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Lost and Found in Thorndale #1
Bringing Trouble Home
Willow is heaps of trouble, but a scorched bottom from an old-fashioned cowboy might set her straight.
Widowed rancher Heath Wolfe worries he's making a big mistake by bringing Willow McAllister home to his ranch. A known troublemaker around town, she can't seem to keep a job or avoid skirmishes with the law, so the town marshal implores Heath to help. While Heath agrees to employ Willow, he certainly won't allow misbehavior, and he's even prepared to take the willful young lady over his knee for a sound spanking if warranted.
Orphaned and alone for several years, nineteen-year-old Willow is used to taking care of herself. She sleeps wherever she can find a soft surface and roams freely. She doesn't drink whiskey every night and she only steals when she has to, so it doesn't seem fair when the marshal insists she give up her freedom to work for Heath. She suspects that the rancher is as humorless as he is handsome.
Heath and Willow are as different as two people can be, but a tentative friendship forms. Old habits die hard, though, and it doesn't take long for Willow to engage in familiar shenanigans. When problems arise, will Heath regret bringing trouble home, or has Willow finally found a man who can steer her straight?
Publisher's Note: Bringing Trouble Home is a standalone story in the Lost and Found in Thorndale series. It contains sexual scenes and adult punishment spanking. If that doesn't appeal to you, please don't buy this book.
Widowed rancher Heath Wolfe worries he's making a big mistake by bringing Willow McAllister home to his ranch. A known troublemaker around town, she can't seem to keep a job or avoid skirmishes with the law, so the town marshal implores Heath to help. While Heath agrees to employ Willow, he certainly won't allow misbehavior, and he's even prepared to take the willful young lady over his knee for a sound spanking if warranted.
Orphaned and alone for several years, nineteen-year-old Willow is used to taking care of herself. She sleeps wherever she can find a soft surface and roams freely. She doesn't drink whiskey every night and she only steals when she has to, so it doesn't seem fair when the marshal insists she give up her freedom to work for Heath. She suspects that the rancher is as humorless as he is handsome.
Heath and Willow are as different as two people can be, but a tentative friendship forms. Old habits die hard, though, and it doesn't take long for Willow to engage in familiar shenanigans. When problems arise, will Heath regret bringing trouble home, or has Willow finally found a man who can steer her straight?
Publisher's Note: Bringing Trouble Home is a standalone story in the Lost and Found in Thorndale series. It contains sexual scenes and adult punishment spanking. If that doesn't appeal to you, please don't buy this book.
166 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 16, 2019
656 people are currently reading
261 people want to read
About the author
Amelia Smarts
42 books298 followersAmelia Smarts is a USA Today bestselling author of fast-paced, steamy western romances with dominant cowboys, Dom/sub discipline, and heartwarming HEAs. Amelia holds graduate and undergraduate degrees in creative writing and English. She loves to read, which allows her writing to be influenced by many different genres in addition to romance, including mystery, adventure, history, and suspense. To learn more, sign up for her newsletter. You'll get an alert whenever Amelia releases a new book and exclusive content like free excerpts and giveaways. https://goo.gl/forms/VlnDVsYoSXCiN2hw1
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May 20, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (5/20/2020)! 🎁
October 31, 2019
❤~🌟~❤ 5 SPIRITED STARS! ❤~🌟~❤
Amelia Smarts is BACK and BETTER THAN EVER with a brand spanking new Western romance that left me giddy with delight! BRINGING TROUBLE HOME, book one in her Lost and Found in Thorndale series, was positively DELICIOUS! Teeming with tenderness, angst, panty melting hot interludes and an endearing couple that just burrows inside your heart, I could not be any more elated with this novel.
THE PREMISE:
Widowed rancher Heath Wolfe vowed to never wed again after losing his beloved wife, Rose, but the devoted single dad does need help around the house---and someone to mind his two rambunctious young’uns—and when the exasperated sheriff calls on him to bring Willow McAllister home, he does not have the heart to say no. Public drunkenness, stealing and vandalism are just a few of Willow’s crimes of late. But this pretty tomboy with the sassy tongue and the achingly lonely heart is far from amenable to the arrangement. However, it’s either jail or accepting room and board under the well to do rancher’s roof so what choice does she have?
Her ruggedly handsome new employer is kind and chivalrous yet is no pushover. He doesn’t hesitate to take Willow over his knee when she misbehaves and it’s painfully clear that this is a young lady who definitely needs a strong, commanding older man to keep her in line. But there’s also something about the sweet, sassy, unrefined orphan that amuses and surprises the lonely widower—a feeling he had not felt in ages. Moreover, her unique charm and inner vulnerability tugs at Heath’s rusty heartstrings and brings out the passionate protector in him. And when his darling children take a shine to Willow he knows his heart is in a bucket load of trouble! Against all odds, can these two polar opposites find forever love on the range?
MY MUSINGS:
No one pens poignant Western spanking romances like Amelia Smarts and she corralled my heart once again with BRINGING TROUBLE HOME! Set in Thorndale, Texas circa 1891, this story about two kindred spirits who are brought together in the unlikeness of ways was all kinds of awesome.
As with all of Ms. Smarts’ books, the emotionally layered plot is intricately crafted with oodles of captivating romance, juicy small town drama and delicious mayhem to keep us breathlessly flipping the pages. Additionally the writing is vibrant and engaging, the tone poignant and charming, beautifully balanced with equal parts wholesomeness and wicked wantonness, and the pacing pitch perfect. And sighhh…the feels make you all WARM AND GOOEY inside. I especially loved the combustible sparks between these characters! While Heath is clearly the no nonsense head of the household, he surely meets his match in wild Willow and the witty banter and delectable push pull between this unlikely duo was utterly irresistible!
Gah! Heath just made me melt from page one. This gruff, tender-hearted widowed rancher was truly my fantasy frontier cowboy come true! He has suffered a heartbreaking loss, but he is a man of honor and integrity and will do whatever it takes to instill good values in his beloved children and give them a good life. And talk about ovary exploding goodness! This devoted family man’s love for his kids was as vast as the rugged prairie land that surrounded his homestead! I just adored his interaction with his youngers Bitty and Jack, nearly as much as I relished his encounters with Willow. And speaking of which, this tobacco-chewing tomboy with the mischievous smile, unrefined manners and heart of pure gold just slayed me! Yet despite her feisty attitude, my chest also ached for this pretty young woman who’d lost her mother and never knew a father’s love.
Trouble seemed to follow this heroine WHEREVER she went, hence her nickname, and she had garnished quite a scandalous reputation around town due to her outlandish behavior. But then the destitute orphan’s life takes a drastic new turn when she finds herself unceremoniously planted in Heath Wolfe’s home and must learn to cook, clean, care for his children and abide by his rules…or else! But even though the adjustment is far from easy, for the first time in forever she is lavished with kindness, attention, three square meals, and might have even found a place to finally call home. If she doesn’t botch things in the process! Her metamorphosis throughout the book was truly heartwarming and her slow-simmering romance with Heath resonated deeply and had me swooning mightily!
Holy hotness! The punishment spankings and red hot erotic interludes left me panting! And the stern yet loving lessons Heath imparted during the OTK sessions, which were richly deserved after Willow broke his iron clad rules, were both titillating and beautifully executed. Sure, the bottom warmings were far from pleasant for Willow but they helped forged a special bond between this secretly smitten duo and stirred feelings in them both that caught them off guard. I also really adored the mutual trust, respect, acceptance and caring that gradually built between these two over time. It was particularly refreshing how, provided she didn’t put herself or the kids at risk, Heath never tried to tame her rebellious streak, and loved her just as she was. And in the process they both became their best version of themselves.
“She was as unique as a star in the heavens, and to change her would be to dim her light.”
And YOWZA! Despite being a pillar of society, Heath definitely had a course side that few were privy too and he sure could talk dirty in the throes of passion! Ms. Smarts definitely took the heat level up a notch in this book, and I couldn’t have been more tantalized! And while there were some definite bumps in the road for this duo, I ultimately found their HEA to be deeply rewarding!
I also loved the crossover with characters from WHEN HE RETURNS, which I read previously and thoroughly enjoyed.
BOTTOM LINE:
BRINGING TROUBLE HOME is a sweet, sensual and swooningly romantic historical Western romance that hits all the right marks! Can’t wait for more from the incomparable Amelia Smarts!
A MUST READ!
Amelia Smarts is BACK and BETTER THAN EVER with a brand spanking new Western romance that left me giddy with delight! BRINGING TROUBLE HOME, book one in her Lost and Found in Thorndale series, was positively DELICIOUS! Teeming with tenderness, angst, panty melting hot interludes and an endearing couple that just burrows inside your heart, I could not be any more elated with this novel.
THE PREMISE:
Widowed rancher Heath Wolfe vowed to never wed again after losing his beloved wife, Rose, but the devoted single dad does need help around the house---and someone to mind his two rambunctious young’uns—and when the exasperated sheriff calls on him to bring Willow McAllister home, he does not have the heart to say no. Public drunkenness, stealing and vandalism are just a few of Willow’s crimes of late. But this pretty tomboy with the sassy tongue and the achingly lonely heart is far from amenable to the arrangement. However, it’s either jail or accepting room and board under the well to do rancher’s roof so what choice does she have?
Her ruggedly handsome new employer is kind and chivalrous yet is no pushover. He doesn’t hesitate to take Willow over his knee when she misbehaves and it’s painfully clear that this is a young lady who definitely needs a strong, commanding older man to keep her in line. But there’s also something about the sweet, sassy, unrefined orphan that amuses and surprises the lonely widower—a feeling he had not felt in ages. Moreover, her unique charm and inner vulnerability tugs at Heath’s rusty heartstrings and brings out the passionate protector in him. And when his darling children take a shine to Willow he knows his heart is in a bucket load of trouble! Against all odds, can these two polar opposites find forever love on the range?
MY MUSINGS:
No one pens poignant Western spanking romances like Amelia Smarts and she corralled my heart once again with BRINGING TROUBLE HOME! Set in Thorndale, Texas circa 1891, this story about two kindred spirits who are brought together in the unlikeness of ways was all kinds of awesome.
As with all of Ms. Smarts’ books, the emotionally layered plot is intricately crafted with oodles of captivating romance, juicy small town drama and delicious mayhem to keep us breathlessly flipping the pages. Additionally the writing is vibrant and engaging, the tone poignant and charming, beautifully balanced with equal parts wholesomeness and wicked wantonness, and the pacing pitch perfect. And sighhh…the feels make you all WARM AND GOOEY inside. I especially loved the combustible sparks between these characters! While Heath is clearly the no nonsense head of the household, he surely meets his match in wild Willow and the witty banter and delectable push pull between this unlikely duo was utterly irresistible!
Gah! Heath just made me melt from page one. This gruff, tender-hearted widowed rancher was truly my fantasy frontier cowboy come true! He has suffered a heartbreaking loss, but he is a man of honor and integrity and will do whatever it takes to instill good values in his beloved children and give them a good life. And talk about ovary exploding goodness! This devoted family man’s love for his kids was as vast as the rugged prairie land that surrounded his homestead! I just adored his interaction with his youngers Bitty and Jack, nearly as much as I relished his encounters with Willow. And speaking of which, this tobacco-chewing tomboy with the mischievous smile, unrefined manners and heart of pure gold just slayed me! Yet despite her feisty attitude, my chest also ached for this pretty young woman who’d lost her mother and never knew a father’s love.
Trouble seemed to follow this heroine WHEREVER she went, hence her nickname, and she had garnished quite a scandalous reputation around town due to her outlandish behavior. But then the destitute orphan’s life takes a drastic new turn when she finds herself unceremoniously planted in Heath Wolfe’s home and must learn to cook, clean, care for his children and abide by his rules…or else! But even though the adjustment is far from easy, for the first time in forever she is lavished with kindness, attention, three square meals, and might have even found a place to finally call home. If she doesn’t botch things in the process! Her metamorphosis throughout the book was truly heartwarming and her slow-simmering romance with Heath resonated deeply and had me swooning mightily!
Holy hotness! The punishment spankings and red hot erotic interludes left me panting! And the stern yet loving lessons Heath imparted during the OTK sessions, which were richly deserved after Willow broke his iron clad rules, were both titillating and beautifully executed. Sure, the bottom warmings were far from pleasant for Willow but they helped forged a special bond between this secretly smitten duo and stirred feelings in them both that caught them off guard. I also really adored the mutual trust, respect, acceptance and caring that gradually built between these two over time. It was particularly refreshing how, provided she didn’t put herself or the kids at risk, Heath never tried to tame her rebellious streak, and loved her just as she was. And in the process they both became their best version of themselves.
“She was as unique as a star in the heavens, and to change her would be to dim her light.”
And YOWZA! Despite being a pillar of society, Heath definitely had a course side that few were privy too and he sure could talk dirty in the throes of passion! Ms. Smarts definitely took the heat level up a notch in this book, and I couldn’t have been more tantalized! And while there were some definite bumps in the road for this duo, I ultimately found their HEA to be deeply rewarding!
I also loved the crossover with characters from WHEN HE RETURNS, which I read previously and thoroughly enjoyed.
BOTTOM LINE:
BRINGING TROUBLE HOME is a sweet, sensual and swooningly romantic historical Western romance that hits all the right marks! Can’t wait for more from the incomparable Amelia Smarts!
A MUST READ!
October 11, 2019
If you follow my reviews, you know I read a lot of erotic romance that includes BDSM but every now and then I love reading something that is a bit tamer. I can always count on Amelia Smarts to write something that fits the bill. I loved this sweet and romantic historical western. Heath swore he would never marry again after his wife died but when the Marshal asks him to take charge of Willow, he decides that his children need a woman in their lives. Willow may be a handful but their feelings for each other get stronger as time goes on. Heath has no trouble taking Willow over his knee for a sound spanking and instead of turning her off, she finds that she likes this. But will they ever admit their feelings to each other? And will a woman come between them when she tries to tell Willow she is just something for Heath to play with until he finds the next woman to be his wife? Yeah, I wanted to reach through and smack her!!! LOL This is a great read and I loved it!!!
October 16, 2019
If you're looking for a story with erotica (rather than erotica with story), likeable characters, a fully-formed and detailed plot, decent writing, and mild/consensual DD, I'd strongly recommend this. I had some trepidation initially because I've read so many books recently with this same trope: the older, richer, righteous man takes in the younger, less fortunate, "wild" woman, and then proceeds to lecture her on the "true" meaning of morality and punish her for her "sins" -- even though he's never walked a mile in her shoes and even though much of what she's done is to, you know, eat and keep a roof over her head. There's more than a hint of judgmental, classist ideology in these books, but, thankfully, not here. So...
Amelia Smarts mostly writes DD books set in the U.S. historical West. While I wouldn't say that her books are always consensual -- at least not initially -- her heroes are never harsh, never leave bruises, never rape, and, with one exception, are never emotionally or mentally cruel to the h. (The one exception is Emma's Surrender, in which an h falls in love with the man who killed her father, in her presence. Needless to say, I didn't have enough disbelief to suspend in the world and, while it was quite an obstacle for their HEA, it wasn't worth the far-too-creepy vibe it gave off.) I always feel that her male characters would stop spanking if the female characters truly were against it: none of them want to harm their women and all of them want their women to be happy. In addition, the spankings are never just punishments; they are always also erotic in nature. I particularly appreciate that her H's never try to change the h's, and that her h's remain strong and independent throughout -- they may submit to the man they love, but he's earned their submission and they submit to no one else. While some of her heroines have been too young for me (in spirit if not so much, for the time period, in years), Willow, thankfully, is not.
This story features Willow, who, at 19 and completely alone in the world, has taken to stealing and card playing to, you know, eat and keep a roof over her head. She can't continue down this road forever so Heath, a widower who needs a housekeeper for his two young children, hires her. (This basic set-up is similar to The Unbraiding of Anna Brown, but the two MFCs are so different, I didn't feel I was reading a retread of the same plot.)
Below is what worked for me and what didn't work for me. YMMV.
What Worked:
1) The Writing: Ms. Smarts describes evocatively the physical world (settings, characters' physical appearances); sex/punishments; and characters' thoughts, backstories and motivations without getting bogged down in detail. Her sentences are varied and complex, her prose distinctive, her character analyses perceptive:
I also appreciated that the book was relatively error-free (otherwise, I get taken out of the story).
2) The Characters: It was impossible not to like Willow, Heath, and Heath's children (the four main characters). Willow, in particular, was interesting since she was out of her time (though not as much as readers might think): she chewed tobacco, wore men's clothes, gambled, stole, swore, rode, hunted, fished, and carried a knife. Thankfully, Heath, unlike far too many other H's in this genre, never tried to change her (except for the stealing part) so she remained unapologetically "unladylike" through much of the book. She was also kind-hearted and proud. Truthfully, her character belies the title, since she was never really "trouble" once she moved to the ranch, but, I was thankful for that since I really wish the "bratty heroine" trope would go away.
Heath was similarly attractive: he was dominant without being domineering, asked Willow's permission before pursuing an erotic relationship with her (for the most part: you do have to suspend disbelief during her first spanking), is always fair to her and concerned about her without judging or wanting to control her ("Dressing like a man and acting coarsely weren’t sins in and of themselves, so he knew he had no right to impose a change in that regard"). He really worked to earn her trust and, she, in turn, also helped him find new joy in life after the death of his wife. Each helped the other grow as a person and each found happiness in each other -- you can't ask for more in a relationship.
3) Ideology: So, yes, all art, even the frothiest escapist fantasy or hardest-core erotica, represents some kind of ideology, and that ideology matters (if words and representation don't matter, authors, then why are you writers?). When I read these books, some of the content is so misogynistic (and I'm not talking about the DD/BDSM), homophobic, abled, racist, and/or classist that I'm left to wonder if authors really understand the messages they're sending, if they're clueless, or if they just don't care. Thankfully, Ms. Smarts avoids this pitfall: she doesn't gender-essentialize, slut-shame, or class-shame Willow (and neither does Heath) and Heath does not lord it over her by virtue of his anatomy or his money.
What Didn't Work:
1) Willow and Heath's last and most significant conflict: The "villainess" is an unsubtle, over-the-top, misogynistic (she's desperate for a man, any man), and stereotypical portrayal. While I realize there had to be some conflict, this was completely uninteresting and nothing we haven't seen a thousand times before. Which brings me to...
2) Narrative Tension and Action: Not a whole lot happens in this book (probably another reason the above hiccup didn't work): Willow and Heath get along for the most part from the beginning. While this didn't bother me since this novel is more character- than plot-driven, others may want something more vigorous.
4 1/2 stars. If you're looking for a story with several spankings, harsher discipline, and kinkier sex -- look elsewhere. I wasn't, so I really enjoyed the book.
I don't think the publisher's blurb says this, but this actually references another book by Ms. Smarts: When He Returns: A Coming-of-Age Western Romance, which was published last year and is about Sadie, who has a cameo here.
Note: I adhere to the ratings system as laid out by Goodreads: 2 stars = it was okay; 3 stars = liked it; 4 stars = really liked it; 5 stars = it was amazing. I gave this book 4 1/2 stars because I was invested in the characters even though I didn't like one of the conflicts. I do not think that every book I read is "amazing;" further, I think that it cheapens the rating system to always assign 4 or 5 stars. If a book really earns the 4 or 5 stars (and I realize that this is, to some degree, subjective), I'll give them -- but it certainly shouldn't apply to every book. YMMV, and everyone should enjoy/rate these books as they wish.
Additional Note: I did not receive this book as an ARC; I'm not another author who hosts or is hosted by other authors in this genre on our websites; and I'm not friends with the author IRL, "friends" on this site, or friends on any social media site.
Amelia Smarts mostly writes DD books set in the U.S. historical West. While I wouldn't say that her books are always consensual -- at least not initially -- her heroes are never harsh, never leave bruises, never rape, and, with one exception, are never emotionally or mentally cruel to the h. (The one exception is Emma's Surrender, in which an h falls in love with the man who killed her father, in her presence. Needless to say, I didn't have enough disbelief to suspend in the world and, while it was quite an obstacle for their HEA, it wasn't worth the far-too-creepy vibe it gave off.) I always feel that her male characters would stop spanking if the female characters truly were against it: none of them want to harm their women and all of them want their women to be happy. In addition, the spankings are never just punishments; they are always also erotic in nature. I particularly appreciate that her H's never try to change the h's, and that her h's remain strong and independent throughout -- they may submit to the man they love, but he's earned their submission and they submit to no one else. While some of her heroines have been too young for me (in spirit if not so much, for the time period, in years), Willow, thankfully, is not.
This story features Willow, who, at 19 and completely alone in the world, has taken to stealing and card playing to, you know, eat and keep a roof over her head. She can't continue down this road forever so Heath, a widower who needs a housekeeper for his two young children, hires her. (This basic set-up is similar to The Unbraiding of Anna Brown, but the two MFCs are so different, I didn't feel I was reading a retread of the same plot.)
Below is what worked for me and what didn't work for me. YMMV.
What Worked:
1) The Writing: Ms. Smarts describes evocatively the physical world (settings, characters' physical appearances); sex/punishments; and characters' thoughts, backstories and motivations without getting bogged down in detail. Her sentences are varied and complex, her prose distinctive, her character analyses perceptive:
Everything about the man, from his substantial height to his deep voice to his vaguely proprietary touch, projected a sort of easy authority she was not accustomed to. Her male acquaintances seemed to take up less space in the world. They were the kind of men she understood. Like her, they had shifty eyes and slightly stooped shoulders. They did not stand tall and gaze at the world with resolve. They ducked and dodged their tribulations as well as they could. Heath seemed like he would grasp tribulation around the throat and throw it to the ground.
I also appreciated that the book was relatively error-free (otherwise, I get taken out of the story).
2) The Characters: It was impossible not to like Willow, Heath, and Heath's children (the four main characters). Willow, in particular, was interesting since she was out of her time (though not as much as readers might think): she chewed tobacco, wore men's clothes, gambled, stole, swore, rode, hunted, fished, and carried a knife. Thankfully, Heath, unlike far too many other H's in this genre, never tried to change her (except for the stealing part) so she remained unapologetically "unladylike" through much of the book. She was also kind-hearted and proud. Truthfully, her character belies the title, since she was never really "trouble" once she moved to the ranch, but, I was thankful for that since I really wish the "bratty heroine" trope would go away.
Heath was similarly attractive: he was dominant without being domineering, asked Willow's permission before pursuing an erotic relationship with her (for the most part: you do have to suspend disbelief during her first spanking), is always fair to her and concerned about her without judging or wanting to control her ("Dressing like a man and acting coarsely weren’t sins in and of themselves, so he knew he had no right to impose a change in that regard"). He really worked to earn her trust and, she, in turn, also helped him find new joy in life after the death of his wife. Each helped the other grow as a person and each found happiness in each other -- you can't ask for more in a relationship.
3) Ideology: So, yes, all art, even the frothiest escapist fantasy or hardest-core erotica, represents some kind of ideology, and that ideology matters (if words and representation don't matter, authors, then why are you writers?). When I read these books, some of the content is so misogynistic (and I'm not talking about the DD/BDSM), homophobic, abled, racist, and/or classist that I'm left to wonder if authors really understand the messages they're sending, if they're clueless, or if they just don't care. Thankfully, Ms. Smarts avoids this pitfall: she doesn't gender-essentialize, slut-shame, or class-shame Willow (and neither does Heath) and Heath does not lord it over her by virtue of his anatomy or his money.
What Didn't Work:
1) Willow and Heath's last and most significant conflict: The "villainess" is an unsubtle, over-the-top, misogynistic (she's desperate for a man, any man), and stereotypical portrayal. While I realize there had to be some conflict, this was completely uninteresting and nothing we haven't seen a thousand times before. Which brings me to...
2) Narrative Tension and Action: Not a whole lot happens in this book (probably another reason the above hiccup didn't work): Willow and Heath get along for the most part from the beginning. While this didn't bother me since this novel is more character- than plot-driven, others may want something more vigorous.
4 1/2 stars. If you're looking for a story with several spankings, harsher discipline, and kinkier sex -- look elsewhere. I wasn't, so I really enjoyed the book.
I don't think the publisher's blurb says this, but this actually references another book by Ms. Smarts: When He Returns: A Coming-of-Age Western Romance, which was published last year and is about Sadie, who has a cameo here.
Note: I adhere to the ratings system as laid out by Goodreads: 2 stars = it was okay; 3 stars = liked it; 4 stars = really liked it; 5 stars = it was amazing. I gave this book 4 1/2 stars because I was invested in the characters even though I didn't like one of the conflicts. I do not think that every book I read is "amazing;" further, I think that it cheapens the rating system to always assign 4 or 5 stars. If a book really earns the 4 or 5 stars (and I realize that this is, to some degree, subjective), I'll give them -- but it certainly shouldn't apply to every book. YMMV, and everyone should enjoy/rate these books as they wish.
Additional Note: I did not receive this book as an ARC; I'm not another author who hosts or is hosted by other authors in this genre on our websites; and I'm not friends with the author IRL, "friends" on this site, or friends on any social media site.
February 27, 2020
It was sweet but low on plot and character development. The H agrees to let the h care for his kids, as a way to keep her out of trouble. She's wild, drinks, chews tobacco and and he's so sure of himself, he gives her his home and children to care for, when she can't take care of herself. It make sense to him and his mate, the sheriff. They are so arrogant, but the H falls for her and she can't resist his manly wiles, or his 'little' kink. It was good but not as good as other books by this author.
November 19, 2020
Cute but...
I found the story to be too linear. There were few curves/bumps/challenges to the relationship. Characters were not at all complicated. Reasonably well written with a few mistakes in editing.
I found the story to be too linear. There were few curves/bumps/challenges to the relationship. Characters were not at all complicated. Reasonably well written with a few mistakes in editing.
January 28, 2021
Widowed rancher Heath Wolfe - doesn't know that helping & hiring troubled orphan Willow McAllister is a good idea for himself or his kids. But there is something about Willow he believes with guideless and kindness that will let out her true self. So he agrees in helpoing the town marshal & take Willow in. But he will not allow any misbehavior.
However, with Willow's changes & learning to respect others. Heath is not just trying to work on his ranch. But is building feelings for Ms. McAllister. His children adore her & don't want her to leave. But they all knew this was temporally.
Willow McAllister is stubborn, determined to do everything on her own. That way she doesn't get used or hurt. She doesn't care how she does it, Steal, sleep, gamble to make ends meet. Though she has gotten herself in a world of trouble. The only way she can stop from going to jail is by being a governess, maid to Mr. Wolfe & his children.
Willow doesn't except to have people to care about her. Be responsible for others. Let alone start believing in herself. Her new found confidence is all From Mr. Wolfe & the love of his kids.
Wait is it just the kids Love... or is there something more growing between Heath & Willow.
That cannot be possible? I am not in his league or class. Wait, what if he has feelings for me? What am I to do?
Read & find out what happens between the Rancher & the Troublemaker.
However, with Willow's changes & learning to respect others. Heath is not just trying to work on his ranch. But is building feelings for Ms. McAllister. His children adore her & don't want her to leave. But they all knew this was temporally.
Willow McAllister is stubborn, determined to do everything on her own. That way she doesn't get used or hurt. She doesn't care how she does it, Steal, sleep, gamble to make ends meet. Though she has gotten herself in a world of trouble. The only way she can stop from going to jail is by being a governess, maid to Mr. Wolfe & his children.
Willow doesn't except to have people to care about her. Be responsible for others. Let alone start believing in herself. Her new found confidence is all From Mr. Wolfe & the love of his kids.
Wait is it just the kids Love... or is there something more growing between Heath & Willow.
That cannot be possible? I am not in his league or class. Wait, what if he has feelings for me? What am I to do?
Read & find out what happens between the Rancher & the Troublemaker.
September 9, 2020
Disappointing
Willow McAllister lives rough, drinking, chewing tobacco, stealing and generally causing trouble. She frequently finds herself locked in the town jail.
Successful rancher Heath Wolfe is a widower with two children. When asked by the sheriff if he will employ Willow or she will have to serve a proper jail sentence he agrees, only because his housekeeper has left to live with her sister.
It takes a while to gain Willow's trust and teach her that she is someone worthwhile, but slowly Willow responds to Heath's kindness, fairness, discipline and eventually love.
I was disappointed in this story. The reader never finds out the age gap between the two characters and Willow's character is immature and frankly unlikeable. Death's character makes a drastic change in the type of language he uses, which is in direct contrast to his gentleness in the way he treats and speaks to his children.
The ranch seems to have phantom ranch hands too as not one appears in the story. There is no plot or action. Disappointing
Willow McAllister lives rough, drinking, chewing tobacco, stealing and generally causing trouble. She frequently finds herself locked in the town jail.
Successful rancher Heath Wolfe is a widower with two children. When asked by the sheriff if he will employ Willow or she will have to serve a proper jail sentence he agrees, only because his housekeeper has left to live with her sister.
It takes a while to gain Willow's trust and teach her that she is someone worthwhile, but slowly Willow responds to Heath's kindness, fairness, discipline and eventually love.
I was disappointed in this story. The reader never finds out the age gap between the two characters and Willow's character is immature and frankly unlikeable. Death's character makes a drastic change in the type of language he uses, which is in direct contrast to his gentleness in the way he treats and speaks to his children.
The ranch seems to have phantom ranch hands too as not one appears in the story. There is no plot or action. Disappointing
July 24, 2020
This is a sweet, romantic historical western, set in Texas, in 1894. Widower Heath juggles caring for his 2 young children while running a successful ranch. Around the same time is housekeeper retires and moves away, the Marshal asks him to take charge of Willow, a 19-year-old young woman who is on her own and always getting into trouble. Heath decides that his children need a woman’s influence in their lives, and that his late wife would have done the kind thing and tried to help Willow.
Willow has learn to blend in with the guys in town, in an effort to protect herself. She wears the clothes of a man, plays poker, drinks whiskey, and uses chewing tobacco. Despite his disinterest in a relationship, and her very rough edges, they become friends and their feelings for each other get stronger. There is a little domestic discipline and a good amount of passion. As it turns out, neither of them is entirely what they seem to be to the world. There are obstacles, but not too many, and a very nice HEA is on the horizon for them. This book is a quick read.
Willow has learn to blend in with the guys in town, in an effort to protect herself. She wears the clothes of a man, plays poker, drinks whiskey, and uses chewing tobacco. Despite his disinterest in a relationship, and her very rough edges, they become friends and their feelings for each other get stronger. There is a little domestic discipline and a good amount of passion. As it turns out, neither of them is entirely what they seem to be to the world. There are obstacles, but not too many, and a very nice HEA is on the horizon for them. This book is a quick read.
December 11, 2020
I have read hundreds of books and never thought I would read contemporary romance novels but after reading some Libby Campbell books I saw she recommended Amelia Smarts books. Thank you Libby this is a great read. Willow is ‘Trouble’ to stop her being jailed the Sheriff asks his friend Heath a widowed rancher to give Willow a job looking after his two young children. Sparks fly but Heath is enchanted with Willow and Willow who was orphaned loves the children and takes to family life it takes over half this well written book before Willow is taken in hand by Heath and Willow loves him. Many twists and turns but a pleasant read with a HEA.Thanks Libby for recommendation will certainly read more.
November 15, 2020
I enjoyed that the characters had distinct, strong personalities that had been shaped by events in their lives, and would have liked if they had been true to their character design a bit more. Heath seemed like an upstanding gentleman in his community who was still grieving, and Willow was a wild child. I felt robbed of the opportunity to see the conflict really spark between them. Maybe it was the length of the book that took away the opportunity to let the tension really shine. And it felt jarring when things progressed abruptly. Almost gave this a star simply out of sheer joy that the heroine isn't a friggin redhead!
October 12, 2020
Willow goes to live with rancher Heath, a widower with two young children. Willow was a wild child left on her own after her mother’s death. Heath’s wife Rose had been friends with Willow’s mother.
Willow takes to caring for the children and housekeeping. What surprises Heath and Willow is their attraction to each other. Their desire is awakened when Heath punishes her for staying in town and getting drunk.
He starts courting her, but she has to overcome her doubts and low self-esteem, to believe he wants to marry her.
Willow takes to caring for the children and housekeeping. What surprises Heath and Willow is their attraction to each other. Their desire is awakened when Heath punishes her for staying in town and getting drunk.
He starts courting her, but she has to overcome her doubts and low self-esteem, to believe he wants to marry her.
November 19, 2020
This was Exceptionally Sexy!
I absolutely loved this story! It was sweet and surprisingly sexy in just the right parts! What a phenomenal writer! The flow of the story was perfect and the characters were beautifully suited. Loved their chemistry and banter. Didn’t care for the heroine’s tobacco chewing, given the fact there wasn’t a toothbrush involved but that’s my only gripe! I will definitely be buying more books from this author!
I absolutely loved this story! It was sweet and surprisingly sexy in just the right parts! What a phenomenal writer! The flow of the story was perfect and the characters were beautifully suited. Loved their chemistry and banter. Didn’t care for the heroine’s tobacco chewing, given the fact there wasn’t a toothbrush involved but that’s my only gripe! I will definitely be buying more books from this author!
July 10, 2022
Trouble isn’t so subtle
Yes I know that rhymed. But these two had me giggling like a schoolgirl, smiling like a banshee, and jumping around like a jackrabbit. The banter is suitable for the time period- as in no modern day expletives. It trapped me in their world for chapters on end. The seggs takes chapters, not just pages, and each detail and comment of encouragement made my toes wiggle. Literally.
Yes I know that rhymed. But these two had me giggling like a schoolgirl, smiling like a banshee, and jumping around like a jackrabbit. The banter is suitable for the time period- as in no modern day expletives. It trapped me in their world for chapters on end. The seggs takes chapters, not just pages, and each detail and comment of encouragement made my toes wiggle. Literally.
July 25, 2025
WONDERFUL BOOK
This is one of the best books I have read! Amelia Smarts is a great auther. Her descriptions make you feel like you are part of the book. I have read several of her books, and they all are wonderful, but this one struck me as the best.
Read her books, you will enjoy every one of them!!
This is one of the best books I have read! Amelia Smarts is a great auther. Her descriptions make you feel like you are part of the book. I have read several of her books, and they all are wonderful, but this one struck me as the best.
Read her books, you will enjoy every one of them!!
October 1, 2020
A charming western romance
A young woman who is orphaned and left to her own devices gets a second chance when a widowed rancher takes her in. Though he may be kind, he's no pushover and requires she follows the rules or suffers the consequences. Good story with rich characters.
A young woman who is orphaned and left to her own devices gets a second chance when a widowed rancher takes her in. Though he may be kind, he's no pushover and requires she follows the rules or suffers the consequences. Good story with rich characters.
November 15, 2020
Fair read
Fair read. it was nice to see a community me to help otherness fortunate. Although I skip quite a bit due to the sexual content. Don't feel the. Need to read that stuff.
Fair read. it was nice to see a community me to help otherness fortunate. Although I skip quite a bit due to the sexual content. Don't feel the. Need to read that stuff.
November 16, 2020
Historical spank
Troubled girl goes to live with widow and his kids to help out. They fall in lust and then love. She gets spanked when she acts up. So bratty town folk but not much drama. HEA
Troubled girl goes to live with widow and his kids to help out. They fall in lust and then love. She gets spanked when she acts up. So bratty town folk but not much drama. HEA
January 19, 2021
Good story
I really liked this story. It’s has the perfect blend of American Historical romance with amazing characters. It easy to read with a good story line and a fabulous ending.
I really liked this story. It’s has the perfect blend of American Historical romance with amazing characters. It easy to read with a good story line and a fabulous ending.
January 31, 2021
Not quite my cup of tea
This one started off well but seemed to take a strange turn in the middle, a sort of disturbing turn. It certainly did keep me turning pages. Recommended for fans of the genre.
This one started off well but seemed to take a strange turn in the middle, a sort of disturbing turn. It certainly did keep me turning pages. Recommended for fans of the genre.
June 14, 2021
Loved it!
A well written and heartwarming story which was a delight to read! Amazing chemistry between the characters with some cute sassy banter that will have you chuckling. Some hot sexy parts included. I totally recommend reading this book!!
A well written and heartwarming story which was a delight to read! Amazing chemistry between the characters with some cute sassy banter that will have you chuckling. Some hot sexy parts included. I totally recommend reading this book!!
February 18, 2022
Liked it
Heath takes in Willow to keep her out of trouble. Cooking and cleaning at his ranch do just that. They also give her the chance to settle down and show him who she really is - the best bit of trouble he ever encountered.
Heath takes in Willow to keep her out of trouble. Cooking and cleaning at his ranch do just that. They also give her the chance to settle down and show him who she really is - the best bit of trouble he ever encountered.
June 28, 2023
3/5 Stars
This was just an easy and fun read. I will say that it's very insta lovey and didn't mind so much because I was just looking for something easy to get into, and this filled that. I will also say that the romance seemed to kind of come out of nowhere.
This was just an easy and fun read. I will say that it's very insta lovey and didn't mind so much because I was just looking for something easy to get into, and this filled that. I will also say that the romance seemed to kind of come out of nowhere.
April 28, 2025
Ms Smarts always delivers
I reread this series when in need of an escape while waiting on an appointment, a plane or just want to decompress. Trouble is… I can’t walk away from it without completing the whole series!
I reread this series when in need of an escape while waiting on an appointment, a plane or just want to decompress. Trouble is… I can’t walk away from it without completing the whole series!
November 23, 2020
:(
The first half of this was engaging enough. The rest of it was disturbing. This was not a good fit for me.
The first half of this was engaging enough. The rest of it was disturbing. This was not a good fit for me.
March 1, 2021
Absolutely loved this love story!
April 24, 2021
Good reading
I enjoyed reading this book, the interaction between the characters was heartwarming which kept me turning the pages. Wonderful read.
I enjoyed reading this book, the interaction between the characters was heartwarming which kept me turning the pages. Wonderful read.
September 15, 2021
Heath agrees to bring 19 year old Willow into his home as the sheriff says she needs a job and discipline. Will they find more? Hot steamy!
May 10, 2023
I loved how Willow found love unexpectedly. Heath was strict but also a sweetheart. And the ending topped it off!
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