Booked with Brandi

A blog dedicated to book reviews, recommendations, and literary discussions for book lovers.


Book Review: Cash by Jessica Peterson

(Lucky River Ranch #1)

Rating: 5 out of 5.

Publication Date: August 22, 2024

Genre: Romance, Western, Cowboy Romance, Contemporary Romance,

Synopsis

Butting heads leads to knocking boots in this wildly sexy enemies-to-lovers, grumpy/sunshine, small town cowboy romance by Jessica Peterson.

My dad and I have been estranged for years. But as his only living relative, it’s no surprise I inherit his massive cattle ranch when he dies. Something that is a surprise? The stipulation in his will, which requires me to live on the ranch and actively manage it for a year before I can access my inheritance money.

I haven’t stepped foot in Hartsville, Texas, population one thousand, since my parents split when I was six. Now a city girl through and through, I never imagined having to move back to cowboy country. But I need the money to invest in my company, and a girl’s gotta do what a girl’s gotta do.

There’s just one giant roadblock to my plan: the ranch’s foreman, grumpy cowboy Cash Rivers. I don’t care how good he looks in his Wranglers and chaps. He’s rude, he’s growly, and he wants me gone. I’d fire him in a heartbeat, but I need this cowboy to teach me the ropes of running a ranch.

We’re enemies from the get-go. But turns out, Cash is really good at this ranch thing. He’s got strong hands, an intelligent mind, and let’s just say everything really is bigger in Texas. Working alongside him leads to conversations beneath the stars. Throw in some cheek-to-cheek dancing at the local dive bar, and it all feels so right that I start to fall in love with life on the ranch. And maybe with him, too.

But my stay in Hartsville is only temporary. And you know what they say about cowboys: they may break horses, but they also break hearts. If only Cash hadn’t already lassoed mine…

CASH is the first standalone book in the brand new steamy, interconnected Lucky River Ranch Series.

Cash (Lucky River Ranch, #1) by Jessica Peterson | Goodreads

My Thoughts

I had so much fun reading “Cash” by Jessica Peterson! This steamy romance novel took me on a wild ride from start to finish. The chemistry between the characters was electrifying, and the witty banter kept me turning the pages. The saying “Save a horse. Ride a Cowboy” perfectly encapsulates the full experience of this book – it was sizzling hot and oh so satisfying. Jessica Peterson masterfully weaves a tale of love, passion, and living with no regrets that had me hooked from the very first chapter. I found myself rooting for the characters and completely engrossed in their journey. If you’re looking for a fun and sexy read that will leave you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside, then “Cash” is definitely the book for you.

We follow the journey of Molly, our female main character, who unexpectedly inherits her late father’s million-dollar ranch. Despite having no prior knowledge of ranching or cowgirl life, Molly faces the daunting task of running the ranch to fulfill the stipulation in her late father’s will – spending a full 12 months on the ranch to receive her full inheritance. Initially perceived as a spoiled brat, Molly’s character evolves as we delve deeper into her story, revealing hidden layers of grief and regret. Beneath her facade lies a deeply caring individual with a strong work ethic, determined to turn her dreams into reality. Her character is breath of fresh air with her sassy and fun personality that made me feel like we could be best friends. Her witty remarks and relatable demeanor kept me engaged throughout the story. Additionally, the charming setting had me daydreaming, prompting a sudden urge to Google cute cowgirl boots to add to my own wardrobe. 

Cash, our ruggedly handsome cowboy main character, takes center stage as the foreman of the Lucky Ranch. Described as the epitome of a classic cowboy, Cash exudes charisma and charm along with his tall stature and scruffy looks. However, when Molly inherits the ranch instead of fulfilling the verbal promise made to Cash by her late father, tensions soar. Fuelled by his disappointment and determination to claim what he believes is rightfully his, Cash embarks on a mission to make Molly’s life unbearable for the next year, aiming to drive her out of town. His dirty mouth adds a hint of spice to the story, making you feel like you’re right there in the midst of the passion and tension.

Cash and Molly’s dynamic is nothing short of HILARIOUS. Their banter and snarky remarks as supposed enemies create an amusing atmosphere that draws you in from the get-go. But hold on tight, because things take a scorching turn as they both uncover their hidden feelings and the mutual desire to support each other’s aspirations. The transformation of their relationship from enemies to lovers is nothing short of magical, and you’ll find yourself swept away by the passion and intensity that radiates from the pages. Jessica Peterson skillfully crafts a love story that is not only steamy but also brimming with emotions that jump off the page, making you feel as though you’re right there with Cash and Molly as they fall head over heels for each other. 

And those spicy scenes? They are absolutely sizzling! I mean, I have read my fair share of cowboy romances, but this one truly takes the cake in making you swoon. 

The character growth is so beautifully portrayed that it’s hard not to get emotionally invested. I found myself rooting for the characters throughout the entire story. And let me tell you, the ending? It was so heartwarming that I might have even shed a tear or two from sheer happiness.

If you’re in the mood for a captivating cowboy romance that is expertly crafted and sizzling with steamy scenes, then this book is a must-read. 

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