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Freight Trained
Tragedy had Coleman Garrison fleeing to the rodeo at the tender age of 17. Years of dedication and an I don't give a f*ck attitude turned him into a champion. Then tragedy changed the course of his life once more.
Buying a ranch on the outskirts of a small town, he planned to spend the rest of his days training horses, removed from society and the temptation of letting anyone close.
And then he saw her.
Tired of substitute teaching and unable to afford to move from her parents home, Abigail O'Neal jumped at the chance to start a new life away from the big city in the small town of Jasper Falls.
Shy and socially awkward, she wanted the chance to be a different version of herself. But breaking out of her shell turned out to be harder than she thought.
Until she met him.
Who knew Abby's resemblance to a dead woman would make her the target of someone's sinister deeds.
Can a hardened cowboy and a shy little mouse beat the odds, preventing tragedy from striking again?
***This is a full-length, standalone, steamy contemporary romance with a HEA. Due to sex and language, it is recommended for persons over 18.***
Buying a ranch on the outskirts of a small town, he planned to spend the rest of his days training horses, removed from society and the temptation of letting anyone close.
And then he saw her.
Tired of substitute teaching and unable to afford to move from her parents home, Abigail O'Neal jumped at the chance to start a new life away from the big city in the small town of Jasper Falls.
Shy and socially awkward, she wanted the chance to be a different version of herself. But breaking out of her shell turned out to be harder than she thought.
Until she met him.
Who knew Abby's resemblance to a dead woman would make her the target of someone's sinister deeds.
Can a hardened cowboy and a shy little mouse beat the odds, preventing tragedy from striking again?
***This is a full-length, standalone, steamy contemporary romance with a HEA. Due to sex and language, it is recommended for persons over 18.***
409 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 13, 2016
96 people are currently reading
404 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Curtis
22 books766 followersSarah Curtis is a writer of all things romance. She loves nothing more than a sexy alpha male who falls hard for their heroine, almost always in spite of themselves!
A life-long resident of Southern California, Sarah shares her writing den with her childhood sweetheart and very own alpha male. When she’s not writing or dreaming up plotlines you can find her wrangling her plethora of very spoiled felines—she currently has five, yes you read that correctly, furry companions. Sarah is a reader before anything else, and her TBR mountain is higher than Everest. She’s also addicted to watching cooking competitions, especially involving baking! Of her own admission, she rarely cooks, but she’s up for the occasional birthday cake for her children as long as it involves the opening of a box.
If you like romance in all its forms along with some healthy debates with a side of games and puzzles then head over to her Facebook group, Sarah Curtis's Alpha Overload, for fun chats and to discover your next BBF. https://www.facebook.com/groups/20646...
Or visit Sarah's website and sign up for her newsletter to receive a free copy of Alluring Honeymoon — https://sarahcurtisauthor.wixsite.com...
A life-long resident of Southern California, Sarah shares her writing den with her childhood sweetheart and very own alpha male. When she’s not writing or dreaming up plotlines you can find her wrangling her plethora of very spoiled felines—she currently has five, yes you read that correctly, furry companions. Sarah is a reader before anything else, and her TBR mountain is higher than Everest. She’s also addicted to watching cooking competitions, especially involving baking! Of her own admission, she rarely cooks, but she’s up for the occasional birthday cake for her children as long as it involves the opening of a box.
If you like romance in all its forms along with some healthy debates with a side of games and puzzles then head over to her Facebook group, Sarah Curtis's Alpha Overload, for fun chats and to discover your next BBF. https://www.facebook.com/groups/20646...
Or visit Sarah's website and sign up for her newsletter to receive a free copy of Alluring Honeymoon — https://sarahcurtisauthor.wixsite.com...
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May 14, 2021
RATING 4.5 STARS
Freight Trained is a stand alone romantic suspense by Sarah Curtis. I’ve been wanting to read this forever and finally jumped in and am so glad I did.
Cole Garrison is a thirty year old, ex rodeo champion whose career was ended with a serious injury. Since he’d been seventeen years old, Cole lived the life of a rodeo star, going from one place to another, full of one night stands, with no place to call home. When his career ended, all he wanted was to hide away, live a quiet life as a horse trainer so he bought a ranch in Jasper Falls, New Mexico. Cole has plenty of darkness in his past, things that he uses as a shield to keep others away. But the day he first laid his eyes on the new school teacher in town was the first time he felt like there was some light breaking through that darkness.
Abigail (Abby) O’Neal is twenty two years old. She has her teaching certificate but hasn’t yet found a teaching position so she’s been substitute teaching and still living with her parents. Abby is shy and introverted, socially awkward. When she unexpectedly inherits a home in Jasper Falls, and is able to land a teacher position there, she knows this is her chance to start fresh, turn over a new leaf and experience life.
“She tasted like his salvation. But he didn’t deserve to be saved and one day, she would discover that, and then he would destroy her too.”
When these two first see each other, it’s my favorite reaction in a book, that connection, no matter how far you are from each other, that “thing” that is undeniable yet unexplainable. But Cole knows immediately that she is a good, pure woman and he knows he should stay away from her. And Abby feels like there is no way she could be any where near the kind of woman he would look twice at. But chemistry says otherwise and these two can’t keep their distance for long.
“You’re mine, Abby. I don’t ever want to let you go, and I plan on ruining you for all other men, so you won’t want to.”
“Don’t you know, you’ve already done that.”
There is something else dark in Jasper Falls, a darkness that also has eyes on Abby. Cole is every bit an alpha, protective, jealous/possessive type of hero. But when the woman he is falling for is in danger, he’s on a whole new level.
I enjoyed this so much. Cole is my favorite kind of hero. Just so growly and swoony. But such a soft side for Abby. And let me tell you, Abby was NOT the shy, awkward woman she thought she was. I adored watching her transformation. She really was so strong, funny and beautiful. She just needed the right man to help her to see it. I love Sarah’s writing and this book was no exception. I am so glad I finally read it.
“My soul lives for you.”
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Freight Trained is a stand alone romantic suspense by Sarah Curtis. I’ve been wanting to read this forever and finally jumped in and am so glad I did.
Cole Garrison is a thirty year old, ex rodeo champion whose career was ended with a serious injury. Since he’d been seventeen years old, Cole lived the life of a rodeo star, going from one place to another, full of one night stands, with no place to call home. When his career ended, all he wanted was to hide away, live a quiet life as a horse trainer so he bought a ranch in Jasper Falls, New Mexico. Cole has plenty of darkness in his past, things that he uses as a shield to keep others away. But the day he first laid his eyes on the new school teacher in town was the first time he felt like there was some light breaking through that darkness.
Abigail (Abby) O’Neal is twenty two years old. She has her teaching certificate but hasn’t yet found a teaching position so she’s been substitute teaching and still living with her parents. Abby is shy and introverted, socially awkward. When she unexpectedly inherits a home in Jasper Falls, and is able to land a teacher position there, she knows this is her chance to start fresh, turn over a new leaf and experience life.
“She tasted like his salvation. But he didn’t deserve to be saved and one day, she would discover that, and then he would destroy her too.”
When these two first see each other, it’s my favorite reaction in a book, that connection, no matter how far you are from each other, that “thing” that is undeniable yet unexplainable. But Cole knows immediately that she is a good, pure woman and he knows he should stay away from her. And Abby feels like there is no way she could be any where near the kind of woman he would look twice at. But chemistry says otherwise and these two can’t keep their distance for long.
“You’re mine, Abby. I don’t ever want to let you go, and I plan on ruining you for all other men, so you won’t want to.”
“Don’t you know, you’ve already done that.”
There is something else dark in Jasper Falls, a darkness that also has eyes on Abby. Cole is every bit an alpha, protective, jealous/possessive type of hero. But when the woman he is falling for is in danger, he’s on a whole new level.
I enjoyed this so much. Cole is my favorite kind of hero. Just so growly and swoony. But such a soft side for Abby. And let me tell you, Abby was NOT the shy, awkward woman she thought she was. I adored watching her transformation. She really was so strong, funny and beautiful. She just needed the right man to help her to see it. I love Sarah’s writing and this book was no exception. I am so glad I finally read it.
“My soul lives for you.”
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
July 14, 2016
The heart knows what the heart wants…cookies.
Biscuits/cookies are my weakness. I have a very bad habit that I’ve tried to break numerous times…dunking biscuits in my coffee. There’s a particular one that works best, Nice biscuits by Arnotts. They’re a plain biscuit with a sprinkling of sugar on the top. The coffee (strong with a little milk, no sugar) soaks into the biscuit and you have to rush it to your mouth before it breaks off and it either falls to the bottom of your cup, lands on a surface, or you wear it. Now, I have tried to break this habit with no success. That is mainly because hubby, being the sweetheart he is, keeps buying the bloody things because I like them. Ohhh, isn’t that sweet, you all say. No, it's not bloody sweet because I can’t resist the bloody things. OK, maybe it’s a little sweet. Anyways…chocolate chip cookies are my second favourite biscuit. Why am I gabbing on about biscuits/cookies you ask? Well I think Sarah Curtis has the right idea. Make the man in your life prove his love by baking chocolate chip cookies. Now, maybe I’m being a little tough by narrowing it down to chocolate chip cookies. Maybe we should just make it a general bake something or cook something. If he takes the time and effort to make you happy by giving you cookies…then he’s a keeper.
Freight Trained starts off with a little snippet to a mystery. We’re not given a lot of information, but it does set you up to question every character that you meet. Even though it’s very limited information given, you know that the situation is dire and someone’s life is in danger. I was convinced a couple of times throughout the story who the baddie was, but then I’d start to doubt myself and I’d be back to square one.
We meet Abigail O’Neal sitting in a little diner in a small country town. She’s just moved there from the city after inheriting her Grandmother’s house. This was a perfect opportunity for Abby to change her life. Being extremely shy and practically a hermit has led her to live a very lonely life. I actually think in this case it was her parents holding her back. We only meet them fleetingly, but I did not like them at all and I especially didn’t like the way Abby was around them. It was a good decision to be away from them and between getting the house and a job as a teacher in the small town, all her cookies were lined up in a row. Time to step out of her comfort zone and get Freight Trained.
Coleman Garrison is an ex-rodeo champion. Freight Trained is a rodeo/bull riding term.... supposedly?? I’m an Aussie who’s never been to a rodeo in her life, so it was news to me. So, Cole’s faced a few tragedies in his life that he blames himself for. To punish himself, he decides to quit the circuit and train horses on a property not far from a little town. Cole thinks he doesn’t deserve happiness and that he should live his life by himself. Then one day, he walks into a little diner and sees a woman who changes everything. Can Cole get past the past? Will he be willing to put his heart on the line? Well, at first it's definitely a no. But...who can resist a cute little mouse.
Turns out that Cole and Abby are neighbours. Cole at first tries to ignore his attraction to Abby and pushes her away so he can’t hurt her. Abby being so shy has not had much experience dealing with people and doesn’t know how to read Cole. To thank him for a favour he does for her she delivers him a plate of cookies. As soon as the plate is handed over, Cole realises he’s going to keep the plate…and Abby too.
I really enjoyed reading Freight Trained. It definitely kept my attention and had me smiling, smirking and a wee bit overheated. Cole is a dirty talker. When he decides that Abby is his woman he does not hold back on telling her exactly what he wants. Abby is so inexperienced that she’s a little overwhelmed. His patience was pretty admirable considering he’s a man who’s had women throwing themselves at him for years. With his good looks and career Abby can’t understand what he sees in her. Cole certainly knows what he wants, and unfortunately, someone else wants her too.
The mystery was not the main focus of the story but it wasn’t a dump and run either. We weren’t thrown a mystery at the beginning, left hovering to have an Aha moment in the last chapter. Little bits are given to us throughout so that all the puzzle pieces can be laid out to make the final picture.
I liked both Abby and Cole and I think they were a great couple. Abby’s personality definitely got stronger as the story unfolded, but like I said before, I think her separation from her parents really helped. Cole was a little harder to love in the beginning…and the end to be honest. He has his douchewaffle moments that make you want to smack him, but luckily he gets his baking tray out and works his way back into Abby’s heart.
Freight Trained was definitely a winner for me and I’m kind of hoping that Sarah Curtis will take us back to the little town to match up some of Abby’s new friends.
To buy Freight Trained from Amazon - http://amzn.to/29FYuy7
****
Here's some other stuff...
Click on the cookie to see my favourite chocolate chip bikkie/cookie/biscuit/bickie recipe.
Abby, Maggie, her co-worker and new friend, and a few others are heading to a bar for Girl's Night Out!! Here's a Style Setter Tribute for Abby's outfit.
I’m an Aussie chick who loves to read and review romance, drink coffee, be a Style Setter and stalk David Gandy. To see more of my reviews, fashion, food and pervathons -
October 15, 2016
Freight Trained is the story of Cole Garrison and Abigail O’Neal. This was a sensual and fast-paced romantic read, I enjoyed a lot!
Feeling very fortunate in having secured a full-time teaching position at the local school of the little town of Jasper Falls, New Mexico, Abby is happy to start her new life and to have a new home. Abby is incredibly smart and also painfully shy. Leaving her parents home was a bold move for her but it was too much an opportunity to pass up. An opportunity to emerge from her cocoon of shyness, to make some new friendships and maybe put down some roots. When Abby meets Cole for the first time, she sees a strong and beautiful man who made her feel things she’d never felt before. She's shocked to be so attracted by a complete stranger. He’s the first man to catch her eyes and that made her want to burst out of her shell.
Years ago, Cole was the almighty champion of the rodeo circuit. Back in his rodeo days, Cole was an ambitious and arrogant man, taking reckless decisions and behaving carelessly and selfishly until tragedy changed the course of his life for the second time. Three years after fate had torn the most important people in his life away from him, Cole is finally starting to find contentment living a simple life, training horses and taking care of his ranch, never letting anyone being close to him. Until Abby. At first and against his natural instinct, Cole tries to stay away from her, for once wanting to do the right thing and think of someone else before himself and thinking that someone like him has no business going near an innocent and sweet girl like her. Instinctively, Cole knows that Abby is special, that she’s one of a kind. Before long though, his desire takes over his conscience and convictions and one kiss is enough to seal the deal. One taste and neither one of them can get enough.
Cole wants to claim Abby as his and to have a real relationship with her. But Abby can’t be fully his, not yet, not until he tells her about the real him and hoping it doesn’t send her packing. Over the past three years, Cole has been overcome by guilt, remorse and frustration and Abby has become his reprieve from the pain and loneliness that had haunted him since his devastating loss. But the ghosts of the past are difficult to exorcise. They color the past and forecast the future. With a stalker closing in and the threats mounting against Abby, all bets are off. Is Cole truly being given another chance at real happiness, or would it be dangled in front of him, only to be taken away once again?
Sarah Curtis did a great job with the storyline, character development and flow. She managed successfully to make this read enjoyable from start to finish. Nothing over-the-top, nothing too crazy and yet everything about this story pulled at my heartstrings. The chemistry between Cole and Abby was off the charts and the sex scenes were hot and steamy! And I LOVED the sweet epilogue and the whole « cookie-ten-year promise ». :D
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Feeling very fortunate in having secured a full-time teaching position at the local school of the little town of Jasper Falls, New Mexico, Abby is happy to start her new life and to have a new home. Abby is incredibly smart and also painfully shy. Leaving her parents home was a bold move for her but it was too much an opportunity to pass up. An opportunity to emerge from her cocoon of shyness, to make some new friendships and maybe put down some roots. When Abby meets Cole for the first time, she sees a strong and beautiful man who made her feel things she’d never felt before. She's shocked to be so attracted by a complete stranger. He’s the first man to catch her eyes and that made her want to burst out of her shell.
Years ago, Cole was the almighty champion of the rodeo circuit. Back in his rodeo days, Cole was an ambitious and arrogant man, taking reckless decisions and behaving carelessly and selfishly until tragedy changed the course of his life for the second time. Three years after fate had torn the most important people in his life away from him, Cole is finally starting to find contentment living a simple life, training horses and taking care of his ranch, never letting anyone being close to him. Until Abby. At first and against his natural instinct, Cole tries to stay away from her, for once wanting to do the right thing and think of someone else before himself and thinking that someone like him has no business going near an innocent and sweet girl like her. Instinctively, Cole knows that Abby is special, that she’s one of a kind. Before long though, his desire takes over his conscience and convictions and one kiss is enough to seal the deal. One taste and neither one of them can get enough.
Cole wants to claim Abby as his and to have a real relationship with her. But Abby can’t be fully his, not yet, not until he tells her about the real him and hoping it doesn’t send her packing. Over the past three years, Cole has been overcome by guilt, remorse and frustration and Abby has become his reprieve from the pain and loneliness that had haunted him since his devastating loss. But the ghosts of the past are difficult to exorcise. They color the past and forecast the future. With a stalker closing in and the threats mounting against Abby, all bets are off. Is Cole truly being given another chance at real happiness, or would it be dangled in front of him, only to be taken away once again?
Sarah Curtis did a great job with the storyline, character development and flow. She managed successfully to make this read enjoyable from start to finish. Nothing over-the-top, nothing too crazy and yet everything about this story pulled at my heartstrings. The chemistry between Cole and Abby was off the charts and the sex scenes were hot and steamy! And I LOVED the sweet epilogue and the whole « cookie-ten-year promise ». :D
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
July 16, 2016
This is the story of Abby, a shy and socially awkward school teacher, and Cole a former Rodeo star turned rancher.
"I don't deserve you, but damn if I'm not going to keep you anyway."
I enjoyed this one. It was sweet with no OW/OM drama. Cole was a likable character that didn't come across like a man-whore. I LOVED his dirty talking (reminded me of a KA hero) Abby was sweet and thankfully NOT over the top annoying (a problem I had with the heroines in this author's other books) The stalker storyline wasn't that strong. It was pretty well advertised from first introduction who it was going to be. Plus it just felt underdeveloped and put in the book just to add a little angst and drama. Overall though this was an enjoyable way to spend a few hours.
SIDE NOTE: I LOATHE "Little Mouse" as an endearment. It isn't sweet, it isn't cute, it isn't lovable. It's DEMEANING! Especially when it is used on a person who is shy and has social interaction issues (as did the heroine in this book) Every time Cole uttered it, I wanted Abby to tell him to go shove it up his ass.
"I don't deserve you, but damn if I'm not going to keep you anyway."
I enjoyed this one. It was sweet with no OW/OM drama. Cole was a likable character that didn't come across like a man-whore. I LOVED his dirty talking (reminded me of a KA hero) Abby was sweet and thankfully NOT over the top annoying (a problem I had with the heroines in this author's other books) The stalker storyline wasn't that strong. It was pretty well advertised from first introduction who it was going to be. Plus it just felt underdeveloped and put in the book just to add a little angst and drama. Overall though this was an enjoyable way to spend a few hours.
SIDE NOTE: I LOATHE "Little Mouse" as an endearment. It isn't sweet, it isn't cute, it isn't lovable. It's DEMEANING! Especially when it is used on a person who is shy and has social interaction issues (as did the heroine in this book) Every time Cole uttered it, I wanted Abby to tell him to go shove it up his ass.
October 8, 2018
Chapter twenty-three
“I was wrong to leave you. Especially while you were still in the hospital after living through what you did.”
Oh fuck no! No fucking way! You have GOT to be KIDDING me! You broke up with her WHILE she was in the hospital and now you’re traumatising her in the middle of the night because YOU can’t live without her you fucking selfish useless POS? Cause clearly it wouldn’t have mattered if she couldn’t live without you, as you clearly left her while she was still recovering. What she wants doesn’t matter to you. Neither does whether she lives or not! And she clearly CAN live without you.
“I love you, Abby. I know I've said that before then let you down.”
Aaaaaand Kiki reaches her limits of BS and turns the bitch mode on! You fucking wanker! You left the woman you claim you “love” in the hospital to deal with shit by herself plus a breakup????????
And this is romance? And she’ll give him a second chance because what? He “loves” her? Or she loves him? All I read in these three pages of “world class grovelling “ was “me, myself and I”! Nothing about what heroine needs! So nope! Not gonna happen!
I’d rather go and finish the financial analysis right about now!
“I was wrong to leave you. Especially while you were still in the hospital after living through what you did.”
Oh fuck no! No fucking way! You have GOT to be KIDDING me! You broke up with her WHILE she was in the hospital and now you’re traumatising her in the middle of the night because YOU can’t live without her you fucking selfish useless POS? Cause clearly it wouldn’t have mattered if she couldn’t live without you, as you clearly left her while she was still recovering. What she wants doesn’t matter to you. Neither does whether she lives or not! And she clearly CAN live without you.
“I love you, Abby. I know I've said that before then let you down.”
Aaaaaand Kiki reaches her limits of BS and turns the bitch mode on! You fucking wanker! You left the woman you claim you “love” in the hospital to deal with shit by herself plus a breakup????????
And this is romance? And she’ll give him a second chance because what? He “loves” her? Or she loves him? All I read in these three pages of “world class grovelling “ was “me, myself and I”! Nothing about what heroine needs! So nope! Not gonna happen!
I’d rather go and finish the financial analysis right about now!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2017
I think I loved this just as much if not more the second go round. Cole is that dirty talking alpha that I just eat up with a spoon and then drool over.
And Abby is so sweet. I love how she grows and comes out of her shell. She's just the type of heroine I love. She's sweet, kind and shy but she also doesn't take a lot of crap.
I was still pissed at Cole near the end...damn man! But he is still a great hero. I know I will reread this one from time to time.
Original review July 2016
**4.5 Hot Dirty Talking Cowboy Stars**
Abby is a shy socially awkward teacher trying to make her way in the world on her own. She comes across her neighbor, Cole, the ex rodeo cowboy now rancher. After a little hesitation on both parts, the two come together.
Cole was the kind of hero I love-that hot, dirty talking OTT alpha male. Boy did he make me blush! I loved Abby too. Even though she was very shy and at times seem to have inappropriate reactions due to extreme shyness, I loved seeing her come out of her shell and blossom.
There is a stalker involved and the author did a pretty good job of hiding their identity and implicating any number of people who could be the perpetrator. I really didn't know who it was until the end. I do wish it had been fleshed out a little more throughout the story. It was very minor until the end. Then, it was wrapped up a little too quickly.
Now, Cole, as much as I loved him, pissed me off near the end. While I realize why he did what he did, I was still angry at him, that he would make Abby suffer as well as himself. Luckily, he gets it together and does a fairly nice grovel. And then, there's a super sweet epilogue that I loved. This is only the second book that I've read by this author but I'm sure I will read more.
"I vowed, right then and there, that you were mine. I want to be in your head, in your heart, and in your pussy so I also vowed, I would do whatever it took to make that happen."~Cole
And Abby is so sweet. I love how she grows and comes out of her shell. She's just the type of heroine I love. She's sweet, kind and shy but she also doesn't take a lot of crap.
I was still pissed at Cole near the end...damn man! But he is still a great hero. I know I will reread this one from time to time.
"My body longs for you. My heart beats for you. My soul lives for you. You're the light to my dark, without you I am blind, but with you I see."~Cole
Original review July 2016
**4.5 Hot Dirty Talking Cowboy Stars**
Abby is a shy socially awkward teacher trying to make her way in the world on her own. She comes across her neighbor, Cole, the ex rodeo cowboy now rancher. After a little hesitation on both parts, the two come together.
Cole was the kind of hero I love-that hot, dirty talking OTT alpha male. Boy did he make me blush! I loved Abby too. Even though she was very shy and at times seem to have inappropriate reactions due to extreme shyness, I loved seeing her come out of her shell and blossom.
There is a stalker involved and the author did a pretty good job of hiding their identity and implicating any number of people who could be the perpetrator. I really didn't know who it was until the end. I do wish it had been fleshed out a little more throughout the story. It was very minor until the end. Then, it was wrapped up a little too quickly.
Now, Cole, as much as I loved him, pissed me off near the end. While I realize why he did what he did, I was still angry at him, that he would make Abby suffer as well as himself. Luckily, he gets it together and does a fairly nice grovel. And then, there's a super sweet epilogue that I loved. This is only the second book that I've read by this author but I'm sure I will read more.
July 12, 2016
This was a book I really needed. It had the type of heroine I like and a hot dirty talking alpha hero and was low angst. What more do you need. :-)
The story is of Abigail O'Neal, a schoolteacher, who is very shy and not comfortable in many social situations. She meets the hero, Cole Garrison, and feels an immediate attraction to him and him to her. She is too shy and doesn't think he would be interested. He is interested but old guilt on his part makes him hesitant to claim her at first. They do get together but there is some else that wants Abby too.
I liked Abby and could relate to her. I loved the hero and his no BS, dirty talking mouth. This helped my slump big time. I liked that it was more about the couple but did still give me a story I could enjoy.
The story is of Abigail O'Neal, a schoolteacher, who is very shy and not comfortable in many social situations. She meets the hero, Cole Garrison, and feels an immediate attraction to him and him to her. She is too shy and doesn't think he would be interested. He is interested but old guilt on his part makes him hesitant to claim her at first. They do get together but there is some else that wants Abby too.
I liked Abby and could relate to her. I loved the hero and his no BS, dirty talking mouth. This helped my slump big time. I liked that it was more about the couple but did still give me a story I could enjoy.
Read
September 8, 2017Went live early :D Here's a link until GRs catches up. https://www.amazon.com/Freight-Traine...
July 9, 2016
4.5 stars
I am huge fan of Sarah Curtis' books. She is a must read author for me when I want a sweet yet hot low angst romance and Freight Trained is definitely that. Abby the heroine is fantastic. She is sweet, shy but no pushover. Cole our hero is a hot dirty talking cowboy who you can't help but love. Highly recommend if you are looking for low angst romance with bossy alpha hero.
HEA
Cheating/OW/OM
Any push/pull
Any separation
Heat Level: High
Angst Level: Low
Copy provided for review
I am huge fan of Sarah Curtis' books. She is a must read author for me when I want a sweet yet hot low angst romance and Freight Trained is definitely that. Abby the heroine is fantastic. She is sweet, shy but no pushover. Cole our hero is a hot dirty talking cowboy who you can't help but love. Highly recommend if you are looking for low angst romance with bossy alpha hero.
HEA
Cheating/OW/OM
Any push/pull
Any separation
Heat Level: High
Angst Level: Low
Copy provided for review
January 13, 2020
Reread Again 1/12/20 I loved this one just as much this time around.
2nd Read I may have loved this one even more the second time around. Sarah Curtis writes the perfect hero imo. They are imperfectly perfect. They make mistakes but you NEVER doubt their feelings for their woman. They are ALL IN. They are the perfect mix of dirty talking alpha with a sweet and vulnerable side they only show their woman. I also always love her heroines too which is hard for me to find. I’m always looking forward to the next read from Sarah.
*Original Review*Cole is living a life of solitude on his ranch not allowing himself to get close to anyone. Things in his past have made him closed off. Abby who is unbearably shy and somewhat awkward has been living with her parents who constantly complain about her and her choices. Her grandmother dies leaving her a house in the small town of Jasper Falls where she runs, to start a new life. Cole and Abby meet and there is an immediate connection. Cole is an alpha thinking mine, mine, mine. Abby feels a pull to him which is very unlike her. Along with their love story there is someone leaving mysterious gifts for Abby, a stalker. This was all woven together seamlessly. I liked Cole a lot but watching Abby blossom and overcome some of her shyness was great to see. Safety: No OW/OM at all. There is one scene
2nd Read I may have loved this one even more the second time around. Sarah Curtis writes the perfect hero imo. They are imperfectly perfect. They make mistakes but you NEVER doubt their feelings for their woman. They are ALL IN. They are the perfect mix of dirty talking alpha with a sweet and vulnerable side they only show their woman. I also always love her heroines too which is hard for me to find. I’m always looking forward to the next read from Sarah.
*Original Review*Cole is living a life of solitude on his ranch not allowing himself to get close to anyone. Things in his past have made him closed off. Abby who is unbearably shy and somewhat awkward has been living with her parents who constantly complain about her and her choices. Her grandmother dies leaving her a house in the small town of Jasper Falls where she runs, to start a new life. Cole and Abby meet and there is an immediate connection. Cole is an alpha thinking mine, mine, mine. Abby feels a pull to him which is very unlike her. Along with their love story there is someone leaving mysterious gifts for Abby, a stalker. This was all woven together seamlessly. I liked Cole a lot but watching Abby blossom and overcome some of her shyness was great to see. Safety: No OW/OM at all. There is one scene
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2016
(3.75 Stars)
This was not my typical read. Not only is it a contemporary romance (though it has some suspense elements), but the dynamic between the hero and heroine doesn't reflect the sort of power balance I tend to prefer between main characters. Cole is certainly an alpha--too much of an alpha for some--and he has zero chill. And Abby, while I don't consider her a doormat by any means, she's not as strong-willed as the heroines I usually gravitate toward. Yet, despite my personal preferences, I kept reading. I wanted to know what would become of these two.
At its heart this book is about a sweet, intelligent woman with social anxiety who finds herself while falling for the sexy yet broken cowboy. I gave Cole the mental side-eye more than once and part of me wishes Abby found her strength before meeting him, but that's not their story. Either way, they won me over by the end and I was smiling like an idiot as things wrapped up. Also, I'm happy to have read about a couple who were somewhat outside my "norm". ☺
This was not my typical read. Not only is it a contemporary romance (though it has some suspense elements), but the dynamic between the hero and heroine doesn't reflect the sort of power balance I tend to prefer between main characters. Cole is certainly an alpha--too much of an alpha for some--and he has zero chill. And Abby, while I don't consider her a doormat by any means, she's not as strong-willed as the heroines I usually gravitate toward. Yet, despite my personal preferences, I kept reading. I wanted to know what would become of these two.
At its heart this book is about a sweet, intelligent woman with social anxiety who finds herself while falling for the sexy yet broken cowboy. I gave Cole the mental side-eye more than once and part of me wishes Abby found her strength before meeting him, but that's not their story. Either way, they won me over by the end and I was smiling like an idiot as things wrapped up. Also, I'm happy to have read about a couple who were somewhat outside my "norm". ☺
April 28, 2018
https://romanticcynicblog.wordpress.c...
Beware of Spoilers!
Star Ratings:
Heroine (Abigail): 22yrs old – 5/5
Hero (Coleman): 30yrs old – 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Grovel: great
Cheating: none
HEA: yes!!
Triggers: none
Average score: 5/5
Best Line: “I'm asking for your forgiveness. No, I'm begging for your forgiveness.”
Worst Line: “she made some funky arm gesture toward her front door”
Personal Review:
This book completely took me by surprise by how good it was (in spite of the cover)!
Random Ramblings:
•I found it a little hard to believe that a socially awkward and extremely smart woman would become a substitute teacher
•The dirty talk took me by surprise but I’m not complaining!
•I liked that they didn’t rush into sex
Overall Feeling:
Beware of Spoilers!
Star Ratings:
Heroine (Abigail): 22yrs old – 5/5
Hero (Coleman): 30yrs old – 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Grovel: great
Cheating: none
HEA: yes!!
Triggers: none
Average score: 5/5
Best Line: “I'm asking for your forgiveness. No, I'm begging for your forgiveness.”
Worst Line: “she made some funky arm gesture toward her front door”
Personal Review:
This book completely took me by surprise by how good it was (in spite of the cover)!
Random Ramblings:
•I found it a little hard to believe that a socially awkward and extremely smart woman would become a substitute teacher
•The dirty talk took me by surprise but I’m not complaining!
•I liked that they didn’t rush into sex
Overall Feeling:
July 18, 2016
This book was cute funny and hot. You could say it was perfect.
I am happy I read it.
The cookies were a sweet addition, pun intended.
I will not ruin the book for anyone.
It is safe there is some push and pull from him mostly and stalker action.
They have a sweet epilogue 10 years later that was sweet and perfect.
This should be a 5 star read but I somehow could not do it. Why? Well I guess I am weird, but the story was too perfect for me and that made it sounds fake. Just my personal opinion.
I am happy I read it.
The cookies were a sweet addition, pun intended.
I will not ruin the book for anyone.
It is safe there is some push and pull from him mostly and stalker action.
They have a sweet epilogue 10 years later that was sweet and perfect.
This should be a 5 star read but I somehow could not do it. Why? Well I guess I am weird, but the story was too perfect for me and that made it sounds fake. Just my personal opinion.
August 16, 2016
A dirty talking, possessive, alpha H and a sweet, shy h = a good read.
November 27, 2016
Freight Trained was one of those books that hit all my personal marks when looking for a story that will become a re-read. Alpha hero who has a painful past, virgin heroine, quirky friends, just enough danger to keep it interesting. I like all kinds of heroines and after having just finished reading Enchanting, also by Sarah Curtis, I found Abby’s shyness the perfect personality for what I was looking for. She might feel socially awkward but she didn’t hesitate to let her feelings be known when she was riled. Cole loved that about her and I, well, I just loved Cole. I live on a ranch but unfortunately we do not have cowboys like Cole. That’s just not fair!
While other reviewers knew right away who the “bad” guy was, I bounced between two potentials and refused to allow myself to settle on one or the other. No, I wasn’t surprised by the revelation but I was satisfied by it. I would have liked to have been given more details regarding Abby’s and Cole’s struggle during that dark time and I felt Cole’s character was just a little too calm for an alpha hero worried about his woman. However, in my opinion, that lack of detail did not actually detract from the story.
I was also pleasantly surprised by the explanation of the title. Loved that! This was the perfect Sunday afternoon read. Not too heavy, bogged down or wordy. Going to check out this author’s backlist immediately.
While other reviewers knew right away who the “bad” guy was, I bounced between two potentials and refused to allow myself to settle on one or the other. No, I wasn’t surprised by the revelation but I was satisfied by it. I would have liked to have been given more details regarding Abby’s and Cole’s struggle during that dark time and I felt Cole’s character was just a little too calm for an alpha hero worried about his woman. However, in my opinion, that lack of detail did not actually detract from the story.
I was also pleasantly surprised by the explanation of the title. Loved that! This was the perfect Sunday afternoon read. Not too heavy, bogged down or wordy. Going to check out this author’s backlist immediately.
July 4, 2016
First off there is something pretty darn sexy about a man in jeans, a t shirt, and some cowboy boots! now when you put Cole Garrison to the face of that man...let me tell you....your gonna need a cold glass of water after!
Cole is our H and he just might be up there in my top 10 because the man was hot! oh and that mouth! (Excuse me while I daydream for a min) okay back on topic. He is a pure alpha male, with over the top tendencies that make you smile and kinda melt inside. I loved his words, his actions, and his heart for our h Abby. He only had eyes for her and there was no doubting about it! The only thing I didn't love about Cole was he was stuck in the past and in his mind at times that I wanted to hold him and then kick him the next moment haha but I think that's what can make a good male character go from good to great...the ability to see past their flaws and love them anyway. Sarah did that for me with Cole. took something that normally bugs me and made me love her Cole...anyway yeah hes fantastic
Abby...oh Abby. she is sweet, shy, sheltered, and innocent and oh so believable... I didn't get his fake innocence from her but something more real and I was even able to relate to her. I loved that even though things were knew for her she took it by the horns and rolled with it. it didn't scare her off and make her run away! she was freaking great. This has mystery, love, freaking hot sexy scenes, and a great story line .
I would love to see more of these characters in more books and even a more mystery added in. it really made the book more enjoyable.
ugh add this to your list enough said :)
Cole is our H and he just might be up there in my top 10 because the man was hot! oh and that mouth! (Excuse me while I daydream for a min) okay back on topic. He is a pure alpha male, with over the top tendencies that make you smile and kinda melt inside. I loved his words, his actions, and his heart for our h Abby. He only had eyes for her and there was no doubting about it! The only thing I didn't love about Cole was he was stuck in the past and in his mind at times that I wanted to hold him and then kick him the next moment haha but I think that's what can make a good male character go from good to great...the ability to see past their flaws and love them anyway. Sarah did that for me with Cole. took something that normally bugs me and made me love her Cole...anyway yeah hes fantastic
Abby...oh Abby. she is sweet, shy, sheltered, and innocent and oh so believable... I didn't get his fake innocence from her but something more real and I was even able to relate to her. I loved that even though things were knew for her she took it by the horns and rolled with it. it didn't scare her off and make her run away! she was freaking great. This has mystery, love, freaking hot sexy scenes, and a great story line .
I would love to see more of these characters in more books and even a more mystery added in. it really made the book more enjoyable.
ugh add this to your list enough said :)
July 14, 2016
Freight Trained was an incredibly sweet read with a demanding, alpha hero who had some serious demons from his past he was fighting, and a super naive, innocent teacher with a stalker after her.
Although not my favorite type of heroine, Abby’s sweet ways slowly won me over, but at times I felt she was a bit too naive and innocent to be believed. This was explained away by her overprotective parents and her super shy ways.
I had a harder time with Cole. He was definitely a bit wishy washy at first. Then he was all in, and I really started liking him. He had a little of the Jordan Silver type hero in him that for some reason I just adore. In real life I’d hate it, but in my fantasy world the alpha-hole caveman routine works for me. Unfortunately, Cole screwed up and he did something I had a hard time getting past and it was too close to the end for me to truly get over it.
Even with Cole and his faux pas, there was a lot to like about the book with the dirty talking alpha cowboy, and the sweet little sexy school teacher. I especially loved that she didn’t turn from the innocent virgin to a multiple orgasming sex kitten on her first go-round. Thank you, Ms. Curtis, for giving us a somewhat believable virgin deflowering scene.
What I Struggled With
1. Cole’s last screw up, especially when he took Lucky. That was just wrong.
2. What was up with the Deputy Sheriff?
What I Liked
1. Cole could dirty talk with the best of them.
2. The Sheriff – I just wanted to give him hugs. He needs his own HEA.
3. The town. Loved the characters, especially the girls.
Spice’s Rating: 4 Sweet Little Innocent Stars
I received a complimentary copy of this book from The Author in exchange for an honest review.
This review and more can be found at EDGy Reviews
Although not my favorite type of heroine, Abby’s sweet ways slowly won me over, but at times I felt she was a bit too naive and innocent to be believed. This was explained away by her overprotective parents and her super shy ways.
I had a harder time with Cole. He was definitely a bit wishy washy at first. Then he was all in, and I really started liking him. He had a little of the Jordan Silver type hero in him that for some reason I just adore. In real life I’d hate it, but in my fantasy world the alpha-hole caveman routine works for me. Unfortunately, Cole screwed up and he did something I had a hard time getting past and it was too close to the end for me to truly get over it.
Even with Cole and his faux pas, there was a lot to like about the book with the dirty talking alpha cowboy, and the sweet little sexy school teacher. I especially loved that she didn’t turn from the innocent virgin to a multiple orgasming sex kitten on her first go-round. Thank you, Ms. Curtis, for giving us a somewhat believable virgin deflowering scene.
What I Struggled With
1. Cole’s last screw up, especially when he took Lucky. That was just wrong.
2. What was up with the Deputy Sheriff?
What I Liked
1. Cole could dirty talk with the best of them.
2. The Sheriff – I just wanted to give him hugs. He needs his own HEA.
3. The town. Loved the characters, especially the girls.
Spice’s Rating: 4 Sweet Little Innocent Stars
I received a complimentary copy of this book from The Author in exchange for an honest review.
This review and more can be found at EDGy Reviews
July 15, 2016
Sarah Curtis has done it again for me.
Freight Trained is a story about redemption and learning to love someone else, as well as yourself.
Cole retires from the rodeo circuit after a horrible loss and injury. Feeling that he loses everyone he loves and cares about, he isn't quick to let anyone in. He wants to live his life in seclusion on his ranch. That is until he sees the new school teacher who just moved to town.
After inheriting her grandmother's house, Abby decides to move away from the big city and gets a teaching job in the small town. She sees Cole at the town diner and even though she feels an attraction, she's so shy and thinks he wouldn't want someone like her. Deciding to put herself out there for the first time ever, she takes the first step, and reaches out to the sexy rancher.
I adored this book. It's romance and suspense wrapped up in one fantastic story.
-hot filthy talking alpha cowboy
-mention of sexual past but not forced down your throat
-no cheating or ow/om
-sweet shy h
-some pushing away
-great epilogue w/ HEA
Freight Trained is a story about redemption and learning to love someone else, as well as yourself.
Cole retires from the rodeo circuit after a horrible loss and injury. Feeling that he loses everyone he loves and cares about, he isn't quick to let anyone in. He wants to live his life in seclusion on his ranch. That is until he sees the new school teacher who just moved to town.
After inheriting her grandmother's house, Abby decides to move away from the big city and gets a teaching job in the small town. She sees Cole at the town diner and even though she feels an attraction, she's so shy and thinks he wouldn't want someone like her. Deciding to put herself out there for the first time ever, she takes the first step, and reaches out to the sexy rancher.
I adored this book. It's romance and suspense wrapped up in one fantastic story.
-hot filthy talking alpha cowboy
-mention of sexual past but not forced down your throat
-no cheating or ow/om
-sweet shy h
-some pushing away
-great epilogue w/ HEA
October 7, 2016
My first boyfriend was a wanna-be cowboy. Cole Garrison is no wanna-be, lol. This man is HAWT!
This was my first read by Sarah Curtis and I loved her characters. In fact, I insist on having a Cole of my very own. Isn't there a service that delivers dirty-talking, sexy as hell cowboys on demand?
There should be. Get on that, Sarah...now!
I loved how he was all in, even when he fought it. I adored how he treated Abby(except that hiccup at the end, which I didn't think was nearly as bad as some other readers, but maybe that's just me. I found it understandable, considering his character and history)
The suspense part wasn't bad, I wasn't sure who was the actual bad guy until the very end ) But then again I'm evil like that.
All in all a hot & sweet read that kept me tapping those pages.
This was my first read by Sarah Curtis and I loved her characters. In fact, I insist on having a Cole of my very own. Isn't there a service that delivers dirty-talking, sexy as hell cowboys on demand?
There should be. Get on that, Sarah...now!
I loved how he was all in, even when he fought it. I adored how he treated Abby(except that hiccup at the end, which I didn't think was nearly as bad as some other readers, but maybe that's just me. I found it understandable, considering his character and history)
The suspense part wasn't bad, I wasn't sure who was the actual bad guy until the very end ) But then again I'm evil like that.
All in all a hot & sweet read that kept me tapping those pages.
July 2, 2016
I loved this book! The first chapter started off a little scary (did not involve the H or h) but later the reader could see where this was heading. Cole is a former rodeo star and Abby moved from LA after inheriting a house from her estranged grandmother. The chemistry between Cole and Abby was instant and off the charts! There was no lull in the story. Completely safe (no cheating or ow). Loved how tough Abby could be (read the book to see what I mean)!
August 1, 2016
What's not to love about a possessive cowboy? Cole was hot, hot, hot! Another great book by Sarah Curtis.
August 1, 2023
Sarah Curtis is a new author for me, thankfully I read a couple other of her books before this one. This one didn't work for me. I feel like Vas is the better version of this story.
I did enjoy the suspense part of this story. I thought that was done well.
Abby is mostly what didn't work for me. I was intrigued by her being this painfully shy and awkward person, unfortunately that seemed to fall by the wayside about halfway through. That was such a big part of the beginning of the book, I wanted to see that through out the story. I also didn't like that she was blind to being in any sort of danger. The typical heroine that doesn't listen to any warnings that anyone might say. Cole isn't innocent either... he knows what he did in the hospital. That conflict was ridiculous.
I did like their relationship and how OTT protective he was of her. Overall, I feel like this story was almost there but fell short in a few places.
I did enjoy the suspense part of this story. I thought that was done well.
Abby is mostly what didn't work for me. I was intrigued by her being this painfully shy and awkward person, unfortunately that seemed to fall by the wayside about halfway through. That was such a big part of the beginning of the book, I wanted to see that through out the story. I also didn't like that she was blind to being in any sort of danger. The typical heroine that doesn't listen to any warnings that anyone might say. Cole isn't innocent either... he knows what he did in the hospital. That conflict was ridiculous.
I did like their relationship and how OTT protective he was of her. Overall, I feel like this story was almost there but fell short in a few places.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 16, 2016
Enjoyed the first 80% or so. Was disappointed with the last 20%. Not a fan of heroes who push the heroine away (for their own good, of course) towards the end of the story and then when he's good and ready to come back, she's takes him back immediately. He was a great hero but he lost major points for deserting her when she needed him most.
Still, it was good for the majority of the book. Others might really like it :)
Still, it was good for the majority of the book. Others might really like it :)
July 16, 2016
Pretty awesome!
I really enjoyed this uber sweet- full length- novel of love between Cole and Abby.
The main leads were super nice, Cole with his traumatic past- and Abby with her likable school teacher demeanor.
Interspersed with a mystery stalker, it was filled with sexy scenes between the main couple.
Loved the cowboy-ish cover.
First book by SC and will definitely read more.
Safe read.
4/5
I really enjoyed this uber sweet- full length- novel of love between Cole and Abby.
The main leads were super nice, Cole with his traumatic past- and Abby with her likable school teacher demeanor.
Interspersed with a mystery stalker, it was filled with sexy scenes between the main couple.
Loved the cowboy-ish cover.
First book by SC and will definitely read more.
Safe read.
4/5
July 7, 2016
Loved this new one by Sarah Curtis. She never disappoints with her dirty talking alphas and sweet likable heroines. Cole and Abby were great together. Low angst and insta love. Two of my favorite things!
October 4, 2016
This book had a little bit of everything Hot alpha male, innocent heroine & a little bit of suspense mixed in with some hotness.
July 7, 2016
4 stars! This was a good book! This is Abby and Cole's story. Abby has inherited a house in the small town of Jasper Falls, where she has just moved from LA. She is a shy, sweet teacher. Soon she meets Cole, her neighbor, a rancher and former rodeo star. They feel a connection instantly, but neither are sure how to react or whether to act on their feelings. Cole has a past full of heartbreak and he doesn't think he deserves a woman like Abby. But they can't stay away from each other and Cole gives up on trying to resist his feelings. While they tentatively stumble their way into a relationship together, which neither of them have experience with, someone is out to scare and possibly hurt Abby. Cole steps up to try to protect her, but after a scary situation, can they stay strong together in order to get their happy ending?
I liked Cole and Abby. Cole is a hot cowboy. He was charming, protective and sweet. But he has a painful past, losing close friends and family made him feel guilty and afraid to let himself get close to anyone, fearful that he will hurt them. Abby is a shy virgin and has no experience with relationships. She is unsure and tentative with her developing feelings for Cole. She is afraid to expect more from him than he is wiling to give. But Abby slowly learns how to come out of her shell and make friendships. She grew and came into her own a lot in this book. I liked that her shyness hid a strength and a backbone that helped her stand up for herself when times got tough. She was funny and sweet with Cole. He, too, had little experience with relationships and he was a little clueless at times with sharing his feelings. I liked that he knew he had to step up when it counted or he would lose the best thing that happened to him. He gave good grovel. Despite Abby's innocence, she and Cole have instant chemistry and I felt their physical relationship developed at a believable pace. They were hot together! I really liked the suspense aspect of the story. Knowing that someone might be out to get Abby brings out Cole's protective instincts. The mystery had me guessing until the end. The small town of Jasper Falls was quaint and charming. I liked that aspect and the townspeople there. I would love to read more about them in the future too. This was a safe, sweet read and I really enjoyed it!
*ARC generously provided by the author*
I liked Cole and Abby. Cole is a hot cowboy. He was charming, protective and sweet. But he has a painful past, losing close friends and family made him feel guilty and afraid to let himself get close to anyone, fearful that he will hurt them. Abby is a shy virgin and has no experience with relationships. She is unsure and tentative with her developing feelings for Cole. She is afraid to expect more from him than he is wiling to give. But Abby slowly learns how to come out of her shell and make friendships. She grew and came into her own a lot in this book. I liked that her shyness hid a strength and a backbone that helped her stand up for herself when times got tough. She was funny and sweet with Cole. He, too, had little experience with relationships and he was a little clueless at times with sharing his feelings. I liked that he knew he had to step up when it counted or he would lose the best thing that happened to him. He gave good grovel. Despite Abby's innocence, she and Cole have instant chemistry and I felt their physical relationship developed at a believable pace. They were hot together! I really liked the suspense aspect of the story. Knowing that someone might be out to get Abby brings out Cole's protective instincts. The mystery had me guessing until the end. The small town of Jasper Falls was quaint and charming. I liked that aspect and the townspeople there. I would love to read more about them in the future too. This was a safe, sweet read and I really enjoyed it!
*ARC generously provided by the author*
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