the Rescue ), Delaney and Sam (My One and Only Cowboy ), Charlotte and Ben (Make Mine a Cowboy), Jenna and Colt (Only a Cowboy Will Do), as well as Casey’s parents, Boone’s brother Eli; Boone’s ex Elizabeth.
HOLDING OUT FOR A COWBOY is a story of love and loss, grief and misunderstanding, second chances and fate. A ‘Gift of the Magi’ kind of scenario where each will sacrifice for the person they love. The premise is engaging and captivating; the romance is seductive; the characters are broken yet determined-the heroine’s inability to address the past is the cause of the most of the story line conflict.
www.thereadingcafe.com
3.75stars
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 29, 2022
Second chances at success―and at love.
Childhood sweethearts who broke each other's hearts and are now determined to be friends. Not so easy.
Finding out how to do whatever it takes to live the life you want.
Casey Walsh and Boone Murphy had a bright future together until tragedy tore them apart. Now, more than a decade later, the beauty school dropout runs Meadow Valley's family tavern and steers clear of the boy who once stole her heart―no small feat in such a small town. When Casey's car breaks down on the way to an important interview, she's rescued by none other than Boone himself―on what was supposed to be his wedding day...
Boone Murphy was finally going to put Meadow Valley in his rearview mirror, even if that meant selling his business and leaving his family's horse ranch behind. It also meant leaving Casey Walsh. Except when it came time to say "goodbye" to his hometown and "I do" to his new life, he couldn't do it. Now he's back home and his only dream is winning back the girl he's always loved...
•••••
REVIEW: 3.75stars—HOLDING OUT FOR A COWBOY is the first instalment in AJ Pine’s contemporary adult THE MURPHYS OF MEADOW VALLEY romance series-a spin off from the author’s Meadow Valley series. This is thirty year olds, rancher/mechanic Boone Murphy, and Casey Walsh’s second chance story line.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Casey and Boone) HOLDING OUR FOR A COWBOY follows the rekindling romance and relationship between former childhood sweethearts turned lovers turned enemies Casey Walsh and Boone Murphy. Approximately twelve years earlier Casey Walsh and Boone Murphy’s lives imploded pulling apart our story line couple. Fast forward to present day wherein Boone Murphy, having waited his entire life to rekindle what was, forged a new path towards a future, a future he knew wasn’t for him. An accident, an stranded motorist, and a flash back to the past finds Boone facing the woman he still loved, the woman who never knew the truth about what happened or why. Hoping to rekindle their love, Boone begins a slow seduction of our story line heroine, a woman who continues to move forward, refusing to look back. What ensues is the rebuilding romance and relationship between Boone and Casey, and the potential fall-out as Boone and Casey continue to struggle with what as and what will never be.
Boone Murphy has some issues of mental health that often affect his day to day life but a required regimen and therapy aids in our hero’s fight towards gaining control but sometimes life throws Boone a curve and a hook, and Boone struggles to keep moving forward. Casey Walsh refuses to dwell on the past, so much so, she is unable to talk about what happened or why. With her head buried in the proverbial sand, Casey keeps her eye on the prize, often forgetting their was more than herself affected by the heart ache and pain.
The relationship between Casey and Boone is one of second chances; a rekindling romance and relationship destroy by by secrets, misunderstanding, grief and loss. Working together towards of new future, Casey continues to have issues of trust, especially as it pertains to the man she once loved. The limited and low heat level $ex scenes are passionate.
The secondary and supporting characters include many of whom we met in the original MEADOW VALLEY series including Casey’s best friend Ivy and Carter (Cowboy to the Rescue ), Delaney and Sam (My One and Only Cowboy ), Charlotte and Ben (Make Mine a Cowboy), Jenna and Colt (Only a Cowboy Will Do), as well as Casey’s parents, Boone’s brother Eli; Boone’s ex Elizabeth.
HOLDING OUT FOR A COWBOY is a story of love and loss, grief and misunderstanding, second chances and fate. A ‘Gift of the Magi’ kind of scenario where each will sacrifice for the person they love. The premise is engaging and captivating; the romance is seductive; the characters are broken yet determined-the heroine’s inability to address the past is the cause of the most of the story line conflict.
www.thereadingcafe.com
February 6, 2023
I really enjoyed this second chance romance from A.J. Pine!
Casey and Boone were high school sweethearts, but haven't really spoken much in years. Now, with big changes happening in both their lives their paths keep crossing and they reconnect. I thought they had great chemistry and banter, and it was easy to see their feelings for one another never really died. Their relationship development was nicely paced as they had to get to know each other again as adults. They each had some nice growth individually as the story progressed, too.
It was nice to see some familiar characters from A.J.'s past books and she set up a few others as potential less characters for this series. I cannot wait to read the next book!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC for an honest review.
Casey and Boone were high school sweethearts, but haven't really spoken much in years. Now, with big changes happening in both their lives their paths keep crossing and they reconnect. I thought they had great chemistry and banter, and it was easy to see their feelings for one another never really died. Their relationship development was nicely paced as they had to get to know each other again as adults. They each had some nice growth individually as the story progressed, too.
It was nice to see some familiar characters from A.J.'s past books and she set up a few others as potential less characters for this series. I cannot wait to read the next book!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC for an honest review.
November 29, 2022
Will Casey and Boone get a second chance? To do so, they have a lot to unpack. The book opens on his wedding day, and he is moving on, or has he? He plans to leave Meadow Valley behind. Casey is having a day, she overslept on her big interview day, and it goes downhill from there.
To top it off, they keep running into one another, but there was an event and consequences that broke them up, twelve years ago. There is chemistry, what about trust? Both still have tender hearts, will they break them or heal them.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
To top it off, they keep running into one another, but there was an event and consequences that broke them up, twelve years ago. There is chemistry, what about trust? Both still have tender hearts, will they break them or heal them.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
January 1, 2023
I received a complimentary copy of Holding Out for Cowboy in exchange for an honest review. This was easily read as a standalone romance, and was a quick and easy road. Casey and Boone had a lot of unresolved issues to deal with from their past, but when fate had them meet in an untraditional way, the chemistry and feelings were still there. It was a fun read watching them work through their issues to find their happily ever after.
February 14, 2023
AJ Pine is a wonderful writer and I enjoyed this book. A great story to read on a cold winter day with the ultimate happy ending. I almost thought it was going to have an O. Henry gift of the Magi ending but not quite. A fun romance story.
October 2, 2022
Thank you SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca and Netgalley for this arc in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
CAN I JUST SAY ALL THE SECOND CHANCE ROMANCE ARCS I’VE BEEN GETTING THIS TIME ARE AMAZING AND EVERYTHING I NEEDED?!
Wow, this book. First, I love small town romances. Second, cowboys, ranchers, yum. Third, former HS sweethearts angst and everything. Fourth. Second chance romance. Yes.
It was such a rollercoaster reading about Casey and Boone’s healing process, their reconciliation. They were both GOOD adults who had learned from the past. Their relationships with their families and friends, with each other.
Boone and his struggle of ADHD, dyslexia and anxiety. I loved him so much.
Casey and her own struggle, how she owned up to her mistakes.
This book, ah!!! All the feels!
Cryfest: 9/10
Holding Out For A Cowboy comes out on 29 November 2022, DON’T MISS IT!
CAN I JUST SAY ALL THE SECOND CHANCE ROMANCE ARCS I’VE BEEN GETTING THIS TIME ARE AMAZING AND EVERYTHING I NEEDED?!
Wow, this book. First, I love small town romances. Second, cowboys, ranchers, yum. Third, former HS sweethearts angst and everything. Fourth. Second chance romance. Yes.
It was such a rollercoaster reading about Casey and Boone’s healing process, their reconciliation. They were both GOOD adults who had learned from the past. Their relationships with their families and friends, with each other.
Boone and his struggle of ADHD, dyslexia and anxiety. I loved him so much.
Casey and her own struggle, how she owned up to her mistakes.
This book, ah!!! All the feels!
Cryfest: 9/10
Holding Out For A Cowboy comes out on 29 November 2022, DON’T MISS IT!
March 24, 2023
Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance
Holding Out for a Cowboy begins The Murphys of Meadow Valley series with a rocky romance that gets a second chance to fix the mistakes of the past… if they can, and that ultimate decision lies in the hands and heart of one woman who was so wounded by Boone’s actions a decade ago that she may never forgive a man who still loves her.
I was firmly in Boone’s corner in this story, and I’ll admit that I never warmed up to Casey at all. Small-town living means that your romantic mistakes are never far from sight, something that both Casey and Boone know quite well. A decade ago, they were a couple in love, planning a future until it all fell apart. Now, Boone was determined to leave Meadow Valley and start his life somewhere else… but he couldn’t do it, couldn’t live a lie for the rest of his days. The simple fact was that he still loved Casey, and if there was any way to mend their fences then he was going to do just that. Unfortunately, that was easier said than done.
While I couldn’t like Casey, I did fall for Boone. Each reader will see this couple differently, but it’s difficult for me to hope for a happy ending when I dislike the actions of one member of the romantic couple. However, what I enjoyed most about their story was Boone’s issues, how they were slowly introduced into the story, how he handled himself, and how he found his coping mechanisms through therapy (and was still in therapy). Any type of mental health issue that is realistically addressed in a fictional story will grab my attention because it’s something that is so often overlooked in the romance genre. No one is perfect, and sometimes the mental issues do not lie with the ultimate villain… they exist for the hero (or the heroine), and I enjoyed the realism of Boone’s journey thus far.
My reasons for enjoying this story might be different from yours, but I would encourage you to pick up Boone and Casey’s story for several reasons. It begins a new series with ties to the Meadow Valley series, and we’ll see some familiar faces here (if you’ve read that series). We’re introduced to some characters that I really want to know more about; hopefully, they’ll get their stories told one day. And lastly, I’ll always love a story that gives me a realistic character, one that I can believe is experiencing everything I’m reading about. I might have been firmly in Boone’s corner, but his story is a good one.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are my own – good, bad, or indifferent.*
Holding Out for a Cowboy begins The Murphys of Meadow Valley series with a rocky romance that gets a second chance to fix the mistakes of the past… if they can, and that ultimate decision lies in the hands and heart of one woman who was so wounded by Boone’s actions a decade ago that she may never forgive a man who still loves her.
I was firmly in Boone’s corner in this story, and I’ll admit that I never warmed up to Casey at all. Small-town living means that your romantic mistakes are never far from sight, something that both Casey and Boone know quite well. A decade ago, they were a couple in love, planning a future until it all fell apart. Now, Boone was determined to leave Meadow Valley and start his life somewhere else… but he couldn’t do it, couldn’t live a lie for the rest of his days. The simple fact was that he still loved Casey, and if there was any way to mend their fences then he was going to do just that. Unfortunately, that was easier said than done.
While I couldn’t like Casey, I did fall for Boone. Each reader will see this couple differently, but it’s difficult for me to hope for a happy ending when I dislike the actions of one member of the romantic couple. However, what I enjoyed most about their story was Boone’s issues, how they were slowly introduced into the story, how he handled himself, and how he found his coping mechanisms through therapy (and was still in therapy). Any type of mental health issue that is realistically addressed in a fictional story will grab my attention because it’s something that is so often overlooked in the romance genre. No one is perfect, and sometimes the mental issues do not lie with the ultimate villain… they exist for the hero (or the heroine), and I enjoyed the realism of Boone’s journey thus far.
My reasons for enjoying this story might be different from yours, but I would encourage you to pick up Boone and Casey’s story for several reasons. It begins a new series with ties to the Meadow Valley series, and we’ll see some familiar faces here (if you’ve read that series). We’re introduced to some characters that I really want to know more about; hopefully, they’ll get their stories told one day. And lastly, I’ll always love a story that gives me a realistic character, one that I can believe is experiencing everything I’m reading about. I might have been firmly in Boone’s corner, but his story is a good one.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are my own – good, bad, or indifferent.*
October 2, 2022
Holding Out for a Cowboy is a sweet, mature (and I mean emotionally mature!) romance with the best small-town vibes. This was a very different read for me as I tend not to gravitate toward romances that don't have those colourful contemporary covers (you know... Emily Henry style). Needless to say, I was previously unfamiliar with A.J. Pine and her works. But I am a sucker for a rugged lead... and a Hallmark movie-type setting.
THE GOOD
- Lovely, efficient, and healthy communication between our two leads. Exes-to-lovers is a tough trope to handle with maturity because there is often loads of past trauma to deal with. It did take them a while to re-hash their past, but it was not glossed over (as some romances do...).
- A man in cowboy boots. What else do I really have to say about that?
- Turns out, I do have more to say about that -- adding on to my last point, a man in cowboy boots with mental health issues that are explored, who is actively bettering himself and going to therapy. Therapy = a very very attractive trait. Also, he's a biker. And is completely head-over-heels for Casey.
- Casey's dad. What a lovely character. His jokes were some of the only ones that made me smile. The relationship between Casey's parents was so sweet and I'm glad it was explored.
THE NOT-SO-GOOD
- Some comments made me physically cringe -- notably Casey's victory dance (was dabbing/flossing really necessary in 2022? haha), the Netflix and chill line, and Ivy using the "sister from another mister" line. Not my favourite and honestly a big reason I didn't rate this higher.
- The sexual jokes (not even romantic, just inappropriate given the situations? in public and around friends?) between some of the couples, like Carter and Ivy in the shop, and Delaney and Sam at the ranch. We didn't know those characters very well either, which made the comments uncomfortable.
- The book overall felt a bit longer than it needed to be. Dragged at parts.
- This is described as a "steamy" romance and I will say... it didn't deliver on that claim. Still a lovely relationship, though! It's a partial fade-to-black for those scenes.
OVERALL
3.5 stars! Sweet and charming. Nothing that would place it above and beyond other romances, but enjoyable and mature nonetheless!
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC! This was in exchange for an honest and critical review.
THE GOOD
- Lovely, efficient, and healthy communication between our two leads. Exes-to-lovers is a tough trope to handle with maturity because there is often loads of past trauma to deal with. It did take them a while to re-hash their past, but it was not glossed over (as some romances do...).
- A man in cowboy boots. What else do I really have to say about that?
- Turns out, I do have more to say about that -- adding on to my last point, a man in cowboy boots with mental health issues that are explored, who is actively bettering himself and going to therapy. Therapy = a very very attractive trait. Also, he's a biker. And is completely head-over-heels for Casey.
- Casey's dad. What a lovely character. His jokes were some of the only ones that made me smile. The relationship between Casey's parents was so sweet and I'm glad it was explored.
THE NOT-SO-GOOD
- Some comments made me physically cringe -- notably Casey's victory dance (was dabbing/flossing really necessary in 2022? haha), the Netflix and chill line, and Ivy using the "sister from another mister" line. Not my favourite and honestly a big reason I didn't rate this higher.
- The sexual jokes (not even romantic, just inappropriate given the situations? in public and around friends?) between some of the couples, like Carter and Ivy in the shop, and Delaney and Sam at the ranch. We didn't know those characters very well either, which made the comments uncomfortable.
- The book overall felt a bit longer than it needed to be. Dragged at parts.
- This is described as a "steamy" romance and I will say... it didn't deliver on that claim. Still a lovely relationship, though! It's a partial fade-to-black for those scenes.
OVERALL
3.5 stars! Sweet and charming. Nothing that would place it above and beyond other romances, but enjoyable and mature nonetheless!
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC! This was in exchange for an honest and critical review.
October 2, 2022
Casey and Boone were high school sweethearts but that was years ago and they have both moved on with their lives. But when Boone picks up Casey on the side of the road when her car breaks down on what was supposed to be his wedding day they both have to wonder just how far they truly have move on from what they once shared. Their dreams may been paused, Casey does not have her own salon and Boone's mechanic shop is no longer his, but that doesn't meant that they have lost sight of what they want. Getting it, despite past mistakes, is the challenge.
I have a tendency to grab anything Pine writes. Her books may be hit or miss for me but her writing always goes down so easily, I loved that Boone was so open about being in therapy and his struggles with anxiety, dyslexia, and ADHD. He prioritizes his mental health and does what he needs to do, from setting alarms for himself to taking up knitting. His work with Cirrus was another highlight of the book for me, A hot man earning the trust of a hurting animal will make me swoon any time.
I found Casey and Boone's history confusing at times. The full story of their past relationship and its demise is told in pieces throughout the story. When they start seeing each other again Casey nonsensically insists that they do not discuss their past. Things get brought up, like Casey assuming that Boone cheated that never get death with, They were kids who went through something hard but by the time we get what is apparently the whole story, it felt off. The current day tension also didn't feel well fleshed out. Over reacting and a lack of communication does not create compelling tension. I love the characters and so many element of this book but the story never came together for me. I am ready for Eli's book though. A tortured veterinarian? Sign me up.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I have a tendency to grab anything Pine writes. Her books may be hit or miss for me but her writing always goes down so easily, I loved that Boone was so open about being in therapy and his struggles with anxiety, dyslexia, and ADHD. He prioritizes his mental health and does what he needs to do, from setting alarms for himself to taking up knitting. His work with Cirrus was another highlight of the book for me, A hot man earning the trust of a hurting animal will make me swoon any time.
I found Casey and Boone's history confusing at times. The full story of their past relationship and its demise is told in pieces throughout the story. When they start seeing each other again Casey nonsensically insists that they do not discuss their past. Things get brought up, like Casey assuming that Boone cheated that never get death with, They were kids who went through something hard but by the time we get what is apparently the whole story, it felt off. The current day tension also didn't feel well fleshed out. Over reacting and a lack of communication does not create compelling tension. I love the characters and so many element of this book but the story never came together for me. I am ready for Eli's book though. A tortured veterinarian? Sign me up.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 3, 2022
I received this ARC from Netgalley and it has been an absolute pleasure reading this. It is my first Cowboy romance novel. I was sceptic at first, but I really enjoyed it.
Boone Murphy is about to get married! But he still has feelings for his old flame Casey Walsh. They both grew up in Meadow Valley and were high school sweethearts. They were madly in love, but tragedy made them separate from another.
Now that he is about to get married he realizes that he can not get her out of his head. It seems that his fiancée also feels he is not the one. So, they both make the decision to end it.
When Boone goes back to Meadow Valley, he notices a damsel in distress on the side of the road. But this damsel is Casey Walsh. Casey was on her way to have her interview, but her car broke down. She is happy when someone is there to help her, but she can’t believe it is Boone.
Boone returns to the ranch of his brother, as he lost his old car repair shop which is legally under his ex-fiancées name. Casey has no intention to get familiar again with Boone. But fate has other plans for them. They bump into each other more than they expect to. And it seems that the flame between them is still burning. But are they able to leave their past behind and give it a second chance?
It was a beautiful story. There were moments where I really got emotional. I love that the author used topics that are nowadays taboo. Such as learning disorders, mental health, miscarriages, etc. I was really impressed by this. It just made the story more real instead of a fairytale. And Boone made me swoon for him a thousand times. Here is a man who made mistakes in the past but owns those mistakes and worked on them. The only thing I thought a bit of a bummer, was that there were no intimate scenes. The author does write about the moment when they are getting into it but then the chapter ends suddenly. It was a bit disappointing as those scenes would show us the connection between the two characters.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Boone Murphy is about to get married! But he still has feelings for his old flame Casey Walsh. They both grew up in Meadow Valley and were high school sweethearts. They were madly in love, but tragedy made them separate from another.
Now that he is about to get married he realizes that he can not get her out of his head. It seems that his fiancée also feels he is not the one. So, they both make the decision to end it.
When Boone goes back to Meadow Valley, he notices a damsel in distress on the side of the road. But this damsel is Casey Walsh. Casey was on her way to have her interview, but her car broke down. She is happy when someone is there to help her, but she can’t believe it is Boone.
Boone returns to the ranch of his brother, as he lost his old car repair shop which is legally under his ex-fiancées name. Casey has no intention to get familiar again with Boone. But fate has other plans for them. They bump into each other more than they expect to. And it seems that the flame between them is still burning. But are they able to leave their past behind and give it a second chance?
It was a beautiful story. There were moments where I really got emotional. I love that the author used topics that are nowadays taboo. Such as learning disorders, mental health, miscarriages, etc. I was really impressed by this. It just made the story more real instead of a fairytale. And Boone made me swoon for him a thousand times. Here is a man who made mistakes in the past but owns those mistakes and worked on them. The only thing I thought a bit of a bummer, was that there were no intimate scenes. The author does write about the moment when they are getting into it but then the chapter ends suddenly. It was a bit disappointing as those scenes would show us the connection between the two characters.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
November 30, 2022
Holding Out for A Cowboy By AJ Pine was an interesting second chance romance, more serious than many. Boone Walsh had loved Casey Walsh once and then things went tremendously wrong. That was twelve years ago. He’d grown up since then, gotten help for his problems, both therapy and medication. Now he was to be married. Elizabeth was a realtor. She’d sold his garage for him and after the wedding they were off to Los Angeles where great things awaited them. The closer (today) the wedding got, the more Boone wasn’t sure. They called it off, both of them, almost at the altar. They both know it wasn’t right. But what was he going to do now? His garage was gone. The only thing he’d ever been good at. He got a job at a ranch and they let him use of one of outbuildings as a garage. Then one night he saw a car in a ditch. He recognized it: Casey Walsh driving her death trap of a car. It probably hadn’t been worked on since her rebuild it 12 years ago. After that meeting she through maybe thaey could be friends.
This a terrific story about two people growing up. Eighteen is so very young. Most people have learned so much by 30, including communication skills. Most broken relationships are based on lack of communication and this was not different, that, and immaturity. Both of them had matured and could now function, Boone, especially, with aides, but he was smart enough to use them. Casey had a goal; sadly the goal posts has changed in the last twelve years so she had to adjust. She did. Boone now saw the benefit of working together. They were a terrific pair, and even their current journey was one worth participating in. It all worked out, but they will probably have problems to deal with in the future. They now have the tools. It was fun.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Holding out for A Cowboy by Sourcebooks Casablanca, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions were mine. #Netgalley #SourcebooksCasablanca #AJPine #HoldingOutForACowboy
This a terrific story about two people growing up. Eighteen is so very young. Most people have learned so much by 30, including communication skills. Most broken relationships are based on lack of communication and this was not different, that, and immaturity. Both of them had matured and could now function, Boone, especially, with aides, but he was smart enough to use them. Casey had a goal; sadly the goal posts has changed in the last twelve years so she had to adjust. She did. Boone now saw the benefit of working together. They were a terrific pair, and even their current journey was one worth participating in. It all worked out, but they will probably have problems to deal with in the future. They now have the tools. It was fun.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Holding out for A Cowboy by Sourcebooks Casablanca, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions were mine. #Netgalley #SourcebooksCasablanca #AJPine #HoldingOutForACowboy
November 13, 2022
Boone Murphy captured my heart!
Boone Murphy and Casey Walsh have history! Twelve years ago, they were ready to start a life together. Tragedy split them apart. Both thought they had moved on, but as Boone is ready to walk down the aisle with another woman her realizes Casey is the only one for him. Casey has given up on her dreams for twelve years and is finally ready to reinvest in them. Fate puts them on the same road at the same time and Boone rescues Casey. As they have contact once again after over a decade, they recognize the chemistry they still have and decide to start again.
Boone captured my heart from the beginning, it ached for him. He has issues that were not diagnosed as a child and partially led to the breakup of his one true love. He is working on himself, through therapy and meds to get himself together. I loved him!!! He is what a true hero is, not perfect, but willing to be all he can be. Casey, while she had scolded Boone for being too impetuous and reckless, is herself, impulsive and even a bit hotheaded. I didn’t like her at the beginning, but she grew on me through their story and by the end, as she and her parents have a heart to heart, redeemed herself.
The flow of this story with the snippets of flashbacks to tell Boone and Casey’s past story was smooth and kept me turning the pages. The dialogue was natural and didn’t seem forced or awkward. I love the relationship Boone has with his older brother and would really like to see Eli have his own HEA. The townspeople are quirky and sincere and have each other’s best interest at heart. Since this is the first book of Ms. Pine’s I’ve read, and I realized many of the townspeople of Meadow Valley have stories of their own; I look forward to reading those as well! I received an arc of this book from NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
Boone Murphy and Casey Walsh have history! Twelve years ago, they were ready to start a life together. Tragedy split them apart. Both thought they had moved on, but as Boone is ready to walk down the aisle with another woman her realizes Casey is the only one for him. Casey has given up on her dreams for twelve years and is finally ready to reinvest in them. Fate puts them on the same road at the same time and Boone rescues Casey. As they have contact once again after over a decade, they recognize the chemistry they still have and decide to start again.
Boone captured my heart from the beginning, it ached for him. He has issues that were not diagnosed as a child and partially led to the breakup of his one true love. He is working on himself, through therapy and meds to get himself together. I loved him!!! He is what a true hero is, not perfect, but willing to be all he can be. Casey, while she had scolded Boone for being too impetuous and reckless, is herself, impulsive and even a bit hotheaded. I didn’t like her at the beginning, but she grew on me through their story and by the end, as she and her parents have a heart to heart, redeemed herself.
The flow of this story with the snippets of flashbacks to tell Boone and Casey’s past story was smooth and kept me turning the pages. The dialogue was natural and didn’t seem forced or awkward. I love the relationship Boone has with his older brother and would really like to see Eli have his own HEA. The townspeople are quirky and sincere and have each other’s best interest at heart. Since this is the first book of Ms. Pine’s I’ve read, and I realized many of the townspeople of Meadow Valley have stories of their own; I look forward to reading those as well! I received an arc of this book from NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
November 20, 2022
Casey and Boone’s story is a sweet, poignant and heartstring-tugging second chance at love romance. They have known each other since they were kids, fell in love and dreamed of a life together. But life and reality was nothing like their dreams. A tragic loss, poor decisions and and the inability to cope with grief and tumultuous emotions forced them apart. Fate or divine intervention bring them back together twelve years later. Boone is just about to make a big life change and leave his home town and the memories of his first love behind. At the last moment, he discovers he can’t wipe the past from his memory or his heart. Casey still owns his heart.
As for Casey, she is finally ready to resume the studies she had started all those years ago which will lead her out of her home town and eventually to a shop of her own. Boone broke her heart all those years ago, but she hasn’t been able to force him out of her heart and move on with anyone else either.. A couple of accidents bring them back into each other orbits, forcing them to see that the attraction, the chemistry and the love are still very much in force. They make a good start, but the past, the hurt and years spent apart, still lies between them, not sorted through, discussed or laid to rest. Their friends and family are all holding their breaths, hoping they are witnessing the beginning of a happily ever after, willing to offer advise and encouragement or even assistance in picking up the pieces if the worst shoul happen. Do Casey and Boone really trust each other not to break the other’s heart all over again? Will this second chance at love lead to a happily ever after or more heartbreak? You will need to read this fascinating and endearing book to find out for yourself.
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
As for Casey, she is finally ready to resume the studies she had started all those years ago which will lead her out of her home town and eventually to a shop of her own. Boone broke her heart all those years ago, but she hasn’t been able to force him out of her heart and move on with anyone else either.. A couple of accidents bring them back into each other orbits, forcing them to see that the attraction, the chemistry and the love are still very much in force. They make a good start, but the past, the hurt and years spent apart, still lies between them, not sorted through, discussed or laid to rest. Their friends and family are all holding their breaths, hoping they are witnessing the beginning of a happily ever after, willing to offer advise and encouragement or even assistance in picking up the pieces if the worst shoul happen. Do Casey and Boone really trust each other not to break the other’s heart all over again? Will this second chance at love lead to a happily ever after or more heartbreak? You will need to read this fascinating and endearing book to find out for yourself.
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
December 10, 2022
Casey Walsh and Boone Murphy found love once, but tragedy took it away, and it's haunted them everyday since. They've tried to find it with others, but it's never felt the same. They've avoided each other and longed for one another in the same day. They miss one another and what they had, but both are too stubborn to admit it, or willing to face the reasons that tore them apart. But they are about to bump into one another along a desolate road, where they have no option but to talk to one another... it's that first step they've needed to take, but been too chicken to do it. Now they have no choice...
Holding Out for a Cowboy brings us into the lives of two people who love each other far more than they'd care to admit out loud, mainly because admitting it would mean facing one another and their issues. These two are about as stubborn as they come, but along that desolate highway they take their first step towards resolution and the happily ever after they've longed to have. They just have some messy business and forgiveness to work on first... and that is the hard part. Neither wants to admit their wrongs or face the past that tore them apart, so it takes a little time to get to the good stuff... but the wait is totally worth it!
From beginning to end these two kept me captivated and hanging on their every word, I couldn't help but get wrapped up in their lives. They brought heat, emotion, and lots of heart to the pages... the perfect recipe for a happy heart! I loved this first offering in the The Murphys of Meadow Valley series, and I cannot wait to see where the pages of the next installment take us! This well penned western romance is certain to check all the right boxes with romance readers! Highly recommend!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
Holding Out for a Cowboy brings us into the lives of two people who love each other far more than they'd care to admit out loud, mainly because admitting it would mean facing one another and their issues. These two are about as stubborn as they come, but along that desolate highway they take their first step towards resolution and the happily ever after they've longed to have. They just have some messy business and forgiveness to work on first... and that is the hard part. Neither wants to admit their wrongs or face the past that tore them apart, so it takes a little time to get to the good stuff... but the wait is totally worth it!
From beginning to end these two kept me captivated and hanging on their every word, I couldn't help but get wrapped up in their lives. They brought heat, emotion, and lots of heart to the pages... the perfect recipe for a happy heart! I loved this first offering in the The Murphys of Meadow Valley series, and I cannot wait to see where the pages of the next installment take us! This well penned western romance is certain to check all the right boxes with romance readers! Highly recommend!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
November 30, 2022
4.5 stars
Holding Out for a Cowboy launches the first in a new series and a return to the small town of Meadow Valley. The second chance story reunites high school sweethearts Casey Walsh and Boone Murphy when Boone rescues Casey from an auto accident and he looks like a runaway groom riding a tux on his motorcycle. It’s been 12 years since they broke up so long ago and they’ve kept a comfortable distance from one another, living and working in their small town. Casey hopes to jumpstart her cosmetology career and with his help she got to her interview in time. Now she just needs a way to pay for it. Boone tried to get married but he just couldn’t do it. Now he has to figure out a way to get back his auto shop. In the meantime, he’s working at his friend’s ranch and hopes this new friendship with Casey will be the start of something new.
I love second chance stories and Boone and Casey are able to get theirs after a few more bumps in the road. Starting anew as friends may also means taking a few more chances and live outside their comfort zone. With the help of their friends, which are a hoot with their antics, Boone reveals the progress he’s made with his personal growth and isn’t the same man he was as a teen. Casey and her parents also make strides in their relationships because it isn’t always easy to ask for help and keep a loved one in the dark. Casey and Boone have come a long way and the spark and love for one another never went away; it just needed a jumpstart. Fans of small-town romances will absolutely adore this story. Holding out for a Cowboy is a fun, heartwarming, feel good romance and just brings their love full circle.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Holding Out for a Cowboy launches the first in a new series and a return to the small town of Meadow Valley. The second chance story reunites high school sweethearts Casey Walsh and Boone Murphy when Boone rescues Casey from an auto accident and he looks like a runaway groom riding a tux on his motorcycle. It’s been 12 years since they broke up so long ago and they’ve kept a comfortable distance from one another, living and working in their small town. Casey hopes to jumpstart her cosmetology career and with his help she got to her interview in time. Now she just needs a way to pay for it. Boone tried to get married but he just couldn’t do it. Now he has to figure out a way to get back his auto shop. In the meantime, he’s working at his friend’s ranch and hopes this new friendship with Casey will be the start of something new.
I love second chance stories and Boone and Casey are able to get theirs after a few more bumps in the road. Starting anew as friends may also means taking a few more chances and live outside their comfort zone. With the help of their friends, which are a hoot with their antics, Boone reveals the progress he’s made with his personal growth and isn’t the same man he was as a teen. Casey and her parents also make strides in their relationships because it isn’t always easy to ask for help and keep a loved one in the dark. Casey and Boone have come a long way and the spark and love for one another never went away; it just needed a jumpstart. Fans of small-town romances will absolutely adore this story. Holding out for a Cowboy is a fun, heartwarming, feel good romance and just brings their love full circle.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
June 13, 2023
This book is the first in a new series, but a spin off from the Meadow Valley series. Since I only read the last 2 in that series, I don't know if the back story of the peripheral characters were already revealed. I love the second chance trope and here we have Boone and Casey, high school sweethearts ( he loved her since he was 9 years old), who because of a tragedy and a failure to communicate have not spoken in 12 years, pretty hard to do in a small town.
The book starts off with Boone about to marry someone else and Casey to go back to school. But fate steps in. Boone realizes that he will never love another woman but Casey and ends up calling off the wedding and returning to Meadow Valley in time to rescue Casey from an auto accident. The story narrative flips back and forth between the present and 12 years ago to reveal what happen to split them apart, but does not explain what happened to Murphy Horse Ranch or his sister-in-law, Tess. Did I miss them from a previous book, or will those mysteries be explained in the next book? It seems that the Meadow Valley school does not have parent-teacher conferences, so Boone thought he was stupid and not until he was a senior did a new teacher and his older brother have him tested for a number of learning disorders. Since then Boone has been able to get his condition under control, but will he be brave enough to tell Casey what happened to him twelve years ago and will she give him the ear to listen?
The author's writing style keeps the reader engaged and the characters are realistic. I look forward to reading about this brothers. I read an ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.com. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
The book starts off with Boone about to marry someone else and Casey to go back to school. But fate steps in. Boone realizes that he will never love another woman but Casey and ends up calling off the wedding and returning to Meadow Valley in time to rescue Casey from an auto accident. The story narrative flips back and forth between the present and 12 years ago to reveal what happen to split them apart, but does not explain what happened to Murphy Horse Ranch or his sister-in-law, Tess. Did I miss them from a previous book, or will those mysteries be explained in the next book? It seems that the Meadow Valley school does not have parent-teacher conferences, so Boone thought he was stupid and not until he was a senior did a new teacher and his older brother have him tested for a number of learning disorders. Since then Boone has been able to get his condition under control, but will he be brave enough to tell Casey what happened to him twelve years ago and will she give him the ear to listen?
The author's writing style keeps the reader engaged and the characters are realistic. I look forward to reading about this brothers. I read an ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.com. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
November 27, 2022
3.5 Stars
Casey Walsh and Boone Murphy had a bright future together until tragedy tore them apart. Now, more than a decade later, the beauty school dropout runs Meadow Valley's family tavern and steers clear of the boy who once stole her heart, no small feat in such a small town. When Casey's car breaks down on the way to an important interview, she's rescued by none other than Boone himself on what was supposed to be his wedding day. Boone was finally going to put Meadow Valley in his rear view mirror, even if that meant selling his business and leaving his family's horse ranch behind. It also meant leaving Casey. Except when it came time to say "goodbye" to his hometown and "I do" to his new life, he couldn't do it. Now he's back home and his only dream is winning back the girl he's always loved.
The first book in a new series & an interesting starter. I loved how the author gradually revealed the lovely Boone’s problems & how they impacted on the story, I loved Boone but the same couldn’t be said for Casey, who I disliked at the start & only became lukewarm to her at the end. If only they’d talked earlier. I did enjoy this second chance romance but I didn't love it. Would I read the rest of the series - yes I would.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Casey Walsh and Boone Murphy had a bright future together until tragedy tore them apart. Now, more than a decade later, the beauty school dropout runs Meadow Valley's family tavern and steers clear of the boy who once stole her heart, no small feat in such a small town. When Casey's car breaks down on the way to an important interview, she's rescued by none other than Boone himself on what was supposed to be his wedding day. Boone was finally going to put Meadow Valley in his rear view mirror, even if that meant selling his business and leaving his family's horse ranch behind. It also meant leaving Casey. Except when it came time to say "goodbye" to his hometown and "I do" to his new life, he couldn't do it. Now he's back home and his only dream is winning back the girl he's always loved.
The first book in a new series & an interesting starter. I loved how the author gradually revealed the lovely Boone’s problems & how they impacted on the story, I loved Boone but the same couldn’t be said for Casey, who I disliked at the start & only became lukewarm to her at the end. If only they’d talked earlier. I did enjoy this second chance romance but I didn't love it. Would I read the rest of the series - yes I would.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
November 8, 2022
A small town, second chance romance! A very easy and sweet read, perfect for someone looking for a light, cowboy romance!
I really enjoyed that one of the MC dealt with mental illness and showed that even though it can be a struggle, even when you think it's under control. You just have to take it one day at a time
If you're looking for spice this is definitely not the book for you spice level is like 1 out of 5.
I didn't enjoy that the main conflict, their past, is just constantly hinted at through out the book and isn't completely revealed until the last 100 pgs and it's almost immediately resolved.
All the supporting characters are really cute and sweet, the FMC parents and best friend are so adorable and supportive of her. And the MMCs brother is everything, I think he really won my heart! I'm thinking he might get a story of his own and I'm here for it. The time and energy he put in for him family, especially for the MMC, is very moving.
Another slight issue for me is everything felt way to stagged, like a lot of the stuff didn't flow organically, but that's just me. I recommend this book for someone who enjoys light reads, needs something after a dark romance, and or fans of Diana Palmer and Catherine Anderson.
I really enjoyed that one of the MC dealt with mental illness and showed that even though it can be a struggle, even when you think it's under control. You just have to take it one day at a time
If you're looking for spice this is definitely not the book for you spice level is like 1 out of 5.
I didn't enjoy that the main conflict, their past, is just constantly hinted at through out the book and isn't completely revealed until the last 100 pgs and it's almost immediately resolved.
All the supporting characters are really cute and sweet, the FMC parents and best friend are so adorable and supportive of her. And the MMCs brother is everything, I think he really won my heart! I'm thinking he might get a story of his own and I'm here for it. The time and energy he put in for him family, especially for the MMC, is very moving.
Another slight issue for me is everything felt way to stagged, like a lot of the stuff didn't flow organically, but that's just me. I recommend this book for someone who enjoys light reads, needs something after a dark romance, and or fans of Diana Palmer and Catherine Anderson.
November 29, 2022
I love a second chance romance, am weak for a cowboy, and am also a big fan of AJ Pine, having read many of her previous works. With that said, it should come as no surprise that I truly enjoyed Holding Out for a Cowboy. It was charming, steamy, angsty, and gave those of us who read the Meadow Valley series a nice glimpse at all our favorite couples.
Look, if you're anything like me, the reason you'll want to read this book—and ultimately, will love it, too—is Boone. He's a dreamy, kindhearted and hard-muscled cowboy with a bit of bad luck; a man trying to keep a handle on his life despite its challenges, and who hasn't been able to forget his first love. No matter what he tells himself.
He is basically perfect. And there were times when I wondered if Casey, who held tightly to the past while trying to ignore it entirely, deserved him. She wasn't always my favorite, but she was also relatable in the way that many of Pine's characters can be: in their imperfections and their occasional bad decision-making and those things you don't necessarily like about yourself.
Simply put, she is imperfect, and while the same could be said of Holding Out for a Cowboy, in the end it was a rewarding, easy read and an excellent start to a new spin-off series.
Look, if you're anything like me, the reason you'll want to read this book—and ultimately, will love it, too—is Boone. He's a dreamy, kindhearted and hard-muscled cowboy with a bit of bad luck; a man trying to keep a handle on his life despite its challenges, and who hasn't been able to forget his first love. No matter what he tells himself.
He is basically perfect. And there were times when I wondered if Casey, who held tightly to the past while trying to ignore it entirely, deserved him. She wasn't always my favorite, but she was also relatable in the way that many of Pine's characters can be: in their imperfections and their occasional bad decision-making and those things you don't necessarily like about yourself.
Simply put, she is imperfect, and while the same could be said of Holding Out for a Cowboy, in the end it was a rewarding, easy read and an excellent start to a new spin-off series.
December 15, 2022
Quick Summary: A second chance at forever love story
My Review: Holding Out for a Cowboy by A.J. Pine was a love story with heart. It told the story of two young lovers who lost their way for a time after having to deal with and recover from a very adult choice. The inevitable reunion that needed to happen helped to heal past wrongs and misunderstandings. Could the love they once professed to have for one another help them to overcome the obstacles of the present? Would they ever get to have the forever future they always wanted? Would they have to lose any more time deciding what they truly wanted?
This dual perspective story flowed from the present to the past and back again throughout the book. It had a lot of moving parts. Not only did it reveal the relationship between Casey and Boone, but it also presented other characters who had their own beautiful and challenging experiences.
This book was easily read as a standalone. It had or rather communicated a feeling, however, as that of a series entry.
My Final Say: Readers who enjoy second chance romances will enjoy this story.
Rating: 3/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
I voluntarily read this book via NetGalley. The words I have shared are my own.
My Review: Holding Out for a Cowboy by A.J. Pine was a love story with heart. It told the story of two young lovers who lost their way for a time after having to deal with and recover from a very adult choice. The inevitable reunion that needed to happen helped to heal past wrongs and misunderstandings. Could the love they once professed to have for one another help them to overcome the obstacles of the present? Would they ever get to have the forever future they always wanted? Would they have to lose any more time deciding what they truly wanted?
This dual perspective story flowed from the present to the past and back again throughout the book. It had a lot of moving parts. Not only did it reveal the relationship between Casey and Boone, but it also presented other characters who had their own beautiful and challenging experiences.
This book was easily read as a standalone. It had or rather communicated a feeling, however, as that of a series entry.
My Final Say: Readers who enjoy second chance romances will enjoy this story.
Rating: 3/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
I voluntarily read this book via NetGalley. The words I have shared are my own.
October 6, 2022
This is a second-chance romance featuring Boone and Casey who were in love in high school and just after. After a tragedy struck them and several things happened to break their trust they ended up avoiding each other for 12 years.
Boone is about to get married and Casey is finally going to realize her dreams when they start running in to each other all the time. Boone does not get married and Casey must again put her dreams on hold. Once they start building a friendship again Casey wants to keep the past in the past and not talk about what happened. It was not talking that kept them apart for 12 years.
I am not a huge fan of second chance and hate even more when a simple conversation where each person listens would clear everything up. I really liked Boone and felt he had the most growth throughout the story. I didn't like that it was mainly Casey who wouldn't listen and believed things that weren't true in the past. She also didn't try to work on herself much or change in any way as Boone did over time.
I received and eARC from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
Boone is about to get married and Casey is finally going to realize her dreams when they start running in to each other all the time. Boone does not get married and Casey must again put her dreams on hold. Once they start building a friendship again Casey wants to keep the past in the past and not talk about what happened. It was not talking that kept them apart for 12 years.
I am not a huge fan of second chance and hate even more when a simple conversation where each person listens would clear everything up. I really liked Boone and felt he had the most growth throughout the story. I didn't like that it was mainly Casey who wouldn't listen and believed things that weren't true in the past. She also didn't try to work on herself much or change in any way as Boone did over time.
I received and eARC from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
November 21, 2022
Delightful small-town romance
Boone and Casey had their chance right after high school, but tragedy and miscommunications drove them apart. Twelve years later, they're trying to see if there's enough left on the table for a second chance, but communication still seems to be a problem for them.
I really enjoy reading this series, despite the fictionalized liberties taken with a real-life setting, and I was thrilled to read Boone and Casey's story because I'm a sucker for a solid second chance romance. I love the way the author develops all the characters, especially the secondary family members and friends. There are plenty of emotional highs and lows that make this journey well worth reading.
Boone and Casey both have to make a lot of sacrifices on the way to meeting their goals, the greatest of which comes when it is finally time to confront their past, rather than trying to ignore it, and sort out all the steps they missed so they can move forward with their future. Their HEA was very special and I'm glad to see that everything worked out for them. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Boone and Casey had their chance right after high school, but tragedy and miscommunications drove them apart. Twelve years later, they're trying to see if there's enough left on the table for a second chance, but communication still seems to be a problem for them.
I really enjoy reading this series, despite the fictionalized liberties taken with a real-life setting, and I was thrilled to read Boone and Casey's story because I'm a sucker for a solid second chance romance. I love the way the author develops all the characters, especially the secondary family members and friends. There are plenty of emotional highs and lows that make this journey well worth reading.
Boone and Casey both have to make a lot of sacrifices on the way to meeting their goals, the greatest of which comes when it is finally time to confront their past, rather than trying to ignore it, and sort out all the steps they missed so they can move forward with their future. Their HEA was very special and I'm glad to see that everything worked out for them. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
November 21, 2022
This is a new series by the author, that appears to be a spinoff of her Previous series Meadow Valley. You don’t have to read the prior series to enjoy this book. This is a second chance romance between Boone Murphy and Casey Walsh. Casey and Boone were each other’s first love. A tragedy tears them apart twelve years ago and they have lived in their small town avoiding each other. On what is supposed to be Boone’s wedding day, he ends up rescuing Casey after a car accident on the way to an important interview. This is the start of Casey and Boone finding their way back to being friends and eventually to more. I thought that the author did a great job dealing with Boone’s struggles. So often authors gloss over psychiatric issues, where they magically disappear, Boone put in work and has dealt with his issues responsibly. I was on the fence about Casey. It seemed that she was still that emotional 18 year old, and the past 12 years did not help her mature. Overall I found this to be an enjoyable read. I received an arc of this book from NetGalley for my honest opinion.
November 28, 2022
A.J. Pine get's me in the feels. Every. Single. Time. Ten years after childhood sweethearts Boone Murphy and Casey Walsh split up the two have perfected avoiding each other in the small town of Meadow Valley. But after he rescues her after her car breaks down on the way to an important meeting, the two vow to try to be friends.
As their friendship grows Boone starts to realize that his failed engagement may have had more to do with his ex than he was willing to admit to himself. And the attraction that turned these childhood friends into more hasn't waned in the years they were apart.
This second chance romance was perfectly written. With flash backs to the events that lead to their heartbreaking split, the reader uncovers all of the layers of hurt and misunderstanding to get to the truth of their story. Now the two have to let go of their past angers and hurts if they want to move forward to make something real. This is a not to miss story in the Murphy's of Meadow Valley - a spin off from the Meadow Valley and Crossroads Ranch series.
As their friendship grows Boone starts to realize that his failed engagement may have had more to do with his ex than he was willing to admit to himself. And the attraction that turned these childhood friends into more hasn't waned in the years they were apart.
This second chance romance was perfectly written. With flash backs to the events that lead to their heartbreaking split, the reader uncovers all of the layers of hurt and misunderstanding to get to the truth of their story. Now the two have to let go of their past angers and hurts if they want to move forward to make something real. This is a not to miss story in the Murphy's of Meadow Valley - a spin off from the Meadow Valley and Crossroads Ranch series.
November 28, 2022
I've been a fan of A.J. Pine since I discovered her books a few years ago through NetGalley. She always writes a great cowboy novel, so I was excited to see a new series starting up!
Casey Walsh and Boone Murphy were high school sweethearts who seemed to have what it would take to go to the distance. Things happened and they both went their own separate ways. Now over a decade later, Boone ends up picking Casey up on the side of the road on what should have been his wedding day. While they may have been apart for years, the dreams they had are still intact and it looks like they may be able to achieve them together.
As I said, I'm a Pine fan, but with this book, I was especially drawn to Boone and his struggles. As someone who struggles with anxiety herself, I appreciate how open the character was about all of his struggles with ADHD, anxiety, dyslexia and mental health in general. This was a big win in my book.
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
Casey Walsh and Boone Murphy were high school sweethearts who seemed to have what it would take to go to the distance. Things happened and they both went their own separate ways. Now over a decade later, Boone ends up picking Casey up on the side of the road on what should have been his wedding day. While they may have been apart for years, the dreams they had are still intact and it looks like they may be able to achieve them together.
As I said, I'm a Pine fan, but with this book, I was especially drawn to Boone and his struggles. As someone who struggles with anxiety herself, I appreciate how open the character was about all of his struggles with ADHD, anxiety, dyslexia and mental health in general. This was a big win in my book.
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
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