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Bourbon Canyon
Bourbon Summer
When my former best friend invites me to her wedding to my ex-boyfriend, I lie and tell her I have a plus one. Even worse, I tell her it’s my boss—and he overhears.
Tenor Bailey is one of the owners of Copper Summit, the bourbon distillery I work for, and announcing that we’re dating probably won’t give me a high mark on my annual review. But he agrees to be my fake boyfriend so we can sell our very unreal relationship in this small town before the wedding.
Tenor said he’d show me what I’ve been missing in my dating life. Dating him comes with homemade meals from his mama, picnics, and sleepovers—in his guest room. Except for that one time I had too much to drink and crawled into his bed.
The more we fake a relationship, the more I wish it was true. But Tenor’s been hurt before and he’s convinced the bachelor life is it for him. At the end of our bourbon summer, I’m afraid I’ll be left with a very real broken heart.
Fans of Devney Perry, Laura Pavlov, and Elsie Silver will love Bourbon Summer.
Tenor Bailey is one of the owners of Copper Summit, the bourbon distillery I work for, and announcing that we’re dating probably won’t give me a high mark on my annual review. But he agrees to be my fake boyfriend so we can sell our very unreal relationship in this small town before the wedding.
Tenor said he’d show me what I’ve been missing in my dating life. Dating him comes with homemade meals from his mama, picnics, and sleepovers—in his guest room. Except for that one time I had too much to drink and crawled into his bed.
The more we fake a relationship, the more I wish it was true. But Tenor’s been hurt before and he’s convinced the bachelor life is it for him. At the end of our bourbon summer, I’m afraid I’ll be left with a very real broken heart.
Fans of Devney Perry, Laura Pavlov, and Elsie Silver will love Bourbon Summer.
357 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 30, 2025
255 people are currently reading
1493 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 258 reviews
January 26, 2025
Rating: 4.25/5 Stars
When I say I binged Bourbon Summer by Walker Rose in a single day, I’m 100% serious. This book has everything I crave in a romance—fake dating, an age gap, and a cozy small-town setting in an interconnected standalone series. Yes, please!
Ruby’s story kicks off with absolute chaos when her ex-boyfriend and ex-friend show up at her job, ranting about getting married. (Honestly, they deserve each other because wow, both are the worst.) In a moment of panic, Ruby blurts out that she already has a boyfriend—and in walks one of her bosses, Tenor. Without missing a beat, he plays along, and the fake dating begins.
This book delivers one of the slowest slow burns I’ve ever read, and I loved every second of it. Both Ruby and Tenor have been hurt in the past, so watching them navigate their guarded feelings and slowly open up to each other felt so real and rewarding. Their journey from hesitant co-conspirators to something more is full of tender, swoon-worthy moments that had me rooting for them.
Yes, there’s a slight third-act breakup (you’ve been warned), but trust me—it’s worth it. The resolution is satisfying and sweet, and it left me wanting more of Walker Rose’s world. Now I’m off to read the beginning of the series because I need more of this small-town romance goodness.
Highly recommend for anyone who loves slow-burn romance with all the feels!
When I say I binged Bourbon Summer by Walker Rose in a single day, I’m 100% serious. This book has everything I crave in a romance—fake dating, an age gap, and a cozy small-town setting in an interconnected standalone series. Yes, please!
Ruby’s story kicks off with absolute chaos when her ex-boyfriend and ex-friend show up at her job, ranting about getting married. (Honestly, they deserve each other because wow, both are the worst.) In a moment of panic, Ruby blurts out that she already has a boyfriend—and in walks one of her bosses, Tenor. Without missing a beat, he plays along, and the fake dating begins.
This book delivers one of the slowest slow burns I’ve ever read, and I loved every second of it. Both Ruby and Tenor have been hurt in the past, so watching them navigate their guarded feelings and slowly open up to each other felt so real and rewarding. Their journey from hesitant co-conspirators to something more is full of tender, swoon-worthy moments that had me rooting for them.
Yes, there’s a slight third-act breakup (you’ve been warned), but trust me—it’s worth it. The resolution is satisfying and sweet, and it left me wanting more of Walker Rose’s world. Now I’m off to read the beginning of the series because I need more of this small-town romance goodness.
Highly recommend for anyone who loves slow-burn romance with all the feels!
February 1, 2025
- small town
- boss x employee
- fake dating
- age gap, H (38) h (25)
- found family
H/h are misfits, trying to fit into the world, carrying their own insecurities. H is both hot and nerdy but also carries a lot of hurt from his past relationships. he gets roped into fake dating h when she needs a date to her ex and ex bff's wedding. i liked that both characters were mature despite the age gap of 13 years
but i lost interest after the halfway mark because it dragged, a lot! H kept wallowing in self pity and this nearly 40 year old man can't make up his mind to date her. they still mess around but with no labels. and the plot twist was so unnecessary. after that it only highlighted how immature h is because she wants him to get over decades worth of trauma from bullying in one night. he rightfully freaks out when he finds out his bully who traumatised him is related to h and she's the opposite of supportive when it happens. and the fact that h's father is just 4 years older than H threw me off a little bit too
safety - no virgins, no manwhores. h has an ex who is marrying her ex bff, H hasn't dated anyone in 10 years because all his past girlfriends had hurt him. name of one ow is mentioned a lot since that was the one that had caused the most damage to his self esteem resulting in him shutting down. open door -2/5 spice
- boss x employee
- fake dating
- age gap, H (38) h (25)
- found family
H/h are misfits, trying to fit into the world, carrying their own insecurities. H is both hot and nerdy but also carries a lot of hurt from his past relationships. he gets roped into fake dating h when she needs a date to her ex and ex bff's wedding. i liked that both characters were mature despite the age gap of 13 years
but i lost interest after the halfway mark because it dragged, a lot! H kept wallowing in self pity and this nearly 40 year old man can't make up his mind to date her. they still mess around but with no labels. and the plot twist was so unnecessary. after that it only highlighted how immature h is because she wants him to get over decades worth of trauma from bullying in one night. he rightfully freaks out when he finds out his bully who traumatised him is related to h and she's the opposite of supportive when it happens. and the fact that h's father is just 4 years older than H threw me off a little bit too
safety - no virgins, no manwhores. h has an ex who is marrying her ex bff, H hasn't dated anyone in 10 years because all his past girlfriends had hurt him. name of one ow is mentioned a lot since that was the one that had caused the most damage to his self esteem resulting in him shutting down. open door -2/5 spice
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 27, 2025
I never knew how badly I needed a nerdy cowboy until I met Tenor. I am not changed forever and a nerdy cowboy is.. a 10/10 🔥
Ruby the FMC has a run-in w/her piece of garbage ex at her workplace and when she is invited to his wedding by his soon-to-be-bride & RUBY’S EX-BEST FRIEND.. Ruby panics, lies that she is NOT single, and says she is dating her boss who is 13 years older than she is.. when in all reality she is not and just threw him under the bus because she doesn’t want her ex to think she ISN’T thriving without him.
Tenor has an emotionally upsetting past that has kept him from dating for a long time, but when it comes to Ruby.. he doesn’t know what he wants anymore.
This is a spicy and emotional read. I was not prepared for Tenor’s story and everything he has been through. He is simply one of a kind and I LOVE HIM 🥹
4/5 ⭐️ 3🌶️
Ruby the FMC has a run-in w/her piece of garbage ex at her workplace and when she is invited to his wedding by his soon-to-be-bride & RUBY’S EX-BEST FRIEND.. Ruby panics, lies that she is NOT single, and says she is dating her boss who is 13 years older than she is.. when in all reality she is not and just threw him under the bus because she doesn’t want her ex to think she ISN’T thriving without him.
Tenor has an emotionally upsetting past that has kept him from dating for a long time, but when it comes to Ruby.. he doesn’t know what he wants anymore.
This is a spicy and emotional read. I was not prepared for Tenor’s story and everything he has been through. He is simply one of a kind and I LOVE HIM 🥹
4/5 ⭐️ 3🌶️
April 11, 2025
It should be 2 stars because the main characters were both SO insecure, this whole book was basically about them being insecure and it was annoying but they were cute so it gets 3 stars
February 8, 2025
I was really excited for Ruby and Tenor’s story. I am a huge fan of the Bourbon Canyon series and this installment is so good. I was completely all in with these characters. One of my favorite things about this series are the themes of found family and acceptance 💚
I definitely connected with Ruby being known as an introverted “wallflower” who would rather read a book than go out (I mean that sounds like a perfect night for me!!) She has dealt with bullying and we see how that affects her as an adult. I really liked her character growth and how she stands up for herself.
Tenor is the nerdy cowboy I never knew I needed in my life. He is also an introvert (yay for introverts!) He is dealing with trauma from his past and definitely has some work to do. He is sweet and has goos intensions…but is that enough?
No spoilers here - but I love a good grovel!!
✨What To Expect:
⛰️Small Town
❤️🔥Fake Dating
🔥Age Gap
📸Boss x Employee
🌶️Spicy Lessons
❤️🩹Trauma Healing
🍊Yummy Bourbon Recipes
🤠He’s a hot nerdy cowboy
🃏A Friendly Bet
📚Love Letters Through Books
👗He LOVES When She Wears Skirts
👢He Dances With Her
I definitely connected with Ruby being known as an introverted “wallflower” who would rather read a book than go out (I mean that sounds like a perfect night for me!!) She has dealt with bullying and we see how that affects her as an adult. I really liked her character growth and how she stands up for herself.
Tenor is the nerdy cowboy I never knew I needed in my life. He is also an introvert (yay for introverts!) He is dealing with trauma from his past and definitely has some work to do. He is sweet and has goos intensions…but is that enough?
No spoilers here - but I love a good grovel!!
✨What To Expect:
⛰️Small Town
❤️🔥Fake Dating
🔥Age Gap
📸Boss x Employee
🌶️Spicy Lessons
❤️🩹Trauma Healing
🍊Yummy Bourbon Recipes
🤠He’s a hot nerdy cowboy
🃏A Friendly Bet
📚Love Letters Through Books
👗He LOVES When She Wears Skirts
👢He Dances With Her
July 5, 2025
Really didn’t need Ruby’s dad to be Tenor’s childhood bully… also, if Tenor loved Warhammer as much as he claimed, he would have kicked Katrina to the curb without a second thought.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 30, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
Now I normally never request an arc for a book that’s part of a series that I haven’t read the previous books. But I’ve had this series on my TBR forever and the blurb sounded right up alley.
And now I have read the previous books sometime in the near future. This could be read as a standalone tho. But I want to go back and read the siblings books.
I love reading books with unique characters, that automatically earns stars. Not cookie cutter.
Tenor: the nerdy cowboy 👓🤠
Unique hobbies.
I just wanted to hug the big man.
Ruby: social media girl for Tenors family company
Bookish girl 💁🏼♀️
Wears skirts…
Bourbon distillery 🥃
Boss/employee
Age gap 38/25
Fake dating
Fun big family
Plot twist
Arc review ✨
Now I normally never request an arc for a book that’s part of a series that I haven’t read the previous books. But I’ve had this series on my TBR forever and the blurb sounded right up alley.
And now I have read the previous books sometime in the near future. This could be read as a standalone tho. But I want to go back and read the siblings books.
I love reading books with unique characters, that automatically earns stars. Not cookie cutter.
Tenor: the nerdy cowboy 👓🤠
Unique hobbies.
I just wanted to hug the big man.
Ruby: social media girl for Tenors family company
Bookish girl 💁🏼♀️
Wears skirts…
Bourbon distillery 🥃
Boss/employee
Age gap 38/25
Fake dating
Fun big family
Plot twist
Arc review ✨
December 28, 2025
ARC review
This was so sweet, I loved it.
This book was so good. The longing, the angst, all the emotions, it had everything. Overcoming your past and not changing who you are for another person's view of what you should be.
Tenor was the sweetest, I loved him. He went through a lot in his life. The bullying and then his girlfriends. He was the sweetest man but no one gave him an opportunity to show it. Until Ruby. She wanted the real him, she liked the real him.
I love Ruby, she was done being dragged around in her relationships and Tenor showed her exactly what she deserved.
I just adored them, they deserved each other and their HEA was just perfection
This was so sweet, I loved it.
This book was so good. The longing, the angst, all the emotions, it had everything. Overcoming your past and not changing who you are for another person's view of what you should be.
Tenor was the sweetest, I loved him. He went through a lot in his life. The bullying and then his girlfriends. He was the sweetest man but no one gave him an opportunity to show it. Until Ruby. She wanted the real him, she liked the real him.
I love Ruby, she was done being dragged around in her relationships and Tenor showed her exactly what she deserved.
I just adored them, they deserved each other and their HEA was just perfection
January 29, 2025
ARC Review - Huge thanks to Walker Rose for the opportunity to receive a review copy of Bourbon Summer!
⭐️⭐️.75 rounded up - When this started out, I had high hopes. Within the first few pages of the book, we are introduced to catalyst, ‘Crock’ and the story progresses at a steady pace from there until just after the 50% mark when the need for Ruby and Tenor’s fake relationship had come and gone.
Things went downhill from there. In stark contrast to the first half of the book, the second half dragged. We weren’t getting any new information which left lots of time to dwell on Tenor’s flaws.
Initially, I really resonated with both MCs and their history of being bullied/not fitting in. While we saw Ruby grow and come into her own - recognizing that she deserves someone who will fight for her, Tenor’s growth came too little too late for me. This nearly 40-year-old man-child did nothing but create a self-fulfilling prophecy and wallow in his own self pity.
There were a handful of moments that could have used some further revision. Exhibit A: “I stopped short and my heart crawled into my chest.” ???
The non-sex scene in Chapter 8 was actually incredibly hot and gave me high hopes for the real deal. Instead, these scenes lost all appeal for me due to awkward and cringeworthy phrasing such as “…until my climax hit me square in the balls.” 🤢
I was still prepared to rate an even 3 until the final 5%, where I physically cringed through the entirety of Chapter 24. It felt like a cheesy, b-rated high school romcom and I wanted no part of it.
⭐️⭐️.75 rounded up - When this started out, I had high hopes. Within the first few pages of the book, we are introduced to catalyst, ‘Crock’ and the story progresses at a steady pace from there until just after the 50% mark when the need for Ruby and Tenor’s fake relationship had come and gone.
Things went downhill from there. In stark contrast to the first half of the book, the second half dragged. We weren’t getting any new information which left lots of time to dwell on Tenor’s flaws.
Initially, I really resonated with both MCs and their history of being bullied/not fitting in. While we saw Ruby grow and come into her own - recognizing that she deserves someone who will fight for her, Tenor’s growth came too little too late for me. This nearly 40-year-old man-child did nothing but create a self-fulfilling prophecy and wallow in his own self pity.
There were a handful of moments that could have used some further revision. Exhibit A: “I stopped short and my heart crawled into my chest.” ???
The non-sex scene in Chapter 8 was actually incredibly hot and gave me high hopes for the real deal. Instead, these scenes lost all appeal for me due to awkward and cringeworthy phrasing such as “…until my climax hit me square in the balls.” 🤢
I was still prepared to rate an even 3 until the final 5%, where I physically cringed through the entirety of Chapter 24. It felt like a cheesy, b-rated high school romcom and I wanted no part of it.
January 30, 2025
"Bourbon Summer" is a charming and hilarious rom-com that had me hooked from the start! When Ruby panics and claims her boss, Tenor, as her plus-one to her ex-boyfriend's wedding, their fake dating adventure takes off in delightful ways.
Walker Rose’s writing flows as smoothly as bourbon, and the chemistry between Ruby and Tenor is electric. From home-cooked meals to laugh-out-loud moments (hello, bourbon mishap!), their journey is filled with warmth and humor. As their summer unfolds, the lines between pretend and real feelings blur, leading to an emotional climax that had me rooting for them both.
Perfect for fans of Devney Perry and Laura Pavlov, "Bourbon Summer" is a must-read for anyone looking for a light-hearted, feel-good romance. Grab your copy and enjoy the ride! ☀️❤️
Walker Rose’s writing flows as smoothly as bourbon, and the chemistry between Ruby and Tenor is electric. From home-cooked meals to laugh-out-loud moments (hello, bourbon mishap!), their journey is filled with warmth and humor. As their summer unfolds, the lines between pretend and real feelings blur, leading to an emotional climax that had me rooting for them both.
Perfect for fans of Devney Perry and Laura Pavlov, "Bourbon Summer" is a must-read for anyone looking for a light-hearted, feel-good romance. Grab your copy and enjoy the ride! ☀️❤️
February 3, 2025
TENOR BAILEY. One word. SWOON.
I just knew his book was going to make me fall in love with that nerdy cowboy. He was so SWEET. The bullying trauma from his childhood made him struggle with insecurities and self doubt that translated to some relationship trouble, which I found pretty understandable.
Tenor and Ruby had such great chemistry, and the age gap and fake dating tropes were so well written.
This is a must read for some good angst and swoony romance.
What to expect:
🐴 Hot nerdy cowboy x Social Media Manager
🥃 Age gap
🐴 Fake dating
🥃 Workplace romance
🐴 Trauma healing
🥃 Main characters 25+
I just knew his book was going to make me fall in love with that nerdy cowboy. He was so SWEET. The bullying trauma from his childhood made him struggle with insecurities and self doubt that translated to some relationship trouble, which I found pretty understandable.
Tenor and Ruby had such great chemistry, and the age gap and fake dating tropes were so well written.
This is a must read for some good angst and swoony romance.
What to expect:
🐴 Hot nerdy cowboy x Social Media Manager
🥃 Age gap
🐴 Fake dating
🥃 Workplace romance
🐴 Trauma healing
🥃 Main characters 25+
February 2, 2025
Author Walker Rose has done it again ❤️ This series has easily become one of my favourite small town romances; I've reread them multiple times!
I've been waiting for Tenor Bailey to get his shot at love and I'm so glad social media manager Ruby Casteel revelled in all the nerdy qualities this cowboy had to offer.
I LOVE a fake dating romance, and what better setting could there be than in Bourbon Canyon between a Bailey and one of their employees 🔥
I can't wait for Tellor Bailey to get his shot in the next book in the series!!
I've been waiting for Tenor Bailey to get his shot at love and I'm so glad social media manager Ruby Casteel revelled in all the nerdy qualities this cowboy had to offer.
I LOVE a fake dating romance, and what better setting could there be than in Bourbon Canyon between a Bailey and one of their employees 🔥
I can't wait for Tellor Bailey to get his shot in the next book in the series!!
February 25, 2025
This book delivers a fun and heartfelt take on the fake-dating trope, set against the charming backdrop of a bourbon distillery and a small-town community. The premise is engaging—a woman scrambling to save face in front of her former best friend and ex-boyfriend by claiming her boss as her date, only to have him agree to the charade. The setup creates plenty of entertaining moments, and as the fake relationship unfolds, there are sweet, romantic scenes that make it easy to root for the characters.
While the story has a strong foundation, some of Tenor’s dialogue didn’t always feel natural, which made it a bit harder to connect with him at times. However, the second half of the book truly shines, with more emotional depth and stronger chemistry between the leads. The supporting characters, including Tenor’s family, add warmth and humor, making the world feel vibrant and lived-in.
Overall, this book is a delightful, spicy read with a well-executed premise and a satisfying HEA. While some elements could have been more polished, it’s a great choice for readers who enjoy small-town charm, slow-burn romance, and a little bourbon-fueled fun along the way.
Tropes:
🤍 Small Town
🤍Fake Dating
🤍Age-Gap
🤍Boss/Employee
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
While the story has a strong foundation, some of Tenor’s dialogue didn’t always feel natural, which made it a bit harder to connect with him at times. However, the second half of the book truly shines, with more emotional depth and stronger chemistry between the leads. The supporting characters, including Tenor’s family, add warmth and humor, making the world feel vibrant and lived-in.
Overall, this book is a delightful, spicy read with a well-executed premise and a satisfying HEA. While some elements could have been more polished, it’s a great choice for readers who enjoy small-town charm, slow-burn romance, and a little bourbon-fueled fun along the way.
Tropes:
🤍 Small Town
🤍Fake Dating
🤍Age-Gap
🤍Boss/Employee
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
January 31, 2025
I love the Kerrigan/Bailey family! They're one of those book families that you wish were real so you could join them. And this one was such a sweet read. There was some absolutely delicious tension between the characters that had me flying through the pages. Both characters were relatable in different ways for me; from the bullying Tenor experienced to the arms-length family relations that Ruby grew up with, I really felt connected to both of them.
If you like a small town, big family, age gap, fake relationship romance in which the bullies get their comeuppance and the lonely nerds end up happily ever after, then you will love this story.
And not for nothing, but if Teller's book is the last in the series, I just know I'm going to need to binge the whole thing from start to finish because I'm going to be in Bailey family withdrawals!
Thank you to the author and to The Author Agency for my gifted copy. I am voluntarily sharing my honest review.
If you like a small town, big family, age gap, fake relationship romance in which the bullies get their comeuppance and the lonely nerds end up happily ever after, then you will love this story.
And not for nothing, but if Teller's book is the last in the series, I just know I'm going to need to binge the whole thing from start to finish because I'm going to be in Bailey family withdrawals!
Thank you to the author and to The Author Agency for my gifted copy. I am voluntarily sharing my honest review.
January 31, 2025
Bourbon Summer
Awesome story about two people who have been working together, yet are attracted to each other as well. Tenor is willing to help out Ruby as a fake boyfriend, to her ex’s wedding. What happens when feelings are involved, yet he has been burned before, not ready to go down that path again. Great story.
Awesome story about two people who have been working together, yet are attracted to each other as well. Tenor is willing to help out Ruby as a fake boyfriend, to her ex’s wedding. What happens when feelings are involved, yet he has been burned before, not ready to go down that path again. Great story.
January 18, 2025
"I wanted every day to be a Ruby day."
Ruby's working in the bourbon distillery when her ex-boyfriend walked in together with her ex-best friend. She got invited to their wedding and to save face, she pretended she got a boyfriend in Tenor, her boss.
First off, I really resonated with Ruby - she's me in a book form. The way she thinks, the way she handles things, her love for books, just her overall (except her family dynamic) is so me-coded right from the start, it felt like the author had me in her mind when she wrote her. Plus we share the same name so I am living through her in the book.
Second, the dynamic between the characters were instant and rushed because they had a little bit history together considering they worked together and got crushes on each other. I wished this part was more drawn out, like we had more time to get to know the characters deeper before they were thrust into the fake dating and forced proximity.
Third, pacing was a bit weird imo. Chapter 1 and we were instantly dropped in to the plot. Also, the main characters only interacted during the weekends.
Fourth, I also love Tenor and he's basically one flawed but the best book boyfriend. He's not your typical MMC who's charming or overconfident. He got baggage, he got issues, he got traumas and he's trying really hard to get past those just for Ruby. I honestly love seeing his progress throughout the book.
Overall, I devoured this book and I really love it.
Ruby's working in the bourbon distillery when her ex-boyfriend walked in together with her ex-best friend. She got invited to their wedding and to save face, she pretended she got a boyfriend in Tenor, her boss.
First off, I really resonated with Ruby - she's me in a book form. The way she thinks, the way she handles things, her love for books, just her overall (except her family dynamic) is so me-coded right from the start, it felt like the author had me in her mind when she wrote her. Plus we share the same name so I am living through her in the book.
Second, the dynamic between the characters were instant and rushed because they had a little bit history together considering they worked together and got crushes on each other. I wished this part was more drawn out, like we had more time to get to know the characters deeper before they were thrust into the fake dating and forced proximity.
Third, pacing was a bit weird imo. Chapter 1 and we were instantly dropped in to the plot. Also, the main characters only interacted during the weekends.
Fourth, I also love Tenor and he's basically one flawed but the best book boyfriend. He's not your typical MMC who's charming or overconfident. He got baggage, he got issues, he got traumas and he's trying really hard to get past those just for Ruby. I honestly love seeing his progress throughout the book.
Overall, I devoured this book and I really love it.
February 17, 2025
4.5/5 ⭐️ 2/5 🌶️
I received this book as an ARC review. This is unbiased review . I completely enjoyed this book. I do love me some cowboy romance! This book follows the storyline of Ruby Casteel a social media rep/bartender and Tenor Bailey who co-owns the copper summit bourbon distillery with his family. I enjoyed this book so much as it has some of my favorite tropes in this book are Fake-Dating, Age gap, and found family (also has delicious elder nerdy cowboys. And by nerdy I mean nerdy… my sweet baby reads, games, collects and makes actions figures.
One thing I LOVED about this book was how relatable Ruby was she’s a shy avid reader… (same). Reading incognito space smut… also same. She’s a reclusive person and her preferred lifestyle is to be reading smut and spending the weekends at home.
For starters this book was completely unique on its own as you don’t have to read the whole interconnected series. I did like the conflict in this book to a certain extent. Both of our main characters do have their own self identifying issues going on. My sweet baby angel Tenor who is different type of cowboy. Masculine but soft and nerdy. However, I did wish some of his turmoil would have resolved sooner rather than later, but it did give me a whole lot of angst.
This was the first book of the series I read, however I instantly purchased all of the books because I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and will be reading more of ALL of Walkers books!
I received this book as an ARC review. This is unbiased review . I completely enjoyed this book. I do love me some cowboy romance! This book follows the storyline of Ruby Casteel a social media rep/bartender and Tenor Bailey who co-owns the copper summit bourbon distillery with his family. I enjoyed this book so much as it has some of my favorite tropes in this book are Fake-Dating, Age gap, and found family (also has delicious elder nerdy cowboys. And by nerdy I mean nerdy… my sweet baby reads, games, collects and makes actions figures.
One thing I LOVED about this book was how relatable Ruby was she’s a shy avid reader… (same). Reading incognito space smut… also same. She’s a reclusive person and her preferred lifestyle is to be reading smut and spending the weekends at home.
For starters this book was completely unique on its own as you don’t have to read the whole interconnected series. I did like the conflict in this book to a certain extent. Both of our main characters do have their own self identifying issues going on. My sweet baby angel Tenor who is different type of cowboy. Masculine but soft and nerdy. However, I did wish some of his turmoil would have resolved sooner rather than later, but it did give me a whole lot of angst.
This was the first book of the series I read, however I instantly purchased all of the books because I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and will be reading more of ALL of Walkers books!
January 27, 2025
This fake dating, boss and employee, age gap, small town romance delivers a book boyfriend that wants to act out some of the scenes she reads in her romance books. I mean, hot, right?!
Ruby is the social media manager at Bourbon Canyon, as well as working the tasting room sometimes. When her ex boyfriend and ex best friend arrive and start discussing their wedding, she gets invited. She also mentions that she’s dating her boss, Tenor. He plays along with the lie but then they realise that they have to fake date until after the wedding.
Tenor and Ruby both suffer from poor self image, and think they are undeserving of love from the other. He was bullied as a kid which left lasting scars, and previous girlfriends left him feeling the same too so he swore off dating, happy to live his quiet nerdy life. Shes similar and prefers the quiet life too. But she’s been treated poorly in the past so Tenor takes it upon himself to show her how she should be treated.
This is a good series, the books interconnected standalones but I highly recommend circling back to the previous books as it’s an excellent series to dive into. I liked this book, and although I found Tenor frustrating at times, he is good book boyfriend material.
Thank you @walker_rose_books and @theauthor.agency for the e-ARC of this story.
Ruby is the social media manager at Bourbon Canyon, as well as working the tasting room sometimes. When her ex boyfriend and ex best friend arrive and start discussing their wedding, she gets invited. She also mentions that she’s dating her boss, Tenor. He plays along with the lie but then they realise that they have to fake date until after the wedding.
Tenor and Ruby both suffer from poor self image, and think they are undeserving of love from the other. He was bullied as a kid which left lasting scars, and previous girlfriends left him feeling the same too so he swore off dating, happy to live his quiet nerdy life. Shes similar and prefers the quiet life too. But she’s been treated poorly in the past so Tenor takes it upon himself to show her how she should be treated.
This is a good series, the books interconnected standalones but I highly recommend circling back to the previous books as it’s an excellent series to dive into. I liked this book, and although I found Tenor frustrating at times, he is good book boyfriend material.
Thank you @walker_rose_books and @theauthor.agency for the e-ARC of this story.
January 22, 2025
Gifted [Thank you to Walker Rose and The Author Agency for allowing me early access to this story!]
⭐️4 🌶️ 3 💀 0
Source: ARC
Tropes/Themes:
✨ Small Town
✨ Age Gap
✨ Fake Dating
✨ Boss/Employee
What it’s about:
She’s tending bar when suddenly she spots not only her ex-best friend who left her high and dry when cooler, richer friends came around in middle school, but also her ex-boyfriend who told her she was too boring. Suddenly they’re talking about her coming to their wedding (yeah, you read that right, they’re engaged) and when her ex-boyfriend says something about it being too hard when she's single, she up and claims she has a boyfriend. Roping her boss into her little charade, suddenly she realizes that not only has she told his man he has to go to a wedding with her, but to make it believable they’ll need to fake date!
My Review:
I love fake dating, especially when they realize pretty fast that they’re into one another and act on it. Not only that, but when the characters are dealing with toxic self-images of themselves and have to break through these preconceived misconceptions of who they are and what others see in them to be better partners for one another.
Haven’t read the series? Not a problem, they’re interconnected standalones so you’ll be fine!
⭐️4 🌶️ 3 💀 0
Source: ARC
Tropes/Themes:
✨ Small Town
✨ Age Gap
✨ Fake Dating
✨ Boss/Employee
What it’s about:
She’s tending bar when suddenly she spots not only her ex-best friend who left her high and dry when cooler, richer friends came around in middle school, but also her ex-boyfriend who told her she was too boring. Suddenly they’re talking about her coming to their wedding (yeah, you read that right, they’re engaged) and when her ex-boyfriend says something about it being too hard when she's single, she up and claims she has a boyfriend. Roping her boss into her little charade, suddenly she realizes that not only has she told his man he has to go to a wedding with her, but to make it believable they’ll need to fake date!
My Review:
I love fake dating, especially when they realize pretty fast that they’re into one another and act on it. Not only that, but when the characters are dealing with toxic self-images of themselves and have to break through these preconceived misconceptions of who they are and what others see in them to be better partners for one another.
Haven’t read the series? Not a problem, they’re interconnected standalones so you’ll be fine!
February 5, 2025
Tropes:
🥃boss x employee
🥃fake dating
🥃age gap
🥃found family
🥃small town
ruth and tenor are two peas in a pod, just misfits in the world trying to find their place. all the care and tenderness that tenor had for ruth immediately from the get-go, despite his initial hesitancy because of broken relationships and his hidden hobbies and loves that did not always...go over well with exes. i loved how ruth just took it all and supported all of his passions, because of her feelings for him as a whole, rather than the parts that were convenient for her.
i enjoyed the book more than i had anticipated, and was excited to see more of the bailey siblings getting their hea's. the romance was sweet, and i thoroughly enjoyed the story. some parts were sooo annoying (cough cough cough cough), but the strain was worth it in the end.
thank you to walker for the eARC
🥃boss x employee
🥃fake dating
🥃age gap
🥃found family
🥃small town
ruth and tenor are two peas in a pod, just misfits in the world trying to find their place. all the care and tenderness that tenor had for ruth immediately from the get-go, despite his initial hesitancy because of broken relationships and his hidden hobbies and loves that did not always...go over well with exes. i loved how ruth just took it all and supported all of his passions, because of her feelings for him as a whole, rather than the parts that were convenient for her.
i enjoyed the book more than i had anticipated, and was excited to see more of the bailey siblings getting their hea's. the romance was sweet, and i thoroughly enjoyed the story. some parts were sooo annoying (cough cough cough cough), but the strain was worth it in the end.
thank you to walker for the eARC
January 31, 2025
Hello nerdy cowboy! You were exactly what I needed in my life! Plus make it an age gap, fake dating romance in a small town, Bourbon Summer had everything I needed.
Ruby’s ex-boyfriend and ex-friend show up at her place of work to tell her they are getting married and moving to town and the first thing Ruby could think of was to tell them she had a boyfriend, who happened to be her boss, Tenor. I loved this setup so much!
They both have pasts that have led to hurt and heartbreak, so navigating this fake relationship was a little tricky, especially when real feelings started to come to light. Their back and forth and not dealing with past trauma might have occurred a little much for my preference, but I still enjoyed their journey overall. It was a slow burn but it was worth every second of the wait.
That found family element that Walker Rose does so well was thriving! I loved how everyone looked after Ruby and were encouraging (and blunt) when Tenor needed it. The love and humor was spot on.
Thank you so much Walker Rose for this ARC. Bourbon Summer was a great addition to this series! Can’t wait for the next one!
Ruby’s ex-boyfriend and ex-friend show up at her place of work to tell her they are getting married and moving to town and the first thing Ruby could think of was to tell them she had a boyfriend, who happened to be her boss, Tenor. I loved this setup so much!
They both have pasts that have led to hurt and heartbreak, so navigating this fake relationship was a little tricky, especially when real feelings started to come to light. Their back and forth and not dealing with past trauma might have occurred a little much for my preference, but I still enjoyed their journey overall. It was a slow burn but it was worth every second of the wait.
That found family element that Walker Rose does so well was thriving! I loved how everyone looked after Ruby and were encouraging (and blunt) when Tenor needed it. The love and humor was spot on.
Thank you so much Walker Rose for this ARC. Bourbon Summer was a great addition to this series! Can’t wait for the next one!
January 30, 2025
3.5 🌟
I want to start and say that this review is solely based on my preferences. I have mixed feels on this book.
The writing was very well done and truly brings the characters to life from the family dynamics and friendships to the past hurts. The MMC was really sweet and I loved that there was a good age gap! I also loved the vibe of the distillery and wish it was a real place.
That being said… I personally was not attracted to the MMC or FMC characters. The whole book was them letting people from their past take their power away from them and just settling for that. It was a bit painful and at the halfway point in the book I was starting to just be over it. Also their characters to me were just a bit dull and that was something they were embarrassed about even in the story butttt I mean they were kinda boring.
I did finish the book and it has some sweet moments and few surprises but the whole book kind of felt like a big trauma dump and left me feeling depressed myself.
I think I was more interested in knowing Teller or the younger brothers’ stories.
🌟 Age gap
🌟 Third act break up
🌟 Fake dating
🌟 trauma from bullies
I want to start and say that this review is solely based on my preferences. I have mixed feels on this book.
The writing was very well done and truly brings the characters to life from the family dynamics and friendships to the past hurts. The MMC was really sweet and I loved that there was a good age gap! I also loved the vibe of the distillery and wish it was a real place.
That being said… I personally was not attracted to the MMC or FMC characters. The whole book was them letting people from their past take their power away from them and just settling for that. It was a bit painful and at the halfway point in the book I was starting to just be over it. Also their characters to me were just a bit dull and that was something they were embarrassed about even in the story butttt I mean they were kinda boring.
I did finish the book and it has some sweet moments and few surprises but the whole book kind of felt like a big trauma dump and left me feeling depressed myself.
I think I was more interested in knowing Teller or the younger brothers’ stories.
🌟 Age gap
🌟 Third act break up
🌟 Fake dating
🌟 trauma from bullies
January 30, 2025
Tenor and Ruby's story was "chef's kiss". Tenor the shy introverted Bailey. Ruby. The snow white-esqe pixie in skirts drew Tenor's eye.
What starts as a fake dating situation quickly turns to real feelings. Tenor needs to move past his ex to make room for Ruby in his life. Ruby is used to not being the priority in relationships so Tenor's rejection was extra hurtful after he showed her how she should be treated.
I absolutely loved that they used books to say the words they were afraid to voice. I enjoy this series and love getting to visit with past characters.
What starts as a fake dating situation quickly turns to real feelings. Tenor needs to move past his ex to make room for Ruby in his life. Ruby is used to not being the priority in relationships so Tenor's rejection was extra hurtful after he showed her how she should be treated.
I absolutely loved that they used books to say the words they were afraid to voice. I enjoy this series and love getting to visit with past characters.
January 31, 2025
This book was fun. It had some sweet and great moments especially at the end. I felt though that Ruby and Tenor's problems weren't really big enough. They let themselves be taken advantage of and never really grew up and took their power back until the end. I felt it was kind of childish even though they were adults. I also felt like this book should be part of a series but it is not listed like that on the website. So I felt that I should have read the others stories first.
January 26, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️.5
I love the Bailey family but I just couldn't quite connect with this one the way I thought I would. The whole plot twist with Bobby felt really unnecessary and it dragged on. But I loved how both Ruby and Tenor had such homebody personalities who just wanted peace to be able to do the things they enjoy and they found that with each other!
ARC READ
🌶️.5
I love the Bailey family but I just couldn't quite connect with this one the way I thought I would. The whole plot twist with Bobby felt really unnecessary and it dragged on. But I loved how both Ruby and Tenor had such homebody personalities who just wanted peace to be able to do the things they enjoy and they found that with each other!
ARC READ
March 6, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was definitely a cute read, it wasn’t one of my favourites in the series but that said I still loved it
Tenor is the nerdy older cowboy who’s past he can’t seem to get over even when his dream girl is right in front of his eyes but don’t let that fool you, he’s still a hot cowboy after all
This was definitely a cute read, it wasn’t one of my favourites in the series but that said I still loved it
Tenor is the nerdy older cowboy who’s past he can’t seem to get over even when his dream girl is right in front of his eyes but don’t let that fool you, he’s still a hot cowboy after all
January 18, 2025
This was the palette cleanser I needed 👏🏼 I love a small town romance with found family vibes and of course an age gap, I LIVE for an age gap romance 😍 it’s like a drug to me.
The storyline was really good and I felt connected to the characters (without having read the previous books) which I love.
Perfect fake dating slow burn 🔥
The storyline was really good and I felt connected to the characters (without having read the previous books) which I love.
Perfect fake dating slow burn 🔥
February 14, 2025
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time reading the Bourbon Canyon series! Each book has followed either the Bailey Brothers ( so far Tate and now Tenor), or the Kerrigan sisters (Wynter, Summer, Autumn and June) and it has been so fun reading each new book and catching up with each family member while getting to know the MCs and their stories!
Tenor Bailey and Ruby Casteel. Two people who don’t make sense together… but they are inexplicably drawn to each other. I loved their story so much! They both have trust issues bright on my things in their past… which they actually have in common (for the most part). They have been burned pretty badly with past relationships. When Ruby’s ex shows up engaged to her ex best friend… Ruby tries to save face by telling them she’s dating her boss… and get them invited to their wedding. What starts out fake between Tenor and Ruby turns not so fake real fast. But will they be able to put their pasts behind them so they can have a future together and be happy?
Tenor is a nerdy cowboy who wears glasses… say less! I’m happy to know him better now because he has such an interesting story and I loved seeing him come to terms with his struggles and trauma and see him become happy with Ruby. What he does to win her back? Absolutely swoon worthy 😍🫠
Ruby is the social media manager for Copper Summit and is really good at her job and bringing in fresh ideas to make the company more money. I love her determination to get Tenor (as well as the rest of the family) in more of the posts she shares online. Much to the brother’s dismay lol but it actually works! I loved seeing the other couples being happy and content, but I also really loved how they supported Tenor and gave him sound advice and reassurance that who he is as a person, is more than enough.
There is just one Bailey brother left now and k cannot wait to get Teller’s book next!
Tenor Bailey and Ruby Casteel. Two people who don’t make sense together… but they are inexplicably drawn to each other. I loved their story so much! They both have trust issues bright on my things in their past… which they actually have in common (for the most part). They have been burned pretty badly with past relationships. When Ruby’s ex shows up engaged to her ex best friend… Ruby tries to save face by telling them she’s dating her boss… and get them invited to their wedding. What starts out fake between Tenor and Ruby turns not so fake real fast. But will they be able to put their pasts behind them so they can have a future together and be happy?
Tenor is a nerdy cowboy who wears glasses… say less! I’m happy to know him better now because he has such an interesting story and I loved seeing him come to terms with his struggles and trauma and see him become happy with Ruby. What he does to win her back? Absolutely swoon worthy 😍🫠
Ruby is the social media manager for Copper Summit and is really good at her job and bringing in fresh ideas to make the company more money. I love her determination to get Tenor (as well as the rest of the family) in more of the posts she shares online. Much to the brother’s dismay lol but it actually works! I loved seeing the other couples being happy and content, but I also really loved how they supported Tenor and gave him sound advice and reassurance that who he is as a person, is more than enough.
There is just one Bailey brother left now and k cannot wait to get Teller’s book next!
February 5, 2025
“Is everything okay?”
“No.” “I’m tired of pretending I don’t think about flipping those flirty skirts up and plunging into you whenever I want.”
Okay, so I did really enjoy the writing style, spice, etc. I think this specific couple’s story just wasn’t for me. The third act breakup was fine - not my fav trope, but I do read it sometimes. Just the reasoning behind the breakup gave me the ick.
But I still really enjoyed the rest of it!! I will definitely be going back and reading the first books in this series.
Read if you enjoy:
🥃 Fake Dating
🥃 Boss x Employee
🥃 Age Gap (25/38)
🥃 Third Act Breakup
🥃 Small Town
“No.” “I’m tired of pretending I don’t think about flipping those flirty skirts up and plunging into you whenever I want.”
Okay, so I did really enjoy the writing style, spice, etc. I think this specific couple’s story just wasn’t for me. The third act breakup was fine - not my fav trope, but I do read it sometimes. Just the reasoning behind the breakup gave me the ick.
But I still really enjoyed the rest of it!! I will definitely be going back and reading the first books in this series.
Read if you enjoy:
🥃 Fake Dating
🥃 Boss x Employee
🥃 Age Gap (25/38)
🥃 Third Act Breakup
🥃 Small Town
February 1, 2025
I’ve enjoyed some of these books but this one wa a miss for me. I get he was hurt and bullied but he’s 37…. And acted like a child. I sometimes I had to remind myself he wasn’t 25
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