The Rebel with Broken Strings

Naked Moose #3

by Stacey Kennedy

One hot stolen night with a country star turns into a major complication in this Western romance set in the wilds of Montana, perfect for fans of Elsie Silver and Lyla Sage.

The past is the past—until he shows up on your doorstep.

Self-proclaimed good girl Aubrey Hale has too many secrets. Among them is missing the big-city life she left behind for small-town Montana—the life that included a one-night stand with country star Gunner Woods. But Aubrey and her friends have recently sworn off men. So when Gunner turns up in Timber Falls looking all kinds of sexy, she pretends she’s never met him.

Gunner is surprised to see Aubrey again and even more surprised by how she’s acting. The carefree woman he knew for one night is now jaded. After a failed record launch, Gunner can relate—and maybe they could even find solace in each other, if she’d stop treating him like a stranger.

Aubrey’s not ready to let her guard down, but she’s just fine with letting the sparks between them burn… But when Gunner’s career reignites, she’ll have to reckon with her discontent. Can you chase two separate dreams without burning everything to the ground?

From showing up to glowing up, the characters in Afterglow Books are on the path to leading their best lives and finding sizzling romance along the way.

Don’t miss any of these other fun titles in the Naked Moose series:
Book 1: The Devil in Blue Jeans
Book 2: Lone Wolf in Lights
Book 3: The Rebel with Broken Strings

Genres: Romance, Contemporary

288 pages, Paperback

Expected publication November 25, 2025

About the author

Stacey Kennedy is a USA Today bestselling author who writes contemporary romances full of heat, heart, and happily ever afters. With over 50 titles published, her books have hit Amazon, B&N, and Apple Books bestseller lists.

Stacey lives with her husband and two children in southwestern Ontario—in a city that’s just as charming as any of the small towns she creates. Most days, you’ll find her enjoying the outdoors with her family or venturing into the forest with her horse, Priya. Stacey’s just as happy curled up indoors, where she writes surrounded by her lazy dogs. She believes that sexy books about hot cowboys or alpha heroes can fix any bad day. But wine and chocolate help too.

Stacey absolutely loves to hear from her readers. You can reach her at stacey@staceykennedy.com.

Reviews

[cat · Rating 2 out of 5]

I went into The Rebel with Broken Strings really wanting to love it. It had all the makings of a story I’d normally fall for: a redemption arc, a small-town second chance, and a country star hero trying to make things right. (i’m a sucker for anything related to music 🎶) And while there were definitely some parts that hit the mark, others just didn’t quite land for me.

The story follows Gunner, a country singer whose career (and personal life) have both hit rock bottom. After getting the help he desperately needs, fate ends up leading him to Timber Falls, Montana. It’s a quiet little town where he just so happens to cross paths with Aubrey, the woman he once left behind after one unforgettable week together. That one choice has haunted him ever since, but Aubrey’s not exactly in a forgiving mood when he shows up again… 🙅🏼‍♀️🙅🏼‍♀️

What I really liked was Gunner’s growth. He’s gone through a lot, and you can tell how much work he’s put into becoming the man he wants to be—someone steady, kind, and real. His scenes with the kids in town, helping them find their confidence and creativity, were honestly some of my favorites. (There’s just something so endearing about a man who not only tries to better himself, but also lifts up others along the way 🫣🩷) He was sweet, patient, and so determined to make amends. It made him easy to root for. 😚🫶🏼

Aubrey, on the other hand… I struggled with her. She’s a chef who’s been through her share of setbacks and heartbreak, and while I understood why she was guarded, she often came off a bit too harsh and self-centered for me. Even when she learned the truth about why Gunner left (which was actually kinda a selfless decision), she still couldn’t seem to let go of her anger, and that just made her feel stuck. I wanted to see more emotional growth from her, especially since Gunner clearly had his.

That said, the small-town setting was cozy, and I did enjoy the dynamic between both sets of friends. It gave off really nice found-family energy. I just wish the focus had stayed more on Aubrey and Gunner, because parts of the story (especially around her friend’s wedding) pulled attention away from their relationship. I found myself skimming a bit to get back to their scenes. 🥲🥲

Overall, this wasn’t exactly a bad read, but let’s just say I won’t be picking up the two previous books in the series. It’s got heart, forgiveness, and that classic small-town charm. I just didn’t connect with Aubrey’s side of the story at all which made it really hard to feel the spark I wanted between them.

If you like second-chance romances with redemption arcs, a touch of small-town warmth, and a hero who’s genuinely trying to do better, definitely give this one a try. 🩷🧡

-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-favorite quotes-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-

“But the pain didn't remind him of all he'd done wrong anymore. The pain was a reminder of how much he'd risen back up”

⸻

“And when he sang to me, just for me, I
felt like the only woman in the world."

⸻

“Sometimes," he continued, his voice thick with emotion, "the bravest thing you can do is just show up and be yourself."

-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-

things to know about the book ↓

🎵 chef x country singer
🎶 second chance
🎵 addiction healing
🎶 guarded heroine
🎵 dual POV (third person)

A huge thank you to Netgalley, Harlequin - Romance, and Stacey Kennedy for allowing me to read this arc. These are all my honest opinions in this review.

[Chris C - A Midlife Wife · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars -
Sometimes you are in the mood for a spicy read, and when it also has a cowboy as the lead – be still my heart.

This book started with a hot kickstart and awesome hopes for the book. A fabulous week that leads to actions that carry on and impact the characters throughout the rest of the book, even years later.
I have to admit, I got a bit frustrated a time or two with my Aubrey for the way she treated Gunner by not having conversations that could have opened the door to healing instead of heartbreak. He tried over and over, and let’s be honest, there is only so much someone should put up with, and he went over and above.

The book is loaded with tension and longing. They belong together, and the fact that she withheld for so long did not lead ot emotional impact for me. It led me to frustration.

Kennedy added a wonderful setting and secondary characters that were sweet and supportive. The wedding descriptive scenes were awesome and set the tone for the book

Overall, The Rebel with Broken Strings is a sweet romance with a perfect touch of spice. These two broken and insecure hearts eventually find love, but they remain insecure throughout. A satisfying and simplistic plot with a bit more drama than needed, in my opinion. But the ending made up for so much! LOVE

3.5 STARS!!

* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Ful review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-rebel-wi...

[julia · Rating 2 out of 5]

dnf 67%

the book started very promising + i loveeed the main characters’ chemistry. their one night stand and break up after was so attention grabbing and i enjoyed seeing mmc fighting for fmc.

but…. after 60% the book, it became too repetitive and therefore boring. the main couple got together, out of nowhere, and now they moved to the background. they had no development in their characters or relationships. both became very blunt and emotionless. the writing was also not the best. “So am I. I know we’ve got a lot to figure out, so let’s just figure it out, okay?”. ummm okay?

Thank you to Netgalley, Afterglow Books by Harlequin and Hopeless Romantics for the arc.

[faye ✮ · Rating 2 out of 5]

2 ★

⋆˚࿔ i’m sorry but how did everything even start? there’s no decent plot or clear timeline. everything felt really scattered. i needed some kind of tension between gunners and aubrey because without it, their relationship didn’t feel convincing. everything also happened too fast and i couldn’t really feel any development in their relationship. besides, it’s written in third pov which made it even harder for me to stay engaged. no offense, but this one’s really not my cup of tea.

Thank you to Stacey Kennedy, Mills & Boon & NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!

[Kimberley · Rating 4 out of 5]

More 4 1/2 🌟

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

An emotional, second chance, dual POV, small town romance between a recovering addict country star and the woman he ghosted after they had a great week together two years ago. Aubrey left Atlanta after a workplace harassment incident with her former Chef boss and is trying to live a quiet life with her two best friends and co-owners of the Naked Moose bar.

She didn't expect to have Gunner show up and so when he confronts her she pretends she doesn't know him. Of course eventually he convinces her to give him another try and wins her over by his self-less acts of community service, helping mentor young aspiring singer/musicians in the town.

Heartfelt with good mental health, addiction and disability (Gunner has a leg injury he's rehabbing), this was good on audio and I really enjoyed the small town, cowboy, found family vibes. Perfect for fans of authors like Lyla Sage or Elsie Silver. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review!

[Mama Needs to Read Romance]

DNF @20%

So many the triggers. This was heavier than I thought, and a book that starts with spice like that isn't for me. Ultimately, this just seems like a classic case of the book and reader not jiving, which is why I didn't rate the book. Hopefully the people who enjoy lots of spice and some past trauma will find this and really enjoy it! Wishing nothing but the best for this author!

I'd like to thank Harlequin and Netgalley for the eARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Becky · Rating 3 out of 5]

I guess this is the series of surprise blow jobs, because this one starts with one...was not expecting that.

The timeline here was all over the place. We start with a prologue, a week into their not-quite-a-one-night-stand relationship (though it sure ends up feeling like it is, because that one night is all we get to see). Then we jump to somewhere near the end of the last book timewise (I think? I'm not going back to make sure) when they're not getting along at all--in fact, Aubrey is pretending it wasn't her that week back (2?) years ago, Gunner is mistaken. Um, hello--he's BFFs with your BFFs' SOs and lives in the same town you do now, how do you think you're going to be able to pull off the whole it wasn't me bit for the rest of your lives? Is this woman an actual adult??? Then once they finally get together, we skip a few months of their relationship, witness an unspecified amount of time of them being happy-ish, then skip a few months again. Then a mild dark moment for their relationship, which they resolve a few weeks later (another time skip) with the most eye-rolling makeup scene I've read in a while.

I just...at least the series is over now? All 3 of the Naked Moose women found their HEAs and we got a super treacle-y epilogue wrapping everything up with a nice, neat bow. I suppose if the other 2 were your cup of tea, you'll like this one just as much...if you didn't care for them, though, this one sure isn't going to change your mind.

Rating: 3 (generous) stars, because at least it was a quick read / C

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

[Jadey (GetBookedWithMe) · Rating 2 out of 5]

The Rebel With Broken Strings is loaded with tension and longing. I went into this really wanting to love it, it had all the makings of a story I'd swoon over from the start: small town, second chance romance. There were parts that hit the mark, and others that just didn’t quite land for me.

Stacey Kennedy delivers her trademark emotional writing and undeniable chemistry between the leads. You can feel that they belong together, and their connection is intense and believable. However, while the buildup had me invested, the emotional payoff didn’t fully deliver. Aubrey’s decision to withhold for so long didn’t heighten the emotion; instead, it added frustration. I found myself wanting more release and resolution after so much tension.

Overall, this is a sweet romance with a nice amount of spice, centered around two broken and insecure hearts who eventually find love. It’s a simple plot with a bit too much drama for my taste, but it still delivers plenty of emotion and heat for readers who enjoy a heartfelt, angsty love story. If you like second chance romances with a small-town touch, definitely give this one a try.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[EJ · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Rebel with Broken Strings was a sweet easy read with that small town, second chance romance vibe. I liked the idea of a country star showing up in the same town as his one night stand… the setup had so much potential! Gunner was charming and a bit vulnerable and I liked seeing his softer side. Aubrey was relatable in her guarded “sworn off men” era too.

However I didn’t fully connect with them or their story the way I wanted to. The chemistry was there but the emotional depth felt a little surface level and some parts wrapped up a bit too neatly. Still, it’s a fun feel good read if you’re after something light with a touch of small town charm and a music twist!

Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin for this ARC!

[✨Poppy✨ · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’ll admit that’s on me, I requested this one without looking too closely at what it was about. But I’m honestly not sure how everything even started. There wasn’t a clear plot or timeline, and the story felt scattered from the beginning.

I also really needed some kind of tension or emotional buildup between Gunners and Aubrey, because without it, their relationship didn’t feel believable or developed. Everything moved too quickly, and I couldn’t get invested in their connection.

On top of that, the third-person POV made it harder for me to stay engaged. Unfortunately, this one just wasn’t my cup of tea.

Thank you Harlequin Audio for the ALC in exchange of my honest opinion!

[Makayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The Rebel with Broken Strings by Stacey Kennedy

This book was such a beautiful, emotional ride. Gunner completely stole my heart—a country music star trying to rebuild his life after losing everything—and Aubrey was the perfect match for him. She’s strong, determined, and brings out a softer, more hopeful side of him that I absolutely loved watching unfold.

Stacey Kennedy’s writing is emotional, tender, and full of hope. The small-town Montana setting, the music, and the redemption arc all blended perfectly to create a story that felt real and deeply moving. I loved watching Gunner and Aubrey find their way to healing and happiness together.

A heartfelt, emotional, and romantic read that will leave you smiling and swooning. 💕🎶🤠

[Shannon · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you’re looking for a short, easy, feel-good read with the cosy charm of a Hallmark Christmas movie, look no further than The Rebel with Broken Strings.

I picked this book up based purely on the description because, what can I say, being a big cowboy romance fan, I couldn’t resist. The book started off strong, steamy, and full of promise. It’s written in third person (not my favourite), but I thought it worked well here.

Our main character, country music star Gunner Woods, is introduced as someone struggling with the aftermath of a painful accident and a reliance on pills to cope. The story quickly jumps forward to Timber Falls, where Gunner is sober and trying to rebuild his life.

Then there’s Aubrey Hale, who is left heartbroken and hurt after Gunner abandoned her following their passionate week together. She’s now living in Timber Falls too, refuting her past with Gunner.

While there was potential for a really emotional reunion, Gunner’s relentless attempts to get Aubrey to admit who she was made me uncomfortable, and I found myself wishing he’d just moved on. Their chemistry was emphasised repeatedly, but their reconciliation lacked the depth and redemption arc I hoped for. Once they rekindled their romance, the story felt as though it lost some momentum.

I also didn’t really connect with the characters. They felt a little too sweet, forgiving, and tidy for my taste. Based on the description, I was expecting more angst and more steamy scenes, but neither really materialised.

That said, the author’s descriptive writing shines when it comes to setting. Timber Falls is painted vividly, though at times the detail felt a little heavy-handed. And while the pacing lagged for me (the book felt like it could’ve ended around the 60% mark), it was still a quick read at under 300 pages.

Overall, The Rebel with Broken Strings didn’t quite deliver the emotional punch I was hoping for, but it’s a light, easy read perfect for fans of cowboy romances. I’d still consider picking up the other books in the series when I’m in the mood for something simple and comforting.

Many thanks to NetGalley, Stacey Kennedy and Harlequin for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Megan | Megan.Reads.Romance · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25 stars - thank you so much Harlequin Romance and Harlequin Audio for the ARC/ALC via NetGalley!

This is my first Stacey Kennedy book, and I'm jumping in to the... Naked Moose? series in the middle.

This is a story of Gunner, a recovering addict country star singer who ghosted our FMC, Aubrey, before crashing out and going to rehab. Between then and now, Aubrey has gone through it, and so has Gunner. They both end up in Gunner's hometown in Montana, and Aubrey wants nothing to do with Gunner haven't he left her in the middle of night, only to take up and discover he'd vanished.

I did this story on audio, and I was very distracted by narrator Alexa Elmy's performance, particularly when it came to Gunner. Whenever she narrated his parts, he had this country accent that is so far from a Montana accent, it was alarming. Yes, he's a country star and has spent time in Nashville, but this accent is like... a deep south accent that is only acquired through birth. This only seemed to happen when Gunner was begging for attention from Aubrey (or speaking in general), but I just could not get past that.

I might've enjoyed this story more if I'd just eyeball read it, but there was a lot going on, so my rating of the story is between 3.25-3.75.

There were lots of moving parts in this story, some of which I enjoyed, some which I thought were too much:
- Spicy start to the story, being a one-night (or week) stand with a country star
- Time jump, in which Aubrey has relocated from Atlanta I think to Montana to be with her friends (?) or sister and friend??
- Gunner returns to Montana after rehab, Aubrey pretends not to know him
- Their mutual friends/cousins(?) get engaged, and there's forced proximity while *everybody* helps plan a wedding
- An addict walks into a bar... but his addiction is pills, so it's okay if he drinks
- Aubrey still ignores Gunner, her friends don't know what happened between them, but Gunner is persistent
- Small town shenanigans/people sticking their nose in other people's business
- Forgiveness
- The best part was Gunner volunteering with the local music community center project with the children - he really shined

[Laura R · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would like to thank the publisher for sending me an audio-arc in exchange for an honest review through NetGalley.

Aubrey had a one night (week) stand with Gunner two years ago, but when he disappeared one morning without even leaving a note, she decided she would love on and forget about him. So it comes as a shock for her when he shows up at the bar she's now working at, but instead of acknowledging him, she pretends she doesn't know him. Gunner was a country star that, after a terrible accident, became addicted to painkillers. But as the two of them come together once more, and he begins to get his life somewhat back on track, he can admit that he has never once forgotten Aubrey or the feelings he had for her. And as his career begins to pick up once more, Aubrey will have to decide if she can open up to him and accept all of him -- the good and the bad -- or risk losing him forever.

This book started out so hot, and I was very confused as to what was going on except for the fact that we were in the middle of their fun times and then, of course, we jump in time to two years in the future. Gunner deserved so much more than what he got because she was so angry. Now, don't get me wrong, I totally understand where she was coming from, considering if I had a whole week with someone, and I thought it meant something and they disappeared without saying anything then I, too, would be very upset. That being said, when she learns his story and how he was fighting addictions and dealing with all of that you would think that she would, I don't know, be a little more sympathetic? But she's not, and so it becomes kind of hard to empathize with her at times. I did enjoy the overall plot and his redemption arc. I also enjoyed her finding herself after everything that happened to her as well, but what I think I liked the best was the second chance romance between the two of them since he needed time to get himself clean and she needed time to grow up a little. I definitely would recommend the audio on this as it was well done, and I thought the narrator did a fantastic job with it.

[Frances Trudel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much to Harlequin Audio and NetGalley for the ALC.

The Rebel With Broken Strings by Stacey Kennedy narrated by Alexa Elmy is my first book by this author and narrator. In the blurb it mentions if you are a fan of Elsie Silver or Lyla Sage you will like this book too. They did not lie! I didn’t realize that it’s book 3 in a series called Naked Moose. However, it could be listened to as a standalone , but now I will be going back to listen to those books too. (Just an FYI, they have bundled the books together on audio so you will only need one credit for three books).

The spice starts off in the first paragraph of this book! Gunner is a hot country music artist and Aubrey is a chef who he picks out of the crowd at his concert. They have an amazing week together where they’re making plans for their future. That is until Gunner ghosts Aubrey. He has some big demons, and he can’t imagine taking Aubrey down his road of self destruction.

We then jump ahead in time where Aubrey and her two best friends have moved to a small town in Montana and opened a bar together. Life is going ok, not exactly like Aubrey is used to with the hustle and bustle of the city. However, her life is a bit of a mess, and it was her best option at the time. This town just happens to be Gunner’s hometown and they are now part of the same friend group. I honestly loved that Aubrey pretends to not remember their week together. She made him feel kind of crazy! However, he deserved it after disappearing like he did. Aubrey has trust issues and doesn’t seem like the girl Gunner first met several years ago. Can he break down those walls and reconnect with her? Or will his past mistake always make her feel like he will leave?

I really enjoyed Stacey’s writing style and the layers these characters had. You felt their hurt and obstacles they’ve faced. You also understand the struggles they have coming and wonder if they can make it through them together.

Alexa did a fantastic job narrating this book. I wasn’t missing having a male narrator. I enjoyed her male voice and the bit of southern draw he had.

[Susie (DFWSusie)]

Summary
Gunner & Aubrey met over one hot Atlanta week when Gunner was a rising county star. But addiction to prescription pain medication derailed both Gunner's dreams and his budding relationship with Aubrey.

Chef Aubrey had her own professional dreams shattered, and she fled with her best friends to Timber Falls, Montana and a bar called the Naked Moose. She's still licking her wounds and trying to find her place in a small town which feels two sizes too small.

When Gunner appears on the scene, as it's his hometown she's crashed into, Aubrey at first denies even being the same woman from Atlanta. Gradually their attraction wins out, apologies are made, and alls well that ends well.
_____
Quick Thoughts
This is an extremely low conflict or stakes Contemporary category. There is some banter at the start, but the two quickly resolve their past and settle into a relationship that moves in a mostly straight line until the HEA. It's part party planning story, part logistics of celebrity life with a normal person.

If you are looking for Hallmark regular season movie vibes and plot construction, but with open door spicy scenes, then this fits the bill.

This is the series ender, so the epilogue serves as a many years down the road wrap up with all the couples from the Naked Moose series.
———
Harlequin Afterglow (Dec 2025)
Genre/Subgenre: western romance, category, contemporary romance

Standalone/Series: Book 3/3 in Naked Moose series, can be read as standalone

Themes/Tropes: second chance, celebrity & normie, country music, people in recovery, party planning, logistics & long distance

Steam/Spice Level: open door, in the room, spicy

Setting: Montana

BIPOC Characters: N/A

LGBTQ+ Characters: one minor character

Religion: N/A

POV: third person, past tense POV

Cops/LEO: N/A

Does the Dog/Horse/Cat Die? All animals are happy and healthy
__________

Thank you Harlequin for the Advance Reader Copy. Expected publication date: Nov 25, 2025

[Emma Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

❤️ Blurb One hot stolen night with a country star turns into a major complication in this Western romance set in the wilds of Montana, perfect for fans of Elsie Silver and Lyla Sage.
The past is the past—until he shows up on your doorstep.
Self-proclaimed good girl Aubrey Hale has too many secrets. Among them is missing the big-city life she left behind for small-town Montana—the life that included a one-night stand with country star Gunner Woods. But Aubrey and her friends have recently sworn off men. So when Gunner turns up in Timber Falls looking all kinds of sexy, she pretends she’s never met him.
Gunner is surprised to see Aubrey again and even more surprised by how she’s acting. The carefree woman he knew for one night is now jaded. After a failed record launch, Gunner can relate—and maybe they could even find solace in each other, if she’d stop treating him like a stranger.
Aubrey’s not ready to let her guard down, but she’s just fine with letting the sparks between them burn… But when Gunner’s career reignites, she’ll have to reckon with her discontent. Can you chase two separate dreams without burning everything to the ground?
💜 Review -
Even though this is the third book in a series and I hadn't read the first two books, I still enjoyed it and I soon understood who was who and what was going on. The author's writing had me hooked from the very first page and I kept reading until the end as I wanted to know what happened. There was plenty of content to keep me interested. I loved Aubrey and Gunner's chemistry and I wanted them to have their happy ending. Overall, a brilliant novel that I highly recommend to other readers.
💝 Thank you to Netgalley, Mills And Boon After Glow books and the author, Stacey Kennedy for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

[charmette.books · Rating 2 out of 5]

I love a steamy, emotional cowboy romance and The Rebel with Broken Strings sounded great. This is the third book in the Naked Moose series. Unfortunately, this book fell flat for me. We start with a prologue of Aubrey and Gunner in an intimate moment that turns into a week, then ends abruptly. The book then continues with Aubrey and Gunner meeting again in a small town in Wyoming where they now live with their best friends. The plot was implausible from the beginning.

I didn’t feel much of a connection between the main characters. The author told us about their chemistry, but their actions did not reflect physical attraction. Their emotional connection didn’t feel strong either. Gunner wants to be with Aubrey, but she can’t get over how he ended their romantic week together abruptly. As the book continues, Gunner puts in a lot of effort, explains why he left without explanation, but Aubrey is still very closed off to the possibility of a relationship. Her emotional maturity was lacking.

The book ends on a sweet note, and if you enjoyed the first two books of this series, you should definitely read this final book that wraps everything up for the three couples who are all best friends. This is a light cowboy romance that has a positive theme of redemption through Gunner’s recovery from drug addiction. The romance didn’t really work for me, but I’m sure there are others who would enjoy this book more.

Thank you to Stacey Kennedy, Afterglow Books by Harlequin, and NetGalley for an advance reader’s copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[ThianeJansen · Rating 1 out of 5]

Should have dnf’d I feel I ended up ‘annoy’ reading this

✨ Country singer x chef
✨ Second chance
✨ Small town romance
✨ Addiction + healing

I went into this book wanting to love it. The tropes are exactly my kind of thing so I thought this would be an easy win. But as I read, I kept feeling like the story was telling me everything instead of letting me actually see it. It’s one thing to know what a character is feeling, but I wanted to feel it with them, and the writing just didn’t give me that emotional pull.

It’s also such (a choice) to start a book as steamy as this😆 like damn.

The story follows Aubrey, who returns to her small hometown after things in her life start to fall apart. Coming home means facing the one person she’s spent years avoiding - Gunner, the singer who she never fully got over. Their breakup was messy, tied up in Gunner’s addiction and the ways they both hurt each other while trying to hold on.

Now, years later, they’re forced back into each other’s orbit. Aubrey is trying to rebuild her confidence and figure out what she actually wants out of her life, and Gunner is doing the hard work of staying sober and becoming someone he isn’t ashamed of anymore. The chemistry between them is still there, but so are the wounds, the unfinished conversations, and the fear of repeating their past.

Readers who enjoy lighter small-town romances with straightforward writing will probably enjoy this more than I did, but personally, I wanted more heart behind the moments that mattered.

[Kate Laycoax · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was such a cute second chance small town romance with a dash of country star sparkle. I loved the setup: big city one night stand that comes back to haunt you when said country boy strolls into your Montana town? Sounds like the perfect set up for this western romance.

Aubrey and Gunner’s chemistry was obvious right from the jump, and I was fully invested in their reconnection. I liked that both of them were carrying some heavy past baggage, but the book still managed to keep a warm, feel good vibe overall. Honestly, Gunner had me giggling and kicking my feet more than once (cowboy charm + musician soul = dangerous combo 🫠).

That said, I’ll be honest... the last stretch lost me a little. Once their issues were resolved and they were officially together, the story started to feel a bit repetitive and veered into boring territory. I missed the tension and spark of the earlier chapters. Still, I enjoyed the journey enough that I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a sweet, low angst romance with plenty of small town charm, music, and second chance feels, especially if you are a fan of Elsie Silver and Lyla Sage who like their cowboys with guitars and their love stories with a hopeful, healing edge. 🎶🤠💖

Thank you to NetGalley, Stacey Kennedy, and Afterglow/Harlequin for the eARC of this book.

[Narelle Richards]

Aubrey and Gunner had an incredible week together in Atlanta before Gunner disappeared without so much as a note from Aubrey's life. Struggling with pain and a pill addiction as well as seeing his music career go up in flames, he just didn't think he could make it work. Now he is back in Aubrey's orbit in Timber Falls. Montana and he wants to see if they can make it work. He's sober and committed to finding a way back into her heart. This is the third book in the Naked Moose series by Stacey Kennedy - I hadn't read the first two but you do meet the characters that are in the other two books and I think it would be good to have read the other two to help situate this book. It is a sweet story that has a solid amount of spice between the two lovers. You certainly fall in love with Timber Falls and the community that resides there - I definitely would visit just to try one of Aubrey's cocktails - they sounded delicious. I can't say that I totally engaged with Aubrey and Gunner's romance but the friendships between all the key characters in the book was certainly heartwarming. The epilogue pulls the three books together into a final moment for them all. For me it is a three and half star read that was enjoyable to read. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read the arc. This final book in the series comes out in November 2025.

[Tiffany · Rating 3 out of 5]

So this was a quick sit down be done in a few hour read. I enjoyed this book for the most part. I loved seeing the struggle Gunner had with his addiction and seeing the struggle Aubrey had with her past demons. Gunner worked really hard with his sobriety and to move forward he never thought he would see the incredible woman he spent a week with only to leave her with no note or any way to get in contact with him. Aubrey had her own demons she was chasing away and was heartbroken when she was left high and dry that when they first saw each other again she tried to convince him that they didn’t know each other. Honestly I would have done the same, so love that for us. I know this book is part of a series so it was a little confusing in the first chapter because I’m assuming they met once again in the previous book. But if you have not read the previous book, like me 🙋🏻‍♀️, this comes off as continuity issues. I looked past that and continued on. I personally like that she didn’t give into him so easy and made him work for it. The last part of the book was where it was kind of hard to stay interested. It became repetitive. Overall I liked the theme in this book and the characters were interesting.

Thank you to Netgalley & Stacey Kennedy for the Arc. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Kayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Rebel with Broken Strings
By Stacey Kennedy
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
I devoured this book like a slice of warm pie after a long day on the ranch. I mean—cowboys, romance, redemption? Yes, please! 🤠💕

Though it’s the third book in the series, it reads perfectly fine as a standalone (I jumped in without reading the first two and had no trouble keeping up). This is a heartfelt, emotional story about second chances, healing from addiction, and finding love in the unlikeliest of places.

Gunner—a soulful musician, rugged cowboy, and recovering addict—completely stole my heart. Aubrey, a strong-willed chef with her own heavy baggage, was equally compelling. Together?

Their chemistry felt real and raw, with enough tension and tenderness to keep the pages turning late into the night.
The friendships and side relationships added warmth to the story.
I could honestly see this book playing out on screen—the scenery, the slow-burn romance, the music... it all screams for a cozy, binge-worthy movie or TV series.
If you’re into cowboy charm, and stories that leave your heart a little fuller, this one’s a must-read.

Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin-Romance for the ARC.
This comes out November 25, 2025,

[Courtney Brown · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love a good cowboy romance with a second chance thrown in there, and so I just had to request it, and I am so glad that I did.

The book definitely started strong and really kept me engaged and wanting more by the time I had finished it. The characters were very enjoyable, and I instantly fell in love with them and wanted to come along with them on the journey towards their happy ending.

It was a quick and easy read full of banter, hot chemistry, and the perfect amount of spice to go around. Aubrey and Gunnar were easy to love, and I just loved them as our main characters. Although this is the third book in the Naked Moose series, you can read it as a standalone, which I have done since I am a new reader to Stacey Kennedy, and even though it was my first read by her, it will not be my last!

Both Aubrey and Gunnar had great character growth and were able to commit to one another and just be there so that they could experience their happy ending with one another.

I honestly recommend The Rebel With Broken Strings if you are looking for a quick and easy read with amazing characters that, by chance, find their way back to one another and get to experience an amazing love!

[Anna Christodoulou-Vega · Rating 5 out of 5]

🎧💔 ARC Audio Review: The Rebel with Broken Strings by Stacey Kennedy 🎸🤠

Y’all… this audiobook strummed every emotion I’ve got! 🥹🔥 One stolen night between a small-town good girl and a broody country star turns into a heart-tugging, soul-soothing romance that hits every note of redemption and second chances. 🎶💞

Aubrey Hale thought she’d buried her wild side when she left the big city for Timber Falls but fate (and one sexy cowboy with a guitar 🎸) had other plans. When Gunner Woods yes, that Gunner Woods, country music’s golden boy shows up at her door, sparks fly faster than a fiddle solo at the Opry. 💥 But behind the fame, Gunner’s got his own broken strings, and together they might just find harmony again. 💫

The audio performance? Chef’s kiss! 🎧✨ The narrators nailed the chemistry his deep Southern drawl, her soft defiance it’s pure storytelling magic. The banter, the longing, the tension that hums like a melody you can’t get out of your head. 🎵🔥

If you love:
💞 Small-town heat
🎤 Country-music heartbreak
🏔️ Montana charm
🤠 A strong heroine with secrets
🔥 And a hero who sings his way back to love

…then this book will absolutely steal your heart and leave you replaying scenes like your favorite song. 💿💋

[☆Laura☆ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gunner Woods, exestrella de la música country y chico rebelde caído en desgracia, regresa a Timber Falls intentando reconstruir su vida lejos de las adicciones que casi lo destruyen. Allí se reencuentra con Aubrey Hale, la mujer con la que compartió una intensa semana dos años atrás y a quien abandonó sin explicación. Aubrey, marcada por un pasado de abandono y abuso laboral, ha levantado muros para protegerse y jura no volver a caer en las redes de Gunner. Sin embargo, la convivencia en su pequeño pueblo, un programa musical comunitario y la boda de unos amigos en común, los obligarán a enfrentarse a la verdad de lo que sienten, sus heridas y si están dispuestos a arriesgarlo todo por una segunda oportunidad.

Reseña:
Stacey Kennedy construye una historia donde el romance va de la mano con el proceso de sanar: Gunner, intentando demostrar que es un hombre nuevo, y Aubrey, luchando contra el miedo a volver a ser herida.

Es una lectura entretenida, ligera, sin dramas de otras mujeres u otros hombres y se lee en una sentada.


Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.

[Misty (Reds Romance Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aubrey Hale has a little secret, one she hopes never sees the light of day. It would shine the self-proclaimed good girl in a bad light and that cannot happen. All has been good on the secret front... until he waltzing into town!

The Rebel with Broken Strings is a story of second chances, chasing dreams, healing, and finding love when you least expect it find you. After Aubrey's culinary dreams in the big city didn't pan out she packed her things and headed for Montana, with the promise from friends that she could heal and find a new life there. Which was a big relief, her secrets would be safe and she could truly start over where no one knew her or anything about her past. All is going well until her past waltzes into town and tries to unearth a secret she has fought hard to keep quiet. It's a disaster waiting to happen, with an awfully dreamy package to deliver it.

I really enjoyed this one, it's well penned words kept me entertained and it characters easily found their way into my heart... it was the perfect afternoon escape! Highly recommend!

I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.

[Macie ✨ · Rating 2 out of 5]

dnf @ 77%

This book started out good, it had potential. That first scene with them in Atlanta was a good scene, it was hot, and they had chemistry.

But as the book progressed, with the time jump and everything else, it all started to fall flat, and became really boring. I didn't like how the FMC pretended not to know Gunnar; and all the various different insecurities that felt unnecessary and almost annoying at some points.

And then suddenly with one conversation, they get together with little to no tension, no build up, or anything with substance.

Honestly this book felt like a chore to have to read. I was bored and having to force myself to continue reading it.

I got to 77% and decided to dnf it because at this point, I'm hating having to read it, I am extremely bored and not having a good time.

This book had potential and I had high hopes for it based on the cover and description of the book. It had such a pretty cover and an interesting premise, but it was executed very poorly and was very boring. It's just not for me, maybe it's for someone else, but for me it was a disappointment.

Thank you to Netgalley for this ARC.

[Une_brune_envie · Rating 3 out of 5]

The rebel with broken strings is a small town cowboy romance, book 3 in the Naked Moose series.
The prologue did not convince me. The way it started was not a good start for me but I gave it a try. It came together after chapter 2.
Aubrey's struggles, past resonated with me. I somehow felt connected to her. I read the book for her. Gunner seems nice, handsome, charming cowboy vibes but I didn’t really care for him. That might be because of my trust issues… Both characters have a good chemistry, it is impossible not to see them together. They both have past issues and try to go forward, though their issues are to easily handle . I especially enjoyed the resolution of the third act. It surprised me a little but I’m glad they dealt with it like actual adults.
Overall the plot is enjoyable, a fast paced, sweet easy read, perfect to read in one sitting. If you’re looking for or are a fan of cowboy romance with some spice this book is definitely for you.
The description of the book says slow burn but it is not a slow burn. In my opinion people are starting to forget what real slow burn tropes are.

Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin for this ARC.