Ryder Monroe has the nickname Mr. Break Your Headboard. He’s not proud of it, but he earned it just the same. All he ever wanted was Emily West. She was meant to be his from the time they were in the second grade. Having her in his arms made him feel like a king. Sadly, Emily didn’t feel the same. She dumped him and never looked back.
Ryder moved on, making a life for himself away from the horse ranches that dotted the Wyoming landscape. He worked hard to get Emily out of his head, but he never found a woman he wanted to claim as his own.
Cue, Tillie Carter—Emily’s best friend.
Ryder wants her more than anything or anyone in his life. Tillie thinks Ryder is a player and is as disgusting as his nickname makes him sound. He should leave her alone. He can’t. He’s ready to prove he may break her headboard, but he will never break her heart.
You met Ryder in A Hard Time and now you can read his story in this Lucas Brothers spin-off filled with laughs and faces new and old plus a stray chicken and cow from time to time.
I'm just a simple small town country girl, haunted by Alpha Men who talk in my head 24 hours a day.
I knew I wanted to write when it became clear I couldn't be happy with just viewing other people's stories. I always wanted to rewrite them.
Like why did Jack have to die? Why couldn't Rose move her butt over? Because that was a huge piece of wood she was on, people.
Happy Endings should be fought for, but they should always happen. Mine might take some curves and twists, but they eventually get there.
Having published over fifty stories, it always feels surreal that this is my life. Hitting USA Today had me crying for days, but nothing is more special than hearing from readers that they loved one of my books.
Sitting on a very tall fence on this one. It was ok, lacked something I’m not 100% sure what though… It was a little insta love. I did like how once Ryder realised that Tillie was it for him he didn’t give up on her. And her insecurities were realistic. But it just fell a little flat for me. I maybe wanted ow drama but that didn’t occur either 🤷🏼♀️
Ryder returns to his small hometown to visit his family after not having been home for a while. There he sees Tillie again and it reminds him of his attraction to her when they were younger, but because he was dating her best friend at the time, nothing amounted from this attraction😢
Now six years later and the attraction is still there❣️Ryder is determined to make her his, but he has a few obstacles in his way, one of which includes one of his brothers😳
Loved Ryder and Tillie and I can’t wait for the next one in this series…it was great catching up with the Lucas family, Hamburger and more old favourites😍 I received an advanced copy and willingly leave my honest review❤️
I know the author has had a rough year, but that being said, this book was terrible. I was skimming by about 50% and stopped reading at 74%. I understand that this is likely a product of the author’s rough patch but both the author and the publisher also need to recognize that the book is costing someone else money. Someone who maybe also going through a rough patch and may need this book as a means to escape. If you can’t produce your best work, then it’s best to not push any ol’ book out just to meet a deadline. I was extremely disappointed.
📌MF (Ryder and Tillie) 📌Dual 1st person POV 📌Plus Sized FMC 📌MMC is the ex-boyfriend of the FMCs ex-best friend
It’s been 6 years since the FMC and MMC have seen each other. He was the boyfriend of her best friend (this is used soooo loosely because that girl is a she-devil) and she saw herself as the “fat, embarrassed to be alive” friend that harbored hardcore feelings for him. It does come out later that he started hiding some feelings for her as well and then promptly forgot about her after he graduated.
“I haven’t thought about Tillie since that year Emily and I broke up and I went away to college.”
The instant he sees her again, he is level one thousand attracted to her and is ready to pursue her.
“What do you want from me?” -Tillie, 28% “Everything, Buttons. Everything.” -Ryder, 28%
He chases her so aggressively and she has no idea what’s going on.
“I’m not letting you go, Tillie. You’re mine now. I’m keeping you.” -Ryder, 30%
Things move along, they do the naked ballet, a second but not even on her radar love option appears, a lack of proper communication sends the FMC into a tizzy where she promptly loses her marbles and causes a commotion and then we ease into a nice little wrap up with a one year epilogue.
A few of my own things before I go:
I know these aren’t the stars of the show, but Ida’s appearance and all things Lucas family involved in this book were HILARIOUS. I haven’t read their connecting series yet, but Ida is quite possibly my favorite crazy mom of all book moms. For those who have read the Lucas family series, I imagine this cute check-in on them is wonderful.
I was terrified for a whole 3 minutes that the mean girl was gonna be cemented into this family, but I was relieved when she was written out by the end. Seems like she may be the villain in Tucker’s story, though. Hello single daddy and the nanny trope! Our Tucker deserves his happy ending, too.
And lastly - Holy. Sporks. And. Corks. Ryder is the perfect amount of dirty book boyfriend. I would add bonus stars if I could just because his character made me….swoon. I would have loved a piece of the future to see where the baby train went after all those… discussions …because all hail the dirty headboard breaker and his filthy, filthy mouth.
📌 The series with the crossover characters starts with "The Perfect Stroke (Lucas Brothers Book 1)"
This almost-second-chance romance is ‘almost’ because it never became a reality the first time around even though both Tillie and Ryder liked each other. It’s quite involved and I will let readers discover for themselves how things evolved, but I will comment about the characters.
I absolutely love Ryder in this story. He openly admits he used to be a player and his reasons, too. However, in this story, he shows great determination and dedication in his quest to win over Tillie. He shows how caring and sensitive he is and how much he admires Tillie.
Tillie is another terrific character, I really like her. She might not be everyone’s cup of tea but I think she is fabulous. Her quieter nature doesn’t stop her from striving to move forward in her business practices and she handles the customers extremely well. The old proverb ‘once bitten, twice shy’ describes Tillie and honestly I can understand why.
This is definitely not a slow burn romance in the sense that the timeframe is short in the story yet it isn’t instant either, I really like how it developed. Tillie and Ryder have such hot chemistry and their passion is 🔥🔥🔥.
This is a lighter story but there are some serious elements that are extremely pertinent in real life, these are handled smoothly. As usual there are some very humorous parts too, especially with Ida Sue, oh she’s such a fantastic character. Another terrific book by this talented writer.
The Lucas Brothers will always be a favourite series of mine so I was very excited for another spin off story with some new and familiar characters to obsess over.
I already really liked Ryder Monroe from A Hard Time (Lucas Brothers) but now I freaking love him. He's charming and witty with a dirty side and he's just as ruthless off the pitch especially when it comes to getting Tillie Carter to play ball.
Tillie always had a crush on Ryder but he was off limits. He may not of broke her headboard, but he did break her heart before he left. So Tilie is understandably cautious when Ryder pursues her after all this time.
The chemistry between Tillie and Ryder is electric, I love how Ryder reminds Tillie of her most embarrassing moments but turns them to his advantage in the most seductive of ways. These two are so adorable together all the push and pull between them is addictive and hotttt!!
Another fantastic small town romance full of all the hilarious laugh out loud moments that I love from this author. There's also plenty of her sizzling mouth watering naughtiness that her Alpha males never fail to deliver in the most delicious ways.
I need Tucker to get his story next, he's a very intriguing Cowboy that deserves his own hea.
Jordan Marie has done it again. Ryder and Tillie are awesome, I really love them together. This is a second chance romance ( not in the traditional Spence) but I believe it is.
Six years ago they were in school, Ryder was with Emily. But was very attracted to Tillie. She was completely in love with Ryder.
It turns out Emily was completely toxic to the pair and did lasting emotional damage to Tillie. As well as a number on Ryder too. But fast forward and when Ryder sees Tillie after so many years, all the feelings come rushing back and then some. He wants her in his life. Ryder is willing to do anything it takes to convince her they belong together.
This is a beautiful, sexy, emotional and at times hilarious ride. You will be absolutely invested right from the start.
I love how I get my Ida Sue fix. She’s really in a mess this time. But as always Jansen know all the right things to say. Love these two!!
Overall you will absolutely adore this couple and there story!!
One thing I’m not to into is cheating/lying. The nerve of those out there that think they deserve to be the center of everyone’s attention. They tend to be the worst people to walk this earth. I would LOVE to see Ida Sue get her hands on Emily! On another note there are good people out there that are extremely hopeful (I’m one of those). Then there are those that are totally blind until someone smacks them in the head or literally grabs them by the “baseballs” & twists until they finally wake up. Tillie & Ryder are perfectly matched in a second chance encounter. I am glad that there are those out there to fight for what they want & also those out there that will fight for their family whether blood or not. Tucker now needs his own book!
I don’t even know where to start. It was an ok book for me. The character development was…well where was it? Ryder spent mostly the whole book trying to convince Tillie that he only wants to be with her and she spent like the whole book with major self esteem issues, constantly going back and forth with wanting Ryder to saying it’s just sex, then shes in love with him then she can’t trust him - for fuck sakes she was annoying me. Ryder wasn’t much better either constantly demanding her attention, making future plans for them and is just super pushy. I love me an obsessive, ott MMC but his pushiness was just exasperating. I might be the only one to say this but i kinda wish Tillie ended up with Tucker. Also, what is with the random chapter with Ida Sue’s pov? 🤦🏻♀️I’m just gonna skip this series.🤷🏻♀️
Right from the prologue, I was blushing with second hand empathy for Tillie in high school. Been there, felt that and all I can say is never again. Now its 6 years later and Ryder is back in town and her feelings have only grown. She covers it up by trying to ignore him. Ryder had a deep attraction to the shy, curvy girl but she was his girlfriend's bestie and off limits. Now he is back and she is even more beautiful than he remember. Can I just say that I absolutely love his nickname for her? It is just adorable. Their attraction is sweet and sultry, with dashes of humor. Honestly, this book felt like a love letter to all us girls who remember what it was like to crush on the hot, popular jock, pure wish fulfillment! JM's writing is sublime; get you a copy, stat.
This is the second book in this incredible spinoff series, and this is Ryder and Tillie’s story. Tillie has a crush on Ryder, but he was off limits as he was her best friend’s boyfriend. Now 6-years later, Ryder has returned home to visit his family, and he is determined to convince Tillie to give them a chance. The chemistry between these two is off the charts and undeniable, and they complement each other perfectly. This is a well written story which is easy to read, with humor, witty banter, emotions, family, friendships, challenges, engaging and realistic characters, and love, which leads to an entertaining and steamy small-town romance. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
What I liked: I really liked the hero Ryder and how he knew that Tillie(h) was his one. Also, loved seeing more of Ida Sue. The part with the rooster was hilarious.
What I didn’t like: I wanted more to come of the ow. Maybe we will get it in Tucker’s book.
***Major Spoilers/ Details/Triggers: h has had a crush on the H but her best friend dates him. Best friend is horrible and cheats on the H. H and best friend break up. H leaves town to play baseball and when he comes back he runs into the h. He pursued the h. h is hesitant but finally gives him a shot. There is a miscommunication but all it worked out. HEA.
Descriptive Sex: Yes
Final thoughts: I enjoyed this one and can’t wait to read Tucker’s book. Thanks Jordan for the chapter from Ida Sue. She is one of my top favorite characters and I loved getting more from her <3
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Ryder and Tillie are perfect together. I like that he actually never treated her differently when they were younger. He had his reasons for basically avoiding her. I love that he would reassure her when she needed it. Even if it was frustrating and seeming like she wasn’t listening to the things he was saying. Ryder has a great heart and I’m glad he finally saw what he was missing out on and that Tillie opened her eyes up to her own self and gave them a chance. I also love that we got to see some Ida Sue. Definitely recommend and can’t wait for poor Tucker’s story. I received a advanced readers copy and I’m leaving a voluntary review.
Ryder may not have remembered much about Tillie when they were younger, but he sure wants to know her now.
It was interesting seeing each of their POVs. Tillie has formed her opinion of him based on past behavior and what she's heard about him now. Ryder has not found someone who he wanted forever with, but getting to spend time with Tillie has changed everything.
The story moves at a good pace with good humor, entertaining characters, and plenty of the sweet and steamy moments Jordan's known for. The book is an easy, fun read and I also loved seeing some familiar characters from Jordan's other books pop up too.
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
Tillie has had feelings for Ryder since she was a teenager but believes he only had eyes for her best friend even if she didn’t deserve him. Now that he is back in town, she believes the only way to protect her heart is by keeping his distance, but he has other ideas.
Ryder buried his attraction to Tillie when they were teenagers. When he finds himself on hiatus from his professional baseball career and returns home he sees that what his life has been missing is Tillie.
Tillie is well aware of Ryder’s reputation so her need to be cautious is understandable, but Ryder isn’t deterred and is about to show her that the only woman he needs both now and forever is her.
I love a good second chance at romance at that was what we have here with Tillie and Ryder. They really never were a couple, but Ryder was dating Tillie's best friend in high school. Spending time together then Tillie knew that she was crushing on him. Now years later and they are both single, but Tille thinks that Ryder's ladies' man persona precedes him, and she will not be another notch in Mr. Break your headboards bedpost. Ryder has quite the job ahead of him and a lot of convincing to do before he can even think that Tillie will give him a chance. Sweet, emotional, wooing involved and a lot of setting the record straight. ~~Michele McMullen~~
This book is laugh out loud funny!!! BUT... there were times when I was down right PO'd, as well. I sort of loved that Tillie had loved Ryder almost her whole life. And that when Ryder realized he wanted Tillie nothing was going to get in his way. Not even his lifelong dream of playing baseball.
I especially loved that the author brought in the Lucas family. The scenes with and about Ida Sue were hilarious. I really needed the laughs this weekend and this book definitely provided them. Although, there were some pretty dark moments as well.
Love this author and the promise of Ida Mae is always appealing. Took a while to get into the story and the nature of the characters. There’s a lot of insecurities in this book and a character who seems pivotal to both main characters doesn’t put in an appearance till near the end. Some humour and small town characters add to the story. Ryder and the conflict with his family make me hope for future books. Altogether a good read but not enough of the manic crazy Ida Mae.
A small town romance book about Ryder and Tillie. Tillie and Ryder’s story has some heartache from their school days to get over. Tillie always had a crush on Ryder but he was off limits. Now that he is back in town, she believes the only way to protect her heart is by keeping his distance, but he has other ideas. 6 years later Ryder is back in town resting from playing baseball his dream career. Tillie's doubts come to play, Ryder must prove to Tillie he is genuinely liking her. They have to over come a few hurdles to get to the HEA they both want.
I swear Jordan Marie is a fantastic Writer. This is another wonderful story from her. I wasn't able to put down Tillie and Ryder's story, it's a great story, the plot was strong, it was written well. Ryder and Tillie were perfect for each other, the attraction was strong between them, just like the connection they shared and don't get me started on their chemistry, that was off the charts, sizzling, they were well matched. The two had a few hiccups along the way but they were truly meant for each other, they were perfect together. This is a great story and I'd recommend reading it, you won't regret it. It's 5 Star read! Thank you, Jordan Marie, Beautiful work ❤️ Looking forward to what you have next woman :)
Fate brings Tillie Carter face to face with the man she’s crushed on and survived a broken heart over, Ryder Monroe. He breezes in and makes it seem like he’s interested in pursuing her. But he can’t be trusted. Her heart won’t survive it.
Ryder has had some naughty thoughts about Tillie. But he never acted on them. But he’s back in town and about to lay claim.
But the present isn’t much kinder than the past. Can Ryder convince Tillie to give him a shot?
Embarrassing high school crushes....we all have cringe worthy memories. Jordan Marie turned those cringy moments into a triumph. Years later small town girl runs into high school crush and sparks fly. Is he for real or still the same jerk? Emily gets to discover not only the " new" Ryder but also the one she didn't really know. Lifelong love, steamy passion and Ida Sue....who can ask for more
Absolutely loved this story! Tillie and Ryder are amazing! The same woman put these two through a lot but they finally got through it all and things definitely worked out for the best. This author knows how to pull you into a story from the very first page and keeps you totally engaged with such a wonderful story and funny hijinks! I couldn’t put this book down! Very highly recommend! This is my honest opinion of this complimentary copy of this book
I'm absolutely loving this spin off series from the Lucas Brothers. It's new characters and new story lines with old characters mixed in. I love it when an author can seamlessly expand into a spin off series, and Jordan has done just that.
I loved this couple so so much! I can't seem to get enough of alpha males that get caught right up in their love for their woman.
5 stars for this swoon-worthy addictive read!! Perfect way to spend a nice summer day reading in the sun.
This was such a sweet second chance romance. Ryder returns home from being with his baseball team in Dallas and meets up with Tillie. Tillie has loved Ryder since high school but he was dating her best friend. Eventually Ryder realizes that Tillie has always been his forever. Now he has to convince her of that. These two make a perfect couple and make it through some bumps in the road. I loved this book and would recommend everyone read it.
omg what a book ! Ryder the super hunk and Tillie the home girl. got to love how this book addresses issues with friends and them not truly been friends and how absolutely vile some people can be , with the sole purpose of hurting people, Tillie is one of those special people who really are worth their weight in gold just cant see it, and Ryder the typical clueless man who finally wakes up and smells the coffee - and of course Ida Sue makes an appearance so the book is perfect !
I love the writing of Jordan Marie, there are some sassy banter between Tiille and Ryder. Mistaken errors, 2nd chances in redemption of oneself. Tillie and her parents moved to the small town in Wyoming and the only girl willing to talk to her is Emily. Who became her best friend, but Emily started to date Ryder, her first crush. But knew Emily has secrets, she is cheating on the devoted Ryder. But she must keep her feelings at bay. Now 6 years later Ryder is back in town resting from playing baseball his dream career. Alias doubts come to play, Ryder must prove to Tillie he is genuinely liking her. But he is not the only one who notices her kind heartness. Will the outside forces stop them in their 2nd chance in romance? I was a little disappointed we didn't read anything about Ryder's capabilities in "breaking head boards" with Tillie. Only assuming it's possible. Sp no ladies nothing like that was mentioned. sorry to burst your bubbles.
I enjoyed Tillie and Ryder's story. They've known each other since they were in school, and there's a history, an unrequited crush and heartache. They have a good pull to each other, one she is unsure of, and he's determined! The story has ups and downs, great heat, and of course... laughs. I'm looking forward to more from this series!
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I LOVED Mr. Break Your Headboard! But why is there an Emily? She brought me back to my high school days and I didn't like it.
I loved Tillie and Ryder and everything they had to overcome.
I loved seeing Ida Sue and Hamburger, they always put a smile on my face! And I can't forget about Green and Mary! The Lucas's have always been a favorite!
And Tucker! 😍 I really hope he gets his own book or atleast see him again!
Ryder have feelings for Follow in high school but was loyal to Emily who cheated on him all the time and played a dirty trick on Tillie. When Ryder sees Tillie again he realizes his feelings have not gone away and he persues her. Tillie has serious insecurities and Ryder must work to get her to give him a chance. The other good part is visiting with Ida Sue she always makes a story worthwhile.