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Star Valley #3
Counting on a Cowboy
In this sizzling, sassy western romance, she’s been burned by too many cowboys—but can this rodeo rider convince her he’s worth the risk?
Retired SEAL Thatch Hearst never thought he’d put down roots, but four years in Star Valley as a bronc rider has him calling the town home. All he needs now is to earn some real money by competing in the big leagues. He’ll have his chance with the town’s upcoming rodeo days, but first he needs to improve his scores. Running out of time—and ideas—Thatch enlists the help of a local yoga instructor, hoping to gain an extra edge.
Lyric Valenza has worked with difficult clients, but this ruggedly handsome cowboy might just be her biggest challenge. Marrying a cowboy was the biggest mistake of her life, and after her divorce, she vowed she’d never again need a man. Only the more time she spends with Thatch, the more she realizes there’s a difference between needing and wanting someone—and this cowboy may just be the one person she doesn’t want to be without.
Retired SEAL Thatch Hearst never thought he’d put down roots, but four years in Star Valley as a bronc rider has him calling the town home. All he needs now is to earn some real money by competing in the big leagues. He’ll have his chance with the town’s upcoming rodeo days, but first he needs to improve his scores. Running out of time—and ideas—Thatch enlists the help of a local yoga instructor, hoping to gain an extra edge.
Lyric Valenza has worked with difficult clients, but this ruggedly handsome cowboy might just be her biggest challenge. Marrying a cowboy was the biggest mistake of her life, and after her divorce, she vowed she’d never again need a man. Only the more time she spends with Thatch, the more she realizes there’s a difference between needing and wanting someone—and this cowboy may just be the one person she doesn’t want to be without.
297 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published February 20, 2024
6 people are currently reading
74 people want to read
About the author
Sara Richardson
26books426followersContemporary romance author Sara Richardson has been a communications manager, copy writer, magazine editor, and whitewater rafting guide. The day after graduating with a master’s degree in journalism, Sara realized she was too empathetic to be a journalist and starting writing her first novel instead. A lifelong fascination with true love quickly led her to the romance genre.
Her Heart of the Rockies series was published by Grand Central Forever in 2015. In 2016, her debut novel, No Better Man, was nominated for a RITA in the best first book category. Sara is passionate about writing stories that inspire people to believe in love and always enjoys connecting with readers. Learn more at .
Her Heart of the Rockies series was published by Grand Central Forever in 2015. In 2016, her debut novel, No Better Man, was nominated for a RITA in the best first book category. Sara is passionate about writing stories that inspire people to believe in love and always enjoys connecting with readers. Learn more at .
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
February 18, 2024
Counting on a Cowboy by Sara Richardson
Star Valley series #3. Contemporary western romance. Can be read as a stand-alone but better as part of the series. Couples from the previous books play roles and attends a few different events. Conclusion to the series.
Retired SEAL Thatch Hearst moved to Star Valley four years ago with a couple of his teammates. He wants to earn some extra money bull riding in the big leagues. His trainer tells Thatch he’s not moving with the bull so he enlists the help of a local yoga instructor to help him learn to bend and move. Thatch has been interested in Lyric for a while but after being turned down twice, he’s kept his distance. He will make it clear he is looking for her professional help and maybe she will relax a little around him
Lyric Valenza has worked with difficult clients in the past so Thatch should be just another appointment on her calendar. She’s definitely not getting involved with another cowboy. But the handsome man is really trying to understand and listen to Lyric that she can’t help being charmed. Just a little bit. When he helps break up an argument between two teens, Lyric impulsively claims they are dating and suddenly it’s all around town.
I liked that Thatch wasn’t at all comfortable lying to their mutual friends. He also arranges to get the teen a job just because Lyric asked. He’s supportive and a hard worker. He’s willing to stay in the background until he needs to step up.
I didn’t care for Lyric’s bossy attitude all the time. She’s been hurt in the past so I understand her trying to protect the female teen based on her own experiences. But think they were too soft on a “borrowing� situation.
I loved the whole town acting together to help the family in need.
Plenty of steam and appreciation for the group dynamics of friends.
Great romantic ending and epilogue.
3.5
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
Star Valley series #3. Contemporary western romance. Can be read as a stand-alone but better as part of the series. Couples from the previous books play roles and attends a few different events. Conclusion to the series.
Retired SEAL Thatch Hearst moved to Star Valley four years ago with a couple of his teammates. He wants to earn some extra money bull riding in the big leagues. His trainer tells Thatch he’s not moving with the bull so he enlists the help of a local yoga instructor to help him learn to bend and move. Thatch has been interested in Lyric for a while but after being turned down twice, he’s kept his distance. He will make it clear he is looking for her professional help and maybe she will relax a little around him
Lyric Valenza has worked with difficult clients in the past so Thatch should be just another appointment on her calendar. She’s definitely not getting involved with another cowboy. But the handsome man is really trying to understand and listen to Lyric that she can’t help being charmed. Just a little bit. When he helps break up an argument between two teens, Lyric impulsively claims they are dating and suddenly it’s all around town.
I liked that Thatch wasn’t at all comfortable lying to their mutual friends. He also arranges to get the teen a job just because Lyric asked. He’s supportive and a hard worker. He’s willing to stay in the background until he needs to step up.
I didn’t care for Lyric’s bossy attitude all the time. She’s been hurt in the past so I understand her trying to protect the female teen based on her own experiences. But think they were too soft on a “borrowing� situation.
I loved the whole town acting together to help the family in need.
Plenty of steam and appreciation for the group dynamics of friends.
Great romantic ending and epilogue.
3.5
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
February 19, 2024
Counting on a Cowboy was a fantastic read featuring a great romance between a cowboy and a yoga instructor.
Retired SEAL Thatch Hearst never thought he'd stay in Star Valley but four years later he's come to call the small town home. Looking for something more in his life Thatch takes up bronc riding, training in secret for the town’s upcoming rodeo days. But to improve his scores Thatch needs to improve how he moves with the bull which has him turning to the town's yoga instructor for help. Lyric Valenza avoids cowboys as a rule but Thatch is hard to say no to. When Thatch helps Lyric out of a difficult situation, she accidentally implies they're dating and soon the news spreads like wildfire.
Thatch has shown his interest in Lyric in the previous books in the series but she turned down both of his attempts to ask her out. I liked that Thatch didn't push for more after Lyric turned him down and instead let her set the pace for anything that happened between them. Fake dating is a trope I really enjoy and I liked its' inclusion in their romance although it did cause some issues for Thatch as he was genuinely interested in Lyric plus he didn't want to lie to their friends. Their relationship is pretty slow going at first but I liked that it gave them time to get to know each other more. Once things do progress between them, it's very well done and I enjoyed their relationship.
As this is the third book in the series, we get to see the couples from the previous two books quite a bit. It's nice seeing them again after their books and getting little snippets of their lives together. The friend group between these six individuals is wonderful and I like how supportive they are of each other. Although I will say that some of the characters came on a bit strong with the whole "You're finally together!" bit which did cause some issues in Thatch and Lyric's relationship.
Overall Counting on a Cowboy was an excellent conclusion to the series and I would highly recommend this series if you're looking for some great contemporary romances.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
Retired SEAL Thatch Hearst never thought he'd stay in Star Valley but four years later he's come to call the small town home. Looking for something more in his life Thatch takes up bronc riding, training in secret for the town’s upcoming rodeo days. But to improve his scores Thatch needs to improve how he moves with the bull which has him turning to the town's yoga instructor for help. Lyric Valenza avoids cowboys as a rule but Thatch is hard to say no to. When Thatch helps Lyric out of a difficult situation, she accidentally implies they're dating and soon the news spreads like wildfire.
Thatch has shown his interest in Lyric in the previous books in the series but she turned down both of his attempts to ask her out. I liked that Thatch didn't push for more after Lyric turned him down and instead let her set the pace for anything that happened between them. Fake dating is a trope I really enjoy and I liked its' inclusion in their romance although it did cause some issues for Thatch as he was genuinely interested in Lyric plus he didn't want to lie to their friends. Their relationship is pretty slow going at first but I liked that it gave them time to get to know each other more. Once things do progress between them, it's very well done and I enjoyed their relationship.
As this is the third book in the series, we get to see the couples from the previous two books quite a bit. It's nice seeing them again after their books and getting little snippets of their lives together. The friend group between these six individuals is wonderful and I like how supportive they are of each other. Although I will say that some of the characters came on a bit strong with the whole "You're finally together!" bit which did cause some issues in Thatch and Lyric's relationship.
Overall Counting on a Cowboy was an excellent conclusion to the series and I would highly recommend this series if you're looking for some great contemporary romances.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
June 11, 2024
This was a solid 3 stars for me. Easy to read. I liked the characters, but the plot was a little lacking in my opinion. Even though this one said it could be read as a standalone, I felt like I was missing a few things from other books like maybe some development between these two characters. Also, I have only read one or two of the fake dating trope books but the concept in this one seemed a little farfetched. I would recommend checking the trigger warnings for this one. There is reference to physical and emotional abuse off page.
Lyric is happy with her life. She divorced her abusive husband several years ago and has decided that she is good being single. She is going to focus on her yoga students and that is that. But she was so tempted to say yes when Thatch asked her out. And now one of her students is in a suspect relationship so maybe having Thatch as a fake BF to be able to get closer to her student will help. She doesn't want someone else to experience what she did in her relationship. But her and Thatch didn't really think this through. Her friends all now know about them and seem beyond excited and were wondering when this would have happened. Now she realizes that she does like Thatch and she wants to have fun with him while she can. Nothing serious though. The rodeo is in town and her ex is going to be there. Will she be prepared when she runs into him? Will she be able to be the woman Thatch needs her to be? Is she really ready to move on?
Thatch never thought he would settle down some roots. His life has taken a turn from the battlefields with his friends. He is now comfortable in his small town. He has moved on from the scandal that was his ex fiance who is now with his brother. So what if they don't talk anymore? He has his friends and his job. But he wants more. He wants Lyric. She has made it clear she isn't interested, but then she asks to be his fake GF. And the more they are together, the less fake things seem to be. He doesn't want to scare her away, but he wants more from her. He wants forever.
I do like the touch her and die vibes that Thatch was giving off. I liked the mini arc that Lyric experienced with her ex. It takes a lot for someone to confront their demons, and she did it. I appreciated how she helped Thatch come around to moving on from the hurt his brother caused him. Like I said this was an easy story, just nothing wow.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Lyric is happy with her life. She divorced her abusive husband several years ago and has decided that she is good being single. She is going to focus on her yoga students and that is that. But she was so tempted to say yes when Thatch asked her out. And now one of her students is in a suspect relationship so maybe having Thatch as a fake BF to be able to get closer to her student will help. She doesn't want someone else to experience what she did in her relationship. But her and Thatch didn't really think this through. Her friends all now know about them and seem beyond excited and were wondering when this would have happened. Now she realizes that she does like Thatch and she wants to have fun with him while she can. Nothing serious though. The rodeo is in town and her ex is going to be there. Will she be prepared when she runs into him? Will she be able to be the woman Thatch needs her to be? Is she really ready to move on?
Thatch never thought he would settle down some roots. His life has taken a turn from the battlefields with his friends. He is now comfortable in his small town. He has moved on from the scandal that was his ex fiance who is now with his brother. So what if they don't talk anymore? He has his friends and his job. But he wants more. He wants Lyric. She has made it clear she isn't interested, but then she asks to be his fake GF. And the more they are together, the less fake things seem to be. He doesn't want to scare her away, but he wants more from her. He wants forever.
I do like the touch her and die vibes that Thatch was giving off. I liked the mini arc that Lyric experienced with her ex. It takes a lot for someone to confront their demons, and she did it. I appreciated how she helped Thatch come around to moving on from the hurt his brother caused him. Like I said this was an easy story, just nothing wow.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
April 5, 2024
This is a Cowboy Fake Dating Romance, and this is the third book in the Star Valley series. I have read the first two books in this series before picking up this book. I do think you could read this book as a standalone. I really enjoyed this book, and the characters in this book were great. I loved how the romance was done in this book. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
February 22, 2024
I enjoyed this story and the entire three book Star Valley series from Sara Richardson. The focus is on three Navy Seals that run a construction business in the small town of Star Valley, Wyoming. Having read the previous books I was already familiar with the main characters and anticipating their romance. I think this is more enjoyable reading in series order, but can be read as a stand alone.
Thatch Hearst wants to improve his standing as a bronc rider and is preparing for the upcoming rodeo days. To improve his flexibility he turns to Lyric Valenza who runs a local yoga studio. They are already part of the same friend group and he’s been attracted to her enough to ask her out but she declined. Lyric was married previously and it wasn’t happy. She has walls and defenses when it comes to attachment. But in order to keep an eye on a troubled high school teen she enlists Thatch’s help.
These books are very enjoyable contemporary romances. The author doesn’t throw in extra drama and she lets leads be passionate without explicit details. They do briefly fall into a fake dating situation but I like that the whole story doesn’t revolve around that. Lyric and Thatch both have issues from their past to resolve and their friend group is always there to support them. And of course having read the other books I was happy to catch up with the previous couples. I will be looking forward to Richardson’s next book and series.
Thatch Hearst wants to improve his standing as a bronc rider and is preparing for the upcoming rodeo days. To improve his flexibility he turns to Lyric Valenza who runs a local yoga studio. They are already part of the same friend group and he’s been attracted to her enough to ask her out but she declined. Lyric was married previously and it wasn’t happy. She has walls and defenses when it comes to attachment. But in order to keep an eye on a troubled high school teen she enlists Thatch’s help.
These books are very enjoyable contemporary romances. The author doesn’t throw in extra drama and she lets leads be passionate without explicit details. They do briefly fall into a fake dating situation but I like that the whole story doesn’t revolve around that. Lyric and Thatch both have issues from their past to resolve and their friend group is always there to support them. And of course having read the other books I was happy to catch up with the previous couples. I will be looking forward to Richardson’s next book and series.
February 17, 2024
Thatch Hearst has settled in Star Valley, WY, with his two SEAL brothers doing construction work together. He still has rodeo dreams and plans to compete in the upcoming Rodeo Days. He needs an edge though, and that's where yoga comes in.
Lyric Valenza loves owning her own yoga studio in Star Valley. She loves the picturesque view and her group of friends. And the cowboys? Well, been there, done that, zero stars, do not recommend. When Thatch comes to her for yoga lessons, she has her work cut out for her, not to mention her built-in bias against cowboys. But the more time they spend together, the more they work towards a common goal, the more Lyric realizes all cowboys aren’t cut from the same cloth.
No one does cowboys like this talented storyteller, and I loved Thatch and Lyric's story. I loved their group of friends, who are more like family, and I loved watching her confront her past so she could move on to a future with Thatch. Charming, witty, and heartfelt, if you enjoy a strong cowboy hero you'll love this one!
Lyric Valenza loves owning her own yoga studio in Star Valley. She loves the picturesque view and her group of friends. And the cowboys? Well, been there, done that, zero stars, do not recommend. When Thatch comes to her for yoga lessons, she has her work cut out for her, not to mention her built-in bias against cowboys. But the more time they spend together, the more they work towards a common goal, the more Lyric realizes all cowboys aren’t cut from the same cloth.
No one does cowboys like this talented storyteller, and I loved Thatch and Lyric's story. I loved their group of friends, who are more like family, and I loved watching her confront her past so she could move on to a future with Thatch. Charming, witty, and heartfelt, if you enjoy a strong cowboy hero you'll love this one!
April 2, 2025
When your friend pulls a book out of a Little Free Library in small town North Carolina and 7 months later gifts it to you for Christmas� You end up reading� this. 🤣
Counting on a Cowboy, which I’m going to apparently legitimately review, was probably the worst book I’ve ever read. Whether it was the formulaic romance, the horrific lack of editing (I think I counted 8-9 times when a character was called “the woman� or “the girl� because the editor hadn’t subbed in the character’s name?😂), the glorification of the U.S. military, the rampant gender norms, or the AI-esque writing, this was just simply awful in every way possible.
I feel like I need to say something nice because this book has so few reviews and that always makes me nervous that the author will read my review� 😅 It’s not you, it’s me..? 😬 I’m sure there are people who love steamy western romance, I’m just not one of them. I’m sure the author knows her audience and that’s just not me.
Thanks for this, Nathanael.
With enthusiasm, one star: ⭐️
Counting on a Cowboy, which I’m going to apparently legitimately review, was probably the worst book I’ve ever read. Whether it was the formulaic romance, the horrific lack of editing (I think I counted 8-9 times when a character was called “the woman� or “the girl� because the editor hadn’t subbed in the character’s name?😂), the glorification of the U.S. military, the rampant gender norms, or the AI-esque writing, this was just simply awful in every way possible.
I feel like I need to say something nice because this book has so few reviews and that always makes me nervous that the author will read my review� 😅 It’s not you, it’s me..? 😬 I’m sure there are people who love steamy western romance, I’m just not one of them. I’m sure the author knows her audience and that’s just not me.
Thanks for this, Nathanael.
With enthusiasm, one star: ⭐️
February 3, 2024
This book was exactly what I need to read. I have absolutely loved this series by Sara Richardson, and this one might be my favorite in the series. I'm sad that this one is done, but hopefully she makes a spin-off with all the kids. That would be amazing because I'm really not ready to leave this little town yet. This book had so many emotions (definitely check trigger warnings before you read if you have any). I honestly felt like I was on a roller coaster with the joy and pain I went through right along with these characters. If you are a small town cowboy book lover, you will not want to miss this one!
I received this book for free via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book for free via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 17, 2024
4⭐️
okay i am so thankful that i am done with this book! i literally don’t know why it took me so long to finish it, it wasn’t even bad lol. further before we get into the tea, i had no idea this was the third book of a series, i literally don’t know why i keep doing this (truly, my bad). because of this it felt like i didn’t know the setting and supporting characters very much, as the two main supporting couples have had their own books. further, i honestly still don’t know the difference between tess and kyra? like that is totally my bad and their differences are mentioned throughout the book but like everyone is pregnant and married to a military man so how am i supposed to know ??? now for the tea�.
starting with thatch (bae). i should’ve looked if his name was short for something before returning the book but very interesting name; is this name common in iowa farm boys ???? and like his younger brothers name is liam and his parents names are carl and nancy, so where did thatch come from (family name?) but anyways, i loved him. he’s so protecting and is so willing to allow lyric her space and time because he really doesn’t want to pressure her into anything. i love how he truly cares about her and when he was turned down he didn’t try and change lyrics mind but gave her space. he is a king and i also really love his willingness to give franco a job to help lyric with elina (is this how it’s spelled? sorry). anyways thatch is a king and his interactions with everyone are slay boots (literally). because this relates to thatch, how does bronc riding work? like i understand staying on the bronc for eight second is important but like why? is it the qualifying time or like what? and they’re scored for style but they’re scored in the 80s ? like where does the scale start? idk just something to think about, this also is probably just ignorance on my part, oops.
with lyrics character i am very conflicted. but also idk why i am so hard on the main woman characters in books, like that actually might be a problem. anyways, i liked her though. i definitely understood where her fear regarding elina and franco was coming from. further, i think the way it described her experiences with domestic violence and how she deals with that is realistic. it’s definitely a very hard thing and the way she reacts and deals with stuff feels very true. but sometimes the fear she experiences leads to her being somewhat bossy with thatch. she is scared that elina is experiencing dv so she NEEDS to fake date thatch and NEEDS thatch to give franco a job and NEEDS thatch to get close with franco. and thatch willingly does all this except he has some reservations about the fake dating because he is like really in love with her (he still does it though). like idk it just feels kind of bossy and unnecessary. further, i think she correlates franco to luke (abusive ex husband) too much which she admits later in the book. but this correlation kind of blinds her to elinas character. like as the reader it was obvious elina was behind a lot of the scheming going on and lyric was blaming it all on franco and being harsh. and then she found out it was elina, she was like “nooo we need to help her!� idk felt kind of hypocritical, sorry. and i think lyric is supposed to be latina? idk her last name is valenza and she feels latina. but also her eyes were described as exotic??? like sorry, i thought they were just brown? idk she might honestly not even be a person of color, i’m sorry, im confused.
despite not knowing all that much, i do like the supporting relationships and town. like small town?? YES PLEASE. nosy old ladies who know all the gossip ?? despite my fear of old people, YES PLEASE. idk it just gave good vibes all around. but gosh did this book run rampant with pregnancy. like the two main friends are both pregnant and thatch’s sister-in-law is surprise, pregnant! i’m surprised lyric didn’t end up pregnant by the end of the book lol. idk just something to think about.
overall i enjoyed the book despite it taking a literal month to finish (gosh). there was ups and downs, but who doesn’t love a cowboy romance? or fake dating romance? or small town romance? all the good tropes honestly wrapped into this one. if i was crazy i would read the other two books, but i fear it would take the rest of the year (and i’m not crazy)�
okay i am so thankful that i am done with this book! i literally don’t know why it took me so long to finish it, it wasn’t even bad lol. further before we get into the tea, i had no idea this was the third book of a series, i literally don’t know why i keep doing this (truly, my bad). because of this it felt like i didn’t know the setting and supporting characters very much, as the two main supporting couples have had their own books. further, i honestly still don’t know the difference between tess and kyra? like that is totally my bad and their differences are mentioned throughout the book but like everyone is pregnant and married to a military man so how am i supposed to know ??? now for the tea�.
starting with thatch (bae). i should’ve looked if his name was short for something before returning the book but very interesting name; is this name common in iowa farm boys ???? and like his younger brothers name is liam and his parents names are carl and nancy, so where did thatch come from (family name?) but anyways, i loved him. he’s so protecting and is so willing to allow lyric her space and time because he really doesn’t want to pressure her into anything. i love how he truly cares about her and when he was turned down he didn’t try and change lyrics mind but gave her space. he is a king and i also really love his willingness to give franco a job to help lyric with elina (is this how it’s spelled? sorry). anyways thatch is a king and his interactions with everyone are slay boots (literally). because this relates to thatch, how does bronc riding work? like i understand staying on the bronc for eight second is important but like why? is it the qualifying time or like what? and they’re scored for style but they’re scored in the 80s ? like where does the scale start? idk just something to think about, this also is probably just ignorance on my part, oops.
with lyrics character i am very conflicted. but also idk why i am so hard on the main woman characters in books, like that actually might be a problem. anyways, i liked her though. i definitely understood where her fear regarding elina and franco was coming from. further, i think the way it described her experiences with domestic violence and how she deals with that is realistic. it’s definitely a very hard thing and the way she reacts and deals with stuff feels very true. but sometimes the fear she experiences leads to her being somewhat bossy with thatch. she is scared that elina is experiencing dv so she NEEDS to fake date thatch and NEEDS thatch to give franco a job and NEEDS thatch to get close with franco. and thatch willingly does all this except he has some reservations about the fake dating because he is like really in love with her (he still does it though). like idk it just feels kind of bossy and unnecessary. further, i think she correlates franco to luke (abusive ex husband) too much which she admits later in the book. but this correlation kind of blinds her to elinas character. like as the reader it was obvious elina was behind a lot of the scheming going on and lyric was blaming it all on franco and being harsh. and then she found out it was elina, she was like “nooo we need to help her!� idk felt kind of hypocritical, sorry. and i think lyric is supposed to be latina? idk her last name is valenza and she feels latina. but also her eyes were described as exotic??? like sorry, i thought they were just brown? idk she might honestly not even be a person of color, i’m sorry, im confused.
despite not knowing all that much, i do like the supporting relationships and town. like small town?? YES PLEASE. nosy old ladies who know all the gossip ?? despite my fear of old people, YES PLEASE. idk it just gave good vibes all around. but gosh did this book run rampant with pregnancy. like the two main friends are both pregnant and thatch’s sister-in-law is surprise, pregnant! i’m surprised lyric didn’t end up pregnant by the end of the book lol. idk just something to think about.
overall i enjoyed the book despite it taking a literal month to finish (gosh). there was ups and downs, but who doesn’t love a cowboy romance? or fake dating romance? or small town romance? all the good tropes honestly wrapped into this one. if i was crazy i would read the other two books, but i fear it would take the rest of the year (and i’m not crazy)�
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 15, 2024
My Rating: 3.5 stars
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an e-arc.
Counting on a Cowboy follows Thatch and Lyric we get to see the story unfold from both of their pov's.
Thatch needs Lyrics help to get into shape for bronc riding, and even with their past of hurt feelings due to one-sided feelings, he takes the chance and asks her for help.
Lyric is unsure if she should help him or not, and ultimately she does because she thinks it will help her get closer to someone else.
Overall I did really enjoy this story. It was fun, quick, and I loved how Thatch let everything go at Lyrics' pace when it came to their friendship. While this is the third book in a companion series I was able to get caught up with everything that had happened in the previous books quickly and didn't feel like anything was left out or that I was missing anything. We see our two main characters' relationship unfold while also knowing why they are a little cautious about moving forward with things based on their pasts. This story did such a good job of bringing things to a close, while also showing that the future can be bright if it's with the right person.
This book is perfect for those who love some angst, fake dating, and a side of spicy.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an e-arc.
Counting on a Cowboy follows Thatch and Lyric we get to see the story unfold from both of their pov's.
Thatch needs Lyrics help to get into shape for bronc riding, and even with their past of hurt feelings due to one-sided feelings, he takes the chance and asks her for help.
Lyric is unsure if she should help him or not, and ultimately she does because she thinks it will help her get closer to someone else.
Overall I did really enjoy this story. It was fun, quick, and I loved how Thatch let everything go at Lyrics' pace when it came to their friendship. While this is the third book in a companion series I was able to get caught up with everything that had happened in the previous books quickly and didn't feel like anything was left out or that I was missing anything. We see our two main characters' relationship unfold while also knowing why they are a little cautious about moving forward with things based on their pasts. This story did such a good job of bringing things to a close, while also showing that the future can be bright if it's with the right person.
This book is perfect for those who love some angst, fake dating, and a side of spicy.
July 3, 2024
Book #68 read in 2024
I quickly realized it was the third in a series when I started this. While it can be read as a standalone, I did feel I was missing some of the connections and background. That being said, I really loved Thatch and Lyric. Fake dating is one of my favorite tropes, and this didn't disappoint. There were some heavy themes in it, so it might be necessary to look at the trigger warnings. I think Sara Richardson will be my go-to for cowboy romance, starting with the beginning of this series.
Thank you to Forever for the complimentary ebook.
I quickly realized it was the third in a series when I started this. While it can be read as a standalone, I did feel I was missing some of the connections and background. That being said, I really loved Thatch and Lyric. Fake dating is one of my favorite tropes, and this didn't disappoint. There were some heavy themes in it, so it might be necessary to look at the trigger warnings. I think Sara Richardson will be my go-to for cowboy romance, starting with the beginning of this series.
Thank you to Forever for the complimentary ebook.
April 2, 2024
This is Thatch and Lyrics story.
Thatch is settled in Star Valley with his brothers and their construction firm but has secretly taken up bronc riding in hopes of joining the rodeo circuit. He's due to compete in an upcoming event but his trainer thinks that he's too stiff and needs to improve his flexibility in order to be a real competitor. Lyric is a yoga instructer that Thatch has been interested in for a while but who has turned him down. She was previously married and has built a wall around her heart and her defenses are high for the opposite sex. She's just started a yoga class with high school girls who are trying to make up for missing/failed gym credits but she's drawn to one of the girls in particular when she sees an incident between the girl and her boyfriend. When Thatch reaches out to Lyric for private yoga lessons to help with his bronc riding, Lyric decides that maybe they can help eachother out. She will help him with his flexibility and keep his bronc riding secrets if he helps her keep an eye on the young couple. It turns into a fake dating situation when their friends start noticing the time they are spending together and it doesn't hurt that them acting as a couple helps in keeping an eye on the younger couple. As usual in these situations the fake relationship starts to become very real but will Thatches connections to the rodeo and Lyrics past be the roadblock that keeps them from their happy ever after?
I have really enjoyed every book in this series and Sara Richardson's writing style. I like that the stories aren't full of over the top drama and I really love her characters. Thatch isn't pushy about his feelings for Lyric and gives her the space she needs from him while also being so supportive and protective of her and he's very level-headed about the young couple situation and tries to help Lyric from projecting her history onto their relationship. Lyric was at times a little over the top with her assumptions but given her history, it's completely understandable. Neither of them love misleading their friends about their relationship or Thatch's rodeo dreams so they are careful to not be too misleading but they also aren't afraid of leaning into their feelings when necessary.
Overall, this was a really great addition/ending to this series and I look forward to reading more from Sara Richardson.
*I recieved an early copy from NetGalley for voluntary review
Thatch is settled in Star Valley with his brothers and their construction firm but has secretly taken up bronc riding in hopes of joining the rodeo circuit. He's due to compete in an upcoming event but his trainer thinks that he's too stiff and needs to improve his flexibility in order to be a real competitor. Lyric is a yoga instructer that Thatch has been interested in for a while but who has turned him down. She was previously married and has built a wall around her heart and her defenses are high for the opposite sex. She's just started a yoga class with high school girls who are trying to make up for missing/failed gym credits but she's drawn to one of the girls in particular when she sees an incident between the girl and her boyfriend. When Thatch reaches out to Lyric for private yoga lessons to help with his bronc riding, Lyric decides that maybe they can help eachother out. She will help him with his flexibility and keep his bronc riding secrets if he helps her keep an eye on the young couple. It turns into a fake dating situation when their friends start noticing the time they are spending together and it doesn't hurt that them acting as a couple helps in keeping an eye on the younger couple. As usual in these situations the fake relationship starts to become very real but will Thatches connections to the rodeo and Lyrics past be the roadblock that keeps them from their happy ever after?
I have really enjoyed every book in this series and Sara Richardson's writing style. I like that the stories aren't full of over the top drama and I really love her characters. Thatch isn't pushy about his feelings for Lyric and gives her the space she needs from him while also being so supportive and protective of her and he's very level-headed about the young couple situation and tries to help Lyric from projecting her history onto their relationship. Lyric was at times a little over the top with her assumptions but given her history, it's completely understandable. Neither of them love misleading their friends about their relationship or Thatch's rodeo dreams so they are careful to not be too misleading but they also aren't afraid of leaning into their feelings when necessary.
Overall, this was a really great addition/ending to this series and I look forward to reading more from Sara Richardson.
*I recieved an early copy from NetGalley for voluntary review
February 11, 2024
Counting on a Cowboy is the third and final book in Sara Richardson's Star Valley series, and although I've read and reviewed the first two books in the series, aside from the first novel, I barely recalled the previously read and reviewed two novels well enough to have a feeling of continuity with the characters in the series, one of the main reasons why I cound't give this novel more than a 3-star rating.
First a trigger warning--this novel deals with both domestic violence, and alcoholism, all of it off-screen, but if those are issues for you, you might want to choose something else to read.
The hero in this novel is Thatch, a former Navy SEAL, and the heroine (of sorts), Lyric, a yoga teacher, who had, in a previous novel refused Thatch's request for a date--still traumatized by the fact that many years ago she's been married to an abusive husband, Luke. My issues with this novel are rather simple--there was no real explanation as to why Lyric hadn't sought pshychological help to deal with her abuse. Yes, I know that many victims of domestic violence have a hard time talking about it, but I've known several women who suffered far more physical and emotional abuse at the hands of their partners than did Lyric, and for far longer than the 2 years of her marriage. Her refusal to even tell her closest friends about it just struck a wrong chord with this reader.
I liked Thatch far more than I did Lyric. He's been attracted to her for years, been rebuffed and ignored by Lyric, and is still fuming over the fact that his younger brother, Liam, married Sierra, to whom Thatch was engaged, and while he was deployed overseas as a SEAL. Lyric is the only woman in the 8 years since that brotherly betrayal who's sparked his interestm and he and Liam have really spoken, and again, that happens very late in this novel. While I really liked Thatch's protective and laid back demeanor as he and Lyric pretend to fake-date so that Lyric can get closer to one her 15-year-old yoga students, Elina, who appears to have, at first, a boyfriend with a violent nature, but I kept asking myself over and over again, why on earth Lyric didn't get help for her own issues before trying to help someone else with whom she believed was another victim of domestic violence. Additionally, her on again-off again relationship with Thatch, who was incredibly low-key and willing to accept whatever little crumbss of herself Lyric she was willing to offer him simply struck me as cruel.
Additionally, with Thatch knowing Lyric's ex-husband from his rodeo days, he fails to warn Lyric that her ex will be in Star Valley for Rodeo Days, a huge event in this small town. When she sees Luke enter the local diner, she freaks out and runs from Thatch's family dinner and from her deeply caring best friends. Again, it just didn't ring true for this reader.
Yes, there's the expected HEA ending in your future, this is a romance after all, but the aforementioned issues made this novel just a so-so read, and while many of you may enjoy it more than I did, the missed oppotunites to really delve into healing from and moving forward after marital domestic violence just kept me from really loving this novel.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
First a trigger warning--this novel deals with both domestic violence, and alcoholism, all of it off-screen, but if those are issues for you, you might want to choose something else to read.
The hero in this novel is Thatch, a former Navy SEAL, and the heroine (of sorts), Lyric, a yoga teacher, who had, in a previous novel refused Thatch's request for a date--still traumatized by the fact that many years ago she's been married to an abusive husband, Luke. My issues with this novel are rather simple--there was no real explanation as to why Lyric hadn't sought pshychological help to deal with her abuse. Yes, I know that many victims of domestic violence have a hard time talking about it, but I've known several women who suffered far more physical and emotional abuse at the hands of their partners than did Lyric, and for far longer than the 2 years of her marriage. Her refusal to even tell her closest friends about it just struck a wrong chord with this reader.
I liked Thatch far more than I did Lyric. He's been attracted to her for years, been rebuffed and ignored by Lyric, and is still fuming over the fact that his younger brother, Liam, married Sierra, to whom Thatch was engaged, and while he was deployed overseas as a SEAL. Lyric is the only woman in the 8 years since that brotherly betrayal who's sparked his interestm and he and Liam have really spoken, and again, that happens very late in this novel. While I really liked Thatch's protective and laid back demeanor as he and Lyric pretend to fake-date so that Lyric can get closer to one her 15-year-old yoga students, Elina, who appears to have, at first, a boyfriend with a violent nature, but I kept asking myself over and over again, why on earth Lyric didn't get help for her own issues before trying to help someone else with whom she believed was another victim of domestic violence. Additionally, her on again-off again relationship with Thatch, who was incredibly low-key and willing to accept whatever little crumbss of herself Lyric she was willing to offer him simply struck me as cruel.
Additionally, with Thatch knowing Lyric's ex-husband from his rodeo days, he fails to warn Lyric that her ex will be in Star Valley for Rodeo Days, a huge event in this small town. When she sees Luke enter the local diner, she freaks out and runs from Thatch's family dinner and from her deeply caring best friends. Again, it just didn't ring true for this reader.
Yes, there's the expected HEA ending in your future, this is a romance after all, but the aforementioned issues made this novel just a so-so read, and while many of you may enjoy it more than I did, the missed oppotunites to really delve into healing from and moving forward after marital domestic violence just kept me from really loving this novel.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
February 16, 2024
This book was a great read. Lyric and Thatch are two characters that I instantly liked and needed to know more about. She is a yoga instructor and he is a former SEAL, now part owner of a construction company who has secretly taken up riding broncs in the rodeo. Their story is fascinating, rather sweet and touching, with just the right amount of spice. These two have certainly been put through the wringer when it comes to relationships, and they are very guarded when it comes to relationships and love. Thatch was betrayed by his fiancée and his brother while he was deployed. When they later married, Thatch distanced himself from them and, unfortunately, the rest of his family to some extent. Lyric’s ex husband was controlling and abusive.. She finally found the courage to leave him and seek a divorce. She hasn’t seen or heard from him since and wants to keep it that way. Understandably, Lyric has trouble trusting any man, or herself to some degree.
All of their friends can see that Lyric and Thatch are attracted to each other and that they suit each other well and are waiting for them to make a move. Thatch did ask Lyric to go out with him, but she turned him down, her past still very much a factor. Her concern for a young teenage girl whom she feels might be in danger from her boyfriend, leads Lyric to agree to give Thatch yoga lessons if he will help her keep an eye on the teenage couple. Thatch’s bronc riding coach suggested taking yoga might help his form, which will help get him more points in the upcoming rodeo. His arrival at her yoga studio before her teenage girl students leave, leads to a fake dating relationship between Thatch and Lyric as a cover story. Of course the small town grapevine soon spreads the news they are dating far and wide. They are soon subjected to congratulations, advice and encouragement from their close friends. One stolen kiss in front of a witness leads to the need for more. Both feel the attraction and surge of heat between them. That h has known for a long time that he has deeper feelings for Lyric, that he wants to claim her for his own. Lyric’s past trauma has made her bury her feelings and deny they exist. That kiss, however, proves she still has desires and she wants to give this connection she feels with Thatch a chance.
Their fake relationship soon becomes much more real, much more intimate. Can they leave the past behind and learn to trust their hearts and each other? What happens when the are confronted by their pasts? Will they reach for each other or will they retreat? Read this well-written, very engaging book to discover how their story unfolds.
I highly recommend this wonderful book. It’s a keeper!
All of their friends can see that Lyric and Thatch are attracted to each other and that they suit each other well and are waiting for them to make a move. Thatch did ask Lyric to go out with him, but she turned him down, her past still very much a factor. Her concern for a young teenage girl whom she feels might be in danger from her boyfriend, leads Lyric to agree to give Thatch yoga lessons if he will help her keep an eye on the teenage couple. Thatch’s bronc riding coach suggested taking yoga might help his form, which will help get him more points in the upcoming rodeo. His arrival at her yoga studio before her teenage girl students leave, leads to a fake dating relationship between Thatch and Lyric as a cover story. Of course the small town grapevine soon spreads the news they are dating far and wide. They are soon subjected to congratulations, advice and encouragement from their close friends. One stolen kiss in front of a witness leads to the need for more. Both feel the attraction and surge of heat between them. That h has known for a long time that he has deeper feelings for Lyric, that he wants to claim her for his own. Lyric’s past trauma has made her bury her feelings and deny they exist. That kiss, however, proves she still has desires and she wants to give this connection she feels with Thatch a chance.
Their fake relationship soon becomes much more real, much more intimate. Can they leave the past behind and learn to trust their hearts and each other? What happens when the are confronted by their pasts? Will they reach for each other or will they retreat? Read this well-written, very engaging book to discover how their story unfolds.
I highly recommend this wonderful book. It’s a keeper!
February 18, 2024
3.75stars-COUNTING ON A COWBOY is the third instalment in Sara Richardson’s contemporary, adult STAR VALLEY romance series. This is retired US navy SEAL /construction worker/ bronc rider Thatch Hearst, and yoga instructor Lyric Valenza’s story line. COUNTING ON A COWBOY can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Lyric and Thatch) COUNTING ON A COWBOY follows the fake but building relationship between our story line couple. Thatch Hearst is struggling in his training for an upcoming rodeo, and a suggestion to try yoga is just what was needed. Thatch has been lusting after local yoga instructor Lyric Valenza for as long as he can remember but Lyric’s outright refusal at Thatch’s attempts made life a little more difficult but having witnessed a possible case of domestic abuse, Lyric agrees to Thatch’s request in exchange for helping her uncover the truth. A fake relationship that will turn into something more hits a road block when Lyric is unable to let go of the past, a past that continues to control her present. What ensues is the building relationship between Lyric and Thatch,and the potential fall-out as Lyric runs at the first sign of trouble.
The world building focuses on betrayal and domestic abuse. Lyric struggles to trust; to open her heart to a potential future with Thatch but Thatch has his own fair share of betrayal, and in this, the face of his betrayers are someone he once loved.
The relationship between Thatch and Lyric is one of tepid friendship as Lyric continues to push Thatch away at every opportunity. Everyone suspects Thatch is in love with our story line heroine but Lyric struggles to open her heat to something new. The $ex scenes are passionate but mostly implied.
There is a large ensemble cast of charismatic secondary and supporting characters many of whom we met in the previous instalments including Aiden and Kyra (Waiting on a Christmas Cowboy), Tess and Silas (Betting on a Good Luck Cowboy), as well as several local high school girls, and Thatch’s large extended family.
COUNTING ON A COWBOY is a story of betrayal and heart break, family and friendships, relationships and love. The premise is captivating and intriguing but the return of Lyric’s past is slightly underwhelming. The romance is understated yet affectionate; the characters are desperate and dynamic.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Lyric and Thatch) COUNTING ON A COWBOY follows the fake but building relationship between our story line couple. Thatch Hearst is struggling in his training for an upcoming rodeo, and a suggestion to try yoga is just what was needed. Thatch has been lusting after local yoga instructor Lyric Valenza for as long as he can remember but Lyric’s outright refusal at Thatch’s attempts made life a little more difficult but having witnessed a possible case of domestic abuse, Lyric agrees to Thatch’s request in exchange for helping her uncover the truth. A fake relationship that will turn into something more hits a road block when Lyric is unable to let go of the past, a past that continues to control her present. What ensues is the building relationship between Lyric and Thatch,and the potential fall-out as Lyric runs at the first sign of trouble.
The world building focuses on betrayal and domestic abuse. Lyric struggles to trust; to open her heart to a potential future with Thatch but Thatch has his own fair share of betrayal, and in this, the face of his betrayers are someone he once loved.
The relationship between Thatch and Lyric is one of tepid friendship as Lyric continues to push Thatch away at every opportunity. Everyone suspects Thatch is in love with our story line heroine but Lyric struggles to open her heat to something new. The $ex scenes are passionate but mostly implied.
There is a large ensemble cast of charismatic secondary and supporting characters many of whom we met in the previous instalments including Aiden and Kyra (Waiting on a Christmas Cowboy), Tess and Silas (Betting on a Good Luck Cowboy), as well as several local high school girls, and Thatch’s large extended family.
COUNTING ON A COWBOY is a story of betrayal and heart break, family and friendships, relationships and love. The premise is captivating and intriguing but the return of Lyric’s past is slightly underwhelming. The romance is understated yet affectionate; the characters are desperate and dynamic.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
Read
February 4, 2024After lyric rejected Thach at Kira in Aidans Christmas party he has been avoiding her every time he sees her in town. When his bull riding Coach Kirby tells him he needs to focus on his form and maybe yoga will help Thach goes to the only yoga teacher he knows and that’s lyric. The only problem is when he ask her she is ambivalent about helping him but when a problem arises with one of her teenage students the shoe is on the other foot and now she needs his help it just happens to be the same day. She believes one of her yoga students is being physically abused by her boyfriend and wants Thach to mentor her boyfriend to see what kind of guy he is. He agrees and gives the boy a job at country construction a few days later things get even more problematic when lyric Tess and Kira are shopping and see the couple out and lyric hears Franco tell his girlfriend to shut up! Soon lyric and thattch are pretending to be a couple not only to hide his yoga classes but so they could get closer to the teen couple but not all is as it appears not with the team couple nor with lyric and Thatch’s and all they’re pretending. They can only hide their true feelings for so long but when it looks like they’re going to give it a chance lyrics past comes riding into town, right after Thatch’s Family arrive for the rodeo days and to have dinner with his new girlfriend, Unfortunately she is nowhere to be found. I have really enjoyed the Star Valley cowboy books and wish there could be more but I know they cannot the author really knows how to take a genre whose ending is almost guaranteed and still keep the reader invested in the story the only thing I don’t like is all in this book it seems bad behavior is either ignored or forgiven because what Thatch’s brother and ex fiancé did and for him to just be like oh well they’re better together than we were in after what lyric did and for him to be so forgiving I DK it just seems like no one gets angry in these books anymore not saying they should be but that just seems like things that in real life people wouldn’t be so Kosher with if you know what I’m saying. In any event I still love the book it is a solid four star read and one I highly recommend. I want to thank the author publisher and net galley for my free Ark copy please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
March 8, 2024
3.5 stars
I love Lyric and Tatch, and that’s why this story frustrated me so much. Just like their friends have seen it all along, throughout this series it was obvious to me these two would be fire together. This story starts with the revelation that Tatch feels that connection and has asked Lyric out, but was turned down. None of their friends know this, but things have gotten a bit awkward between Tatch and Lyric. They become even more awkward when they end up in a fake relationship, almost by accident.
Fake romance stories are usually my cup of tea. Yet the feelings Tatch already has for Lyric when it begins, as well as the knowledge that Lyric wasn’t going to let herself give into her feelings for this great guy, had me leery. Yet when it came to the relationship that grows between these two, it works. Yes, there are some mixed signals Lyric is throwing out, but she was also opening up to Tatch and starting to feel safe with him. It was lovely.
Where my frustration comes in has to do (mostly) with the timeline. It seemed the rodeo would be in just a couple of weeks, then it was more than a month away, then it was next week, etc. As far as I could tell, Tatch only had one yoga session before they were talking about how great yoga was doing for his bronc riding performance. Plus, the yoga aspect of this book was another thing that bothered me. As someone who has practiced yoga for many years and at many different levels, I have to say that Lyric is a terrible yoga instructor. I’m no expert, but I did expect an author with so many books under her belt to consult an expert. It may not bother someone who has never done yoga or is a beginner, but it was annoying me every time she was “teaching� someone. Not to mention the pupils she had, from Tatch to his family to the high school students, who were totally disrespectful of her when she was trying to teach them. I know it seems a silly thing, but it comes up a lot throughout the story so I couldn’t let it go.
Thankfully, that connection I mentioned between the couple saved this story. As well as their wonderful friends and other side characters. But I can’t help but lament how much better this book could have been with a few tweaks.
**I received an ARC of this book courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely**
I love Lyric and Tatch, and that’s why this story frustrated me so much. Just like their friends have seen it all along, throughout this series it was obvious to me these two would be fire together. This story starts with the revelation that Tatch feels that connection and has asked Lyric out, but was turned down. None of their friends know this, but things have gotten a bit awkward between Tatch and Lyric. They become even more awkward when they end up in a fake relationship, almost by accident.
Fake romance stories are usually my cup of tea. Yet the feelings Tatch already has for Lyric when it begins, as well as the knowledge that Lyric wasn’t going to let herself give into her feelings for this great guy, had me leery. Yet when it came to the relationship that grows between these two, it works. Yes, there are some mixed signals Lyric is throwing out, but she was also opening up to Tatch and starting to feel safe with him. It was lovely.
Where my frustration comes in has to do (mostly) with the timeline. It seemed the rodeo would be in just a couple of weeks, then it was more than a month away, then it was next week, etc. As far as I could tell, Tatch only had one yoga session before they were talking about how great yoga was doing for his bronc riding performance. Plus, the yoga aspect of this book was another thing that bothered me. As someone who has practiced yoga for many years and at many different levels, I have to say that Lyric is a terrible yoga instructor. I’m no expert, but I did expect an author with so many books under her belt to consult an expert. It may not bother someone who has never done yoga or is a beginner, but it was annoying me every time she was “teaching� someone. Not to mention the pupils she had, from Tatch to his family to the high school students, who were totally disrespectful of her when she was trying to teach them. I know it seems a silly thing, but it comes up a lot throughout the story so I couldn’t let it go.
Thankfully, that connection I mentioned between the couple saved this story. As well as their wonderful friends and other side characters. But I can’t help but lament how much better this book could have been with a few tweaks.
**I received an ARC of this book courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely**
January 19, 2024
Read my review on NovelsAlive.com by clicking the link below. It is also posted in full.
Counting on a Cowboy by Sara Richardson is the third and final book in the Star Valley series, and I’m sorry to see it end.
We reunite with Lyric and Thatch, characters we’ve met before, and catch up on their lives. Their story is truly a feel-good story with a lot of kindness and compassion towards others, but it also has secrets and lies as they try to figure out what comes next.
What starts as friends turns into a fake relationship, but is it? Lyric and Thatch feel things for each other that they have never felt before, even though Lyric was married previously and Thatch was engaged. But neither is looking for a relationship, but are they just fooling themselves? Everyone around them sees the looks, glances, and touches and knows they are in denial.
Family dynamics are at play along with a depth to the characters and layers to the story. There are a lot of stories related throughout, and they weave together nicely, with most loose ends tied up by the end. There is romance, romantic gestures, friends who are like family, reminisces, anger, tears, hurtful memories, and lots of physical activities. There are vivid descriptions of the town, the ranches, and some businesses.
There is a nice flow to the story and closure, but since this is the last book in the series, I would have loved an extended epilogue to really tie up all the stories. Ms. Richardson is an author whose books I enjoy—especially since they are full of rugged cowboys.
Counting on a Cowboy is a fast-paced, contemporary romance filled with characters who have become friends that kept me turning the pages to see what would happen next. Give Ms. Richardson’s books a try if you haven’t already. You won’t be sorry!
Counting on a Cowboy by Sara Richardson is the third and final book in the Star Valley series, and I’m sorry to see it end.
We reunite with Lyric and Thatch, characters we’ve met before, and catch up on their lives. Their story is truly a feel-good story with a lot of kindness and compassion towards others, but it also has secrets and lies as they try to figure out what comes next.
What starts as friends turns into a fake relationship, but is it? Lyric and Thatch feel things for each other that they have never felt before, even though Lyric was married previously and Thatch was engaged. But neither is looking for a relationship, but are they just fooling themselves? Everyone around them sees the looks, glances, and touches and knows they are in denial.
Family dynamics are at play along with a depth to the characters and layers to the story. There are a lot of stories related throughout, and they weave together nicely, with most loose ends tied up by the end. There is romance, romantic gestures, friends who are like family, reminisces, anger, tears, hurtful memories, and lots of physical activities. There are vivid descriptions of the town, the ranches, and some businesses.
There is a nice flow to the story and closure, but since this is the last book in the series, I would have loved an extended epilogue to really tie up all the stories. Ms. Richardson is an author whose books I enjoy—especially since they are full of rugged cowboys.
Counting on a Cowboy is a fast-paced, contemporary romance filled with characters who have become friends that kept me turning the pages to see what would happen next. Give Ms. Richardson’s books a try if you haven’t already. You won’t be sorry!
February 19, 2024
Counting on a Cowboy By Sara Richardson is an engaging story about two people who don’t want to fall in love, Thatch and Lyric. Thatch is an ex-SEAL, which explains a lot, but his fiancee had fallen in love with his brother while he was gone, and married him, so he had some trust issues. He missed the adrenaline rush of being a SEAL so he was practicing to become a bronc rider. His coach didn’t know what to tell him to get him over the hump so he recommended he try yoga. Great! The yoga teacher was Lyric who had told him she wasn’t interested months before. She was a woman who was recovering from abuse at the hands of her then-husband. Both had secrets, but being thrown together like this was breaking down their walls. In addition, Lyric had seen what she though was abusive behavior at the hands of a young man named Franco, toward one of her students, Elina. She interfered and they both resented it. She enlisted Thatch to get to know the young man and help her figure it out.
Both of these are really good characters, strong, and yet, vulnerable. They tried to work it out in many ways, and nearly did before Lyric reached a breaking point. For a SEAL and a bronc rider, Thatch was a patient and forgiving man and he gave Lyric all the space she needed to come to him on her own. It was kind of heart wrenching to watch. Lyric ended up confronting her ex and it cleaned away some of the cobwebs. This was a wonderful book, with several contemporary problems addressed. The whole of Star Valley is filled with interesting and generous characters who just want to help. It is a very positive read. Thanks Sara Richardson for giving it to us!
I was invited to read Counting on A Cowboy by by Forever (Grand Central Publishing). All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #ForeverGrandCentralPublishing #SaraRichardson #CountingOnACowboy
Both of these are really good characters, strong, and yet, vulnerable. They tried to work it out in many ways, and nearly did before Lyric reached a breaking point. For a SEAL and a bronc rider, Thatch was a patient and forgiving man and he gave Lyric all the space she needed to come to him on her own. It was kind of heart wrenching to watch. Lyric ended up confronting her ex and it cleaned away some of the cobwebs. This was a wonderful book, with several contemporary problems addressed. The whole of Star Valley is filled with interesting and generous characters who just want to help. It is a very positive read. Thanks Sara Richardson for giving it to us!
I was invited to read Counting on A Cowboy by by Forever (Grand Central Publishing). All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #ForeverGrandCentralPublishing #SaraRichardson #CountingOnACowboy
February 21, 2024
Counting on a Cowboy is the third book in the Star Valley series and it's a great addition! While it can be read as a standalone, I do think it's better enjoyed after reading the first two books as the other couples are also in this book as well.
Thatch Hearst is a retired Navy SEAL who has come back to Star Valley, but never really intended to stay. He's been in town for four years now working with his friends in a construction company and also trying his hand at becoming a bronc rider.
Lyric Valenza is a yoga teacher who had a less than ideal marriage, and so isn't looking to date or have any type of attachments. She's perfectly fine with her business and her friends
Knowing that he needs to become more flexible to become a better rider, Thatch knows that Lyric is the person to help him. He approaches her and asks her to give him yoga lessons. Lyric isn't thrilled to be teaching a cowboy considering she has a bias against them since her ex-husband was one, but she agrees to help him anyway.
As the two begin to spend time together, it's obvious that there is a connection there whether either one wants to admit it or not. Can Thatch show Lyric that not all cowboys are like her ex?
I really enjoyed the way this story unfolded and how the relationship between Thatch and Lyric developed. Add in their group of friends and it was such a wonderful journey to go on! I appreciated that Lyric recognized that she had to face her past before she could truly move forward and the way she did that was inspiring. This is one I would recommend picking up!
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
Thatch Hearst is a retired Navy SEAL who has come back to Star Valley, but never really intended to stay. He's been in town for four years now working with his friends in a construction company and also trying his hand at becoming a bronc rider.
Lyric Valenza is a yoga teacher who had a less than ideal marriage, and so isn't looking to date or have any type of attachments. She's perfectly fine with her business and her friends
Knowing that he needs to become more flexible to become a better rider, Thatch knows that Lyric is the person to help him. He approaches her and asks her to give him yoga lessons. Lyric isn't thrilled to be teaching a cowboy considering she has a bias against them since her ex-husband was one, but she agrees to help him anyway.
As the two begin to spend time together, it's obvious that there is a connection there whether either one wants to admit it or not. Can Thatch show Lyric that not all cowboys are like her ex?
I really enjoyed the way this story unfolded and how the relationship between Thatch and Lyric developed. Add in their group of friends and it was such a wonderful journey to go on! I appreciated that Lyric recognized that she had to face her past before she could truly move forward and the way she did that was inspiring. This is one I would recommend picking up!
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
June 30, 2024
Entertaining story about two people that get a second chance at love. I did not read the previous books in the series, but the author provided plenty of back story, so no problem. The six main characters were all in the previous books. Three ex-SEALS come to Star Vally to help the widow of their fallen comrade. Thatch Hearst has his eye on yoga teacher Lyric Valenza, but she shoots him down, because she has still not recovered from her abusive husband, despite not seeing him since their divorce six years ago.It doesn't help his case that he is learning to ride broncos to have a challenge and her ex is a champion bronco rider. But because she has jaundiced vision, she sees abusive where there isn't any and concocts this scheme for a pretend romance so she can keep her eye on one of her students and her boyfriend. In exchange she would work with Hatch on his flexibility with yoga. Hatch Thatch also has his issues, as his fiancee feel in love with his little brother, while he was overseas and he hasn't spoken to his brother since their wedding 8 years ago. But everyone in Star Valley sees that they are perfect for each other. Lyric just has to let go of her past. I loved Thatch from the beginning, but it took a while for Lyric to grow on me, especially when she gave Hatch crow pose on his first lesson. I've been doing yoga for years and still can't do crow pose.
I read a gifted Advanced Reader's Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.com. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
I read a gifted Advanced Reader's Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.com. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
January 28, 2024
The readers are taken back to Star Valley in this latest and last book in the series.
Star Valley is the place where three former Navy SEALs moved to. Their reason: help the widow of their buddy who got killed in Afghanistan during a mission.
Little by little two have found their special person and a new life in Star Valley.
Still unattached is Thatch Hearst. He’s had his eyes on the pretty yoga teacher, Lyric Valenza. But after she told him she wasn’t interested, Thatch has kept his distance but his heart still has not gotten the message.
Lyric’s past experiences in love and marriage left her broken but little by little she’s been rebuilding her life with no interest in men.
Meanwhile Thatch has secretly been training to be a bronco rider and preparing to compete in the upcoming rodeo. Advised he needed to loosen up, he seeks Lyric. One thing leads to another, a trade and a fake relationship is created. A relationship everyone believes and one that is crossing the lines to more.
But when Lyric’s past comes to town, so do her fears. In the end will these two find their way back to each other, or will Lyric’s fears stop them from finding their HEA?
This is a story about trust, domestic abuse, family, whether by blood or friendships , and second chances in life and love.
Though I am still partial to book one in the series, this one was still an entertaining story.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Star Valley is the place where three former Navy SEALs moved to. Their reason: help the widow of their buddy who got killed in Afghanistan during a mission.
Little by little two have found their special person and a new life in Star Valley.
Still unattached is Thatch Hearst. He’s had his eyes on the pretty yoga teacher, Lyric Valenza. But after she told him she wasn’t interested, Thatch has kept his distance but his heart still has not gotten the message.
Lyric’s past experiences in love and marriage left her broken but little by little she’s been rebuilding her life with no interest in men.
Meanwhile Thatch has secretly been training to be a bronco rider and preparing to compete in the upcoming rodeo. Advised he needed to loosen up, he seeks Lyric. One thing leads to another, a trade and a fake relationship is created. A relationship everyone believes and one that is crossing the lines to more.
But when Lyric’s past comes to town, so do her fears. In the end will these two find their way back to each other, or will Lyric’s fears stop them from finding their HEA?
This is a story about trust, domestic abuse, family, whether by blood or friendships , and second chances in life and love.
Though I am still partial to book one in the series, this one was still an entertaining story.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
December 31, 2023
This was an easy read for me. The story is good: Lyric has escaped an abusive marriage, Thatch was left by his fiancé. They’ve both been hurt, and avoid attachments because of it. Of course, they’re drawn to one another, but she fights it. In order to try to help a young lady whom Lyric suspects is in an abusive relationship, she and Thatch pretend to date.
What really bothered me the whole time is how secretive they both were about their past relationships. Presumably, they have known each other for a decent amount of time, as they are part of a small friend group together. I can never see what there is to benefit by keeping past hurts a secret. Maybe they felt shame about it, but in reality, neither of them were to blame for their pasts.
The way Lyric viewed the relationship between the high school couple was viewed through her lense of abuse, so she made assumptions that were not accurate. The trouble in the high-schooler’s relationship was far different than Lyric expected, and when it was revealed, Lyric was able to help.
Ultimately, Thatch and Lyric realize they are in love, and HEA ensues. This was a good book, not anything incredibly mind-blowing. It followed the typical romance formula, which I do appreciate. I like knowing I’ll get a good read with a happy ending, and this one delivered.
What really bothered me the whole time is how secretive they both were about their past relationships. Presumably, they have known each other for a decent amount of time, as they are part of a small friend group together. I can never see what there is to benefit by keeping past hurts a secret. Maybe they felt shame about it, but in reality, neither of them were to blame for their pasts.
The way Lyric viewed the relationship between the high school couple was viewed through her lense of abuse, so she made assumptions that were not accurate. The trouble in the high-schooler’s relationship was far different than Lyric expected, and when it was revealed, Lyric was able to help.
Ultimately, Thatch and Lyric realize they are in love, and HEA ensues. This was a good book, not anything incredibly mind-blowing. It followed the typical romance formula, which I do appreciate. I like knowing I’ll get a good read with a happy ending, and this one delivered.
December 24, 2023
This is the third book and final book in the Star Valley series. The series centers around three ex Navy Seals who has come back to work on the ranch to take care of their friend Jace Valdez”s widowed sister, Tess and her two daughters. Thatch Hearst is the last of the Seal’s to find his happily ever after. He has been flirting with Lyric Valenza throughout the past two books, but after getting rejected by her, has decided to back off. Lyric is attracted to Thatch, but has kept him at arms length due to her past traumatic relationship. When Lyric suspects an abusive relationship between a local teen couple, she decides that a fake relationship with Thatch is the best way to observe them. Why does Thatch go along with this crazy scheme? Well, he has decided to become a competitive Bronc rider, and needs Lyric’s private yoga classes to help him win.. The set up is a little weak, I mean what teenage couple wants to hang out with folks ten years older. If you can get past this set up, the rest of the book is enjoyable. Both Lyric and Thatch have past relationship issues they have to work through, but once they do, they are a great couple. I really enjoyed this series and am a bit sad to see it end. I received an arc of this book from NetGalley for my honest review.
January 2, 2024
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
In "Counting on a Cowboy," Sara Richardson crafts a heartwarming tale that seamlessly blends romance, family dynamics, and the allure of small-town life. The story follows Lucy Ryan, a resilient and independent woman with a penchant for numbers, who finds herself entangled with the charismatic and mysterious Wyatt Dodge. The chemistry between Lucy and Wyatt is palpable, creating a delightful romantic tension that keeps readers eagerly turning the pages.
Richardson's vivid descriptions bring the charming town of Haven to life, making it a character in its own right. The author skillfully weaves a narrative that not only explores the complexities of love but also delves into themes of self-discovery and the importance of trusting one's instincts. The supporting cast of characters adds depth and humor to the narrative, creating a well-rounded and engaging story.
"Counting on a Cowboy" is a delightful escape into the world of romance, offering readers a perfect blend of passion, humor, and heartfelt moments. Sara Richardson's storytelling prowess shines through in this captivating novel, making it a must-read for fans of contemporary romance. With its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and picturesque setting, this book earns a solid four-star rating.
In "Counting on a Cowboy," Sara Richardson crafts a heartwarming tale that seamlessly blends romance, family dynamics, and the allure of small-town life. The story follows Lucy Ryan, a resilient and independent woman with a penchant for numbers, who finds herself entangled with the charismatic and mysterious Wyatt Dodge. The chemistry between Lucy and Wyatt is palpable, creating a delightful romantic tension that keeps readers eagerly turning the pages.
Richardson's vivid descriptions bring the charming town of Haven to life, making it a character in its own right. The author skillfully weaves a narrative that not only explores the complexities of love but also delves into themes of self-discovery and the importance of trusting one's instincts. The supporting cast of characters adds depth and humor to the narrative, creating a well-rounded and engaging story.
"Counting on a Cowboy" is a delightful escape into the world of romance, offering readers a perfect blend of passion, humor, and heartfelt moments. Sara Richardson's storytelling prowess shines through in this captivating novel, making it a must-read for fans of contemporary romance. With its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and picturesque setting, this book earns a solid four-star rating.
April 13, 2024
Thatch is a former SEAL now looking towards becoming a bronc rider. Being a bronc rider is rough on the body and was recommended yoga to help out. Lyric is still dealing her her traumatic past with her ex-husband and isn't much for opening hear right now. When Thatch asks for help with the yoga training she comes up with a deal that'll work for the two of them.
This was a pretty enjoyable slow read. There was plenty going on to keep me. I loved the small town feels, i really like the fake relationship trope. I loved seeing the support and care everyone had for ones another. I liked the side bit where Lyric was putting so much care into helping out a student when she sees some concerning signs and with her past she wanted to make sure that student was okay. I enjoyed seeing that romance slowly but surely happen to the two. I mean Thatch and Lyric already had some sort of feelings for eachother but with Lyrics past she really was making sure there was that wall between the two and slowly but surely that wall crumbled and I enjoyed seeing how everything played out. Then there was this one moment I kinda suspecting would happen which I won't be saying was kinda predictable and yet I still liked how it played it all in the end. Really enjoyed it.
This was a pretty enjoyable slow read. There was plenty going on to keep me. I loved the small town feels, i really like the fake relationship trope. I loved seeing the support and care everyone had for ones another. I liked the side bit where Lyric was putting so much care into helping out a student when she sees some concerning signs and with her past she wanted to make sure that student was okay. I enjoyed seeing that romance slowly but surely happen to the two. I mean Thatch and Lyric already had some sort of feelings for eachother but with Lyrics past she really was making sure there was that wall between the two and slowly but surely that wall crumbled and I enjoyed seeing how everything played out. Then there was this one moment I kinda suspecting would happen which I won't be saying was kinda predictable and yet I still liked how it played it all in the end. Really enjoyed it.
January 24, 2024
I was invited to read "Counting on a Cowboy" by Sara Richardson, which promises "a sizzling, sassy Western romance." However, it left me cringing more than swooning.
The plot revolves around Thatch (really), a retired SEAL turned rodeo rider, who seeks the help of a local yoga instructor, Lyric (really), to improve his rodeo scores. Lyric, whose looks are described as "exotic" (how humanizing), is also meddling in the lives of some local high school students because she is a DV survivor, and she involves Thatch in her attempts to help a girl with a controlling boyfriend. Lyric and Thatch (yes those really are the names) are part of the same friend group of grown adults who act like middle-schoolers when it comes to "liking" each other and wanting their friends to get together. I wasn't interested in the couple's compatibility as it seemed to be based on enjoying basic stuff like essential oils and vinyl plank flooring. I decided to quit before anybody bought a Live, Laugh, Love sign. But hey, it might be a nice escapist read for someone.
Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity to review a temporary digital ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.
The plot revolves around Thatch (really), a retired SEAL turned rodeo rider, who seeks the help of a local yoga instructor, Lyric (really), to improve his rodeo scores. Lyric, whose looks are described as "exotic" (how humanizing), is also meddling in the lives of some local high school students because she is a DV survivor, and she involves Thatch in her attempts to help a girl with a controlling boyfriend. Lyric and Thatch (yes those really are the names) are part of the same friend group of grown adults who act like middle-schoolers when it comes to "liking" each other and wanting their friends to get together. I wasn't interested in the couple's compatibility as it seemed to be based on enjoying basic stuff like essential oils and vinyl plank flooring. I decided to quit before anybody bought a Live, Laugh, Love sign. But hey, it might be a nice escapist read for someone.
Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity to review a temporary digital ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.
February 18, 2024
Counting on a Cowboy is the third book in Sara Richardson’s Star Valley series. Retired Navy SEALs Silas Beck, Thatcher Hearst, and Aiden Steele moved to Star Valley after they separated from the service to help the widow of their fallen comrade Jace Valdez. In the years since they have formed their company Cowboy Construction and both Silas and Aiden have found their forever with Tess and Kyra. (Books 1 and 2 in the series)
Having suffered great betrayal in the past, Thatch has chosen a single life as has yoga instructor Lyric Valenza after surviving an abusive relationship. These two wounded people are brought together to help each other, coming up with a story that they are dating. It isn’t lack of attraction that keeps them apart, it is the wounds from their lives before. But as they work to help a pair of troubled teens, the relationship they do forge become blurred.
This is a sweet story that examines some very serious issues such as abusive relationships, neglect, and betrayal. With well drawn characters and an inspiring narrative this was a very enjoyable read. I do recommend this book.
Having suffered great betrayal in the past, Thatch has chosen a single life as has yoga instructor Lyric Valenza after surviving an abusive relationship. These two wounded people are brought together to help each other, coming up with a story that they are dating. It isn’t lack of attraction that keeps them apart, it is the wounds from their lives before. But as they work to help a pair of troubled teens, the relationship they do forge become blurred.
This is a sweet story that examines some very serious issues such as abusive relationships, neglect, and betrayal. With well drawn characters and an inspiring narrative this was a very enjoyable read. I do recommend this book.
February 18, 2024
Counting on a Cowboy. Star Valley Book 3 is a small-town cowboy romance. Sara Richardson’s main characters include retired Navy SEAL Thatch Hearst now bronc rider and yoga instructor, Lyric Valenza. This book deals with some serious relationship issues that happened in the past but are still very much affecting the characters. It is an emotional heart tugging book at times which shows the unwarranted shame that some victims have. Which I can think of no other reason that Lyric did not seek professional help for herself.
Of the two, Thatch is the easily to like, having made a solid transition from military to civilian life. He may not have always thought so but his life, actions and attitude show that he has. As the story progresses it is clear he is after more than just “fake dating�.
A cowboy romance where the good guy gets the girl, the right girl this time. Would read well as a stand-alone but fans of small-town romance will want to read the entire series.
An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Of the two, Thatch is the easily to like, having made a solid transition from military to civilian life. He may not have always thought so but his life, actions and attitude show that he has. As the story progresses it is clear he is after more than just “fake dating�.
A cowboy romance where the good guy gets the girl, the right girl this time. Would read well as a stand-alone but fans of small-town romance will want to read the entire series.
An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 18, 2025
I started this book a month ago and kept putting it back down. I'll be honest, I struggled with the beginning. Lyric just wasn't someone I really liked, despite knowing why she was so standoff-ish towards Thatch. She just didn't make it easy to like her. Lyric finally warms up to Thatch and the rest of the people who are part of her support system (that she kinda forgets are there for her), but that doesn't come until towards the end. I actually had tears in my eyes when she pulled the predictable 3rd act breakup. But at least the author didn't drag that part out and made it short-lived.
The second half of the book was actually a lot better than the first half, so I'm glad I gave it a fair chance and finished the book/series. Thatch was a sweetheart and I had no complaints with his character.
The ending was still disappointing and just a happy for now. It felt incomplete. I generally like this author though and have enjoyed past books in other series, so I'll give the author another chance with the next new series she releases.
The second half of the book was actually a lot better than the first half, so I'm glad I gave it a fair chance and finished the book/series. Thatch was a sweetheart and I had no complaints with his character.
The ending was still disappointing and just a happy for now. It felt incomplete. I generally like this author though and have enjoyed past books in other series, so I'll give the author another chance with the next new series she releases.
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