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Red River Romps #3

It Started with a Crack: Red River Romps #3

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I thought I had it all figured out. I had a great plan. A great job. A great life… Yeah. That didn’t work out so well…

Dakota
I thought quitting my job as a bartender to focus on my new job as a realtor was a good choice. And for a few months, it was. But the success I was enjoying disappeared, and now I was broke and late on my rent...for the third month in a row.
When I tried to get an extension on my rent payment, my sleazebag building manager tried to give me his extension instead. Gross.
Luckily, my friends came to my rescue—I’d stay at the empty ranch they owned until it sold, and I earned the commission that would help me get back on my feet. I didn’t want charity, but I also knew when to accept the help I so desperately needed.
It was only for a few weeks, then I’d get my life back under control. Right?

Noah
With my brothers moving out and starting to put down roots in Red River, I felt like I was floundering. Living alone in this rental house was making me squirrelly, like I needed to make a change to get my life back on solid ground.
Just when I’d decided to stay where I was until I found the perfect home, the floor fell out from beneath me—my lease was up and would not be renewed. I had to move out.
The ranch home I owned with my brothers was the perfect solution—newly renovated, lots of space, and best of all, empty.
At least, it was supposed to be.
Imagine my surprise when a squatter cracked me over the head the minute I walked in. A beautiful, feisty squatter with whom I had some unfinished business…
This was going to be so much fun.
This is a standalone romance with lots of spice and snarky humor. It is book three in a series of standalones featuring four hot brothers finding love in a small town. HEA guaranteed!

258 pages, Paperback

Published August 22, 2021

91 people are currently reading
182 people want to read

About the author

Piper James

38 books279 followers
Piper James lives in Idaho with her husband, two teenage sons, two cats, and a dog.

Her favorite things are romance novels, coffee, potato chips, and her Jeep Wrangler…and her family, of course. Seriously. She loves her family more than coffee and her jeep. *exaggerated wink*

When she’s not writing, she watches ghost shows and spends most of her time trying to convince her family their house is haunted. Because it is.

She wrote YA paranormal romance for 6 years under the name Wendi Wilson before giving into her desire to write spicy romcoms, and it was the best career decision she’s ever made…until she decides to write a book about the ghosts. Because they are definitely real.

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5 stars
177 (51%)
4 stars
118 (34%)
3 stars
39 (11%)
2 stars
7 (2%)
1 star
3 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
Profile Image for Kis Baadsgaard.
Author 23 books50 followers
September 5, 2021
Piper is fast one of my favorite authors and with this book just nailing it. Dakota is a strong woman and she don't need a man like Noah.
With that said, I love the way Piper setting up the story is so good and I didn't wanna let go of it when I finish. I'm definitely not don with those brothers yet ❤️giv me more, please🤞🙏 read it if you love a good romance who gives tingels in the toes and other places 😈
2,555 reviews14 followers
September 26, 2021
Loved this book!

I enjoyed the courtship/love between Noah and Dakota. They certainly had their problems, some were just misunderstandings. Dakota was a realtor and Noah and his brothers were tradesmen. The renovated homes and flipped them. There did a ranch that was on Dakota's listings but it was a slow period for sales. In the meantime, Dakota had no income she ended up being evicted from her apartment. So her friend gave her the OK to stay at the ranch. Noah also lost the contract on his rental and moved into the ranch, not knowing about Dakota. Read what happens after they decide to be roomies. I laughed so much in some of the escapades. Felt sorry for them when there was misunderstandings. It was just as good book. I hope you'll enjoy it as much as I have.
9 reviews
September 9, 2021
Loved their story!

Loved Noah and Dakotas story. Enjoyed reading as they fell in love. Well written and giving the characters a chance to evolve. Perfect.
Profile Image for Isolette or (ICY).
494 reviews8 followers
September 2, 2021
Omg Piper James I love the story. This is books 3.
How you continue with the other characters to this book.
Noah was a manwhore back in La. Move Texas with his brothers. He wanted the life of his two brother and settle down as well. The First night he meet Dakota. He couldn’t stop think about her. But something change and he couldn’t figure it out.

Dakota met Noah who turn out to be one of brothers and her best friend Bella was married to. They all got together one night. Everything was get so good between them until she came out of the bathroom and saw Noah talk to blond women and talking about threesome.
Turn out Dakota wasn’t doing any sale of the homes she have listed. And her bank account was going done. She was late with rent. Until she had to leave.

Noah wanted to release his apartment. But turn out he had to give as well. So he decided to move to the ranch his brothers remodel and have on the market for sale.
Dakota move to ranch she had I. The market that Ryder and Bella ask her to go and live until she sales it.

Wow well turn out Noah and Dakota had to be friends and work this out. Have to find out what happens next 😉
I give this book 5/5 Piper James thank you so much. Can’t wait for next chapter on book 4 soon.
Profile Image for Myndi .
1,505 reviews51 followers
August 29, 2021
Moving on with the Red River Romps series, we get Noah's story. Noah has a history with women and that seems to lead to most of the problems the couple in this book run into. Dakota wants to trust him and believe that he's different, but misunderstandings end up leaving her doubtful.

What I love about this series, and the Milestone Mischief series before, is how all the stories intertwine with each other. I love getting to know the other characters better and learning their stories, but I also enjoy being able to sort of "check in" with those characters from the previous books. The author has done such a wonderful job of giving us the best of both worlds as far as that goes.

This book has one of the most romantic scenes I think I've ever seen in a book. I won't tell you what it is or which character it comes from, so you'll have to read the book to discover it. I'm not lying when I say that it brought tears to my eyes!

If you enjoy a good contemporary romance with some mishaps and sexy times, or if you're a fan of either the Red River Romps series or the Milestone Mischief series, you are going to love this book! Keep them coming, Ms. James!!!
Profile Image for MelissaReads7997.
156 reviews
September 1, 2021
4.5 Stars

This is the third installment of the Red River Romps series by Piper James. This story involves Noah and Dakota, both of whom we have met in the other Red River books. It is a great addition to an already enjoyable and spicy series.

This is touted as an enemy to lovers story, which is a trope I am totally here for, but I didn’t really see them a true enemies. First, they haven’t known each other very long. Second, the thing that caused them to be pseudo-enemies was a misunderstanding. Even so, I loved seeing them come together.

Dakota was my least favorite of the group going into this story and she definitely grew on me. Her banter with Noah was great, once she got her head out of her behind (isn’t it usually the male characters we say that about lol). Noah is fun, funny and overall a great character. I love Ms. James’ fully rounded three dimensional characters. They are so real, with realistic reactions to circumstances (and realistic overreactions too).

This book is a great quick read with no cliff hanger, minimal drama (love that part of Piper’s books) and HEA. I’m looking forward to the next installment of the series!
171 reviews6 followers
August 30, 2021
I was gifted an arc in exchange for an honest review.

Enemies-to-lovers is my favourite trope and so I was looking forward for this book because Dakota and Noah's relationship had intrigued me from the other books.

It is always great seeing the enemies being forced to come together for some circumstance or another - I was extremely excited for the fireworks to begin when Dakota and Noah began living together. However, there weren't too many fireworks and that disappointed me - by fireworks I mean a few more barbs and hate pouring out before they form a friendship, which eventually turns to lovers.

I also didn't like that Dakota kept it a secret in why she suddenly went cold towards him - I wish that was nipped in the bud earlier on.

But I do enjoy reading this series because the characters are so real - they make stupid decisions a fair amount of times, but that is what makes us human. I am a sucker for the HEA's that all of them have because I feel like it is one that is well deserved.
Profile Image for T.L. McDonald.
Author 10 books102 followers
September 5, 2021
I love, love, love this book. Piper James knows how to write the perfect romantic comedy with just the right amount of sweet and spicy. I swear, each book she writes becomes my next new favorite read.

It Started With A Crack is the third book in Ms. James Red River Romp series, revolving around the Perry brothers and the feisty women who capture their hearts. Book three focuses on Noah—the wild one who spent most of his life partying and surrounded by women, and Dakota—a down on her luck realtor hoping for a commission to turn her life around. Circumstances bring the two of them together, giving them both a second chance at something great.

I loved the interaction between these two characters. There were times when I laughed out loud, and times where I wanted to smack Dakota upside the head. Their story just may be my favorite out of the brothers so far. And Noah is definitely my favorite brother. Beneath the bravado, he’s such a hopeless romantic, and I love it.

I can wait to read what comes next.
37 reviews
August 24, 2021
Wonderful story yet again! The way Piper weaves these character's stories together is sublime. I love getting lost in her books. They always turn a bad day good ♡♡

Noah's and Dakota's love story warms my heart. I loved the roommates to lover troupe! And I totally understand Dakota's pride and stubbornness! Oh! And I actually couldn't guess what the strife was going to be for this story! But it was a good one!

And of course, the smut scenes are to die for! I always love a marathoner 🤣🤣

Also the text and email chains in these series just make the stories more believable. It helps me connect more to the characters and get lost in their world!

I'm excited to explore Ember's and Ethan's love story next! I cannot wait to see how he makes a comeback from that!
Profile Image for mafiagirl_writer.
128 reviews30 followers
September 18, 2021
Omg love be part of Piper James arc team she knows how to write the perfect romantic comedy with just the right amount of sweet and spicy. I swear, each book she writes I fall in love again

It Started With A Crack is the third book Red River Romp series, revolving around the Perry brothers and the feisty women who capture their hearts.

Noah the wild brother who spent most of his life partying and surrounded by women.

Dakota is a down on her luck realtor hoping for a commission to turn her life around. Circumstances bring the two of them together, giving them both a second chance at something great.

I loved the interaction between these two characters. There were times when I laughed out loud, and times where I wanted to smack Dakota in the head

I can wait to read the next book who else is ready

Author 3 books6 followers
August 25, 2021
Book three in this series, and still going strong! And who doesn't love the reformed rakes of the romance world? The chemistry, the humor and the family/friend dynamics are all on point, as usual. Not to mention there was the perfect amount of spice to keep things interesting. Piper James is definitely one of my go-to authors at this point for sweet/steamy romance.

No spoilers here, but the ending was just *chef's kiss* perfection! I can't wait for the next book even though it'll probably be the last in the series. But I also know that Piper James will come up with something just as amazing for the next one and I can't wait to see what she's got in store!
Profile Image for Rosa Dunahue.
1,323 reviews24 followers
September 5, 2021
It Started With A Crack by Piper James
🌟🌟🌟🌟

Piper James has definitely done it again with It Started With a Crack. I love Dakota and Noah story. The chemistry between them is incredible. Dakota finds herself out of money and in a need of a place to stay. So Noah and his brothers offer her to stay at their ranch as long she will take care of the place she can live there. But she didn’t realize Noah will be living there too. It was great watching them falling in love. And to turn a lot misunderstanding and mistrust on both into their HEA. I love all the books in this series and can’t wait for the next one.
12 reviews
March 29, 2022
my favorite so far

Noah and Dakota have to be my favorite so far! From the glimpses we got in the other books, I could tell they would be a crazy good match and this book delivered!! I don’t want to spoil it for you so I’ll just mention a few tropes: forced proximity, miscommunication, damsel in distress!

I feel like this series just gets spicier and spicier so I’m super excited for Ember and Ethan because it sounds like there’s gonna be some serious frustration there lol off to my next read!
Profile Image for Jennifer Williams.
Author 17 books236 followers
July 25, 2022
Dakota and Noah

Super cute book. Dakota based her feelings and opinions on Noah off one sentence she assumed she heard correctly, and rather than ask for clarification, she stewed and hated him from afar. Noah, who wanted Dakota from the moment he saw her, was completely clueless as to why Dakota suddenly despised him. An eviction and a lease not being renewed throw them both into the Perry’s finished property, and they finally begin to delve into the chemistry and attraction that had simmered since their first meeting.
Profile Image for Tracie.
62 reviews
August 25, 2021
Another fun romp from Piper James. This one follows Noah and Dakota. It has enemies to lovers and forced proximity tropes along with lots of spice. It’s a fun, spicy, rom-com like the others in the series.

Noah has a bit of a wild past and Dakota has current struggles of her own to deal with, including a disgusting landlord that wants more than the rent.

It’s a fun, romantic read that will give you the feels.

Profile Image for HomeMadebyKellyM.
23 reviews
August 25, 2021
Piper james continues to out do herself with each book. Dakota is a realtor and trying to sell the Noah and his brothers ranch, however, she has run out of money to live on. So she is offered a deal to live on the ranch if she takes care of it. She did not realize someone else was gonna live there also. Watch as the roommate situation unfolds and turns into alot of misunderstandings.
I absolutly love reading pipers books! A great storyline and plenty of steamy encounters!
Profile Image for Sarah Speigle.
164 reviews1 follower
August 28, 2021
This was a fun read, and I found myself easily getting lost in the story. Noah and Dakota are adorable together, and even if their relationship didn't start off under ideal circumstances, they still made it work...with some hiccups. I would have loved to have just a tiny bit more of their time together, though I think that Piper explored many facets of their relationship together. She weaved together a very good story, and I can't wait to see what she comes up with next.
40 reviews
August 28, 2021
Another great rom-com from Piper James! This is Noah and Dakota’s story. Dakota knows Noah’s reputation as a player back in L.A. but when they both end up at the ranch, one thing leads to another… and you know 😏 As they wait for the ranch to sell, they start to build something together. We get to see Dakota reveal her feelings and assumptions about Noah, while he starts to realize everything he was missing before coming to Red River.
Profile Image for Misty.
221 reviews1 follower
September 2, 2021
I guess this would be considered enemies to lovers. She keeps a distance (emotionally) because if a misunderstanding. Noah is a changed man. Not the same as when he lived in Los Angeles. I love Dakota. She's so nice and sweet and realistic. Together they are so hot!
Noah is the perfect man. It took a while for him to find out why she was keeping him an arm length away. I loved their HEA. It was so romantic.
I love all the books from Piper James. I can't wait for the next one.
154 reviews
February 28, 2024
The best!

I love the Red River Romps Series with so much perfect love for the Perry Brothers. This #3 book was the most entertaining one yet. I wondered how so much sex appeal could bloom so quickly between two people who did not even like each other in the beginning and end in such devotion. One more brother to have cupid strick it's arrow with the perfect woman, I can't wait.
36 reviews1 follower
August 23, 2021
Piper james has done it again !!
A Headstrong and timid Dakota and a hot but root seeking Noah and their unfinished business unfolds into a story that starts with them ending up as roommates ….( read the book to find out more )
You will get comedy,steam 🔥, joy , and disappointment in this book !!
Highly recommend
Profile Image for Savannah.
210 reviews1 follower
August 27, 2021
Oh Noah... The beloved bad boy that is a big kid. And Dakota that jumps to conclusions without having the 1st clue. Noah has a whole other side that he keeps hidden. Oh how surprised I was to see one of them. The rest was a pleasant surprise that made me love him even more. Dakota not trying to figure things out drove me insane 😒. Noah made this book for me!!!
Profile Image for Lisa.
2,045 reviews23 followers
January 9, 2024
Did he fall first?

Dakota is stubborn as she treats Noah as an enemy, and her cold shoulder is interesting. As his reluctant roommate, she is hesitant and then fun. Their flirting is so much fun and funny. Their banter is witty. Their connection is sweet and happy. Their story lifts my heart. The writing is good. Their story is more than uplifting it warms my heart.
Profile Image for Sydnie Nova.
944 reviews24 followers
August 29, 2021
This story was wonderful and I loved the roommates to lovers trope! Piper James is at it again! So fun to read rom coms that are heartwarming and funny! Noah and Dakota's story was steamy and sexy and kept me guessing! Five Red Hot Stars!
Profile Image for Stefanie.
78 reviews1 follower
August 30, 2021
Another adorable romance from Piper James! This is the third book in the Red River Romps series and I loved it! James has the perfect mix of tension, humor and spice. I’m looking forward to the next book for sure!
Profile Image for Amy &#x1f940;.
74 reviews6 followers
August 17, 2022
Piper James has done it again!!!

A headstrong and timid Dakota and a hot but root-seeking Noah and their unfinished business unfolds into a story that starts with them ending up as roomates.......

You get comedy , steam, joy and some disappointment !!!!
Profile Image for Robin.
2,423 reviews20 followers
September 2, 2021
Love this couple! And I adore these brothers and this group of women! Please keep this series going because I am so not ready for it to end! ❤️
Profile Image for Nicole.
209 reviews
September 18, 2021
An enjoyable read

What can I say? Piper James really bring on the steamy and heart racing feels! I absolutely love Noah an Dakota’s story.
Profile Image for hayley.
307 reviews3 followers
August 21, 2022
i wanted to give this 4 stars because of the miscommunication troupe and dakota not deserving noah BUT GOD THE I LOVE YOU AND PROPOSAL SCENE ??? I SOBBED LIKE A BABY. it gets 10 stars just for that
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews

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