Can’t Bucking Wait (Buck Cowboys #3) by Elle Thorpe is a new adult, small town cowboy romance told mostly in first person, dual POV with a few chapters from a third POV. Although it's the third book in the Buck Cowboys series, it can be read as a standalone. Also, if you've read Thorpe's Dirty Cowboy series, you'll recognize some characters in this one as it follows the next generation—Lennon is the daughter of Kai and Addie from
Ride Dirty, Cowboy.
Lennon has grown up in the shadow of her more outgoing and popular twin, Callie. They’ve always been opposites, but in high school, a wedge began to grow between them because they were both interested in the same guy—Preston, a bull-riding student at their family ranch. Lennon is shy and studious, but it has served her well—she got accepted into Harvard medical school. After their graduation party, Lennon works up the courage to make a move on Preston before she needs to leave for college. So she sneaks over to his cabin to offer her virginity, only to find that Callie got there first. Heartbroken and humiliated, Lennon leaves for school the next day without seeing or speaking to either of them.
Two years have passed. Lennon’s big sister, Summer, is getting married; and the rift between her and her twin is larger than ever—they haven’t spoken since that embarrassing night. When Lennon comes home early to surprise her family and help with the wedding, her room is occupied and Callie’s unwilling to share her space. Preston offers the spare room in his cabin, and although Lennon had hoped to avoid him, she has no choice but to accept. If only she didn’t still harbor feelings for him. What will happen between Lennon and Preston as they share close quarters? Will Lennon and Callie work things out and reconcile, or will this situation drive them even further apart?
I loved Lennon and Preston’s story! It gripped me from the start, and I read it in one sitting. They were both relatable and well-developed, with fun, witty banter and sizzling chemistry. This story was an emotional one. I could feel Lennon’s heartbreak, insecurity, and rejection, and my heart went out to her. Preston’s kind, fun-loving, outgoing personality makes him a perfect match for Lennon, because they balance each other out. I loved his natural levity, how he respected and cared for her, and the way he helped her come out of her comfort zone to try new things.
Can’t Bucking Wait
is angsty, sweet, humorous, romantic, and steamy. I’m looking forward to reading Callie’s story next.
*** I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC. ***