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Blackfeet Nation #1
Last Chance Rodeo
He came to Blackfeet Nation looking for his missing horse
And found the heart he'd lost along the way.
One thoughtless moment cost David Parsons everything—his irreplaceable horse, his rodeo career, and his fiancée. After four long years he's finally tracked his horse to the Blackfeet Reservation and is ready to reclaim his pride.
It should be the happiest day of his life. But the troubled young boy who's riding Muddy now has had more than his fair share of hard knocks, and his fierce guardian Mary Steele will do whatever it takes to make sure losing this horse isn't the blow that levels him. David finds himself drawn to both woman and child, and is faced with a soul-wrenching dilemma: take his lost shot at rodeo glory...or claim what could be his last chance to make his shattered heart whole?
317 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 3, 2015
74 people are currently reading
566 people want to read
About the author
Kari Lynn Dell
11 books275 followersKari Lynn Dell is a native of north central Montana, a third generation ranch-raised cowgirl, horse trainer and rodeo competitor, most recently the 2017 Canadian Senior Pro Rodeo Breakaway Roping season champion. She attended her first rodeo at two weeks old and has existed in a state of horse-induced poverty ever since. She currently resides on the family ranch on the Blackfeet Reservation, loitering in her parents’ bunkhouse along with her husband, son and Max and Spike the Cowdogs, with a tipi on the front step, a view of Glacier National Park from her writing desk and Canada within spitting distance.
Come visit at KariLynnDell.com and sign up for the newsletter to get first shot at early releases, special prizes and bonus content, and keep current on what's next on the publication front
Come visit at KariLynnDell.com and sign up for the newsletter to get first shot at early releases, special prizes and bonus content, and keep current on what's next on the publication front
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
March 13, 2022
This is a Cowboy Romance, and this is the first book in the Blackfeet Nation series. The characters in this book is not the lovable normal romance books characters, but I love them for that. I loved that they each had their own issues, and they where working through their own issues. I really love the horse character, Muddy because that horse had a personally that was so large. This book had so much going on init, but I think it worked so well. This book does not have steamy hot times, so if you want that is you romance then this is not the book for you.
July 30, 2019
Rodeo star David Parsons had success within his grasp, then a night of minor indulgence results in disaster. Four years later he's hit rock bottom and is a long way on the path to dragging himself back to being a contender but without his champion horse Muddy he can't reach the heights he did previously. Then a friend calls and says he's seen Muddy. For the first time in four years David feels optimistic; until he meets Muddy's new owners.
I really like Mira Lynn Dell's novels, not too schmaltzy, not cookie-cutter, not too cliched. I liked the tussle David had between his very understandable desire to reclaim Muddy with his need to be fair and honourable towards the new owners, Mary and her adoptive son Kylan.
This novel had cowboys, strong heroines, social issues, roping, and just love in all its dimensions: family love; adoptive love; romantic love; etc and I really enjoyed it. Another winner.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
I really like Mira Lynn Dell's novels, not too schmaltzy, not cookie-cutter, not too cliched. I liked the tussle David had between his very understandable desire to reclaim Muddy with his need to be fair and honourable towards the new owners, Mary and her adoptive son Kylan.
This novel had cowboys, strong heroines, social issues, roping, and just love in all its dimensions: family love; adoptive love; romantic love; etc and I really enjoyed it. Another winner.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
June 17, 2018
WOW!! What an emotional packed book!! Kari Lynn Dell is one talented gifted writer! This book was amazing. I loved how she took up subjects few authors venture out into. When I get asked again to name a book that profoundly touched your heart the answer without hesitation will definitely be The Long Ride Home by Kari Lynn Dell. I love the fact that this book was more than a romance it covered so many things. Especially loved how she wrote a true to life aspect of what life is like for some Native Americans living on reservations today but yet also wrote in how adversity can be risen above if the will and want to is there combined with strong supportive encouragement. David , Mary, Kylan, Starr and all the characters will all hold a place in heart. Thank You Kari Lynn Dell for writing such a Wonderful book. I wish it was available in actual book print for this is one book I would love to have on my keep forever bookshelf
July 17, 2020
Have you ever had that one horse or special pet, that was so amazing, beyond comprehension? That one companion you never dreamed would no longer be by your side? You were a team, destined for greatness. Until all was lost.
David Parson has it all, the best roping horse, drawing checks with every run, and a shot at the NFR. Muddy, a small brown gelding and nothing special to look at, but man can he start, stop, and get back, a ropers dream.
The Long Road Home, I can't put into words how moving, compassionate, and healing it became for me.
David, Mary, and Kylan's story is phenomenal, simply phenomenal. Three lost souls brought together by a common denominator, Muddy. Sometimes fate plays a powerful hand, as if someone's watching from up above.
Kari Lynn Dell's, The Long Ride Home, is one of the best books I've read. Her picturesque
ability in describing the Montana landscape, her flawless detail in the roping arena, and the bittersweet emotions she tackles with depth and conviction are spellbinding.
David Parson has it all, the best roping horse, drawing checks with every run, and a shot at the NFR. Muddy, a small brown gelding and nothing special to look at, but man can he start, stop, and get back, a ropers dream.
The Long Road Home, I can't put into words how moving, compassionate, and healing it became for me.
David, Mary, and Kylan's story is phenomenal, simply phenomenal. Three lost souls brought together by a common denominator, Muddy. Sometimes fate plays a powerful hand, as if someone's watching from up above.
Kari Lynn Dell's, The Long Ride Home, is one of the best books I've read. Her picturesque
ability in describing the Montana landscape, her flawless detail in the roping arena, and the bittersweet emotions she tackles with depth and conviction are spellbinding.
April 9, 2015
I'll say up front I am not a reader of romance books; The Long Ride Home is a romance book of sorts but it is so much more. Kari Lynn Dell knows of what she writes and immediately draws the reader in with a vivid description of a rodeo cowboy and his horse during a calf roping event. You'll feel as though you are sharing the ride. As the story progresses the author takes the reader to the Blackfeet Indian Reservation in north central Montana and captures with a sure knowledge the land,the people who live there,the bond found among family. I enjoyed the book and am looking forward to our group discussion of the same.
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February 7, 2015This book is a romance with a difference. Written entirely from the hero's point of view, we follow David the cowboy and rodeo champion through a low phase of his life as he fights to get his horse back. Set in the grassy plains of Montana with the spectacular Rocky Mountains in the background, this book is sweet and the romance a slow build. Kari Lynn Dell's writing is smooth and evocative. If you love a cowboy romance and fabulous rodeo descriptions you'll enjoy this novel.
Disclaimer: the author is a friend of mine. I review books but I don't star them.
May 17, 2015
I like my romances 'real' - real emotion, real people, in real situations. This book dealt that in spades. You can tell the author knows about rodeo, and the beautiful country that is the book's setting. Really enjoyed it being told from a man's point of view - that was refreshing.
It wasn't just a sappy romance - there were real problems, from drought, to Down's and Childhood alcohol syndrome, to the problems of being raised on 'the rez'.
A book that will stick with me. I highly recommend it.
It wasn't just a sappy romance - there were real problems, from drought, to Down's and Childhood alcohol syndrome, to the problems of being raised on 'the rez'.
A book that will stick with me. I highly recommend it.
November 3, 2017
I really loved this book about a cowboy's struggle to get his roping horse back. Even after he finds who has it, getting it from the boy rips his heart out. Things aren't always black and white and love isn't always easy to hold onto. An excellent story that will tug at your heart.
August 24, 2019
I love books that take me back to my childhood full of rodeo days and the plains of the north. Last Chance Rodeo takes on that journey and I loved every minute of it.
David finally is reaching the peak of his rodeo career. With a horse that is an extension of himself, he is finally bringing in the wins to shine in the rodeo circuit. But with one small indulgence, he loses his beloved gelding and now four years later he finds himself at rock bottom, having lost everything he held dear.
When he gets a call that his horse has been spotted, David is ready to start his climb back up to the top but what he never expected was to find the bond between his beloved horse and a boy who had already had so much taken from him.
This book was full of emotion and heart. I loved David and what a stand up guy he was. He could have gone in with a blaze and taken his horse back but that's not what he does.
Mary is a strong heroine and provides just the right amount of push that David needs.
I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to more from Kari Lynn Dell.
David finally is reaching the peak of his rodeo career. With a horse that is an extension of himself, he is finally bringing in the wins to shine in the rodeo circuit. But with one small indulgence, he loses his beloved gelding and now four years later he finds himself at rock bottom, having lost everything he held dear.
When he gets a call that his horse has been spotted, David is ready to start his climb back up to the top but what he never expected was to find the bond between his beloved horse and a boy who had already had so much taken from him.
This book was full of emotion and heart. I loved David and what a stand up guy he was. He could have gone in with a blaze and taken his horse back but that's not what he does.
Mary is a strong heroine and provides just the right amount of push that David needs.
I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to more from Kari Lynn Dell.
July 10, 2019
The story is about a horse, yes and no. The story starts with David Parsons and he seems to have it all, and then his hose goes missing and he loses it all his luck seems to have changed. On a quest to find Muddy he hears that he is a reservation and when he goes to find it he ends finding more than just his horse Muddy. And then the story really begins there is heartbreak, lots of feeling and learning of others and acceptance..The story was not what I thought but it was a lot and goodness..
Rcvd and ARC at no cost to author..(netgalley) Voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions
Rcvd and ARC at no cost to author..(netgalley) Voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions
December 5, 2017
Another great read from Kari Lynn Dell. Kari Lynn has such an awesome writing skill at describing everything her characters are doing and seeing as well as the surrounding landscape so that you can picture everything in your head like your watching a movie.
One of my favorite things about this book is that it involves a special needs young man and his daily struggles and frustration of his situation. This is the first book I've read that has a character that suffered from fetal alcohol syndrome and how it can affect a baby all the way through adulthood. This is truly a feel good book and I hope we get to learn more about these characters in the future. PLEASE. This book has a classic plot that's true to life circumstances, when something bad happens to us we may not understand at the time why it happened has to to set us on the path we are meant to be on.
David Parsons is at the height of his prorodeo career when he's on the circuit on the fourth of July. After his run he stops to have a drink with fellow rodeo participants instead of going straight to put his one-of-a-kind, once-in-a-million, that has a very quirkly personality, horse in his trailer. His horse is terrified of fireworks and David forgets it's the fourth of July until it's too late. Before he can make his way back to Muddy, the horse has been startled and has ran off. Everyone is looking for the horse for days to no avail, he didn't get run over yet He's no where in siggt. He's gone and this event sends David's life into a tail spin, he loses his life as he knew it. He loses his career, his fiancee and his pride. Four years later David receives a phone call he had hoped for but never thought would ever come to be. Muddy has been seen at a high school rodeo event on the Montana Blackfeet Indian Reservation.
Just going to claim his horse isn't as easy as it should be. After all, the laws we know are not the same on an Indian Reservation. The person that has the horse is a young man that has developmental delays, a poor self image and has had a hard life. Muddy had given Kylan a new purpose in life. Kylan's guardian, his aunt, Mary Steele will do just about anything for Kylan's world to not be torn apart by losing this horse. She'll just hold Muddy handsome and hope David Parsons just gives up and leaves the reservation without the horse.
Both Mary and David have been left burned by prior relationships and neither are looking for a new partner in life but neither can deny the electricity between each other. How can the three main characters in this book get what they want without someone getting hurt? Well you'll have to read this awesome book to see how it all turns out and you won't regret it! I highly recommend this book!
One of my favorite things about this book is that it involves a special needs young man and his daily struggles and frustration of his situation. This is the first book I've read that has a character that suffered from fetal alcohol syndrome and how it can affect a baby all the way through adulthood. This is truly a feel good book and I hope we get to learn more about these characters in the future. PLEASE. This book has a classic plot that's true to life circumstances, when something bad happens to us we may not understand at the time why it happened has to to set us on the path we are meant to be on.
David Parsons is at the height of his prorodeo career when he's on the circuit on the fourth of July. After his run he stops to have a drink with fellow rodeo participants instead of going straight to put his one-of-a-kind, once-in-a-million, that has a very quirkly personality, horse in his trailer. His horse is terrified of fireworks and David forgets it's the fourth of July until it's too late. Before he can make his way back to Muddy, the horse has been startled and has ran off. Everyone is looking for the horse for days to no avail, he didn't get run over yet He's no where in siggt. He's gone and this event sends David's life into a tail spin, he loses his life as he knew it. He loses his career, his fiancee and his pride. Four years later David receives a phone call he had hoped for but never thought would ever come to be. Muddy has been seen at a high school rodeo event on the Montana Blackfeet Indian Reservation.
Just going to claim his horse isn't as easy as it should be. After all, the laws we know are not the same on an Indian Reservation. The person that has the horse is a young man that has developmental delays, a poor self image and has had a hard life. Muddy had given Kylan a new purpose in life. Kylan's guardian, his aunt, Mary Steele will do just about anything for Kylan's world to not be torn apart by losing this horse. She'll just hold Muddy handsome and hope David Parsons just gives up and leaves the reservation without the horse.
Both Mary and David have been left burned by prior relationships and neither are looking for a new partner in life but neither can deny the electricity between each other. How can the three main characters in this book get what they want without someone getting hurt? Well you'll have to read this awesome book to see how it all turns out and you won't regret it! I highly recommend this book!
July 12, 2019
David Parsons was on his way to participating in the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas when he made a major mistake. He was riding high with his rodeo calf roping success when he neglected to secure his valuable, very talented horse, Muddy at the end of the rodeo in Cody, Wyoming. Muddy broke loose during the fireworks, ran like the devil was on his tail and then disappeared. A few years later David got a tip about seeing Muddy at the Montana State High School Rodeo Finals. Yep! It was Muddy alright but getting him back got complicated. Mary Steele and her nephew Kylan entered the picture. Kylan has been riding Muddy in the calf roping events all the way to state finals. Mary is very protective of Kylan and she isn't going to let anyone mess with him. Even if she does find herself attracted to David Parsons.
Last Chance Rodeo by Kari Lynn Dell is a Blackfeet Nation Novel. This book is filled with love, community sticking together, family interactions and thrilling rodeo scenes. There are fun moments and some very intense moments. The storyline leads the reader from conflict to resolution flawlessly. The characters are strong and likeable. It took me a while to warm up to Mary Steele but the author brought me around to what a special woman she is. The rodeo scenes are very authentic and exciting. All in all this is a very entertaining story.
Last Chance Rodeo by Kari Lynn Dell is a Blackfeet Nation Novel. This book is filled with love, community sticking together, family interactions and thrilling rodeo scenes. There are fun moments and some very intense moments. The storyline leads the reader from conflict to resolution flawlessly. The characters are strong and likeable. It took me a while to warm up to Mary Steele but the author brought me around to what a special woman she is. The rodeo scenes are very authentic and exciting. All in all this is a very entertaining story.
April 2, 2015
Goodreads Autograph Copy Win
Four years ago, David Parsons seemed to have it all. A promising rodeo career, a pretty fiancée until his horse goes missing one evening. Everything changed quickly as his luck turned as he still searches for his horse Muddy.
When a sighting of Muddy appears in a Montana’s Blackfeet Indian Reservation, he goes an investigate the scene. Finding it to be his beloved Muddy, his reunion turns to be complicated as he cannot just swoop in and take back his beloved horse.
Muddy now is owned by a teenager Kylan whose life has not been easy. He has a custodian aunt Mary Steele who will do anything to protect her nephew.
They end up making a deal since he cannot pay the reward he offered for the return of the horse initially lost that he will let Kylan ride the horse till Nationals before he takes him back.
In the meantime he starts to get to know Mary and is drawn to her but each has their own demons. Will a horse draw them together?
This is a sweet innocent romance that captures the heart.
Four years ago, David Parsons seemed to have it all. A promising rodeo career, a pretty fiancée until his horse goes missing one evening. Everything changed quickly as his luck turned as he still searches for his horse Muddy.
When a sighting of Muddy appears in a Montana’s Blackfeet Indian Reservation, he goes an investigate the scene. Finding it to be his beloved Muddy, his reunion turns to be complicated as he cannot just swoop in and take back his beloved horse.
Muddy now is owned by a teenager Kylan whose life has not been easy. He has a custodian aunt Mary Steele who will do anything to protect her nephew.
They end up making a deal since he cannot pay the reward he offered for the return of the horse initially lost that he will let Kylan ride the horse till Nationals before he takes him back.
In the meantime he starts to get to know Mary and is drawn to her but each has their own demons. Will a horse draw them together?
This is a sweet innocent romance that captures the heart.
July 28, 2019
Last Chance Rodeo by Kari Lynn Dell
A Blackfeet Nation Novel #1
David Parsons believes in Karma and it nipped him hard when he put himself first instead of first taking care of his perfect roping horse, Muddy. For four long years he struggled and then one day someone saw Muddy in a rodeo and off he went to claim his horse. Well, that did NOT go as he had expected and again...worried about Karma and how it might nip him again if he didn’t do what was right...he had some tough decisions to make. The young man riding Muddy definitely needed something that David had to offer and over time David figured out how to offer it and in so doing help not only himself but Kylan, too. Throw in a sweet romance between David and Mary, Kylan’s guardian, and you have a story that was well plotted, well written and a delight to read.
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Will I read more by this new-to-me author? Yes
Did I enjoy the beginning of this series? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
A Blackfeet Nation Novel #1
David Parsons believes in Karma and it nipped him hard when he put himself first instead of first taking care of his perfect roping horse, Muddy. For four long years he struggled and then one day someone saw Muddy in a rodeo and off he went to claim his horse. Well, that did NOT go as he had expected and again...worried about Karma and how it might nip him again if he didn’t do what was right...he had some tough decisions to make. The young man riding Muddy definitely needed something that David had to offer and over time David figured out how to offer it and in so doing help not only himself but Kylan, too. Throw in a sweet romance between David and Mary, Kylan’s guardian, and you have a story that was well plotted, well written and a delight to read.
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Will I read more by this new-to-me author? Yes
Did I enjoy the beginning of this series? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
March 21, 2015
4.5 stars This was such a pleasure to read and enjoy. You follow the low point in David Parsons life, as he loses his horse and has to struggle back up as a tie-down roper working the rodeo circuit. 4 years later he finds his horse again but things are complicated by the owner and his guardian aunt. He's upfront that he wants the horse back but it isn't easy to tear it away from a young man who needs the horse more so than David.
we see him struggle with what to do, what's right for everyone and how to make it work. as he figures it out, he gets to learn more about Mary, Kylan's guardian, and how she fits in with everything.
A very good story and I love reading about the intricacies of his job and his struggles. I also have to say that the cover is absolutely beautiful.
we see him struggle with what to do, what's right for everyone and how to make it work. as he figures it out, he gets to learn more about Mary, Kylan's guardian, and how she fits in with everything.
A very good story and I love reading about the intricacies of his job and his struggles. I also have to say that the cover is absolutely beautiful.
February 21, 2015
I devoured romances when I was a teenager. Over the years, I drifted away to thrillers. Kari Lynn Dell has brought me back with The Long Ride Home. This story is like that pretty pony in the stable that you give your apple core to instead of your own horse. It's endearing and smart. It gets your attention and holds it. Much like that pony with its earnest expression and tufted pricked ears staring down that apple. But behind those soulful brown eyes is a cunning mind. Kari had me wondering what would happen next. I liked that the story was told from David's point of view. All characters (people and horses) were vivid and memorable. I loved this story and would enjoy reading a sequel.
April 2, 2015
A Page Turner read!
Kari Lynn Dell has put together a story of romance, of thriller, and of fist throwing mystery that keeps the reader dying to turn to the last chapter to see how it ends. luckily I read it on a kindle and don't know how to perform the task. Does the cowboy get the girl? the author doesn't let you have any idea until she's made you read every sentence in every chapter. Keep writing Kari. can hardly wait for the next one. Recommended to any reader who enjoys personalizing the characters in the story.
Kari Lynn Dell has put together a story of romance, of thriller, and of fist throwing mystery that keeps the reader dying to turn to the last chapter to see how it ends. luckily I read it on a kindle and don't know how to perform the task. Does the cowboy get the girl? the author doesn't let you have any idea until she's made you read every sentence in every chapter. Keep writing Kari. can hardly wait for the next one. Recommended to any reader who enjoys personalizing the characters in the story.
February 22, 2015
The Long Ride Home was a pure pleasure to read. I grew up in Texas, which means I absorbed an appreciation for rodeos by osmosis. I never participated in one myself (my riding was of a much more subdued sort), but the excitement of reading about them takes me back anyway. I've known (and been thrown off of) a few horses like Muddy in my day, so that struck a chord with me, too. Add to that the touching romance that develops between David and Mary, and I was sucked right in. (And, okay, one of the hottest kisses I have ever read didn't hurt, either.) More, please!
June 22, 2019
- Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review -
“Last Chance Rodeo”, by Kari Lynn Dell, features two people dealing with real, serious issues, reminding us that beyond romance novels and the American Dream there’s a lot of hardships to face and overcome.
I loved both David and Mary as individuals but I didn’t really feel their chemistry as a romantic couple. David is a great hero and the celibacy makes him an even more human and attractive character. Mary is a scarred soul, with a past of grief, but she’s so strong, brave and protective of her nephew, Kylan.
Great outlooks, as usual with Lynn Dell, on ranching and rodeo life and universe and also on Blackfeet Nation, and not the rose tinted versions, but its gritty problems, yet still riveting and exciting.
I adored the horses – obnoxious and beloved Muddy, Frosty -, David’s relationship with them, and the rapport he established with troubled Kylan, a character whom I feel deserves his own story.
“Last Chance Rodeo”, by Kari Lynn Dell, features two people dealing with real, serious issues, reminding us that beyond romance novels and the American Dream there’s a lot of hardships to face and overcome.
I loved both David and Mary as individuals but I didn’t really feel their chemistry as a romantic couple. David is a great hero and the celibacy makes him an even more human and attractive character. Mary is a scarred soul, with a past of grief, but she’s so strong, brave and protective of her nephew, Kylan.
Great outlooks, as usual with Lynn Dell, on ranching and rodeo life and universe and also on Blackfeet Nation, and not the rose tinted versions, but its gritty problems, yet still riveting and exciting.
I adored the horses – obnoxious and beloved Muddy, Frosty -, David’s relationship with them, and the rapport he established with troubled Kylan, a character whom I feel deserves his own story.
July 31, 2019
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This is a charming cowboy romance with a few twists that make it both memorable and relatable. The cowboy elements of this story are enjoyable but fairly predictable. What I loved was the beautiful Blackfeet Nation setting, instantly loveable characters and the way complicated topics like Foetal Alcohol Syndrome are addressed with great sensitivity.
David is possibly the least interesting thing about the book. What I loved were his observations and reflections as an outsider visiting the Blackfeet Nation. The story is told from David’s perspective and I loved watching him navigate complicated characters, relationships and situations. I also loved his horse - who seems to have more personality than David himself.
If David is slightly bland, Mary is a complicated, challenging enigma. She’s a survivor and she is passionate about protecting the people she cares for. It took me a while to figure Mary out - it may have taken David even longer but she’s a worthy heroine. The people around Mary are also special and I loved the connection that builds between David and Kylan.
This is a low heat read. It is also a very slow burn romance with more focus on calf-roping, life on a reservation and parenting than the connection between David and Mary. Even though David and Mary are relatively young characters, they feel older and this reads like a midlife romance. It’s a gentle, thought provoking story and I really enjoyed it.
This is a charming cowboy romance with a few twists that make it both memorable and relatable. The cowboy elements of this story are enjoyable but fairly predictable. What I loved was the beautiful Blackfeet Nation setting, instantly loveable characters and the way complicated topics like Foetal Alcohol Syndrome are addressed with great sensitivity.
David is possibly the least interesting thing about the book. What I loved were his observations and reflections as an outsider visiting the Blackfeet Nation. The story is told from David’s perspective and I loved watching him navigate complicated characters, relationships and situations. I also loved his horse - who seems to have more personality than David himself.
If David is slightly bland, Mary is a complicated, challenging enigma. She’s a survivor and she is passionate about protecting the people she cares for. It took me a while to figure Mary out - it may have taken David even longer but she’s a worthy heroine. The people around Mary are also special and I loved the connection that builds between David and Kylan.
This is a low heat read. It is also a very slow burn romance with more focus on calf-roping, life on a reservation and parenting than the connection between David and Mary. Even though David and Mary are relatively young characters, they feel older and this reads like a midlife romance. It’s a gentle, thought provoking story and I really enjoyed it.
September 12, 2019
Oh wow, talk about a book you can't put down, because you might miss something. Kari Lynn Dell has put together a book that will tug at every emotion a person could have. If you love rodeo, teachers, cowboys, indians, horses, a hard life, and love, this book is for you. I felt every emotion reading this book and was left wanting, needing more. All of the different issues that made this book a winner, are all subjects that most people don't want to talk about them.
August 1, 2018
David Parsons wins your heart in this one. Muddy gets lost to be found in the arms of a boy that he cannot take from. Sparks fly with the boy's mother. Read to find out how this one evolves. You will not be disappointed in Kari Lynn Dell's resolutions.
September 27, 2019
Really enjoyed this book by an author new to me in the contemporary romance scene. Different settings of Montana and with a background of both rodeo and the Blackfeet Reservation makes it stand out. Hope the author writes more in this vein but will definitely check on her Texas series.
November 30, 2022
My review is at StoryGraph
February 3, 2015
4.5 stars! This book was lovely, emotional and sweet. David is adorable – a fine, upstanding young cowboy, who’s been through a lot in the last four years and still feels so much guilt over his failure to take proper care of Muddy. I just loved him and the way he was, not to mention his belief in the rodeo gods looking down on him from above – even if they were mostly laughing at him.
Another thing I really liked about this book was that it really was about rodeo riding. Too often I read books with cowboys and rodeo riders, which have very little or nothing at all to do with such things, merely using them as a background prop. Not this book. David really does rope cattle and Muddy really is a great roping horse – even if he is mean and ornery the rest of the time. I loved that about Muddy too, the fact that he’s got such character and there is no slow-motion reunion scene between the long-parted team. Muddy doesn’t much care who he’s with, just so long as he gets fed.
But this book isn’t just about David and Muddy, it’s also about Mary and her nephew Kylan. Mary’s one tough lady, thanks to the rough hands life has also dealt her, but she’s not about to give up on anything – least of all Kylan. Born with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome he’s already had a lot of knock backs in life and struggles with both reading and development issues, but I loved how none of this makes him stupid or hopeless, and how both Mary and David see the potential in him. Admittedly I thought it took David way too long to reach a decision about what to do, when the solution seemed obvious, but he does get there in the end.
More than just a romance, mixing in learning difficulties, rodeo life and the curious twists of reservation laws, this book is full of heart and hope and such sweetness, though it never shies away from more difficult issues. I really enjoyed it.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
Another thing I really liked about this book was that it really was about rodeo riding. Too often I read books with cowboys and rodeo riders, which have very little or nothing at all to do with such things, merely using them as a background prop. Not this book. David really does rope cattle and Muddy really is a great roping horse – even if he is mean and ornery the rest of the time. I loved that about Muddy too, the fact that he’s got such character and there is no slow-motion reunion scene between the long-parted team. Muddy doesn’t much care who he’s with, just so long as he gets fed.
But this book isn’t just about David and Muddy, it’s also about Mary and her nephew Kylan. Mary’s one tough lady, thanks to the rough hands life has also dealt her, but she’s not about to give up on anything – least of all Kylan. Born with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome he’s already had a lot of knock backs in life and struggles with both reading and development issues, but I loved how none of this makes him stupid or hopeless, and how both Mary and David see the potential in him. Admittedly I thought it took David way too long to reach a decision about what to do, when the solution seemed obvious, but he does get there in the end.
More than just a romance, mixing in learning difficulties, rodeo life and the curious twists of reservation laws, this book is full of heart and hope and such sweetness, though it never shies away from more difficult issues. I really enjoyed it.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
July 30, 2019
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
LAST CHANCE RODEO is the first title in the Blackfeet Nation series. It was originally published in February of 2015 under the title THE LONG ROAD HOME. It is possible that you’ve read this one, so check your shelves.
I originally read this story in 2015, and have fond memories of the characters and the situations they found themselves in. Doing a re-read was no chore as it reminded me of the enjoyment of Muddy being reunited with David but at a cost to the teen who so desperately needed Muddy in his life.
David, Mary, Kylan and especially Muddy (by any name) will capture your emotions in a story that goes beyond a romance into the heart of reservation life for Native Americans. While David believes he lost his luck when Muddy went missing his bargain with Kylan rings true and heartfelt. Mary is a fierce protector of her nephew and watching her fight for his rights to Muddy while falling for David is poignant and believable.
I enjoyed this story no matter the title’s name, and if you love a Romance that goes beyond the love story then I believe you will as well.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
LAST CHANCE RODEO is the first title in the Blackfeet Nation series. It was originally published in February of 2015 under the title THE LONG ROAD HOME. It is possible that you’ve read this one, so check your shelves.
I originally read this story in 2015, and have fond memories of the characters and the situations they found themselves in. Doing a re-read was no chore as it reminded me of the enjoyment of Muddy being reunited with David but at a cost to the teen who so desperately needed Muddy in his life.
David, Mary, Kylan and especially Muddy (by any name) will capture your emotions in a story that goes beyond a romance into the heart of reservation life for Native Americans. While David believes he lost his luck when Muddy went missing his bargain with Kylan rings true and heartfelt. Mary is a fierce protector of her nephew and watching her fight for his rights to Muddy while falling for David is poignant and believable.
I enjoyed this story no matter the title’s name, and if you love a Romance that goes beyond the love story then I believe you will as well.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
September 19, 2015
Kari Lynn Dell captures the heart and soul of the rez in this debut novel. I taught in Browning for three years, so I'm quite familiar with the problems and beauty of the area. More than a love story between two people, this book shows the true meaning of what family is and how it can grow more inclusive. I loved the realistic interaction between the characters, the details about calf-roping, and the ability to completely immerse myself in that world.
May 3, 2015
Absolutely lovely book. The characters are wonderfully fleshed out, and there's a lot of humor. The relationships are easy to connect to, even to people who have no experience with the horse world. I really loved the backstory of each person, which is slowly revealed. Truly an excellently written book. Looking forward to reading more for Dell.
April 19, 2015
More! I want more.
August 14, 2019
Kari Lynn Dell is a prime example of a good writer telling a genuinely great story by writing what they know, and what Kari Lynn knows is really different to most of the rest of us. Living on the Blackfeet Nation reservation, steeped in the rodeo business since childhood, she tells stories that feel authentic because she doesn’t need to go away and research the things she doesn’t know. She’s sharing what’s in her heart, her love of horses and the rodeo and the truth of the Blackfeet, and it makes for shining, unique stories that are a genuine joy to read.
David’s a calf roper who’s lost the horse which upgraded him from good to exceptional. Without his treasured Muddy, he’s drifting without an anchor, so when a friend brings him a genuine sighting of the missing horse, David’s willing to do just about anything to get him back. But it’s not gonna be that simple, because Muddy now belongs to Kylan, a Blackfeet teen with special needs, and Kylan’s protective aunt Mary is in full tigress mode.
Kylan was very much a part of this story, just as much as the romantic pairing of David and Mary, and I found Kari Lynn’s portrayal of a teenager born with fetal alcohol syndrome and struggling with finding his path in life to be both sensitive and realistic. His future and happiness became just as much David’s concern as Mary’s, and that was absolutely necessary for their romance to be believable, but to some extent I think we needed more time in Mary’s point of view because almost the whole story was in David’s head, which is pretty unusual for a romance. We never got much insight into what Mary was thinking and feeling, and I do think we needed to see more of her inner narrative, because there came a point in the story where I was absolutely furious about something she’d done and we never got to really hear her reasoning for it. It was pretty late in the book and honestly, I just wanted David to walk away. He’d been totally honest from the beginning and had every right to absolutely lose it.
I really want to give this five stars because there are so many good things about it, but a romance which makes me dislike the heroine for a pretty long-running integrity failure has some serious issues. Four stars, but it’s a genuinely excellent read in every other respect.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review via NetGalley.
David’s a calf roper who’s lost the horse which upgraded him from good to exceptional. Without his treasured Muddy, he’s drifting without an anchor, so when a friend brings him a genuine sighting of the missing horse, David’s willing to do just about anything to get him back. But it’s not gonna be that simple, because Muddy now belongs to Kylan, a Blackfeet teen with special needs, and Kylan’s protective aunt Mary is in full tigress mode.
Kylan was very much a part of this story, just as much as the romantic pairing of David and Mary, and I found Kari Lynn’s portrayal of a teenager born with fetal alcohol syndrome and struggling with finding his path in life to be both sensitive and realistic. His future and happiness became just as much David’s concern as Mary’s, and that was absolutely necessary for their romance to be believable, but to some extent I think we needed more time in Mary’s point of view because almost the whole story was in David’s head, which is pretty unusual for a romance. We never got much insight into what Mary was thinking and feeling, and I do think we needed to see more of her inner narrative, because there came a point in the story where I was absolutely furious about something she’d done and we never got to really hear her reasoning for it. It was pretty late in the book and honestly, I just wanted David to walk away. He’d been totally honest from the beginning and had every right to absolutely lose it.
I really want to give this five stars because there are so many good things about it, but a romance which makes me dislike the heroine for a pretty long-running integrity failure has some serious issues. Four stars, but it’s a genuinely excellent read in every other respect.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review via NetGalley.
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