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4.01 AVERAGE
4.01 AVERAGE
perhaps the pacing of this would have felt better if i hadn’t read it on one sitting but i refuse to take accountablity for my role in that
funny
lighthearted
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:
No
Stirring Spurs is a low stakes romance book filled with good vibes and positivity. Rainbow Ranch is a queer-norm community in Oklahoma that the four Adams siblings built together, complete with rainbow flags. It's a place to forget your homophobic past. Each sibling is some flavor of queer and one of the teens from a local foster home who helps out at the ranch is nonbinary. There was additional rep through Wylie who needed speech therapy as a kid for his stutter.
The vibes are so sweet and caring. Boone is the ranch cook, and Wylie is a cowboy who took at job at Rainbow Ranch to help one of their rescue horses come out of his shell. The attraction is there from the start, and the book is both sweet and spicy. Dennis the mini horse is adorable and some of Boone's flavor combinations sound delicious. The writing makes me feel like I'm there. Stirring Spurs also includes lots of bun and cake innuendos and Brokeback Mountain references. You can tell he had fun writing this one.
One thing I was confused about was why everyone accepted Wylie calling Boone a Cookie (what I thought was just a pet name) until it was later explained to be the term for a ranch cook. Overall, I enjoyed this book, and the ending brought it up to 4.5 stars for me. The four siblings are so close to each other, and I can't wait to read the other stories.
Thanks for the ARC!
The vibes are so sweet and caring. Boone is the ranch cook, and Wylie is a cowboy who took at job at Rainbow Ranch to help one of their rescue horses come out of his shell. The attraction is there from the start, and the book is both sweet and spicy. Dennis the mini horse is adorable and some of Boone's flavor combinations sound delicious. The writing makes me feel like I'm there. Stirring Spurs also includes lots of bun and cake innuendos and Brokeback Mountain references. You can tell he had fun writing this one.
One thing I was confused about was why everyone accepted Wylie calling Boone a Cookie (what I thought was just a pet name) until it was later explained to be the term for a ranch cook. Overall, I enjoyed this book, and the ending brought it up to 4.5 stars for me. The four siblings are so close to each other, and I can't wait to read the other stories.
Thanks for the ARC!
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:
Yes
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
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
MA Wardell's foray into cowboy romance as the first of multiple multi-author interconnected standalone novellas was a lovely, tender introduction to the Rainbow Ranch. Ranch cook Boone Adams is the heart of the ranch. While older twin Beau runs the ranch, Boone is devoted to taking care of the rest of their close knit family and community, while taking very little time to care for himself. Wandering cowboy Wylie Anderson blows into town to spend a few weeks working with the horses before the monthly rodeo, after which he plans to keep running from his past. The two are immediately drawn to each other, but can Wylie help Boone focus on his happiness? Can Boone allow Wylie to feel like he can put down roots and stop running?
I've been looking forward to this book since I saw "MA Wardell cowboy romance," and this book was such a sweet depiction of these two characters, and I enjoyed seeing them be immediately drawn to each other but not know what to do with it. I appreciated the choice to write something different (and differently) than Wardell's usual books, while keeping the sweetness I have come to enjoy. As time goes on, I have been more and more appreciative of low-angst queer romance books, where the angst that does exist isn't just another iteration of homophobia, especially in the ranch/small town setting.
The characters were well fleshed out, especially for the page count of a novella, and the tension and chemistry between the two characters made this a very compelling read that I finished all in one sitting. This was cozy, quick, and lots of fun. I definitely recommend checking out this book! Thank you to MA Wardell and Grey's Promotions for the e-ARC.
I've been looking forward to this book since I saw "MA Wardell cowboy romance," and this book was such a sweet depiction of these two characters, and I enjoyed seeing them be immediately drawn to each other but not know what to do with it. I appreciated the choice to write something different (and differently) than Wardell's usual books, while keeping the sweetness I have come to enjoy. As time goes on, I have been more and more appreciative of low-angst queer romance books, where the angst that does exist isn't just another iteration of homophobia, especially in the ranch/small town setting.
The characters were well fleshed out, especially for the page count of a novella, and the tension and chemistry between the two characters made this a very compelling read that I finished all in one sitting. This was cozy, quick, and lots of fun. I definitely recommend checking out this book! Thank you to MA Wardell and Grey's Promotions for the e-ARC.
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
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:
Yes
M.A. Wardell made me fall in love from the very first pages of this book. It’s a beautifully written, heartwarming story about two cowboys falling in love—full of slice-of-life moments that make you appreciate even the smallest things.
Boone is the cook at Rainbow Ranch, and his cookies not only win over hearts but even horses. His baking plays a sweet and essential role in the development of the love story.
Wylie is the closed-off cowboy who’s never been able to settle down. His journey isn’t easy, but Rainbow Ranch—and a very stubborn horse—help guide him toward healing. It’s lovely to see how he gradually opens up to love, connection, and the idea of having a family.
M.A. Wardell poured so much love, emotion, and a healthy dose of spiciness into this book. I devoured it—and I only wish it had been longer!
Boone is the cook at Rainbow Ranch, and his cookies not only win over hearts but even horses. His baking plays a sweet and essential role in the development of the love story.
Wylie is the closed-off cowboy who’s never been able to settle down. His journey isn’t easy, but Rainbow Ranch—and a very stubborn horse—help guide him toward healing. It’s lovely to see how he gradually opens up to love, connection, and the idea of having a family.
M.A. Wardell poured so much love, emotion, and a healthy dose of spiciness into this book. I devoured it—and I only wish it had been longer!
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
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
Stirring Spurs by M.A. Wardell is part of the Rainbow Ranch series, written by different authors. This book is on Rainbow Ranch, a safe haven for animals and humans. It is tender, sweet, and cozy.
Boone (Cookie) runs the ranch kitchen and makes sure all of this family and the ranch are fed and loved, and they spend time together. Everyone respects him, and it shows how much effort they put into making sure he is happy, and everyone sits down to eat meals together. Wylie is new to the ranch to work with one of the more stubborn horses. He has a troubled past and didn't know that Rainbow Ranch might be exactly what he was looking for.
Even as a novella, Stirring Spus is full of cowboys with manners, a level of care, and affection for one another. I love the family not being afraid of physical touch and showing each other love, even as men and "cowboys." The way they care for one another is heartwarming. And the care and attention that Boone and Wylie show towards one another was unmatched!
I have loved all of M.A. Wardell's books, and this one was no exception! Overall, this book definitely felt like a warm hug, and I loved the queer-normative ranch and the representation of Western romance. I would recommend reading this one and adding it to your shelf.
Thank you, M.A. Wardell and Grey's Promotions, for the review copy!
Boone (Cookie) runs the ranch kitchen and makes sure all of this family and the ranch are fed and loved, and they spend time together. Everyone respects him, and it shows how much effort they put into making sure he is happy, and everyone sits down to eat meals together. Wylie is new to the ranch to work with one of the more stubborn horses. He has a troubled past and didn't know that Rainbow Ranch might be exactly what he was looking for.
Even as a novella, Stirring Spus is full of cowboys with manners, a level of care, and affection for one another. I love the family not being afraid of physical touch and showing each other love, even as men and "cowboys." The way they care for one another is heartwarming. And the care and attention that Boone and Wylie show towards one another was unmatched!
I have loved all of M.A. Wardell's books, and this one was no exception! Overall, this book definitely felt like a warm hug, and I loved the queer-normative ranch and the representation of Western romance. I would recommend reading this one and adding it to your shelf.
Thank you, M.A. Wardell and Grey's Promotions, for the review copy!
emotional
funny
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
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
WELCOME TO RAINBOW RANCH and HAPPY RELEASE to STIRRING SPURS by M.A. Wardell! 🤠
This cute cowboy romance is a novella that NEEDS to be added to your collection. Not only will it have you kicking your cowboy boots cuz of the cuteness of Wiley’s crush, it will also have your heart melting like the butter in Boone’s skillet, and your jeans tightening cuz of the spice! Let’s just say truck bed b0n3r$ 🤭😏🤤
I’ve been a fan of Wardell’s writing since Teacher of the Year was released. He has a way of capturing the human experience in a raw, literary way that few romance writers are able to achieve. Stirring Spurs is no exception. Everything I love and expect from his artistic abilities shines through.
I also just get giddy when I read some of these zingers.
Stirring Spurs is a perfect introduction to this new series and you are going to fall in love with Boone and Wiley and the entire Rainbow Ranch family.
Get your copy now on the author’s website!
This cute cowboy romance is a novella that NEEDS to be added to your collection. Not only will it have you kicking your cowboy boots cuz of the cuteness of Wiley’s crush, it will also have your heart melting like the butter in Boone’s skillet, and your jeans tightening cuz of the spice! Let’s just say truck bed b0n3r$ 🤭😏🤤
I’ve been a fan of Wardell’s writing since Teacher of the Year was released. He has a way of capturing the human experience in a raw, literary way that few romance writers are able to achieve. Stirring Spurs is no exception. Everything I love and expect from his artistic abilities shines through.
I also just get giddy when I read some of these zingers.
Stirring Spurs is a perfect introduction to this new series and you are going to fall in love with Boone and Wiley and the entire Rainbow Ranch family.
Get your copy now on the author’s website!
Boone is sunshine on a stick. He's playful, seems like such a caretaker and feels like he would have the best smile. Wylie isn't exactly grumpy but maybe aloof is better word. Like grumpy adjacent because he can't help sneaking a smile at Boone sometimes. Rainbow Ranch isn't what he's used to and it's taking him a minute to acclimate. He doesn't need a minute to get used to Boone though, that crush started fast and it's 100% reciprocated. This is a very cute - and very cozy - story about finding your person and finally feeling like you belong somewhere. (And also spicy cowboy shenanigans)
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:
Complicated
emotional
funny
inspiring
fast-paced
I could not love this book more. The cast of characters are so freaking lovable. M.A. really created an atmosphere of love and acceptance with this book and my soul ate. it. up. I NEEDED this read. It breathed life into me during these times of hate and turmoil. Thank you M.A.!🥹 The Rainbow Ranch message is so important and I hope it finds a home in many hearts!
~Thoughts~
Wylie is a man on the move until he finds his place at Rainbow Ranch. A place to call home filled with found family, acceptance for who you are and love. While Wylie off the bat is a good man and hard worker, he lives a lonely existence and is not able to live his true self as he wanders from ranch to ranch, running from guilt and ghosts from his past. I loved his gentle spirt, his connection to the horses and the fact he is never without his cowboy hat. And I mean never, wink wink.
Boone is sunshine personified. I hope to one day to find my purpose like he has in feeding and caring for his family and those working the ranch. He is made for it and takes so much pleasure in feeding and caring for Wylie. I loved his playful bantering, his caring personality and his gentle way with Wylie.
These two are perfect. The cast of characters are so fun. This was a lovely, spicy, low angst read about two people finding love and family. It will make you smile and laugh and whoop at all the right times.
*honest ARC Review*
~Thoughts~
Wylie is a man on the move until he finds his place at Rainbow Ranch. A place to call home filled with found family, acceptance for who you are and love. While Wylie off the bat is a good man and hard worker, he lives a lonely existence and is not able to live his true self as he wanders from ranch to ranch, running from guilt and ghosts from his past. I loved his gentle spirt, his connection to the horses and the fact he is never without his cowboy hat. And I mean never, wink wink.
Boone is sunshine personified. I hope to one day to find my purpose like he has in feeding and caring for his family and those working the ranch. He is made for it and takes so much pleasure in feeding and caring for Wylie. I loved his playful bantering, his caring personality and his gentle way with Wylie.
These two are perfect. The cast of characters are so fun. This was a lovely, spicy, low angst read about two people finding love and family. It will make you smile and laugh and whoop at all the right times.
*honest ARC Review*