roksyreads's reviews
362 reviews

Busted by Greta Rose West

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challenging emotional hopeful medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Kevin Cade believes he’ll never find love. In the small Wyoming town of Wisper, men like him don’t exist—not out loud—and he fears that revealing his secret will ruin everything for his four brothers and their business. Until the new vet filling in at the clinic whilst the owner recovers from a stroke arrives at Cade Ranch and saves Kevin’s life—in more ways than one. Luuk van der Wouden—confident, charming, and out—is everything Kevin has ever wanted, and his Dutch accent is a temptation unlike Kevin has ever faced. But Kevin can’t give Luuk what he needs without risking everything he and his family have worked for, nor without asking Luuk to hide his true self. As Luuk drifts away, Kevin must face his truths or risk losing Luuk for good.

Busted was an intensely emotional read, centred on themes of learning to love and to be loved wholly. MMCs Kevin and Luuk have electric chemistry, but they also have their own demons to face and overcome before they can truly find each other. Neither their journeys nor their romance was smooth, and both of their POVs were utterly heartbreaking to read at times. Kevin has struggled with intense guilt and fear, which events throughout the novel bring to the forefront of his life, and Luuk, though he shows patience, resilience, and empathy even in the face of prejudice, must also confront his own anxieties. Although this can be a difficult read to tackle emotionally due to the heavy themes featured in the novel, the darker aspects are balanced by great dialogue, sweet moments between the MMCs and supporting characters, and heartfelt and funny banter, especially among the Cade brothers. 
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Broken: A Cade Ranch Novel by Greta Rose West

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emotional reflective sad fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

Dean Cade—veteran sniper—has returned home from his time in the Marines to Cade Ranch seven years after he lied and pushed his lifelong friend and highschool sweetheart Carolyn “Oly” Masterson away. Now that Oly has returned from veterinary school in England to work at Wisper’s local clinic, he can't avoid her, and he can’t deny that he still needs her. But Oly is a changed woman, and Dean—harbouring a secret he fears could destroy his brothers—came home broken. All Oly wants to do now that she’s home in Wisper is dive into work and avoid Dean, lest he break her heart again, but the brooding, stubborn cowboy won’t leave her thoughts. She knows he’s different—damaged—yet she can’t stop thinking about him or the passionate night they shared three years ago before Dean pushed her away for good. But with danger lurking nearby, Dean intends to protect her, whether she likes it or not. Oly can’t walk away, but if Dean doesn’t open up and let her in, that’s exactly what she’ll have to do—even knowing it would break her.

Broken is a solid fit for fans of angst, but it didn’t have the engaging or emotional punch that was so addictive in the first novel, Burned. The dialogue was repetitive at times, and the awkwardly forced forced-proximity plot in the latter half and the “plot twist” felt rushed. The childhood/highschool sweetheart aspect of the romance was pleasant and I did feel like the FMC Carolyn and MMC Dean had solid romantic and sexual chemistry/history, but I became very frustrated at the repeated fuck-and-run trend. Whilst I appreciate that Dean had some serious issues to work through, he treats Oly poorly, and Oly—a supposedly strong, feisty woman—acted like a total doormat for half the story until she finally remembered her backbone. I did however appreciate plot points and interactions between Dean and fellow veteran, Biggsy; their friendship and the character growth that resulted from it felt more significant than the romance at times and was a highlight of the story. 
Burned by Greta Rose West

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adventurous challenging emotional mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

With four younger brothers to look out for, his adopted mother going through chemo again, and a struggling Wyoming horse ranch to run, Jack has enough on his shoulders. He doesn’t have time for a woman—nor does he trust them after his biological mother abandoned them when he was a boy. But when Everlea falls into his life—literally—he’s captivated by her beauty as much as he is by the woman herself. Behind her kind eyes, he can see her fear, how she’s always looking over her shoulder and ready to run. Everlea can’t risk putting Jack and his family in danger, but neither she nor Jack can deny the pull between them. Among the wide open meadows and breathtaking mountain views of Cade Ranch—and in Jack’s arms—she starts to feel safe. But letting her guard down to both her heart and her safety might just be asking for trouble…

This was an incredibly intense read. I was hooked from the start, and could hardly put it down. The pace was perfect for the story, building steady tension for the romance and the mystery/thriller plot simultaneously. All characters, from FMC Everlea and MMC Jack to secondary characters, were distinct and well developed. I could picture and hear them so clearly, especially the banter in the Cade household. I thought that the style for Jack would annoy me, but once I settled into it after a couple chapters, I actually loved it; I really felt like I was in his head. I felt such a deep connection with both him and Everlea, and got so emotionally involved—a few moments in the final chapters were definitely read through a bit of water.
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Alive and Wells by Bailey Hannah

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emotional funny hopeful medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

City girl Cecily never expected to end up working on a cattle ranch, but after escaping her abusive soon-to-be-ex-husband, she needs a job—and refuge. If only her new boss, Austin Wells, would stop being so hot and cold; his gaze makes her feel things she hasn’t in years, but she knows that getting over her ex by getting under the grumpy rancher isn’t worth the potential fallout. Afterall, Austin’s a gruff, no-nonsense man—and he’s certain that Cecily won’t stick around, because nobody ever stays. Add the wedding ring indent still on her finger, and she’s more trouble than she’s worth. Yet the more time they spend together on the ranch, the more they’re drawn to each other. When Cecily’s past catches up with her, Austin discovers that she’s already placed a branding iron on his heart. If he wants her to stay, he needs to keep her safe.

Alive and Wells is Bailey Hannah’s debut novel, and it is impressive: a beautifully written story, packed with chemistry and so much heart. FMC Cecily’s experiences are heartbreaking and some parts may be challenging for some readers, but her journey is handled with the utmost thought and care. Despite her history, she brings a dose of sunshine to the story through her resilience. MMC Austin is a great match for her, with an endearing gruffness and sturdy nature that balances the vibrance that emerges in Cecily as she grows more comfortable in her new life. One of my favourite aspects was that Austin’s history was given as much depth and consideration as Cecily’s; they both have their own issues around trust and to work through, and the transition from strangers, to friends, to lovers as they both followed their own healing journeys as individuals and together felt especially natural. I’ll be skipping book two in the series, Seeing Red, as it is centred on themes that are major nopes for me, but I definitely encourage others to check it out and I will be reading book three, Change of Hart, when it releases later this month. 
Saddles & Sweethearts by Elliot Rose, Ashley James, Bailey Hannah, Greta Rose West, Walker Rose, Brooke Montgomery, Kacey Shea, Elizabeth Bright, Bonnie Poirier, Erin Parisien

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adventurous emotional funny lighthearted relaxing fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

“Ride With Me” by Brooke Montgomery, 2⭐️
Started well enough, but unfortunately went off rails towards the end; it asked me to suspend way too much disbelief, far too quickly. I also found the dialogue awkward, with minimal personality. Unfortunately, this one was a miss for me. 

“August” by Ashley James, 4⭐️
Solidly written throughout, this budding romance features focuses on new experiences for both MMCs. August and Tripp had good chemistry, which made for some adorable and spicy moments.

“It's Your Love” by Bailey Hannah, 5⭐️
Well written all around, with the perfect amount of spice and romance. The tension and chemistry between Keely and Beau was electric. I’ll be checking out this author’s novels in future.

“Wild Storm” by Kacey Shea, 3.5⭐️
A little too insta-love, but I could totally get on board with the insta-lust, as the chemistry was crackling. However, the ending was super abrupt, just when it felt like the story was really starting.

“Long Lost Christmas Cowboy” by Greta Rose West, 4.5⭐️
Cute, heartfelt, and engaging. There was great chemistry between the FMC and MMC, supported by well thought out and believable back stories. 

“To Hell Fire and Back” by Bonnie Poirier, 2⭐ 
I ultimately didn’t mind the premise, given that I'm not into parenting tropes. However, the narrative was let down by characters with minimal personality, awkward dialogue, and little evocative writing. Unfortunately, a miss for me.

“Bouquets & Buckles” by Elliott Rose, 5⭐ 
I’ve recently learnt that I have a thing for age gap forbidden romances, and this story featuring FMC Skylar and MMC Lucas lived up to all my hopes. The tension. The smut. The angst. The pining. The happy ending. *chef's kiss* Perfect. All perfect. 

“A Sky Full of Stars” by Elizabeth Bright, 5⭐️
This was a sweet friends-to-lovers story with great chemistry, with impressive character depth given the short form. Additionally, it was hot AF. Overall, super enjoyable, and an author I’ll be sure to look into in future.

“His One and Only Cowgirl” by Erin Parisien, 4⭐️
A solid friends-to-lovers plot with cute chemistry and second chance vibes between FMC Jana and MMC Ethan. The spice was hot AF, and the hurt/comfort finale made for a strong finish. 

“Whisky Cowboy” by Walker Rose, 5⭐ 
Steamy and romantic, and featuring two of my favourite tropes: age gap and forbidden romance. For a short story, there was plenty of depth to FMC Sunny and MMC Iverson, and so much chemistry that I thought my kindle was going to go up in flames.  
The Quantum Universe: And why anything that can happen, does by Jeffrey R. Forshaw, Brian Cox

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challenging informative slow-paced
 I’ll preface this by saying that complex mathematics and physics was never and will never be my strong suit—I am simply not wired correctly for that, and my education was focused more on practical aspects that might genuinely crop up in my life. It is, therefore, quite a testament that despite the sheer complexity of some of the scientific and mathematical principles, Cox and Forshaw tackle the subjects in reasonably accessible fashion. They have a particularly engaging way of explaining, illustrating, and discussing key aspects of quantum mechanics to even an amateur like myself without being condescending; there’s a strong undercurrent of passion and excitement in sharing and engaging others in the field. 

I won’t give this book a star rating as it doesn’t feel appropriate to do so, but I can genuinely say this was a fascinating read. Although more than I care to admit flew straight over my head, I enjoyed the challenge and experience; I learnt a hell of a lot about the subatomic realm and I am pleased and somewhat proud of myself for stepping out of my comfort zone and taking the opportunity to do so. 
Latte Darling by S.J. Tilly

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emotional funny lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

Living in her hometown of Darling Lake and owning the coffee shop she’s worked at since she was 16, Maddie has a comfortable, pleasant life—on paper. But after years of doing everything solo, she’s eager to have someone in her life who she can lean on. At the very least, she doesn’t want to have to attend her best friend’s wedding alone, which is why she signs up for a dating app and agrees to meet the first guy who messages her. But it’s not her date he sits down with her at the bar—it’s his dad. Axel is the very definition of a Silver Fox: strong and broad, with piercing blue eyes and covered in tattoos, he’s giving all the best Big Bad Wolf vibes, and Maddie has no interest in running—not when he looks at her like he wants to eat her whole.

Between Praise, Chasing the Wild, and now Latte Darling, it turns out I totally have a thing for the age gap trope, especially 15+ years. This book was HOT—scorchingly so—but it was also laugh out loud funny and super adorable. Whilst a few of MMC Axel’s actions/reactions didn’t sit right for me for a contemporary romance, he and FMC Maddie had incredible chemistry and their sweet romance definitely made me feel gooey and giggly a few times. I loved reading both Maddie’s and Axel’s POVs; I felt a strong connection with both of them, and I especially enjoyed Axel’s shoulder angel/devil commentary as he navigated his attraction to and feelings for Maddie. I really hope that I’ll get to return to Darling Lake again in the future! 
Smoky Darling by S.J. Tilly

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funny lighthearted mysterious fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

Eloise was seven when she fell for Beckett when he gave her bully a taste of his own medicine. As the years passed, childhood infatuation turned to unrequited love, and at 18, she promised herself she’d forget about him. And for so many years, she succeeded—until her childhood crush returned to their home town of Darling Lake, and now, she’s torn between temptation and the urge to run away. Beckett had sensed his brother’s best friend’s sister’s crush all those years ago, but he never saw her as more than the little girl she was. But now he’s back in town, he sees that Eloise is all grown up, and he can’t deny the attraction that sizzles between them—and he knows he needs to get a taste of the strong, independent woman she’s become. 

Smoky Darling was a solid, enjoyable read. There was some super fun banter and internal commentary that made me snigger, especially when reading FMC Eloise’s chapters, and the dialogue was well done. Eloise’s infatuation through so much of her life was a bit weird for me, but thankfully plenty of time and space was given in adulthood so that when she and MMC Beckett reconnected, the spark between them felt more natural. Beckett is a solid love interest, though some aspects did put me off. I enjoy a dominant, protective MMC in a dark romance context, where I can suspend a little more disbelief and let red flags turn into a pretty pink. However, in a straight contemporary small town romance, some of Beckett’s actions/reactions seemed too over the top to feel realistic. Overall, a great read—I’m looking forward to the second book in the series, Latte Darling.
Heartache & Hoofbeats by Maz Maddox

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adventurous funny lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

Like all centaur shifters, Sheriff Calhoun is the epitome of honour, protecting the small town of Stallion Ridge that he calls home from any threat. When Cal and his team hear word that the notorious Iron Bandits intend to rob a train in Calhoun’s territory, he’s both livid and invigorated, certain that if anyone can bring the band of thieves to justice, it’ll be his Stallion Ridge crew. He never expected an outlaw like Jesse—charming, whiskey-eyed, and brazen—would challenge everything he thought he knew.

This was a wild ride from start to finish. Blending fantasy with the wild west, Maddox has created a unique and engaging world  in addition to a truly diverse cast of characters—both main and supporting—that I can’t wait to learn more about in future novels in the series. With elements of forbidden romance, the chemistry between Cal and Jesse sizzled from their first encounter. There was tension, spice, and angst aplenty—but also a satisfying and swoon worthy HEA. After devouring the RELIC series and starting on Stallion Ridge, it’s safe to say that Maddox is a new favourite author, and I highly recommend checking out her diverse catalogue of works! 
Gardens & Ghosts by Maz Maddox

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adventurous emotional funny lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

For years, Montana has been haunted by the ghost of his husband, blaming himself for the choices that led to his mate’s death. As one of only a few tyrannosaur shifters, he’s resigned to a lonely immortality married to his work—his walls up, his heart guarded, and his focus set on RELIC’s missions. Until the compassionate, plant obsessed Henry stomps into his life. Henry is everything Montana doesn’t have time for: young, reckless, eager to prove himself, and desperate to push all of Montana’s buttons—buttons he hits with terrifying precision. But when the RELIC team learns about a rare, life-changing shifter fossil being traded on the blackmarket, Montana and Henry must set out to Chicago to steal it back. Facing a heavy guard and all manner of deadly adversaries, Montana knows they have to keep their heads down and be professional to make it through the mission alive. But Henry has other plans: he’ll do whatever it takes to break down Montana’s walls and claim his moody tyrannosaurus’ heart. 

What a way to wrap up an incredible series! Book five, the final story in the RELIC series, is heartbreaking at times, but also healing. MMCs Montana and Henry are both stubborn, awkward, and sweet in their own ways—I loved getting more insight into both of them. Montana, my broody, troubled tyrannosaur, is probably my favourite character of the series for the depth of his love for his family, and Henry has the most endearingly frustrating golden retriever energy I’ve ever read. Although this story deals with grief and survivor’s guilt, the heavier themes are balanced with Maddox’s characteristic on-point humour and a beautiful slow burn romance that has just the right amount of spice, and I loved seeing the main cast from the five novels get their ultimate HEAs. Whilst there are definitely more stories that could be told within this weird and wonderful RELIC universe—and I’m quietly hopeful there might be future spinoffs—Gardens & Ghosts wraps up the series beautifully, and it’s sure to be a favourite for years to come.