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Where The Dust Settles: A Small Town Cowboy Romance
Ella wants to keep her head down, do her job, and be left alone. Testifying against her husband landed her in witness protection, and now she’s been relocated to small-town Montana, where she cleans house for Chase, a grumpy, injured bull rider who clearly doesn’t want her there. One impulsive decision leaves her with two pink lines and the possibility of a future she never let herself imagine. Fear and uncertainty tell her to keep her walls up and protect herself like she always has. But then there’s Chase, the man who's working his way into her heart, and the only one making her wonder if maybe, just maybe, she's finally found a soft place to land.
Chase just wants to heal up after a bull riding injury and sell the run-down family farm so he can leave Montana in the dust. With a whiskey habit he’s not ready to call a problem, and his job on the line if he doesn't recover before his next ride, his life is unraveling faster than he can hold it together. His plan is looking less likely by the day. And then there’s Ella, the housekeeper his agent hired, and the one he’s absolutely not falling for. Nope. Definitely not. Relationships were never his thing anyway. But the more he gets to know her, the more he sees his own fears reflected in her. The same instinct to keep people at arm’s length, the same hesitation to trust. For the first time in his life, he wonders what it would feel like to let someone in.
Chase just wants to heal up after a bull riding injury and sell the run-down family farm so he can leave Montana in the dust. With a whiskey habit he’s not ready to call a problem, and his job on the line if he doesn't recover before his next ride, his life is unraveling faster than he can hold it together. His plan is looking less likely by the day. And then there’s Ella, the housekeeper his agent hired, and the one he’s absolutely not falling for. Nope. Definitely not. Relationships were never his thing anyway. But the more he gets to know her, the more he sees his own fears reflected in her. The same instinct to keep people at arm’s length, the same hesitation to trust. For the first time in his life, he wonders what it would feel like to let someone in.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 6, 2025
18 people are currently reading
138 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 174 reviews
May 10, 2025
Where The Dust Settles by Anna Callaway
4/5⭐
2/5🌶️
This was a delightful and quick cowboy/small town romance that I really enjoyed! It had some sweet and swoony moments that made my heart flutter. The suspense kept me engaged, and the chemistry between the leads was wonderful. Ella is in a witness protection program after escaping from an abusive ex. She changes her identity and finds herself in a charming small town where Chase lives. Chase, a bull rider, is nursing an injury, and Ella is the new housekeeper.
Ella has been through a lot, which makes her a bit skittish and closed off. She's learning to trust again while dealing with nightmares from her past. At first, she feels uneasy around Chase, but as she gets to know him, she starts to see the kind and caring person beneath his gruff exterior.
Chase has a bit of a grumpy demeanor, especially after his injury, and he doesn’t like having his space invaded. Initially, he is a bit rude to Ella, but once he realizes how he makes her uncomfortable, his softer side begins to shine through. I loved that he never pushed her to share her story before she was ready. He’s so understanding and patient, always ready to protect her and keep her safe.
Overall, it was a light and fun read, blending just the right amount of suspense and spice. The ending was perfect, and I was so happy to see them finally get their happy ending!
4/5⭐
2/5🌶️
This was a delightful and quick cowboy/small town romance that I really enjoyed! It had some sweet and swoony moments that made my heart flutter. The suspense kept me engaged, and the chemistry between the leads was wonderful. Ella is in a witness protection program after escaping from an abusive ex. She changes her identity and finds herself in a charming small town where Chase lives. Chase, a bull rider, is nursing an injury, and Ella is the new housekeeper.
Ella has been through a lot, which makes her a bit skittish and closed off. She's learning to trust again while dealing with nightmares from her past. At first, she feels uneasy around Chase, but as she gets to know him, she starts to see the kind and caring person beneath his gruff exterior.
Chase has a bit of a grumpy demeanor, especially after his injury, and he doesn’t like having his space invaded. Initially, he is a bit rude to Ella, but once he realizes how he makes her uncomfortable, his softer side begins to shine through. I loved that he never pushed her to share her story before she was ready. He’s so understanding and patient, always ready to protect her and keep her safe.
Overall, it was a light and fun read, blending just the right amount of suspense and spice. The ending was perfect, and I was so happy to see them finally get their happy ending!
May 10, 2025
3 / 5 Stars
These were the TikTok sounds that were going through my head as I was reading the book:
First 3/4 of the book: "You know what... hell yeah."
Last 1/4 of the book: "Ummmmm... what's going on?"
If you don't know these sounds then you and I are on different sides of TikTok and I am deeply intrigued to know what's on your fyp.
First a synopsis: A few months ago, Ella testified against her ex-husband and now she is living in Montana with a new identity. Still reeling from the trauma, she is terrified and doesn't really want to be out and about. But her witness protection marshal convinces her to live a little and go to the rodeo in town. There she sees Chase. The first time she sees him, he is fighting two people. The next time she sees Chase, he is getting his leg impaled by a bull. When she sees him a few weeks later, she has been hired to clean his house and he is acting very much like Beast from Beauty and the Beast -- he is grumpy and mean but feels bad about it and yet still keeps putting his foot in his mouth. But Ella keeps coming by and they form a quiet connection and understanding.
One day Ella decides that she can't let her ex-husband be the last person to have touched her so she proposes that she and Chase sleep together. After one lube-less and birth control less time, Ella gets pregnant (she was convinced that she couldn't get pregnant. What Chase's excuses is for not having lube around is beyond me). Chase and Ella have to navigate deciding what to do with the pregnancy and their relationship all while Ella's past is constantly right around the corner.
For me, the first three-quarters of the book had some plot holes but really scratched my romantic suspense itch. I am biased because I LOVE a witness protection love story. Don't know why -- the heart just wants what it wants. I also really enjoyed their romance. Chase and Ella both have TRAUMATIC pasts (all caps intended). Without spoiling anything, Ella's ex-husband is a true psychopath and Chase's mom was abusive and his dad was an absent alcoholic. They bond over their feelings of not being sure how to accept love and care but desperately wanting to.
I think the author did a good job of presenting enough about their pasts to not make the story feel like trauma porn but I felt the story was missing was 1) how either of these characters is dealing with said trauma and 2) more of Chase's backstory. Ella's trauma is so close to the surface (all of those things happened mere months ago) and I just wish that she had more of a support system outside of Chase (she is offered therapy but isn't ready for it. You can't force anyone into therapy but it just made me so concerned for her, Chase, and the baby). Also, we read about Chase's insanely tough childhood and the associated notoriety that came with it but there is no discussion of how he has dealt with any of those feelings beyond just shoving them deep down. We also don't even get basic info like how he went from that to a bull rider.
Even with those gaps, I was still onboard and invested in the romance and the suspense/thriller parts of the book. And that is why the last fourth felt so disjointed for me. Again, no spoilers but that section is so focused on the birth that it not only felt like a shift in plot but also like a shift in tone. I just felt like I was reading a different book.
Also, the content warmings require a QR code scan so let me save you the time and post them below. Perhaps it should be a content warning that this book is written in third person, present tense since some people hate that (I didn't mind it at all).
Mentions of past domestic abuse
Mentions of past childhood neglect and abuse
Unexpected pregnancy
Birth scene (not traumatic)
Brief mention of people being held captive (not directly involving either MC)
Violence
Claustrophobia
Thank you, Anna Callaway and Love Notes PR for the eARC! Publication date was May 6, 2025.
_________________________
Pre-Read Thoughts: One of my favorite microtropes is witness protection, so let's do it.
These were the TikTok sounds that were going through my head as I was reading the book:
First 3/4 of the book: "You know what... hell yeah."
Last 1/4 of the book: "Ummmmm... what's going on?"
If you don't know these sounds then you and I are on different sides of TikTok and I am deeply intrigued to know what's on your fyp.
First a synopsis: A few months ago, Ella testified against her ex-husband and now she is living in Montana with a new identity. Still reeling from the trauma, she is terrified and doesn't really want to be out and about. But her witness protection marshal convinces her to live a little and go to the rodeo in town. There she sees Chase. The first time she sees him, he is fighting two people. The next time she sees Chase, he is getting his leg impaled by a bull. When she sees him a few weeks later, she has been hired to clean his house and he is acting very much like Beast from Beauty and the Beast -- he is grumpy and mean but feels bad about it and yet still keeps putting his foot in his mouth. But Ella keeps coming by and they form a quiet connection and understanding.
One day Ella decides that she can't let her ex-husband be the last person to have touched her so she proposes that she and Chase sleep together. After one lube-less and birth control less time, Ella gets pregnant (she was convinced that she couldn't get pregnant. What Chase's excuses is for not having lube around is beyond me). Chase and Ella have to navigate deciding what to do with the pregnancy and their relationship all while Ella's past is constantly right around the corner.
For me, the first three-quarters of the book had some plot holes but really scratched my romantic suspense itch. I am biased because I LOVE a witness protection love story. Don't know why -- the heart just wants what it wants. I also really enjoyed their romance. Chase and Ella both have TRAUMATIC pasts (all caps intended). Without spoiling anything, Ella's ex-husband is a true psychopath and Chase's mom was abusive and his dad was an absent alcoholic. They bond over their feelings of not being sure how to accept love and care but desperately wanting to.
I think the author did a good job of presenting enough about their pasts to not make the story feel like trauma porn but I felt the story was missing was 1) how either of these characters is dealing with said trauma and 2) more of Chase's backstory. Ella's trauma is so close to the surface (all of those things happened mere months ago) and I just wish that she had more of a support system outside of Chase (she is offered therapy but isn't ready for it. You can't force anyone into therapy but it just made me so concerned for her, Chase, and the baby). Also, we read about Chase's insanely tough childhood and the associated notoriety that came with it but there is no discussion of how he has dealt with any of those feelings beyond just shoving them deep down. We also don't even get basic info like how he went from that to a bull rider.
Even with those gaps, I was still onboard and invested in the romance and the suspense/thriller parts of the book. And that is why the last fourth felt so disjointed for me. Again, no spoilers but that section is so focused on the birth that it not only felt like a shift in plot but also like a shift in tone. I just felt like I was reading a different book.
Also, the content warmings require a QR code scan so let me save you the time and post them below. Perhaps it should be a content warning that this book is written in third person, present tense since some people hate that (I didn't mind it at all).
Mentions of past domestic abuse
Mentions of past childhood neglect and abuse
Unexpected pregnancy
Birth scene (not traumatic)
Brief mention of people being held captive (not directly involving either MC)
Violence
Claustrophobia
Thank you, Anna Callaway and Love Notes PR for the eARC! Publication date was May 6, 2025.
_________________________
Pre-Read Thoughts: One of my favorite microtropes is witness protection, so let's do it.
May 29, 2025
ARC Review | 2/ 5 ⭐️
One star solely for Chase — because he deserved so much more than this storyline.
I honestly don’t even know where to begin. Where the Dust Settles had so much potential. The premise hinted at emotional depth, past traumas, and what could have been a slow-burn, chemistry-filled romance. But sadly, it all fell apart in execution.
The traumas of both Chase and Ella were barely explored—brushed over like a forgotten subplot. Ella’s past, which could have added real weight to her character, was left frustratingly vague and underdeveloped. And while I get what the author was going for with her character, Ella ended up feeling like a rough draft—her reactions often annoying, her development uneven. It felt like the author was writing her on a whim, using her more as a placeholder than a protagonist.
Chase was the only reason I kept going. His quiet charm brought a few rare smiles, and he had genuine potential as a lead. But even he was let down by a rushed plot and a complete lack of buildup in the relationship. Everything happened way too fast, without any real tension or chemistry to make it feel earned. I wanted to root for them, but I just didn’t feel anything.
The narrative also relied far too much on food metaphors—everything was weirdly connected to food, to the point of being distracting. will post a slight spoiler once the book is published!
And lastly, the third-person POV did not help. It lacked clarity and emotional depth, making it even harder to connect with the characters. It almost felt like the author was playing around with Ella’s arc without fully committing to her growth or healing.
This book could have been something powerful. But the lack of emotional care, especially around the characters’ traumas, and the messy pacing made it fall painfully flat.
Thankyou to @lovenotes.pr and the author for giving me a chance for this arc!
One star solely for Chase — because he deserved so much more than this storyline.
I honestly don’t even know where to begin. Where the Dust Settles had so much potential. The premise hinted at emotional depth, past traumas, and what could have been a slow-burn, chemistry-filled romance. But sadly, it all fell apart in execution.
The traumas of both Chase and Ella were barely explored—brushed over like a forgotten subplot. Ella’s past, which could have added real weight to her character, was left frustratingly vague and underdeveloped. And while I get what the author was going for with her character, Ella ended up feeling like a rough draft—her reactions often annoying, her development uneven. It felt like the author was writing her on a whim, using her more as a placeholder than a protagonist.
Chase was the only reason I kept going. His quiet charm brought a few rare smiles, and he had genuine potential as a lead. But even he was let down by a rushed plot and a complete lack of buildup in the relationship. Everything happened way too fast, without any real tension or chemistry to make it feel earned. I wanted to root for them, but I just didn’t feel anything.
The narrative also relied far too much on food metaphors—everything was weirdly connected to food, to the point of being distracting. will post a slight spoiler once the book is published!
And lastly, the third-person POV did not help. It lacked clarity and emotional depth, making it even harder to connect with the characters. It almost felt like the author was playing around with Ella’s arc without fully committing to her growth or healing.
This book could have been something powerful. But the lack of emotional care, especially around the characters’ traumas, and the messy pacing made it fall painfully flat.
Thankyou to @lovenotes.pr and the author for giving me a chance for this arc!
September 12, 2025
idk how to rate it. wasn't bad but wasn't really good either and I really struggle with third person writing. just not my thing.
May 12, 2025
Where the Dust Settles by @annacallawayauthor is not your typical cowboy romance. It’s sooo much deeper, at least for me! So much trauma, vulnerability, unspoken conversations—brilliant! Just briliant!
Dear Anna, congratulations on making me feel! This is a 4.5-star read that had me teary in the end, laughing at a chicken (yes, a chicken!), and dreaming of relocating to Montana like I’m in Yellowstone.
It follows Ella, a witness in protection, fighting abusive trauma, claustrophobia, and social anxiety while trying to start a new life in a one-bedroom cabin in Montana.
“She must have been a prisoner somewhere,” I thought, reading about her fear that “someone will recognise her.” This makes me so sad 😢. She’s in therapy, has blue eyes, tapered features, and delicate dark blonde hair—definitely the type to catch a cowboy’s eye.
Then there’s Chase Beckett, 35, wohooo! He’s a rodeo bull fighter, grumpy af, doesn’t like people, and prefers to live in a tent next to the river. He’s self-sufficient because his traumatic childhood.
What brings them together? A hen in distress situation 😂.
Quotes I Liked :
Carson’s line, “Well first, fuckin’ is absolutely the key to good health,” had me cackling
Ella’s “I rode a cowboy and now I’m pregnant” was gold. Chase: “Whoever told you that was wrong and the type of asshole I’d want to give free dental work to,” .
Mind the triggers—abuse, pregnancy fears, and Chase’s messed-up childhood are heavy but handled with care.
What to expect:
🤠 Cowboy Romance
🐂 Bull Rider
🏡 Small Town
🫣 Impulsive First Time
❤️🔥 Slow Burn
🍼 Unexpected Pregnancy
🌼 Hurt/Comfort
I got this ARC from LoveNotesPR and Anna Callaway for my honest review.
Dear Anna, congratulations on making me feel! This is a 4.5-star read that had me teary in the end, laughing at a chicken (yes, a chicken!), and dreaming of relocating to Montana like I’m in Yellowstone.
It follows Ella, a witness in protection, fighting abusive trauma, claustrophobia, and social anxiety while trying to start a new life in a one-bedroom cabin in Montana.
“She must have been a prisoner somewhere,” I thought, reading about her fear that “someone will recognise her.” This makes me so sad 😢. She’s in therapy, has blue eyes, tapered features, and delicate dark blonde hair—definitely the type to catch a cowboy’s eye.
Then there’s Chase Beckett, 35, wohooo! He’s a rodeo bull fighter, grumpy af, doesn’t like people, and prefers to live in a tent next to the river. He’s self-sufficient because his traumatic childhood.
What brings them together? A hen in distress situation 😂.
Quotes I Liked :
Carson’s line, “Well first, fuckin’ is absolutely the key to good health,” had me cackling
Ella’s “I rode a cowboy and now I’m pregnant” was gold. Chase: “Whoever told you that was wrong and the type of asshole I’d want to give free dental work to,” .
Mind the triggers—abuse, pregnancy fears, and Chase’s messed-up childhood are heavy but handled with care.
What to expect:
🤠 Cowboy Romance
🐂 Bull Rider
🏡 Small Town
🫣 Impulsive First Time
❤️🔥 Slow Burn
🍼 Unexpected Pregnancy
🌼 Hurt/Comfort
I got this ARC from LoveNotesPR and Anna Callaway for my honest review.
May 13, 2025
This was such a soft, emotional read with just enough grit. Ella’s journey felt raw and real—she’s been through a lot, and the story gave her space to heal without rushing. Chase, the gruff bull rider with a quiet heart, was the perfect match. He didn’t try to fix her—he just showed up, consistently and gently. The accidental pregnancy added depth without feeling forced, and their slow-building love felt like safety more than anything. A beautifully quiet story about healing and finding home in each other.
April 29, 2025
3.75 ⭐️ Rounding up to a 4!
First I want to say thank you for letting me be a ARC reader! I really did enjoy this book. I loved the relationship between the 2 main characters and the concept of the whole story. The ending really made me happy! Also the pet chicken? I absolutely loved! 😂🥰 The only thing I didn’t like was how the accidental pregnancy came about. But I still really enjoyed the story overall 💛
First I want to say thank you for letting me be a ARC reader! I really did enjoy this book. I loved the relationship between the 2 main characters and the concept of the whole story. The ending really made me happy! Also the pet chicken? I absolutely loved! 😂🥰 The only thing I didn’t like was how the accidental pregnancy came about. But I still really enjoyed the story overall 💛
May 12, 2025
There were some tropes in here that I read for the first time. You've got rodeo plus witness protection program. Then add in two broken MCs. Perfection! The pace for this book was exactly what I needed.
I honestly loved these two and how open they were with one another. They are quite opposites and it made for good laughs. Plus you can't tell me that their new pet wasn't your favorite?!
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
I honestly loved these two and how open they were with one another. They are quite opposites and it made for good laughs. Plus you can't tell me that their new pet wasn't your favorite?!
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
May 6, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
I think this book wasn't 100% for me, that I didn't read it at the right time either.
But I also think it's still a pretty good book overall. The writing style is as perfect as ever for me.
However, I had a bit of trouble getting into it and immersing myself in it. I found that unlike other books I've read by the author, this time everything and nothing seemed to happen.
There are key elements to the story, but I got the impression that it was just that. That it moved too fast and not fast enough at the same time, that there was a lack of depth to these events. And at the same time, Chase and Ella's relationship was just super beautiful? At least Chase was a sweetheart with Ella, and his character is powerful.
I think he's really the whole package in this story. He was adorable from beginning to end.
I think what made me not like this book to the max was that I was probably expecting more, hoping for more in terms of how they deal with their traumas, how they gradually come to terms with each other, and more about the witness protection story. I was expecting a lot more than the ending we got.
I wouldn't say it's a bad book, because there are moments I really liked, but I think it's not just for me and/or I had too many expectations.
In any case, I know the author has talent and potential, so I look forward to reading any book written by her!
PS: I invite you to read Say You'll Stay, a book I absolutely adored.
🌷 Quotes
The chicken greets him from her spot on the sofa with a soft cluck. “Guess what?” he grins. “She says I’m growing on her. That’s progress.”
They had to relocate her deep in cowboy country, and now she’s developed a very slight and completely unreasonable fondness for one.
“Today was a good day. Do you know what I like most about you, Chase?” “Is it my pretty fa—” “It’s not your pretty face.” She smiles. “It’s how I know you won’t cross the pillow line unless I say you can. So, thank you for, you know, being a good man with a kind heart. It’s a rare thing. I don’t think you really understand how big a deal it is for me to sleep this close to someone.”
“Get some sleep,” he says softly. “I’ll keep you safe till morning.” And every day beyond that, he adds in his head.
She takes his hand and places it over the middle of her chest where her heart flutters up between her ribs to meet his fingers in rapid thumps. “And you always make me feel like this. Crave me instead of those cigarettes.” “I have been. I do.”
It’s not this place that’s home. It’s her. Somewhere along the way, she became everything that matters. Every piece of his broken soul finds relief in the safety of her embrace, the press of her kiss, and the taste of her on his tongue.
“And then you showed up. Right on my doorstep in this same town, like a gift from the universe. This isn’t just the place that I suffered in. It’s the place where I met you. The place I fell in love for the first time. I’ll live here with you until we’re old and gray, if that’s what needs to happen, and I’ll enjoy every second of it because we’re together.”
“You make me feel lucky,” she whispers softly. He pulls her in close to press a kiss to her temple. “There you go again, stealing all my lines.”
I think this book wasn't 100% for me, that I didn't read it at the right time either.
But I also think it's still a pretty good book overall. The writing style is as perfect as ever for me.
However, I had a bit of trouble getting into it and immersing myself in it. I found that unlike other books I've read by the author, this time everything and nothing seemed to happen.
There are key elements to the story, but I got the impression that it was just that. That it moved too fast and not fast enough at the same time, that there was a lack of depth to these events. And at the same time, Chase and Ella's relationship was just super beautiful? At least Chase was a sweetheart with Ella, and his character is powerful.
I think he's really the whole package in this story. He was adorable from beginning to end.
I think what made me not like this book to the max was that I was probably expecting more, hoping for more in terms of how they deal with their traumas, how they gradually come to terms with each other, and more about the witness protection story. I was expecting a lot more than the ending we got.
I wouldn't say it's a bad book, because there are moments I really liked, but I think it's not just for me and/or I had too many expectations.
In any case, I know the author has talent and potential, so I look forward to reading any book written by her!
PS: I invite you to read Say You'll Stay, a book I absolutely adored.
🌷 Quotes
The chicken greets him from her spot on the sofa with a soft cluck. “Guess what?” he grins. “She says I’m growing on her. That’s progress.”
They had to relocate her deep in cowboy country, and now she’s developed a very slight and completely unreasonable fondness for one.
“Today was a good day. Do you know what I like most about you, Chase?” “Is it my pretty fa—” “It’s not your pretty face.” She smiles. “It’s how I know you won’t cross the pillow line unless I say you can. So, thank you for, you know, being a good man with a kind heart. It’s a rare thing. I don’t think you really understand how big a deal it is for me to sleep this close to someone.”
“Get some sleep,” he says softly. “I’ll keep you safe till morning.” And every day beyond that, he adds in his head.
She takes his hand and places it over the middle of her chest where her heart flutters up between her ribs to meet his fingers in rapid thumps. “And you always make me feel like this. Crave me instead of those cigarettes.” “I have been. I do.”
It’s not this place that’s home. It’s her. Somewhere along the way, she became everything that matters. Every piece of his broken soul finds relief in the safety of her embrace, the press of her kiss, and the taste of her on his tongue.
“And then you showed up. Right on my doorstep in this same town, like a gift from the universe. This isn’t just the place that I suffered in. It’s the place where I met you. The place I fell in love for the first time. I’ll live here with you until we’re old and gray, if that’s what needs to happen, and I’ll enjoy every second of it because we’re together.”
“You make me feel lucky,” she whispers softly. He pulls her in close to press a kiss to her temple. “There you go again, stealing all my lines.”
May 6, 2025
Where the dust settles
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️.5
Thank you Anna & LNPR for the arc to review. I really enjoyed the fast pace through the entire book. It’s 242 pages and really kicks off quite quickly, I wasn’t wanting to put it down! There’s some dark topics in this story which took me by surprise (in a good way) it gave this cowboy romance a whole new depth to it and why the main characters are the way they are. Their love story is quite sweet they fall hard and fast, and let’s not forget the honorary mention of Waffle - the diaper wearing chicken who lays her eggs all over the house 😂😉 she’s a hero of the feathery kind.
Tropes:
She’s in the witness protection program
He’s a grumpy bull-rider
Trauma healing
Panic attacks
Surprise pregnancy
Abusive ex / stalker
Mentions of human trafficking
Substance abuse
Book Overview:
Testifying against her husband landed her in witness protection, and now she’s been relocated to small-town Montana, where she cleans house for Chase, a grumpy, injured bull rider who clearly doesn’t want her there. One impulsive decision leaves her with two pink lines and the possibility of a future she never let herself imagine. Fear and uncertainty tell her to keep her walls up and protect herself like she always has. But then there’s Chase, the man who's working his way into her heart, and the only one making her wonder if maybe, just maybe, she's finally found a soft place to land.
Chase just wants to heal up after a bull riding injury and sell the run-down family farm so he can leave Montana in the dust. With his job on the line if he doesn't recover before his next ride, his life is unraveling faster than he can hold it together. His plan is looking less likely by the day. And then there’s Ella, the housekeeper his agent hired, and the one he’s absolutely not falling for. Nope. Definitely not. Relationships were never his thing anyway. But the more he gets to know her, the more he sees his own fears reflected in her. The same instinct to keep people at arm’s length, the same hesitation to trust. For the first time in his life, he wonders what it would feel like to let someone in.
#bookstagram #booktok #bookrecommendations #bookreview #kindle #books #kindleunlimited
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️.5
Thank you Anna & LNPR for the arc to review. I really enjoyed the fast pace through the entire book. It’s 242 pages and really kicks off quite quickly, I wasn’t wanting to put it down! There’s some dark topics in this story which took me by surprise (in a good way) it gave this cowboy romance a whole new depth to it and why the main characters are the way they are. Their love story is quite sweet they fall hard and fast, and let’s not forget the honorary mention of Waffle - the diaper wearing chicken who lays her eggs all over the house 😂😉 she’s a hero of the feathery kind.
Tropes:
She’s in the witness protection program
He’s a grumpy bull-rider
Trauma healing
Panic attacks
Surprise pregnancy
Abusive ex / stalker
Mentions of human trafficking
Substance abuse
Book Overview:
Testifying against her husband landed her in witness protection, and now she’s been relocated to small-town Montana, where she cleans house for Chase, a grumpy, injured bull rider who clearly doesn’t want her there. One impulsive decision leaves her with two pink lines and the possibility of a future she never let herself imagine. Fear and uncertainty tell her to keep her walls up and protect herself like she always has. But then there’s Chase, the man who's working his way into her heart, and the only one making her wonder if maybe, just maybe, she's finally found a soft place to land.
Chase just wants to heal up after a bull riding injury and sell the run-down family farm so he can leave Montana in the dust. With his job on the line if he doesn't recover before his next ride, his life is unraveling faster than he can hold it together. His plan is looking less likely by the day. And then there’s Ella, the housekeeper his agent hired, and the one he’s absolutely not falling for. Nope. Definitely not. Relationships were never his thing anyway. But the more he gets to know her, the more he sees his own fears reflected in her. The same instinct to keep people at arm’s length, the same hesitation to trust. For the first time in his life, he wonders what it would feel like to let someone in.
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May 7, 2025
3'5⭐
Following Ella and Chase, Where the Dust Settles is a story about overcoming trauma and allowing yourself to live a happy life. I've got some mixed opinions on it, since I enjoyed reading the story but it has, at the same time, left me feeling a bit incomplete. The book's short, but the narration makes you feel otherwise. It's written in third person pov, which on the one hand allows you to see the inner mind of each character but on the other contributes to this longer reading experience. I rather liked the narration, tho, and I did like this pov. What has left me feeling like this is the sensation of not knowing the characters deep enough, which is something to be expected from this kind of narration. If I am in a character's head, I'd like to fully know them, their motives, their personalities, their struggles. I feel both of their backstories, specially Ella's, were pretty much surface level and could've been explored more or could've let the reader in more. This would've contributed to her character arc, I believe, and benefited her growth. Which is connected to the pace of this story: on the one hand, the style of the author makes the narration feel slow and relaxed, yet the succession of the events makes it feel fast and rushed. Everything happened very quickly and got resolved just as fast, but the story asked to be read slowly.
There were many tender and sweet moments between them. Their interactions show a deep connection, even if I have a bit of a difficult time understanding said connection. However by the end of the book this chemistry was stronger and could definitely be felt.
So overall I had a good experience with this book. It was different from other cowboy romances I've read and I was invested in their story. I'd recommend reading it if you like small town, cowboy romances tropes such as unexpected pregnancy, hurt/comfort or impulsive first time.
Thank you so much to both the author and Love Notes PR for providing me with this arc!
Following Ella and Chase, Where the Dust Settles is a story about overcoming trauma and allowing yourself to live a happy life. I've got some mixed opinions on it, since I enjoyed reading the story but it has, at the same time, left me feeling a bit incomplete. The book's short, but the narration makes you feel otherwise. It's written in third person pov, which on the one hand allows you to see the inner mind of each character but on the other contributes to this longer reading experience. I rather liked the narration, tho, and I did like this pov. What has left me feeling like this is the sensation of not knowing the characters deep enough, which is something to be expected from this kind of narration. If I am in a character's head, I'd like to fully know them, their motives, their personalities, their struggles. I feel both of their backstories, specially Ella's, were pretty much surface level and could've been explored more or could've let the reader in more. This would've contributed to her character arc, I believe, and benefited her growth. Which is connected to the pace of this story: on the one hand, the style of the author makes the narration feel slow and relaxed, yet the succession of the events makes it feel fast and rushed. Everything happened very quickly and got resolved just as fast, but the story asked to be read slowly.
There were many tender and sweet moments between them. Their interactions show a deep connection, even if I have a bit of a difficult time understanding said connection. However by the end of the book this chemistry was stronger and could definitely be felt.
So overall I had a good experience with this book. It was different from other cowboy romances I've read and I was invested in their story. I'd recommend reading it if you like small town, cowboy romances tropes such as unexpected pregnancy, hurt/comfort or impulsive first time.
Thank you so much to both the author and Love Notes PR for providing me with this arc!
May 4, 2025
#Review: *Where the dust settles* - Anna Callaway - ARC [18+]
4.5/5✨
2.5/5🌶️
There's something about Anna's books which have always captured my attention. That's why I was super excited to read her latest book, for which I really wanna thank Anna and Love Notes Pr!
Ella has arrived in a new town, where she hopes to have some peace and quiet after some eventful moments. She had some issues in her past from which she was trying to run far away from, but nothing was that simple.
Chase is a bull rider, who unfortunately got injured after one event. That's how he will meet Ella, who will help him with different chores in his house. But there was something else unsaid between them. A quiet spark which Ella never thought she would ever feel again. But can she have a happy life when she was always looking over her shoulder for someone from her past?
I felt really emotional about Ella's life story and I was glad that she met someone like Chase, even though he was pretty grumpy at first. Something clicked really well with them even from the start, being like two lost souls who found each other at the right time. They kind of became addicted to one another and, by mistake, they intertwined their destinies for life. But Ella's past was still lurking and she never knew if she could enjoy the quiet and peaceful life she was living with Chase in that moment.
This was a heartbreaking story about a strong woman who got a second chance at life. The traumas from the past have scarred her but she was a fighter and believed that she could eventually have her little happy ending. A wonderful romance story, mixed with a little bit of suspense and angst.
✨Tropes
#OnTheRun
#HeroineInDanger
#CowboyRomance
#AccidentalPregnancy
#SmallTown
#FatedMates
#StartingOver
#StrangersToLovers
#NoThirdActBreakup
4.5/5✨
2.5/5🌶️
There's something about Anna's books which have always captured my attention. That's why I was super excited to read her latest book, for which I really wanna thank Anna and Love Notes Pr!
Ella has arrived in a new town, where she hopes to have some peace and quiet after some eventful moments. She had some issues in her past from which she was trying to run far away from, but nothing was that simple.
Chase is a bull rider, who unfortunately got injured after one event. That's how he will meet Ella, who will help him with different chores in his house. But there was something else unsaid between them. A quiet spark which Ella never thought she would ever feel again. But can she have a happy life when she was always looking over her shoulder for someone from her past?
I felt really emotional about Ella's life story and I was glad that she met someone like Chase, even though he was pretty grumpy at first. Something clicked really well with them even from the start, being like two lost souls who found each other at the right time. They kind of became addicted to one another and, by mistake, they intertwined their destinies for life. But Ella's past was still lurking and she never knew if she could enjoy the quiet and peaceful life she was living with Chase in that moment.
This was a heartbreaking story about a strong woman who got a second chance at life. The traumas from the past have scarred her but she was a fighter and believed that she could eventually have her little happy ending. A wonderful romance story, mixed with a little bit of suspense and angst.
✨Tropes
#OnTheRun
#HeroineInDanger
#CowboyRomance
#AccidentalPregnancy
#SmallTown
#FatedMates
#StartingOver
#StrangersToLovers
#NoThirdActBreakup
May 5, 2025
ARC Review – Where the Dust Settles by Anna Callaway
Rating: 2/5 stars
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Where the Dust Settles had a premise that instantly intrigued me: a woman in witness protection hiding out in a rural town, only to cross paths with a brooding bull rider who has demons of his own. Unfortunately, despite the setup's potential, the execution didn’t live up to expectations.
The main character, Ella, is in witness protection after escaping something dark and finding an escape with a fired up bull rider named Chase.
One of the biggest issues was the pacing. The romance moved far too quickly to be believable, with Ella abandoning caution almost immediately despite supposedly being terrified and in hiding. Chase, while positioned as a “bad boy,” leaned heavily into cliché without enough emotional depth to make his character arc compelling. Their chemistry felt manufactured rather than earned.
The witness protection angle also lacked tension. The supposed danger never truly felt present, and when it did resurface, it was rushed and wrapped up far too conveniently. I wanted more suspense, more grit—and instead got vague threats and melodramatic twists that didn’t land.
In the end, Where the Dust Settles has a solid concept and a dramatic hook. If you're a fan of small-town romance and don’t mind a fast-moving insta-love storyline, this might still hold some appeal—but I was left wanting more depth, more danger, and a lot more emotional payoff.
Release Date: May 6th, 2025
Recommended for: Readers who enjoy rodeo romance and light suspense, and don’t mind surface-level character development.
Rating: 2/5 stars
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Where the Dust Settles had a premise that instantly intrigued me: a woman in witness protection hiding out in a rural town, only to cross paths with a brooding bull rider who has demons of his own. Unfortunately, despite the setup's potential, the execution didn’t live up to expectations.
The main character, Ella, is in witness protection after escaping something dark and finding an escape with a fired up bull rider named Chase.
One of the biggest issues was the pacing. The romance moved far too quickly to be believable, with Ella abandoning caution almost immediately despite supposedly being terrified and in hiding. Chase, while positioned as a “bad boy,” leaned heavily into cliché without enough emotional depth to make his character arc compelling. Their chemistry felt manufactured rather than earned.
The witness protection angle also lacked tension. The supposed danger never truly felt present, and when it did resurface, it was rushed and wrapped up far too conveniently. I wanted more suspense, more grit—and instead got vague threats and melodramatic twists that didn’t land.
In the end, Where the Dust Settles has a solid concept and a dramatic hook. If you're a fan of small-town romance and don’t mind a fast-moving insta-love storyline, this might still hold some appeal—but I was left wanting more depth, more danger, and a lot more emotional payoff.
Release Date: May 6th, 2025
Recommended for: Readers who enjoy rodeo romance and light suspense, and don’t mind surface-level character development.
May 13, 2025
I wanted to really like this book, I truly did… but I couldn’t. The 3rd person POV didn’t bother me at all. I know for some people that is a huge issue, but wasn’t a problem for me at all. I thought that the story was too far fetched as to how they “come together”- so to speak. Their first intimate scene was too awkward and too transactional. I know it was probably meant to be like that but it was something that I thought brought nothing to the table. There are plenty of ways to make things a physical transactional only without it being so odd. I liked the idea of these particular people who had been through so much finding comfort and a safe place with each other, but I didn’t not enjoy how it all happened. Both had heavy backgrounds that I feel we needed more specific details on, especially with her being in witness protection after such atrocious things happened. If heavy trauma is that prevalent in their background I feel like it needs to have more of those tiny details, more explanation of what happened once the people were caught, more of the whole story. This book was just too short for it and didn’t have it. After such big things have happened at end of the book their HEA came way too easy and suddenly without plot stepping stones to get there. They found her- someone was killed… got it…. Who was it? Who sent them? What happened at the hospital?… I want that info. If this was a fluffy book that had a hallmark movie style romcom story, skipping stuff wouldn’t be such a big deal because those stories aren’t meant to be heavy- this one was.
May 13, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ I found myself quickly invested in the story. There was something about Ella and Chase that pulled me in right away. Their relationship begins with a classic grumpy-sunshine setup: he’s recovering from a bull-riding injury, and she’s hired to clean his house. Both have complex backgrounds and carry their own past traumas, but the plot focuses mostly on them and their growing feelings for each other- we don’t see much of them apart.
This is a quick, easy read. While their pasts are mentioned, especially Ella’s trauma and the complication of her being in Witness Protection and unable to tell Chase - we don’t dive very deep into those backstories. Instead, we get a heartwarming and sweet romance. Despite his gruff exterior, Chase’s soft side shines through, especially when an injured chicken shows up (adorable!). And from the moment Ella tells him she’s pregnant, the swooning does not stop.
This is one of those books that has a little bit of everything…emotion, a touch of suspense, and a lot of swoon. It’s written in third person, and while that didn’t take me out of the story, I do think a first-person perspective might’ve brought the emotional depth and character connection to life even more. That said, the third-person narration was still well-crafted, and I felt genuinely connected to the story.
This is a quick, easy read. While their pasts are mentioned, especially Ella’s trauma and the complication of her being in Witness Protection and unable to tell Chase - we don’t dive very deep into those backstories. Instead, we get a heartwarming and sweet romance. Despite his gruff exterior, Chase’s soft side shines through, especially when an injured chicken shows up (adorable!). And from the moment Ella tells him she’s pregnant, the swooning does not stop.
This is one of those books that has a little bit of everything…emotion, a touch of suspense, and a lot of swoon. It’s written in third person, and while that didn’t take me out of the story, I do think a first-person perspective might’ve brought the emotional depth and character connection to life even more. That said, the third-person narration was still well-crafted, and I felt genuinely connected to the story.
May 2, 2025
3.75✨
I could not put this down and I could not stop thinking about Chase and Ella. I was literally watching MAFS last night and turned it off to read this book, THAT is how much I enjoyed this.
I’m going to preface this, because I know it bothers a few people, but the pregnancy trope does not bother me at all. The story follows Ella who has been placed into witness protection after testifying against her criminal, abusive ex husband and into the arms of Chase, the grumpy x golden retriever bull rider. After an impulsive, but very in detail thank you Anna, decision she ends up pregnant and the story follows them trying to navigate this together, burdened with a cocktail of issues to take into consideration.
I will warn you; when you hit that last 20% of the book, make sure you have no plans because you will not be able to put it down.
Overall it was just an easy, forgot your own world and disappear into another kind of far fetched rom com and I live for those kinds of books so absolute credit to Callaway. I’ve already downloaded another of her books to read.
I could not put this down and I could not stop thinking about Chase and Ella. I was literally watching MAFS last night and turned it off to read this book, THAT is how much I enjoyed this.
I’m going to preface this, because I know it bothers a few people, but the pregnancy trope does not bother me at all. The story follows Ella who has been placed into witness protection after testifying against her criminal, abusive ex husband and into the arms of Chase, the grumpy x golden retriever bull rider. After an impulsive, but very in detail thank you Anna, decision she ends up pregnant and the story follows them trying to navigate this together, burdened with a cocktail of issues to take into consideration.
I will warn you; when you hit that last 20% of the book, make sure you have no plans because you will not be able to put it down.
Overall it was just an easy, forgot your own world and disappear into another kind of far fetched rom com and I live for those kinds of books so absolute credit to Callaway. I’ve already downloaded another of her books to read.
May 5, 2025
This had the bones of a five star read but fell a bit flat in parts. Third person in a romance is something I often struggle with, and due to this Where The Dust Settles suffered a bit. The angst, fear and frustration Ella felt would have been so much more if we’d have had a deeper look at her thoughts in first person.
I also struggled with Ella sleeping with Chase so soon after her horrible experience with her ex-husband. It didn’t sit right with me. I wanted to see Ella open up slowly, come to terms with things and begin to fall for Chase but it felt very rushed - especially for someone who had been through the trauma Ella had.
That being said it was a quick and easy read and I had my heart in my mouth a few times. Definitely not one to read before bed! Also bonus points for a pet chicken 🐓
I recommend checking triggers before reading this one. Thanks to LoveNotes PR and the author for the ARC.
I also struggled with Ella sleeping with Chase so soon after her horrible experience with her ex-husband. It didn’t sit right with me. I wanted to see Ella open up slowly, come to terms with things and begin to fall for Chase but it felt very rushed - especially for someone who had been through the trauma Ella had.
That being said it was a quick and easy read and I had my heart in my mouth a few times. Definitely not one to read before bed! Also bonus points for a pet chicken 🐓
I recommend checking triggers before reading this one. Thanks to LoveNotes PR and the author for the ARC.
May 6, 2025
***ARC Review***
Not going to lie, I really struggled with this one in the beginning. We were kind of dumped into her new world and then next thing she was hooking up with the cowboy she just started working for as a way of erasing her past. It all felt a bit rushed and I was more confused than anything. As Chase & Ella's friendship turned relationship developed though, the story got better with it. They become each others safety and someone they could rely on. Even though they had both come from broken pasts, they still managed to love and care for each other the way they needed. Chase was so soft and gentle with her and she was able to fully heal with him and be okay with welcoming new life into this world.
Definitely can be a quick read if you can jump into the story from the get go. Overall I'm going to rate this one 3.5 ⭐️. It was an okay book but didn't wow me in any real way.
Not going to lie, I really struggled with this one in the beginning. We were kind of dumped into her new world and then next thing she was hooking up with the cowboy she just started working for as a way of erasing her past. It all felt a bit rushed and I was more confused than anything. As Chase & Ella's friendship turned relationship developed though, the story got better with it. They become each others safety and someone they could rely on. Even though they had both come from broken pasts, they still managed to love and care for each other the way they needed. Chase was so soft and gentle with her and she was able to fully heal with him and be okay with welcoming new life into this world.
Definitely can be a quick read if you can jump into the story from the get go. Overall I'm going to rate this one 3.5 ⭐️. It was an okay book but didn't wow me in any real way.
May 6, 2025
“This isn’t just the place that I suffered in. It’s the place where I met you. The place I fell in love for the first time.”
Gosh. I loved this one. I really did.
Cowboy romances are hit/miss for me usually. (Bull rider romances preferred!)
But Where The Dust Settles was a major win for me. I loved every moment of it and finished in one sitting!
Chase is the highlight of this book. I wasn’t 100% sold on him at the first scene. Hot? Absolutely! But I thought he may wind up being the typical egotistical bull rider we see in a lot of romances. Boy! Was I wrong.
He’s steady, reliable and exactly what Ella needed. He’s the kind of man anyone would love to come home to.
After reading Stay With Me by Anna Callaway in December, and rating that 5 stars as well.. this author has definitely secured a place on my auto-buy list!
Can’t wait to see what comes next!
Gosh. I loved this one. I really did.
Cowboy romances are hit/miss for me usually. (Bull rider romances preferred!)
But Where The Dust Settles was a major win for me. I loved every moment of it and finished in one sitting!
Chase is the highlight of this book. I wasn’t 100% sold on him at the first scene. Hot? Absolutely! But I thought he may wind up being the typical egotistical bull rider we see in a lot of romances. Boy! Was I wrong.
He’s steady, reliable and exactly what Ella needed. He’s the kind of man anyone would love to come home to.
After reading Stay With Me by Anna Callaway in December, and rating that 5 stars as well.. this author has definitely secured a place on my auto-buy list!
Can’t wait to see what comes next!
May 10, 2025
a small town cowboy romance, what more can a girl want. with that being said I absolutely loved chase, he was such a golden retriever boyfriend.
i flew through this book and was hooked, however i found it really hard to connect with the characters and their relationship. the storyline mentions both of their traumas and i liked that it didn't go too in depth that the storyline focuses on their trauma, but i feel like ella's trauma storyline was such rushed around the 75% mark. her trauma was made into a big deal at the start and how she should stay away from chase, but I feel like when it was revealed they kind of glossed over how it affects their relationship.
with that being said i did enjoy and would have loved to hear more about their future together. Thank you love notes pr for the arc🤍
i flew through this book and was hooked, however i found it really hard to connect with the characters and their relationship. the storyline mentions both of their traumas and i liked that it didn't go too in depth that the storyline focuses on their trauma, but i feel like ella's trauma storyline was such rushed around the 75% mark. her trauma was made into a big deal at the start and how she should stay away from chase, but I feel like when it was revealed they kind of glossed over how it affects their relationship.
with that being said i did enjoy and would have loved to hear more about their future together. Thank you love notes pr for the arc🤍
May 6, 2025
Where The Dust Settles is a bull rider cowboy romance with all the feels.
I loved the banter between Chase and Ella. Chase is funny, brave, a gentleman, and kind. Ella is smart, a survivor, beautiful, and both of them deserve a new life with new beginnings.
The couch scene was hot, dancing in the alleyway was sweet, and the locations were peaceful and something I know all too well. I love the mountains and the weather.
Deciphering clouds, watching sunrises and sunsets, fairs, and nature is my vibe and I love that this book had it all.
Ella had lived in fear with her old life and once she decided enough is enough she rose to the occasion and made a new, stable, and happy home for herself.
Chase just so happens to be a hot bull rider with fire in his soul and demons in his past. Chase opens up to Ella and their story that unfolds is beautiful.
This is the 2nd book I have read by this author and I really enjoyed them.
I loved the banter between Chase and Ella. Chase is funny, brave, a gentleman, and kind. Ella is smart, a survivor, beautiful, and both of them deserve a new life with new beginnings.
The couch scene was hot, dancing in the alleyway was sweet, and the locations were peaceful and something I know all too well. I love the mountains and the weather.
Deciphering clouds, watching sunrises and sunsets, fairs, and nature is my vibe and I love that this book had it all.
Ella had lived in fear with her old life and once she decided enough is enough she rose to the occasion and made a new, stable, and happy home for herself.
Chase just so happens to be a hot bull rider with fire in his soul and demons in his past. Chase opens up to Ella and their story that unfolds is beautiful.
This is the 2nd book I have read by this author and I really enjoyed them.
May 7, 2025
includes: small town, healing from trauma, no third act breakup, accidental pregnancy, she’s in witness protection, he’s a bull rider
*look up triggers before reading*
we love any story that includes a pet that shows up throughout the story. first time I’ve read about a chicken as a pet and was a fan.
chase was my favorite part of the story. he’s the character that I felt was the most developed so you naturally gravitated towards him. as the story went along with ella and chase, I did enjoy their relationship and it was honestly very sweet.
the pacing in the story was what I felt kept me from rating this book higher. as ella is in witness protection program the rate she moved when it came to chase didn’t feel realistic. here is where I think having her own point of view would have been perfect to hear from her directly. the book being in third person pov didn’t hinder my experience though.
although this book wasn’t my favorite, I still think people are going to enjoy this. definitely going to check out the authors others work as I enjoyed their writing!
thank you to the publisher & love notes pr for the arc in exchange for my honest thoughts & opinions ✨
*look up triggers before reading*
we love any story that includes a pet that shows up throughout the story. first time I’ve read about a chicken as a pet and was a fan.
chase was my favorite part of the story. he’s the character that I felt was the most developed so you naturally gravitated towards him. as the story went along with ella and chase, I did enjoy their relationship and it was honestly very sweet.
the pacing in the story was what I felt kept me from rating this book higher. as ella is in witness protection program the rate she moved when it came to chase didn’t feel realistic. here is where I think having her own point of view would have been perfect to hear from her directly. the book being in third person pov didn’t hinder my experience though.
although this book wasn’t my favorite, I still think people are going to enjoy this. definitely going to check out the authors others work as I enjoyed their writing!
thank you to the publisher & love notes pr for the arc in exchange for my honest thoughts & opinions ✨
May 11, 2025
Where the Dust Settles had a lot of elements I usually love: witness protection, emotional baggage, and a cowboy love interest. This really pulled me in, and the opening chapters were promising.
However, as the story progressed, I struggled a lot with the pacing and believability. The relationship between Ella and Grace developed too quickly: the characters know each other for a week, and suddenly they’re each other’s entire world. Ella forgets she's in protection, and Grace transforms from a grumpy bad boy to golden retriever in just a couple of days. It all moved way too fast. This made it harder for me to fully connect with their bond.
Both characters have experienced significant trauma, which is mentioned but not worked out as well. I would have loved to see more emotional depth in that area. By the end, I wasn’t fully emotionally invested anymore.
That said, the writing is engaging and flows well, which made the book easy to read.
If you enjoy fast-paced, insta-love stories with a cowboy twist, this could definitely be your kind of read!
Thanks to Love Notes PR and the author for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
However, as the story progressed, I struggled a lot with the pacing and believability. The relationship between Ella and Grace developed too quickly: the characters know each other for a week, and suddenly they’re each other’s entire world. Ella forgets she's in protection, and Grace transforms from a grumpy bad boy to golden retriever in just a couple of days. It all moved way too fast. This made it harder for me to fully connect with their bond.
Both characters have experienced significant trauma, which is mentioned but not worked out as well. I would have loved to see more emotional depth in that area. By the end, I wasn’t fully emotionally invested anymore.
That said, the writing is engaging and flows well, which made the book easy to read.
If you enjoy fast-paced, insta-love stories with a cowboy twist, this could definitely be your kind of read!
Thanks to Love Notes PR and the author for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 7, 2025
There is just something about two broken people coming together and learning to love and trust again. Ella is in witness protection after testifying against her ex and is moved to Montana. There she meets bull rider Chase, who was injured during a ride. Their attraction is pretty instant and they build on it after a little surprise. Unfortunately, her past comes slamming back into their lives and together they work through it.
May 14, 2025
Thank you to Lovenotes PR and Anna Callaway for the ARC and opportunity.
How about being dropped in the middle of cowboy country? That’s what Ali - I mean Ella, finds herself in the middle of. Forced to start over under the guise of a new life she meets Chase, the grumpy bull rider recovering from a gnarly injury.
This one was a quick read and I enjoyed the banter, but of course the chicken stole the show 🤣
How about being dropped in the middle of cowboy country? That’s what Ali - I mean Ella, finds herself in the middle of. Forced to start over under the guise of a new life she meets Chase, the grumpy bull rider recovering from a gnarly injury.
This one was a quick read and I enjoyed the banter, but of course the chicken stole the show 🤣
May 9, 2025
This cowboy romance threads a story that brings two unfortunate people together that just melts your heart.
Ella finds herself in the middle of nowhere Montana, alone and afraid. Chase is a hard shell of a man that refuses to let anyone in.
Then Ella and Chase find themselves unexpectedly in need of something the other can provide. They share stories of past trauma and soon form a bond where she softens him, and he makes her feel safe. But is she ever truly safe?
Anna has this way of bringing two characters together by fate of circumstances where they ultimately have only each other to depend on when things start falling apart and danger comes knocking.
Truly enjoyed this cowboy romance with a twist 💜
Ella finds herself in the middle of nowhere Montana, alone and afraid. Chase is a hard shell of a man that refuses to let anyone in.
Then Ella and Chase find themselves unexpectedly in need of something the other can provide. They share stories of past trauma and soon form a bond where she softens him, and he makes her feel safe. But is she ever truly safe?
Anna has this way of bringing two characters together by fate of circumstances where they ultimately have only each other to depend on when things start falling apart and danger comes knocking.
Truly enjoyed this cowboy romance with a twist 💜
May 11, 2025
Trauma based cowboy romance
Well this book was nothing like I anticipated, but I still really enjoyed it!!
The characters have some pretty traumatic history, and I enjoyed their connection and banter.
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys a more dark cowboy romance, this is not a lighthearted read, but it is very good!
Well this book was nothing like I anticipated, but I still really enjoyed it!!
The characters have some pretty traumatic history, and I enjoyed their connection and banter.
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys a more dark cowboy romance, this is not a lighthearted read, but it is very good!
April 23, 2025
ARC review coming soon…👀
May 6, 2025
Anna can we pleeeassee get more? I almost didn't want to pick it up to read because I knew I'd be that much closer to being done with Chase and Ella 😭
Where The Dust Settles is the perfect mixture of cowboy, found family, accidental pregnant and the PERFECT chicken! My heart ached and I had butterflies and all the feels throughout this entire book. Please if this book isn't on your tbr- add it!
Thank you Anna Callaway and Love Notes PR for the arc 🫶🏻
Where The Dust Settles is the perfect mixture of cowboy, found family, accidental pregnant and the PERFECT chicken! My heart ached and I had butterflies and all the feels throughout this entire book. Please if this book isn't on your tbr- add it!
Thank you Anna Callaway and Love Notes PR for the arc 🫶🏻
May 13, 2025
☀️ARC REVIEW ☀️
Ella is a woman who, despite the adversity life has thrown her way, remains kind, generous, and truly deserving of all the good in the world.
And Chase? I absolutely loved him. He starts off a bit gruff and guarded, but once he and Ella grow closer, we get to see the honorable, deeply good man underneath—and it’s impossible not to fall for him.
Both Chase and Ella have been dealt a rough hand, and what made their story so beautiful was watching them find not just comfort in one another, but genuine respect—a solid foundation for the romance that blossoms between them.
My only wish is that the book had been a little longer to flesh out the characters and their relationship more. The pacing felt a bit rushed at times, and I would’ve loved to see more of their romantic buildup and moments as a couple. 🖤
Ella is a woman who, despite the adversity life has thrown her way, remains kind, generous, and truly deserving of all the good in the world.
And Chase? I absolutely loved him. He starts off a bit gruff and guarded, but once he and Ella grow closer, we get to see the honorable, deeply good man underneath—and it’s impossible not to fall for him.
Both Chase and Ella have been dealt a rough hand, and what made their story so beautiful was watching them find not just comfort in one another, but genuine respect—a solid foundation for the romance that blossoms between them.
My only wish is that the book had been a little longer to flesh out the characters and their relationship more. The pacing felt a bit rushed at times, and I would’ve loved to see more of their romantic buildup and moments as a couple. 🖤
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