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Whisper Creek #3
Once Upon a Cowboy
In this sexy Whisper Creek romance for readers of Kristan Higgins, Susan Mallery, and Molly O’Keefe, a red-hot cowboy uses some Montana magic to give a reclusive beauty her happily ever after.
Yoga instructor Jessalyn Alcott radiates peace, calm, and serenity—on the outside. Inside, she still feels like the broken, desperate girl from the trailer park. She’s got dark secrets she can’t share, which is why she never lets her relationships go beyond the third date. But when she travels to the Whisper Creek dude ranch for a friend’s wedding, Jess is enchanted by a cowboy whose deep blue eyes, dimpled smile, and rock-hard body make it tough to remember why she keeps running scared.
Cole Driscoll has struggled to find his place on a family ranch where he’s always played second fiddle. His future might be uncertain, but he’s sure of one thing: He wants Jess by his side. Easier said than done. When it comes to getting close, she’s full of excuses, and he longs to fix the hurt he sees in her eyes. Now that she’s at Whisper Creek, there’s nothing he wants more than to break down the walls around her heart and heal her pain with the power of love.
Yoga instructor Jessalyn Alcott radiates peace, calm, and serenity—on the outside. Inside, she still feels like the broken, desperate girl from the trailer park. She’s got dark secrets she can’t share, which is why she never lets her relationships go beyond the third date. But when she travels to the Whisper Creek dude ranch for a friend’s wedding, Jess is enchanted by a cowboy whose deep blue eyes, dimpled smile, and rock-hard body make it tough to remember why she keeps running scared.
Cole Driscoll has struggled to find his place on a family ranch where he’s always played second fiddle. His future might be uncertain, but he’s sure of one thing: He wants Jess by his side. Easier said than done. When it comes to getting close, she’s full of excuses, and he longs to fix the hurt he sees in her eyes. Now that she’s at Whisper Creek, there’s nothing he wants more than to break down the walls around her heart and heal her pain with the power of love.
285 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 30, 2015
36 people are currently reading
570 people want to read
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August 17, 2016
4 The Cowgirl Whisperer Stars
* * * *
This was a Huge Win. This had heart, humor, confrontation of unfortunate circumstances and overcoming all odds.
Not To Mention...A Smokin' Hot Cowboy named Cole....
If you love the kind of tales which make you swoon emotionally and the payoff is in their finally loving each other ... Than this is your ticket to Big Sky Dreams coming true.
This is the story of Jessalyn, a woman who comes from one of those small towns which has a true dividing line between the have and the have not. Her family life was a real Not... with no love or guidance from the ones who should have given it to her, like the Mother or Aunt. She grew up looking and wanting that affection and started down the wrong path with a boy she didn't know was a smoking gun of trouble.
The only saving grace for her was her grandpa. When things got really bad at the hands of the boy, her grandpa took her to a shelter; talked and explained this was her moment to leave and save herself. With love in his heart, he told her to be whoever she wanted to be...anyone...away from here.
From that moment on, she did as he said...she became Jessalyn, a new name and person... running from her roots...and turning into a woman with purpose. She worked hard, became a Yoga Instructor and even started her own studio. She made dear, loving friends and with her reinvented past... they never learned of all the secrets she kept far from them and her own life.
Jessalyn is back at the Whisper Creek dude ranch for another wedding of said friends... this place has become very important to all of them as love seems to come out and play every time they are there. Kyla and Hayley met their matches and there seems to be another cowboy who fits the interest of Jess. Both friends are pushing hard for things to happen. Cole, the subject of this interest... is wanting to see Jess again, too.
Cole, the man all single women from miles around wish to snag, tries playing it cool but when Jess is out here at the ranch...he cannot stop thinking of her. With teasing and prodding from his brothers...he admits his real interest...but there is something which still causes him to question his place on the ranch...
For years the ranch was just left for him to run...the default position; his other brother out and living large. Cole held the ranch together after the changes and his mother appreciated it...but Cole had given up his dreams... his time to see the world. These actions now come into play...his brother is back... but doing the ranch hit or miss... not like he promised... so everything again is landing at Cole's feet.
And now, pretty Jess is in the picture making him feel things and not knowing how to handle all of her ways... some so cute but others guarded... like she has something she needs to share but doesn't trust to tell...He is wanting to be there for her...he will need to show her...
This story was a strong read and it gave me all the affection, grit and plot needed to capture my mind. The sexy times were the right level for this series, the secrets and reveal worked and over all everything came together.
Sometimes it just works to have a big, ole cowboy story to settle into.
Accidental Cowgirl (Whisper Creek, #1)
A Cowboy's Christmas Promise (Whisper Creek, #2) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Once Upon a Cowboy (Whisper Creek, #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Unlucky in Love (Whisper Creek, #4)
A gifted copy was provided by Random House Publishing Group-Loveswept via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * *
This was a Huge Win. This had heart, humor, confrontation of unfortunate circumstances and overcoming all odds.
Not To Mention...A Smokin' Hot Cowboy named Cole....
If you love the kind of tales which make you swoon emotionally and the payoff is in their finally loving each other ... Than this is your ticket to Big Sky Dreams coming true.
This is the story of Jessalyn, a woman who comes from one of those small towns which has a true dividing line between the have and the have not. Her family life was a real Not... with no love or guidance from the ones who should have given it to her, like the Mother or Aunt. She grew up looking and wanting that affection and started down the wrong path with a boy she didn't know was a smoking gun of trouble.
The only saving grace for her was her grandpa. When things got really bad at the hands of the boy, her grandpa took her to a shelter; talked and explained this was her moment to leave and save herself. With love in his heart, he told her to be whoever she wanted to be...anyone...away from here.
From that moment on, she did as he said...she became Jessalyn, a new name and person... running from her roots...and turning into a woman with purpose. She worked hard, became a Yoga Instructor and even started her own studio. She made dear, loving friends and with her reinvented past... they never learned of all the secrets she kept far from them and her own life.
Jessalyn is back at the Whisper Creek dude ranch for another wedding of said friends... this place has become very important to all of them as love seems to come out and play every time they are there. Kyla and Hayley met their matches and there seems to be another cowboy who fits the interest of Jess. Both friends are pushing hard for things to happen. Cole, the subject of this interest... is wanting to see Jess again, too.
Cole, the man all single women from miles around wish to snag, tries playing it cool but when Jess is out here at the ranch...he cannot stop thinking of her. With teasing and prodding from his brothers...he admits his real interest...but there is something which still causes him to question his place on the ranch...
For years the ranch was just left for him to run...the default position; his other brother out and living large. Cole held the ranch together after the changes and his mother appreciated it...but Cole had given up his dreams... his time to see the world. These actions now come into play...his brother is back... but doing the ranch hit or miss... not like he promised... so everything again is landing at Cole's feet.
And now, pretty Jess is in the picture making him feel things and not knowing how to handle all of her ways... some so cute but others guarded... like she has something she needs to share but doesn't trust to tell...He is wanting to be there for her...he will need to show her...
This story was a strong read and it gave me all the affection, grit and plot needed to capture my mind. The sexy times were the right level for this series, the secrets and reveal worked and over all everything came together.
Sometimes it just works to have a big, ole cowboy story to settle into.
Accidental Cowgirl (Whisper Creek, #1) A Cowboy's Christmas Promise (Whisper Creek, #2) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show... Once Upon a Cowboy (Whisper Creek, #3) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Unlucky in Love (Whisper Creek, #4)A gifted copy was provided by Random House Publishing Group-Loveswept via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
July 2, 2015
5 - "Once upon a time... There was a handsome cowboy prince." Stars!
I love this series, think of every word you can for good, and that sums up my feelings about Whisper Creek. Every book in the series has delivered more than I expected it to, and I had extremely high expectations in the first place. But Maggie McGinnis has once again given me the story that I wanted so much, but added so many more facets to it that I didn’t even realise it needed.
”There’s nothing regular about you.”
Cole Driscoll and Jess Alcott have been circling around each other for the past two years, having met originally when she and her two friends journeyed to Whisper Creek Ranch for a girly holiday, they have built up a bond, and a pretty solid friendship in the intervening visits.
”Seems to be a common problem for you Boston gals. One whiff of Whisper Creek air, and you’re all packing your bags to move out here.”
But neither of them is quite sure how much further they are looking to go, the feelings are definitely mutual, and watching her friends meet and fall in love with the cowboys of their dreams has given her plenty of food for thought, as it has with Cole, seeing his brother and his best friend fall; hook, line and stirrup for Jess’s friends.
You get a sense in the previous books that there is more to Jess than meets the eye… and Maggie gave this woman one of the most heart-breaking back-stories I have read in a while, but it is the positives that you pull from it, as although her start in life is not the most nurturing or supportive, she has bettered herself and is living her life on her own terms.
Cole’s potential inclusion into that life going forward, and her gradual revelation of who she actually is to him, and Hayley and Kyla (books One & Two) as the secrets of her past start to catch up with her, really keep you engrossed in this book. Add to that the continual flicker of feeling between her and Cole, as well as the decisions he is trying to make about his own future, and I felt myself going through pretty much every emotion you can for this couple.
Maybe at Whisper Creek… she’d finally discovered a home.
This series has been absolutely stellar, I loved the epilogue in this one, but I hope Maggie hasn’t finished telling stories of Carefree, Montana, the Whisper Creek family may have had their 'happily ever afters', but there are a few people that pop up in the books that I would like to see get their stories told as well, Jenny and Michael spring to mind straight away, but with the expansion of the ranch and the Driscoll’s business interests in general, I hope that there is scope for more books, or maybe some sort of spin-off series.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
I love this series, think of every word you can for good, and that sums up my feelings about Whisper Creek. Every book in the series has delivered more than I expected it to, and I had extremely high expectations in the first place. But Maggie McGinnis has once again given me the story that I wanted so much, but added so many more facets to it that I didn’t even realise it needed.
”There’s nothing regular about you.”
Cole Driscoll and Jess Alcott have been circling around each other for the past two years, having met originally when she and her two friends journeyed to Whisper Creek Ranch for a girly holiday, they have built up a bond, and a pretty solid friendship in the intervening visits.
”Seems to be a common problem for you Boston gals. One whiff of Whisper Creek air, and you’re all packing your bags to move out here.”
But neither of them is quite sure how much further they are looking to go, the feelings are definitely mutual, and watching her friends meet and fall in love with the cowboys of their dreams has given her plenty of food for thought, as it has with Cole, seeing his brother and his best friend fall; hook, line and stirrup for Jess’s friends.
You get a sense in the previous books that there is more to Jess than meets the eye… and Maggie gave this woman one of the most heart-breaking back-stories I have read in a while, but it is the positives that you pull from it, as although her start in life is not the most nurturing or supportive, she has bettered herself and is living her life on her own terms.
Cole’s potential inclusion into that life going forward, and her gradual revelation of who she actually is to him, and Hayley and Kyla (books One & Two) as the secrets of her past start to catch up with her, really keep you engrossed in this book. Add to that the continual flicker of feeling between her and Cole, as well as the decisions he is trying to make about his own future, and I felt myself going through pretty much every emotion you can for this couple.
Maybe at Whisper Creek… she’d finally discovered a home.
This series has been absolutely stellar, I loved the epilogue in this one, but I hope Maggie hasn’t finished telling stories of Carefree, Montana, the Whisper Creek family may have had their 'happily ever afters', but there are a few people that pop up in the books that I would like to see get their stories told as well, Jenny and Michael spring to mind straight away, but with the expansion of the ranch and the Driscoll’s business interests in general, I hope that there is scope for more books, or maybe some sort of spin-off series.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
April 16, 2015
Just minutes before leaving for Whisper Creek for her best friend's wedding, Jess' past caught up with her present. A past that she had left behind thirteen years ago and swore that she would never go back to but one phone call brought back all of the memories and made her face all of the lies that she had told. Lies that she tried her best to forget and lies that she told to her best friends Kyla and Hayley for years. Now she was faced with the awful truth of not only what she had left behind but also of she had done or rather not done when she did. What had once been one of her favorite places to visit in the world was still just that but it was also the reminder of she could never have because things like that weren't meant to be for people like her.
Cole had wanted Jess from the moment that she and her friends had arrived on the ranch two years ago and he's hoping that now that Kyla and Hayley had both made Whisper Creek their home that they could talk Jess into doing the same but something had changed with Jess since the last time that he seen her. Sure, she looked the same on the outside but something had changed. She's afraid of something and he's determined to break the walls that she's put up and make her realize that he's not going anywhere and that he's there for her, she can trust him.
Okay, I have to say that I have loved this entire series but this book, this one... just blew me away! WOW! The flash backs made me want to cry even though I knew that it was just a story, the fact that those types of things truly happen day after day and the fact that she had to deal with it all lone just broke my heart. BUT the ending was honestly one of the best endings that I have read in a long time. I didn't want it to end and I hope that this isn't the end of the series now that all three girls have found their HEA.
I received and ARC from Random House Publishing through Netgalley for an honest review.
Cole had wanted Jess from the moment that she and her friends had arrived on the ranch two years ago and he's hoping that now that Kyla and Hayley had both made Whisper Creek their home that they could talk Jess into doing the same but something had changed with Jess since the last time that he seen her. Sure, she looked the same on the outside but something had changed. She's afraid of something and he's determined to break the walls that she's put up and make her realize that he's not going anywhere and that he's there for her, she can trust him.
Okay, I have to say that I have loved this entire series but this book, this one... just blew me away! WOW! The flash backs made me want to cry even though I knew that it was just a story, the fact that those types of things truly happen day after day and the fact that she had to deal with it all lone just broke my heart. BUT the ending was honestly one of the best endings that I have read in a long time. I didn't want it to end and I hope that this isn't the end of the series now that all three girls have found their HEA.
I received and ARC from Random House Publishing through Netgalley for an honest review.
June 30, 2015
Once Upon a Cowboy gets 4 stars. The read was sweet. Cole is damn near perfect and Jess is more than a little messed up. Jess had a horrible young life which left her scared physically and emotionally. Cole and Jess have been dancing the attraction line for two years until it all comes to a head. I liked the book, it was an easy read and pretty well written but it also was a touch boring. I suppose I like more conflict throughout a story and this story doesn't have much. Overall, I liked the story and liked the main characters.
April 12, 2015
I love my Cowboys......
This one was a heart breaker.
Amazing what a child can go through and still over come it and make something of herself. Finding a totally hot Cowboy is the icing on the cake.
This one was a heart breaker.
Amazing what a child can go through and still over come it and make something of herself. Finding a totally hot Cowboy is the icing on the cake.
July 1, 2015
Slick's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
4.5 stars
**As we know that some scenarios in books can be a trigger for some readers we want to make you aware that this book includes the retelling of past physical abuse.
Every book in Maggie McGinnis' Whisper Creek series has been good but I'll admit I was so waiting for Jess and Cole's happily ever after and she delivered big time in Once Upon A Cowboy. I enjoy sweeter romance and this author always manages to get it right offering up a whole lot of sexual chemistry, just the right amount of longing, lots of extended stolen moments and a happily ever after that makes this one pretty perfect story.
From the first visit to Whisper Creek Jess took to the ranch and the horses like a pro and while she loves her life in Chicago with both of her friends relocated to Montana and her sordid past catching up to her she longs for a place she can be free and enjoy life but she fears if her secrets come out she'll not only loose her two best friends but the people that have become important to her including Cole.
Every time Jess comes to visit the ranch Cole finds it harder and harder to not pursue something with her. She intrigues him and he'd be lying if he said he wasn't interested but Cole's life isn't exactly what he had planned for himself and he's not sure bringing someone else into his mixed up life is fair. He also senses something is different about Jess this time and until he figures it out he knows he has to be very careful.
In the midst of preparing for the wedding of both of their friends, Jess and Cole find themselves spending a lot of time together working with the guests of the ranch and growing closer but when it becomes obvious to Cole that something is holding Jess back he begins to wonder what she is hiding and as her past begins to close in on her she finds that while her friends might be upset by the lies she's told they understand and love her unconditionally. While there were errors made by both of them I was happy that they communicated and worked through their problems without a whole lot of angst and conflict. The fact that Cole was there for Jess when she needed it most but also understood she was very capable of handling the situation on her own made me love him even more and made me proud of the strength and conviction Jess had all along.
I love the thrill of the chase, the buildup of feelings, and the rush of discovering love and Maggie McGinnis has offered that and more in Once Upon a Cowboy and ended this series on a very high note (although it did seem to me that there is the possibility of more books to come or at the very least a spin-off series)!
Review copy provided for an honest review.
4.5 stars
**As we know that some scenarios in books can be a trigger for some readers we want to make you aware that this book includes the retelling of past physical abuse.
Every book in Maggie McGinnis' Whisper Creek series has been good but I'll admit I was so waiting for Jess and Cole's happily ever after and she delivered big time in Once Upon A Cowboy. I enjoy sweeter romance and this author always manages to get it right offering up a whole lot of sexual chemistry, just the right amount of longing, lots of extended stolen moments and a happily ever after that makes this one pretty perfect story.
From the first visit to Whisper Creek Jess took to the ranch and the horses like a pro and while she loves her life in Chicago with both of her friends relocated to Montana and her sordid past catching up to her she longs for a place she can be free and enjoy life but she fears if her secrets come out she'll not only loose her two best friends but the people that have become important to her including Cole.
Every time Jess comes to visit the ranch Cole finds it harder and harder to not pursue something with her. She intrigues him and he'd be lying if he said he wasn't interested but Cole's life isn't exactly what he had planned for himself and he's not sure bringing someone else into his mixed up life is fair. He also senses something is different about Jess this time and until he figures it out he knows he has to be very careful.
In the midst of preparing for the wedding of both of their friends, Jess and Cole find themselves spending a lot of time together working with the guests of the ranch and growing closer but when it becomes obvious to Cole that something is holding Jess back he begins to wonder what she is hiding and as her past begins to close in on her she finds that while her friends might be upset by the lies she's told they understand and love her unconditionally. While there were errors made by both of them I was happy that they communicated and worked through their problems without a whole lot of angst and conflict. The fact that Cole was there for Jess when she needed it most but also understood she was very capable of handling the situation on her own made me love him even more and made me proud of the strength and conviction Jess had all along.
I love the thrill of the chase, the buildup of feelings, and the rush of discovering love and Maggie McGinnis has offered that and more in Once Upon a Cowboy and ended this series on a very high note (although it did seem to me that there is the possibility of more books to come or at the very least a spin-off series)!
Review copy provided for an honest review.
May 16, 2015
Once Upon a Cowboy by Maggie McGinnis is a 2015 Loveswept publication. I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
What a wonderful heartwarming story by Maggie McGinnis! This book is part of the Whisper Creek series featuring Cole, a good looking cowboy who has walked in the shadow of his super smart brother, and Jess, a yoga instructor, and her two best friends who have married into the Driscoll family or are about to. But, Jess has yet to make the move to Whisper Creek a permanent one... yet.
But right now, Jess is in a bind as long buried secrets from the past threaten to see the light of day after all these years. Hopefully her arrival on the ranch for her friend's wedding will give Jess some time to process and hopefully keep her off the radar of some really nasty people.
But, when she finds herself once more face to face with the devastatingly handsome, Cole, she knows she will have to keep her heart under lock and key or risk, not only a broken heart, but the truth coming out about her past, revealing to everyone she is not who she claims to be.
Cole is on the verge of making a huge decision about his future on the ranch. The dynamic of things has changed since his brother married and now Cole feels like a fifth wheel and can't seem to find his niche... until Jess arrives and suddenly Cole can't seem to envision a future without Jess in it. The trouble is, he's having a very hard time convincing Jess they should be together.
I really enjoyed this sweet romance which dealt with heartbreaking situations, but allowed the past to collide with the present to free Jess up to stop hiding, to embrace her future, no matter what may come, and to make peace with the tragedy that haunts her and keeps her from being able to commit to Cole.
While Cole is strong, supportive, and ready to fight for the lady he loves, I was most proud of Jess for taking the initiative and thus taking control of her life. She has lived in fear long enough and it was time to face the music once and for all. The issues that keep Jess from going all in with Cole are very emotional, but where there is love, there is a way to work out our problems. Things may not always be fairytale perfect, but this strong, mature couple with love in their corner, can make up their own cowboy fairytale and invent their own version of Happy Ever After! ( Sniffle, Sniffle)
What a wonderful heartwarming story by Maggie McGinnis! This book is part of the Whisper Creek series featuring Cole, a good looking cowboy who has walked in the shadow of his super smart brother, and Jess, a yoga instructor, and her two best friends who have married into the Driscoll family or are about to. But, Jess has yet to make the move to Whisper Creek a permanent one... yet.
But right now, Jess is in a bind as long buried secrets from the past threaten to see the light of day after all these years. Hopefully her arrival on the ranch for her friend's wedding will give Jess some time to process and hopefully keep her off the radar of some really nasty people.
But, when she finds herself once more face to face with the devastatingly handsome, Cole, she knows she will have to keep her heart under lock and key or risk, not only a broken heart, but the truth coming out about her past, revealing to everyone she is not who she claims to be.
Cole is on the verge of making a huge decision about his future on the ranch. The dynamic of things has changed since his brother married and now Cole feels like a fifth wheel and can't seem to find his niche... until Jess arrives and suddenly Cole can't seem to envision a future without Jess in it. The trouble is, he's having a very hard time convincing Jess they should be together.
I really enjoyed this sweet romance which dealt with heartbreaking situations, but allowed the past to collide with the present to free Jess up to stop hiding, to embrace her future, no matter what may come, and to make peace with the tragedy that haunts her and keeps her from being able to commit to Cole.
While Cole is strong, supportive, and ready to fight for the lady he loves, I was most proud of Jess for taking the initiative and thus taking control of her life. She has lived in fear long enough and it was time to face the music once and for all. The issues that keep Jess from going all in with Cole are very emotional, but where there is love, there is a way to work out our problems. Things may not always be fairytale perfect, but this strong, mature couple with love in their corner, can make up their own cowboy fairytale and invent their own version of Happy Ever After! ( Sniffle, Sniffle)
June 14, 2015
I really loved this story! Jess is back at Whisper Creek Ranch for her friends wedding. Cole is one of the cowboys at the ranch and he and Jess met two years ago when her and her friends came out for a girls weekend. They had instant chemistry but never acted on it. Jess has secrets and a devastating past that she's never shared with anyone - including her best friends. When Jess gets a letter from someone in her past, she realizes that the past is really never far behind. This is a clean romance but it still had amazing sexual tension and fantastic chemistry between Jess and Cole. Cole is perfect - he's good with kids, he's sexy, funny and sweet. Jess has a past that is really heartbreaking. I wasn't expecting this to be such an emotional story but it did make me cry and it does deal with some sensitive subjects. I love this author's writing and can't wait to read more from her.
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
April 19, 2015
Maggie McGinnis has written an emotional,heart wrenching and heart grabbing book. The story of Jessalyn and Cole is the third in the Whisper Creek series. Having read the previous two books I was anxiously waiting for Cole and Jess's story. Jess, has a very emotional and dark past and Cole, he is what holds Whisper Creek together, even tho sometimes he wishes things were different. Jess returns for her best friends wedding, she and Cole have had an attraction that has been ignored for a few years but never acted upon. Will they finally realize that the two of them are meant for each other or does Jess leave again? Does Cole let her and maybe act upon a dream he had years before. Reading this book the author takes you on an emotional journey in to Jess's childhood. Maggie McGinnis handles the subject with an understanding and clarity it brings you to tears. This is a book I'll read again and again. It is that good!
June 29, 2015
Maggie combines nostalgia, romance, and heartbreak into the Whisper Creek characters in a way that will leave you emotionally drained and your heart full.
This book is sweet and makes your heart ache the entire time. You'll cry and smile and fall in love for a third time with another Whisper Creek cowboy.
Amazing job, absolutely loved it! ❤️
This book is sweet and makes your heart ache the entire time. You'll cry and smile and fall in love for a third time with another Whisper Creek cowboy.
Amazing job, absolutely loved it! ❤️
February 3, 2019
This story had an exciting ending and a few funny parts but the development of the relationship was pretty slow going. There really wasn't much of a plot beyond the gradual reveal of the heroine's past. I was easily distracted from reading and skimmed some. Yoga instructor Jess travels west for a friends wedding and is attracted to the best man, rancher Cole.
May 10, 2016
Book Info
ebook, 288 pages
Expected publication: June 30th 2015 by Loveswept
ISBN 1101884967 (ISBN13: 9781101884966)
series Whisper Creek #1
other editions (1)
Source:Netgalley EARC
Book Buy Links
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In this sexy Whisper Creekromance for readers of Kristan Higgins, Susan Mallery, and Molly O’Keefe, a red-hot cowboy uses some Montana magic to give a reclusive beauty her happily ever after.
Yoga instructor Jessalyn Alcott radiates peace, calm, and serenity—on the outside. Inside, she still feels like the broken, desperate girl from the trailer park. She’s got dark secrets she can’t share, which is why she never lets her relationships go beyond the third date. But when she travels to the Whisper Creek dude ranch for a friend’s wedding, Jess is enchanted by a cowboy whose deep blue eyes, dimpled smile, and rock-hard body make it tough to remember why she keeps running scared.
Cole Driscoll has struggled to find his place on a family ranch where he’s always played second fiddle. His future might be uncertain, but he’s sure of one thing: He wants Jess by his side. Easier said than done. When it comes to getting close, she’s full of excuses, and he longs to fix the hurt he sees in her eyes. Now that she’s at Whisper Creek, there’s nothing he wants more than to break down the walls around her heart and heal her pain with the power of love.
Jess started over 13 years ago, leaving behind a life that no child should have to live. Changing her name, going to college, starting her own business and generally building a life to be proud of. 2 years ago visiting Whisper Creek Montana for the first time where her friend Kyla met the eldest Driscoll brother, Kyla than fell in love and then got married while Jess and her other friend Haley attended the wedding.
Now a year later it is Haley who is marrying and once again Jess finds herself going to Whisper Creek, however before she leaves she is shocked to be faced once again with a past she longs to forget.
When it is revealed to reader what Jess is hiding it will make your heart hurt for what she went through as a child before finally escaping at age 16. It will also make you angry on Jess’s behalf, both as a child and as the traumatized adult she grew into.
Cole is a real sweetheart, lovely with children as well as those unsure or afraid of horses and riding. Best of all he has patience and understanding rather than acting abruptly when it comes to Jess as she has trust issues to overcome.
Easy flow, likable well developed characters, elements of suspense and drama, contemporary cowboy western romance that I enjoyed from beginning to end. Only wish now had read previous two books as would have loved to watch the series unfold from beginning for inhabitants of Whisper Creek.
ebook, 288 pages
Expected publication: June 30th 2015 by Loveswept
ISBN 1101884967 (ISBN13: 9781101884966)
series Whisper Creek #1
other editions (1)
Source:Netgalley EARC
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BOOK SYNOPSIS
In this sexy Whisper Creekromance for readers of Kristan Higgins, Susan Mallery, and Molly O’Keefe, a red-hot cowboy uses some Montana magic to give a reclusive beauty her happily ever after.
Yoga instructor Jessalyn Alcott radiates peace, calm, and serenity—on the outside. Inside, she still feels like the broken, desperate girl from the trailer park. She’s got dark secrets she can’t share, which is why she never lets her relationships go beyond the third date. But when she travels to the Whisper Creek dude ranch for a friend’s wedding, Jess is enchanted by a cowboy whose deep blue eyes, dimpled smile, and rock-hard body make it tough to remember why she keeps running scared.
Cole Driscoll has struggled to find his place on a family ranch where he’s always played second fiddle. His future might be uncertain, but he’s sure of one thing: He wants Jess by his side. Easier said than done. When it comes to getting close, she’s full of excuses, and he longs to fix the hurt he sees in her eyes. Now that she’s at Whisper Creek, there’s nothing he wants more than to break down the walls around her heart and heal her pain with the power of love.
My Thoughts
Jess started over 13 years ago, leaving behind a life that no child should have to live. Changing her name, going to college, starting her own business and generally building a life to be proud of. 2 years ago visiting Whisper Creek Montana for the first time where her friend Kyla met the eldest Driscoll brother, Kyla than fell in love and then got married while Jess and her other friend Haley attended the wedding.
Now a year later it is Haley who is marrying and once again Jess finds herself going to Whisper Creek, however before she leaves she is shocked to be faced once again with a past she longs to forget.
When it is revealed to reader what Jess is hiding it will make your heart hurt for what she went through as a child before finally escaping at age 16. It will also make you angry on Jess’s behalf, both as a child and as the traumatized adult she grew into.
Cole is a real sweetheart, lovely with children as well as those unsure or afraid of horses and riding. Best of all he has patience and understanding rather than acting abruptly when it comes to Jess as she has trust issues to overcome.
Easy flow, likable well developed characters, elements of suspense and drama, contemporary cowboy western romance that I enjoyed from beginning to end. Only wish now had read previous two books as would have loved to watch the series unfold from beginning for inhabitants of Whisper Creek.
[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]
July 9, 2015
I received a copy in exchange for an honest opinion. This does not influence my opinion in any shape or form.
Once upon a cowboy has a little bit of everything. A gorgeous cowboy, a wonderful farm, friends who are basically family and the girl needing a bit of rescuing from not only herself but her past.
I liked Once Upon a Cowboy but I didn't love it. I don't even know why I didn't love it either, I just didn't. I'm not sure if something was missing, or what I wanted to happen. I just wasn't sure what made me not love it.
Our Story
The story is told in third person with some flashbacks to Jess’s past every now and then.
I always find it difficult to connect with characters when it is told in third person but I actually enjoyed Once Upon a Cowboy. I do think it would’ve been nice to read both their point of view things and have the story told through their eyes.
Once Upon a Cowboy is a story you need a day to sit down and read. Once you start you can’t seem to stop or at least that was the case for me. It was a quick and easy read that does not end in a cliffhanger. I was actually pretty sure it was going to end in a cliffhanger because I didn’t think there would be enough room to finish the entire story in such a short time but thankfully it didn’t end in a cliffhanger.
Our Characters
Jess. Jess has gone through hell. Utter hell. She was not only abused by her mother and aunt but her boyfriend as well. It was heartbreaking to read all the abuse she endured. No one should ever go through that. She had to run with the help of her grandfather, who gave her the opportunity to not only to get out of the small town she lived in but to change her name and start all over. And so she did, she was able to live her life without really worrying about the others she left behind until she receives a letter that her Grampy passed away. Now her past is coming to haunt her and finally she has to face it. I personally think she was an amazing character, she was able to start over and then when the time she was able to tell the truth to her friends. She was incredibly strong. I did find it hard to relate to her from time to time but overall she was a likeable character.
Cole. Hot cowboy? Check. He is a hardworking, sweet, good with kids cowboy. He also knows that something is wrong with Jess. The fear in her eyes when he lifts a finger to touch her cheek is all the indication he needs to know that something bad has happened to Jess and he just need to know how to prove that he won’t be like the people in her past. He was extremely gentle, romantic and such a good guy that you couldn’t help but love him. I especially loved how he handled Jess in such a sweet and tender way that you couldn’t help but love him. He was also really good with kids and that just makes you love him even more.
Overall
Once Upon a Cowboy is the third book in Whisper Creek, you don’t really need to read the other two [I didn’t] to understand the third book but I am definitely interested in reading the other two so I can really understand the series. Personally, if you are like me and love good looking cowboys who fall in love with city girls then you should check this out.
Once upon a cowboy has a little bit of everything. A gorgeous cowboy, a wonderful farm, friends who are basically family and the girl needing a bit of rescuing from not only herself but her past.
I liked Once Upon a Cowboy but I didn't love it. I don't even know why I didn't love it either, I just didn't. I'm not sure if something was missing, or what I wanted to happen. I just wasn't sure what made me not love it.
Our Story
The story is told in third person with some flashbacks to Jess’s past every now and then.
I always find it difficult to connect with characters when it is told in third person but I actually enjoyed Once Upon a Cowboy. I do think it would’ve been nice to read both their point of view things and have the story told through their eyes.
Once Upon a Cowboy is a story you need a day to sit down and read. Once you start you can’t seem to stop or at least that was the case for me. It was a quick and easy read that does not end in a cliffhanger. I was actually pretty sure it was going to end in a cliffhanger because I didn’t think there would be enough room to finish the entire story in such a short time but thankfully it didn’t end in a cliffhanger.
Our Characters
Jess. Jess has gone through hell. Utter hell. She was not only abused by her mother and aunt but her boyfriend as well. It was heartbreaking to read all the abuse she endured. No one should ever go through that. She had to run with the help of her grandfather, who gave her the opportunity to not only to get out of the small town she lived in but to change her name and start all over. And so she did, she was able to live her life without really worrying about the others she left behind until she receives a letter that her Grampy passed away. Now her past is coming to haunt her and finally she has to face it. I personally think she was an amazing character, she was able to start over and then when the time she was able to tell the truth to her friends. She was incredibly strong. I did find it hard to relate to her from time to time but overall she was a likeable character.
Cole. Hot cowboy? Check. He is a hardworking, sweet, good with kids cowboy. He also knows that something is wrong with Jess. The fear in her eyes when he lifts a finger to touch her cheek is all the indication he needs to know that something bad has happened to Jess and he just need to know how to prove that he won’t be like the people in her past. He was extremely gentle, romantic and such a good guy that you couldn’t help but love him. I especially loved how he handled Jess in such a sweet and tender way that you couldn’t help but love him. He was also really good with kids and that just makes you love him even more.
Overall
Once Upon a Cowboy is the third book in Whisper Creek, you don’t really need to read the other two [I didn’t] to understand the third book but I am definitely interested in reading the other two so I can really understand the series. Personally, if you are like me and love good looking cowboys who fall in love with city girls then you should check this out.
July 4, 2015
Having come to this series late -- as in, reading what appears to the the last book first, late -- I am happy to report that I'm now making plans to move to Carefree, Montana and Whisper Creek.
Jessalyn Alcott is still smarting from the past she left behind more than a decade ago. And it's because of that past that she never lets men get too close. Not even Cole Driscoll, the super sexy, very dreamy Montana cowboy of her dreams.
Cole sees the pain in Jess' eyes every time he tries to get close to her, and he'd do anything to make it right. He's been unsure of his place at his family's ranch, but now Jess has wormed her way into his heart and his life, he starting to feel like maybe he's found where he should be.
He just has to convince her to trust him.
There was so much heart to this story. It was playful, light and funny at times, which made it easy to get lost in and fall in love with. But it also had some deeper, emotional moments that had me on the edge of tears for a time.
I really felt for this couple, and their slow-burn relationship was spot-on. There was no rushing, no instalove; just an easy sort of friends-to-lovers romance that was exceptionally well-written. I wish I had started with the earlier books in this series, as I enjoyed the back-and-forth with the couples that took center stage in them, and would love to see more of how Jess and Cole originally met.
My only complaint, and it's minor really -- more like a petulant stomping of the foot -- is that the ending came up a little fast. I would have loved the chance to see more of this couple finding their feet together, once the drama and past were dealt with. However, the epilogue was most definitely enough to make me smile and swoon and my eyes well up all over again, so really, I can't be too unhappy.
This is my first book by Maggie McGinnis but it won't be my last. I look forward to going back to Whisper Creek and starting from the start. I should probably know more about the place before I move there, right? ~ Beth, 4.5 stars
Jessalyn Alcott is still smarting from the past she left behind more than a decade ago. And it's because of that past that she never lets men get too close. Not even Cole Driscoll, the super sexy, very dreamy Montana cowboy of her dreams.
Cole sees the pain in Jess' eyes every time he tries to get close to her, and he'd do anything to make it right. He's been unsure of his place at his family's ranch, but now Jess has wormed her way into his heart and his life, he starting to feel like maybe he's found where he should be.
He just has to convince her to trust him.
There was so much heart to this story. It was playful, light and funny at times, which made it easy to get lost in and fall in love with. But it also had some deeper, emotional moments that had me on the edge of tears for a time.
I really felt for this couple, and their slow-burn relationship was spot-on. There was no rushing, no instalove; just an easy sort of friends-to-lovers romance that was exceptionally well-written. I wish I had started with the earlier books in this series, as I enjoyed the back-and-forth with the couples that took center stage in them, and would love to see more of how Jess and Cole originally met.
My only complaint, and it's minor really -- more like a petulant stomping of the foot -- is that the ending came up a little fast. I would have loved the chance to see more of this couple finding their feet together, once the drama and past were dealt with. However, the epilogue was most definitely enough to make me smile and swoon and my eyes well up all over again, so really, I can't be too unhappy.
This is my first book by Maggie McGinnis but it won't be my last. I look forward to going back to Whisper Creek and starting from the start. I should probably know more about the place before I move there, right? ~ Beth, 4.5 stars
October 30, 2019
Although this book was published in 2015, I listened to the newly released audiobook from Tantor Audio. The first book in this series had three friends, Kyla, Hayley and Jessalyn, visiting Whisper Creek dude ranch to help Kyla get over a disastrous event in her life. The second book is Hayley's love match story and this one belongs to Jessalyn. I think I liked this one the best of them all. Jessalyn has a hidden past that the reader learns about through flashbacks and quite the past it is. This is her third visit to Whisper Creek and her feelings toward Cole, have changed and grown with each visit. Cole also has baggage and issues from his past, but he is ready to move forward with Jessalyn, if he can only break through whatever is holding her back. When Jess gets a letter from someone in her past, she realizes that she has to make peace with the past, before she can move forward.
This is a clean romance but has some sexual tension between Jess and Cole. They have a great chemistry, but there is so much holding them back. Cole is too good to be true, he is almost perfect. He loves and is good with kids, he's handsome and sexy, funny, sweet and so patient. Jess has a past that is heartbreaking. I wasn't expecting this to be so emotional but it is as it deals with some subjects. I enjoyed the banter between Jess and Cole and found them to be a perfect couple. The ending and the epilogue were wonderful and tied up the story nicely. This was a well-written romance and I will be watching for more in this series.
This is the third book in the series I have listened too and find the narration by Kathryn Lynhurst is well done. Her expression is good as are the female voices, but I still find the male voices a bit lacking. Having said that, I often find that an issue when there is only one narrator. Overall, this was a pleasant listening experience and I look forward to listening to the rest of this series. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
This is a clean romance but has some sexual tension between Jess and Cole. They have a great chemistry, but there is so much holding them back. Cole is too good to be true, he is almost perfect. He loves and is good with kids, he's handsome and sexy, funny, sweet and so patient. Jess has a past that is heartbreaking. I wasn't expecting this to be so emotional but it is as it deals with some subjects. I enjoyed the banter between Jess and Cole and found them to be a perfect couple. The ending and the epilogue were wonderful and tied up the story nicely. This was a well-written romance and I will be watching for more in this series.
This is the third book in the series I have listened too and find the narration by Kathryn Lynhurst is well done. Her expression is good as are the female voices, but I still find the male voices a bit lacking. Having said that, I often find that an issue when there is only one narrator. Overall, this was a pleasant listening experience and I look forward to listening to the rest of this series. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
June 16, 2015
While I have loved each of the Whisper Creek stories, I must say this one is truly my favorite. The story is heartwarming, emotional, and will grab you from the start. Cole and Jess first met two years ago but each has always held back. Cole is tired of hiding his attraction but Jess is still holding back. As Jess's story slowly unravels we get to understand her better and Cole being the kind, loving soul he is won't let her hide any more. This is a great story and will have you laughing at some parts and crying at others. A great emotional read that should be on everyone's list. I highly recommend it.
May 12, 2015
I don't know why,but I don't usually expect angst from a cowboy love story. I guess I figure he will swoop her up on his horse and ride into the sunset all happy. So, when I get some angst with some cowboys, I get happy :)
Jess has had a HORRIBLE life growing up. She's beyond strong and I love her. She deserves happiness, and thank the big Montana sky, Cole will give it to her :) I can't say much more without giving away the story. Just read it. The flashbacks of Jess growing up will break your heart, but know she gets her happily ever after!
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley
Jess has had a HORRIBLE life growing up. She's beyond strong and I love her. She deserves happiness, and thank the big Montana sky, Cole will give it to her :) I can't say much more without giving away the story. Just read it. The flashbacks of Jess growing up will break your heart, but know she gets her happily ever after!
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley
July 1, 2015
4.5 heartwarming stars
Once Upon a Cowboy was such a good read, I couldn't put it down!
I loved watching Cole and Jess fall in love, they were perfect for each other.
Their love story touched my heart and I was so happy Jess finally found happiness after everything she had been through.
Once Upon a Cowboy truly was a beautiful heartfelt love story and I highly recommend it and all the books from The Whisper Creek series.
Thank you Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via Netgalley for the advance copy
Once Upon a Cowboy was such a good read, I couldn't put it down!
I loved watching Cole and Jess fall in love, they were perfect for each other.
Their love story touched my heart and I was so happy Jess finally found happiness after everything she had been through.
Once Upon a Cowboy truly was a beautiful heartfelt love story and I highly recommend it and all the books from The Whisper Creek series.
Thank you Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via Netgalley for the advance copy
June 23, 2015
Jessalyn Alcott's first trip to Montana with her two best friends led to love for one of them. Her second trip out there led to love (again) for her other friend. Third time's a charm, right? You would think so especially since Jess has had her eyes on blue-eyed and dimpled cowboy hottie, Cole Driscoll for a long time. Well, not for this girl. Underneath Jess's calm and serene facade are soul-deep scars and dark secrets from a painful past. All it takes is one phone call and a past that she thought she had left behind for good has come back to haunt her thirteen years later and remind her that the happiness her friends have found is not for her.
Cole Driscoll wanted Jess from the first time he saw her two years earlier and now that her friends have made their home in Montana, he hopes that Jess would decide to stay too and give them a chance. But Jess is unusually afraid and evasive and all Cole wants is take away her fears if she would let him in.
Jess was the victim of abuse from the very people she trusted to care for her and she ran away from that life with the help of her Grampy. She has since created a new life for herself, a life that is now being threatened by the very people she ran away from.
In a very strange twist, I'm reading this series from the last book to the first but ONCE UPON A COWBOY stands well on its own. Ms. McGinnis writes a story that reaches in and grabs onto the heartstrings and just won't let go. Emotional and heartbreaking, this is a touching story about the healing power of love. Even though Cole is trying to figure out his place on the family ranch, everything takes a back seat to Jess and his quest to gain her trust. Cole is kind, sweet and gentle all wrapped up in one sexy package and I loved him. His tender handling of Jess was very heartwarming. Jess realizes that she has been stuck in limbo all this time and that she needs to face her past in order to reach out for her future and also that she can count on her friends to be there for her.
Ms. McGinnis handles the issues delicately and respectfully but still maintains a lighthearted tone. The location was so charming and characters so well written that this was a fun story to read. I absolutely enjoyed the end where Jess faced down the demons from her past. However, my favorite parts of the book are her memories of her Grampy, the fun times they had together and the love they shared.
ONCE UPON A COWBOY is a sweet story and I will be catching up on the previous books soon. And yes, third time's the charm!
Source: I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
This review was originally posted on The Sassy Bookster
July 6, 2015
You know you're in for an emotional read when you're less than 10% in and you already have tears in your eyes and that's exactly what happened to me when I was reading Once Upon a Cowboy. I haven't read the first two books in this series but you better believe after reading this one I will be going back and doing just that.
Jess had a difficult childhood and has been on her own since she was sixteen years old. She thought she had put her nightmares behind her until she receives a phone call from a monster from her past. That phone call and a letter that she received along with it put her on a downward spiral of suppressed emotions at the worst possible time. After all, weddings are supposed to be cheerful, right?! And Jess is on her way to Whisper Creek to be a bridesmaid in her best friends wedding.
Cole has had a thing for Jess since they met two years ago but he senses the fear in her this time around and wants to find out who has hurt her and keep her safe. At the same time, he's been doing a little soul searching of his own and he's not sure that he wants to stay at Whisper Creek so he's reluctant to make a move on Jess while she's there.
Cole was such a sweetheart and I fell in love with him from the get-go. Whisper Creek is in his blood and he loves it but he's never been anywhere else and fears that he's missing something. You definitely can't fault the guy for that. But I'm so glad that he realized that Whisper Creek and Jess were what he needed in his life.
Jess had her secrets, that's for sure, but after getting little snippets of her past you couldn't help but feel for her. And I loved that even with those secrets she didn't act like a yo-yo when it came to Cole. She wanted to be around him, obviously, but she never hinted at more because she knew she couldn't give it to him.
Honestly I really wish we got more couple time with these two which is why I wasn't able to give it five stars. It was a clean romance, and I'm not even saying that the author should have added sexy times, I just wish that we got to see more intimate moments between them. Not to mention the huge time jump that happened towards the end. I mean, couldn't we have seen at least a chapter of them together after they confronted her family?!
Once Upon a Cowboy was a sweet and emotional read and even though it was my first read by Maggie McGinnis it definitely won't be my last.
*ARC kindly provided though NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Jess had a difficult childhood and has been on her own since she was sixteen years old. She thought she had put her nightmares behind her until she receives a phone call from a monster from her past. That phone call and a letter that she received along with it put her on a downward spiral of suppressed emotions at the worst possible time. After all, weddings are supposed to be cheerful, right?! And Jess is on her way to Whisper Creek to be a bridesmaid in her best friends wedding.
Cole has had a thing for Jess since they met two years ago but he senses the fear in her this time around and wants to find out who has hurt her and keep her safe. At the same time, he's been doing a little soul searching of his own and he's not sure that he wants to stay at Whisper Creek so he's reluctant to make a move on Jess while she's there.
Cole was such a sweetheart and I fell in love with him from the get-go. Whisper Creek is in his blood and he loves it but he's never been anywhere else and fears that he's missing something. You definitely can't fault the guy for that. But I'm so glad that he realized that Whisper Creek and Jess were what he needed in his life.
Jess had her secrets, that's for sure, but after getting little snippets of her past you couldn't help but feel for her. And I loved that even with those secrets she didn't act like a yo-yo when it came to Cole. She wanted to be around him, obviously, but she never hinted at more because she knew she couldn't give it to him.
Honestly I really wish we got more couple time with these two which is why I wasn't able to give it five stars. It was a clean romance, and I'm not even saying that the author should have added sexy times, I just wish that we got to see more intimate moments between them. Not to mention the huge time jump that happened towards the end. I mean, couldn't we have seen at least a chapter of them together after they confronted her family?!
Once Upon a Cowboy was a sweet and emotional read and even though it was my first read by Maggie McGinnis it definitely won't be my last.
*ARC kindly provided though NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 8, 2019
Reviewed by JoAnne
Book provided by NetGalley
An emotional read from the first page to the last that had my heart in my throat many times as well as laughter and tears. Whisper Creek seems to be idyllic but there are secrets there too and not only the ones Jess is hiding which are heartbreaking. Between the homes, the scenery, the tours, the soon to be spa, the kids, the horses, the family and friends it's a place I wouldn't mind living.
There are hurts, fears, sadness, memories, lost dreams, evilness, friendships, businesses to run, wedding plans, happiness, laughter, townspeople, lots of food, romance and love. There is some playfulness and good times until memories take Jess back to her darker days of her childhood and life back home. Her thoughts fill us in on what she lived through and what she did to get out. Her Grampy was probably the only one that loved her but couldn't help her much due to their circumstances. I loved the way Cole calls Jess, cowgirl, and she calls him cowboy! There is definite chemistry between them but neither is too quick to act on it since neither thinks they are who the other wants. He treats her well, trying not to scare her off since he knows that she has fear inside of her. The prologue from thirteen years before sets the stage and the epilogue ties up the loose ends and gives us the happily ever after I was hoping for and then some. There is wonderful closure but it would be nice to see the series continue maybe as a novella in an anthology (hint, hint) to see how their lives progress!
McGinnis is a new to me author. I will go back and read the first two books in the series, Accidental Cowgirl and A Cowboy's Christmas Promise so I can get the back story on the Driscolls as well as Daniel and Jess' friends, Kyla and Hayley and fill in some of the missing pieces. I also look forward to reading her new series, Echo Lake. Her books will definitely be added to my always growing TBR pile.
Book provided by NetGalley
An emotional read from the first page to the last that had my heart in my throat many times as well as laughter and tears. Whisper Creek seems to be idyllic but there are secrets there too and not only the ones Jess is hiding which are heartbreaking. Between the homes, the scenery, the tours, the soon to be spa, the kids, the horses, the family and friends it's a place I wouldn't mind living.
There are hurts, fears, sadness, memories, lost dreams, evilness, friendships, businesses to run, wedding plans, happiness, laughter, townspeople, lots of food, romance and love. There is some playfulness and good times until memories take Jess back to her darker days of her childhood and life back home. Her thoughts fill us in on what she lived through and what she did to get out. Her Grampy was probably the only one that loved her but couldn't help her much due to their circumstances. I loved the way Cole calls Jess, cowgirl, and she calls him cowboy! There is definite chemistry between them but neither is too quick to act on it since neither thinks they are who the other wants. He treats her well, trying not to scare her off since he knows that she has fear inside of her. The prologue from thirteen years before sets the stage and the epilogue ties up the loose ends and gives us the happily ever after I was hoping for and then some. There is wonderful closure but it would be nice to see the series continue maybe as a novella in an anthology (hint, hint) to see how their lives progress!
McGinnis is a new to me author. I will go back and read the first two books in the series, Accidental Cowgirl and A Cowboy's Christmas Promise so I can get the back story on the Driscolls as well as Daniel and Jess' friends, Kyla and Hayley and fill in some of the missing pieces. I also look forward to reading her new series, Echo Lake. Her books will definitely be added to my always growing TBR pile.
May 5, 2015
**I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review, may contain spoilers**
This is the first McGinnis book I've read, and although this book is part of a trilogy, I had no idea until almost three-quarters of the way through this book. It reads great as a stand-alone romance but the writing is of such a good quality that I want to go back and read the first two books to get to know those characters better. This book is a vanilla romance set in Montana and is of the quality and style that I could see it being turned into a Hallmark/Lifetime movie (which, in my opinion, is a good thing).
McGinnis sets her scene very well, to the point that I was looking up vacations to Montana when I was finished the book! I thought the characters were well-rounded and that their problems were easy to relate to. Jess (female lead) had many secrets, but they were slowly and deliberately revealed to the reader, which kept my interest up until the end. Cole's (male lead) problems were more obvious and basic (relative to Jess') but I could feel his emotions through the words on the page and I related to his feelings. Jess and Cole were obviously attracted to each other from the start but each had their own reasons for holding back. I wish there had been more physical chemistry between them- they both had thoughts about how attractive they found the other, but I was left wanting more intimacy between them physically.
Another problem I had was the role of Marcy, who we are led to believe is going to make a play for Cole at some point, but this never happens. I felt like this character was left open-ended when she could have caused some good tension between Cole and Jess. Yes, she's at the wedding and sees the two leads together, but in a previous scene we're told that she thinks Cole is asking her to the wedding as his date and she is preparing to go with him. This is never resolved with a confrontation, so it felt unfinished to me.
Overall, I found I was able to breeze through this book because of how well it was written. I've never been to Montana but felt like I was right there at Whisper Creek, watching everything happen. Four-stars for a sweet and suspenseful romance.
This is the first McGinnis book I've read, and although this book is part of a trilogy, I had no idea until almost three-quarters of the way through this book. It reads great as a stand-alone romance but the writing is of such a good quality that I want to go back and read the first two books to get to know those characters better. This book is a vanilla romance set in Montana and is of the quality and style that I could see it being turned into a Hallmark/Lifetime movie (which, in my opinion, is a good thing).
McGinnis sets her scene very well, to the point that I was looking up vacations to Montana when I was finished the book! I thought the characters were well-rounded and that their problems were easy to relate to. Jess (female lead) had many secrets, but they were slowly and deliberately revealed to the reader, which kept my interest up until the end. Cole's (male lead) problems were more obvious and basic (relative to Jess') but I could feel his emotions through the words on the page and I related to his feelings. Jess and Cole were obviously attracted to each other from the start but each had their own reasons for holding back. I wish there had been more physical chemistry between them- they both had thoughts about how attractive they found the other, but I was left wanting more intimacy between them physically.
Another problem I had was the role of Marcy, who we are led to believe is going to make a play for Cole at some point, but this never happens. I felt like this character was left open-ended when she could have caused some good tension between Cole and Jess. Yes, she's at the wedding and sees the two leads together, but in a previous scene we're told that she thinks Cole is asking her to the wedding as his date and she is preparing to go with him. This is never resolved with a confrontation, so it felt unfinished to me.
Overall, I found I was able to breeze through this book because of how well it was written. I've never been to Montana but felt like I was right there at Whisper Creek, watching everything happen. Four-stars for a sweet and suspenseful romance.
August 11, 2015
When I read A Cowboy's Christmas Promise, book 2 of this series, last November, I was SO taken with Maggie McGinnis that I wrote in my review:
"CAN'T WAIT FOR MORE FROM WHISPER CREEK!"
and, yeaaaaaaaaaaaa, here it is! LOL
Once Upon a Cowboy was just as fantastic. There's more to this book than just a fiction romance story. SO MUCH MORE. There true and very real issues as part of leads backgrounds/pasts that are perfectly presented and handled.
This is the story of Cole Driscoll and Jess Alcott . Two people who knew they were meant for each other, but didn't know how to do it. Two people who saved themselves and each other from their pasts to have a future. Two people destined for each other.
Jess Alcott has watched from the sidelines as her two best girlfriends have fallen in love and found their HEA. She wants that for herself. She needs it. It's time. But she's broken. Her past is ugly and dark and until she sees light, she'll never have it. Cue, Cole Driscoll .... the light .
Cole and Jess have built a friendship from the moment they met two years prior when Jess and her girlfriends had come to Whisper Creek for a girl's weekend. And even tho she lives in Chicago and loves it, she's managed to forge a solid friendship with Cole and a love for the little town in Montana.
This is a story of growth and forgiveness, love and friendship, but most of all, it's a story of self-worth and trust. It's beautiful, poignant, heart-warming and real.
There's not a single person who would not benefit from this story. So read it. It's worth it!
ARC kindly provided by Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via NetGalley for an honest review.
Once Upon a Cowboy was just as fantastic. There's more to this book than just a fiction romance story. SO MUCH MORE. There true and very real issues as part of leads backgrounds/pasts that are perfectly presented and handled.
This is the story of Cole Driscoll and Jess Alcott . Two people who knew they were meant for each other, but didn't know how to do it. Two people who saved themselves and each other from their pasts to have a future. Two people destined for each other.
Jess Alcott has watched from the sidelines as her two best girlfriends have fallen in love and found their HEA. She wants that for herself. She needs it. It's time. But she's broken. Her past is ugly and dark and until she sees light, she'll never have it. Cue, Cole Driscoll .... the light .
Cole and Jess have built a friendship from the moment they met two years prior when Jess and her girlfriends had come to Whisper Creek for a girl's weekend. And even tho she lives in Chicago and loves it, she's managed to forge a solid friendship with Cole and a love for the little town in Montana.
This is a story of growth and forgiveness, love and friendship, but most of all, it's a story of self-worth and trust. It's beautiful, poignant, heart-warming and real.
There's not a single person who would not benefit from this story. So read it. It's worth it!
ARC kindly provided by Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via NetGalley for an honest review.
June 23, 2015
Original review can be found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...
I received an advanced readers copy from Loveswept via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
The characters in this book were not new to me but I had forgotten how much I loved them until I started reading. Although I was familiar with the characters and some of the back story it was not necessary in order to follow along.
Once Upon a Cowboy grabbed me from the very first page. I was thinking "what??" It certainly appeared like it was going to be very intense with a lot of drama for Jess. Her secrets were pretty serious and she was hiding from a pretty scary past. Needless to say, I wasn't going anywhere once I read the first chapter. I had to know what was going to happen.
When Jess arrived at Whisper Creek it was like a breath of fresh air. McGinnis is superb at describing the landscape and surroundings. It was easy to visualise and she had me wanting to visit some place just like it. You could feel how special the place was and how great the people in it were.
I absolutely adored Jess and Cole and was hoping that they would find their happily ever after with each turn of the page. Both characters were easy to like with great personalities and kind hearts. Although Jess had issues and an unpleasant past she was still likeable with personality traits that were relatable and real. Cole was nothing short of drool worthy right from the start. His actions and intentions towards Jess were sweet and honourable and definitely swoon worthy.
I should probably mention that this book is a very sweet and clean romance. You won't find any between the sheets action in this story. I'm kind of happy that there isn't because it would have ruined the tenderness and impact of Jess and Cole's story and the hurdles that they needed to overcome in the effort to come together.
In the end, I really enjoyed this book and hope that I get the chance to visit Whisper Creek again sometime soon!
I received an advanced readers copy from Loveswept via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
The characters in this book were not new to me but I had forgotten how much I loved them until I started reading. Although I was familiar with the characters and some of the back story it was not necessary in order to follow along.
Once Upon a Cowboy grabbed me from the very first page. I was thinking "what??" It certainly appeared like it was going to be very intense with a lot of drama for Jess. Her secrets were pretty serious and she was hiding from a pretty scary past. Needless to say, I wasn't going anywhere once I read the first chapter. I had to know what was going to happen.
When Jess arrived at Whisper Creek it was like a breath of fresh air. McGinnis is superb at describing the landscape and surroundings. It was easy to visualise and she had me wanting to visit some place just like it. You could feel how special the place was and how great the people in it were.
I absolutely adored Jess and Cole and was hoping that they would find their happily ever after with each turn of the page. Both characters were easy to like with great personalities and kind hearts. Although Jess had issues and an unpleasant past she was still likeable with personality traits that were relatable and real. Cole was nothing short of drool worthy right from the start. His actions and intentions towards Jess were sweet and honourable and definitely swoon worthy.
I should probably mention that this book is a very sweet and clean romance. You won't find any between the sheets action in this story. I'm kind of happy that there isn't because it would have ruined the tenderness and impact of Jess and Cole's story and the hurdles that they needed to overcome in the effort to come together.
In the end, I really enjoyed this book and hope that I get the chance to visit Whisper Creek again sometime soon!
June 30, 2015
HAPPY RELEASE DAY!!!!
This is the third book in the Whisper Creek Series by Maggie McGinnis. I've read the second one, A Cowboy's Christmas Promise, and loved it.
You know, we read romance novels to follow the main characters' journey to an HEA. I expect there to be a few road bumps along the way. I want them to earn their HEA. In this book, the heart fail is huge! And dark. Jess had a hard life...like scary, heartbreakingly hard. I really wanted her to get that HEA, that's for sure.
Once again, Montana is almost a supporting character here. I wanted to breathe the air, ride the horses, play in the waterfall! I also wanted to HARM the bad guys here...
Jess has been hiding from her past but it catches up to her just as she's leaving Boston for Hayley's wedding at Whisper Creek. Hayley was the star of the second book, and we saw Cole and Jess there, too.
I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Jess take hold of her destiny, and stand up for what was right for her. Sometimes we have to hold the alpha male back and just do it ourselves...and I was very proud of Jess. And then I wanted to slap some bad guys, again!
This is one of those books that you might want to start when you have a goodly chunk of time to read. Because you aren't going to want to put it down until that HEA (and what a GOOD one it was, too!) comes together. Yes, I highly recommend this book.
Thank you, NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept, for the opportunity to read this book.
This is the third book in the Whisper Creek Series by Maggie McGinnis. I've read the second one, A Cowboy's Christmas Promise, and loved it.
You know, we read romance novels to follow the main characters' journey to an HEA. I expect there to be a few road bumps along the way. I want them to earn their HEA. In this book, the heart fail is huge! And dark. Jess had a hard life...like scary, heartbreakingly hard. I really wanted her to get that HEA, that's for sure.
Once again, Montana is almost a supporting character here. I wanted to breathe the air, ride the horses, play in the waterfall! I also wanted to HARM the bad guys here...
Jess has been hiding from her past but it catches up to her just as she's leaving Boston for Hayley's wedding at Whisper Creek. Hayley was the star of the second book, and we saw Cole and Jess there, too.
I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Jess take hold of her destiny, and stand up for what was right for her. Sometimes we have to hold the alpha male back and just do it ourselves...and I was very proud of Jess. And then I wanted to slap some bad guys, again!
This is one of those books that you might want to start when you have a goodly chunk of time to read. Because you aren't going to want to put it down until that HEA (and what a GOOD one it was, too!) comes together. Yes, I highly recommend this book.
Thank you, NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept, for the opportunity to read this book.
August 6, 2017
As most of my regular readers have probably figured out, I love a good cowboy story. I've recently become addicted to them, and I cannot seem to stop. I was really excited to get my hands on Once Upon a Cowboy, and I'm happy to say that it was every bit as good as I had hoped.
What is great about this book is the level of emotion. A lot of the time, I personally feel that romance books get away from the actual plot of the story in order to make romance the most in-your-face element, but it wasn't the case with this one. Don't get me wrong: there is plenty of love and romance in this story, but there is so much more. You will feel romance, and you will cheer Cole and Jessalyn on. But you will also feel sadness and perhaps even anger. It's an emotional roller coaster, in a good way. I just wish there were more of them together. They each come with their own sets of problems, and I appreciate that they both have such in depth backstories. I just wish I could have had more time to appreciate them together as a unit.
Plus, Cole is absolutely dreamy. He is everything you want in a cowboy lead, he's strong and handsome and a delight to read about, even when the plot is not necessarily in a happy place.
In short, this is a clean romance, but it certainly is not light and fluffy. You're in for a lot of emotion as you read about Jessalyn and Cole and their journeys both together and apart. I was previously unaware of Maggie McGinnis, and even of the rest of this series. But after reading Once Upon a Cowboy, I will definitely be checking out the other books in this series.
I received a copy in exchange for my honest review. This review can also be found on my blog, Bitches n Prose.
What is great about this book is the level of emotion. A lot of the time, I personally feel that romance books get away from the actual plot of the story in order to make romance the most in-your-face element, but it wasn't the case with this one. Don't get me wrong: there is plenty of love and romance in this story, but there is so much more. You will feel romance, and you will cheer Cole and Jessalyn on. But you will also feel sadness and perhaps even anger. It's an emotional roller coaster, in a good way. I just wish there were more of them together. They each come with their own sets of problems, and I appreciate that they both have such in depth backstories. I just wish I could have had more time to appreciate them together as a unit.
Plus, Cole is absolutely dreamy. He is everything you want in a cowboy lead, he's strong and handsome and a delight to read about, even when the plot is not necessarily in a happy place.
In short, this is a clean romance, but it certainly is not light and fluffy. You're in for a lot of emotion as you read about Jessalyn and Cole and their journeys both together and apart. I was previously unaware of Maggie McGinnis, and even of the rest of this series. But after reading Once Upon a Cowboy, I will definitely be checking out the other books in this series.
I received a copy in exchange for my honest review. This review can also be found on my blog, Bitches n Prose.
July 3, 2015
Thank you, Maggie McGinnis for another amazing story! If you love cowboys and have dreamt at least once in your life of moving to Montana (or is it only me?), you will definitely love this book.
I really love this author’s style, because she creates beautiful stories with well-rounded, relatable characters, settings and dialogues that make you feel as if you’re actually there, watching the whole story unroll in front of your very eyes.
Plus, she gets a bonus star because she doesn’t have to use graphic sex scenes to keep the reader entertained. There isn’t a single sex scene in this book, but I really couldn’t put it down! Scene after scene, I was pulled deeper into the story, from the very first chapter; I empathized with the characters, suffered, swooned and laughed with them.
I loved the characters – all of them. I loved Jesse’s strength and determination, and my heart went out to her during the toughest moments. I absolutely ADORED Cole, and not only because he’s a cowboy. What I loved about Cole was his loyalty toward his family, his big heart and his funny side too.
I enjoyed being back at Whisper Creek again, and I hope there’ll be more of these beautiful stories from Maggie McGinnis. I definitely have to go and read book one now!
Warning: if after finishing this book, you’ll feel a sudden urge of packing up and moving to Montana (namely to this particular ranch), rest assured you’re not alone. You’ll probably already find me on a rocking chair on the back porch, once you get there. :)
read my full review here: http://robertasdreamworld.blogspot.it...
***I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***
I really love this author’s style, because she creates beautiful stories with well-rounded, relatable characters, settings and dialogues that make you feel as if you’re actually there, watching the whole story unroll in front of your very eyes.
Plus, she gets a bonus star because she doesn’t have to use graphic sex scenes to keep the reader entertained. There isn’t a single sex scene in this book, but I really couldn’t put it down! Scene after scene, I was pulled deeper into the story, from the very first chapter; I empathized with the characters, suffered, swooned and laughed with them.
I loved the characters – all of them. I loved Jesse’s strength and determination, and my heart went out to her during the toughest moments. I absolutely ADORED Cole, and not only because he’s a cowboy. What I loved about Cole was his loyalty toward his family, his big heart and his funny side too.
I enjoyed being back at Whisper Creek again, and I hope there’ll be more of these beautiful stories from Maggie McGinnis. I definitely have to go and read book one now!
Warning: if after finishing this book, you’ll feel a sudden urge of packing up and moving to Montana (namely to this particular ranch), rest assured you’re not alone. You’ll probably already find me on a rocking chair on the back porch, once you get there. :)
read my full review here: http://robertasdreamworld.blogspot.it...
***I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***
April 15, 2015
Once Upon a Cowboy by Maggie McGinnis was an excellent read. I have read Maggie McGinnis before, and I am familiar with the Whisper Creek series. I thought that this book was a wonderful addition to the series. Cole, is one sexy cowboy and Jess is one smart city girl who is out at the ranch for a wedding of one of her best friends. Cole and Jess met two years previous on their first excursion to the ranch in Montana where she and her best friends would stay, and eventually meet their future husbands. This time is a little different, they might be out there for a wedding, and Jess and Cole might be interested in eachother, but Jess's past has caught up with her. She has been in hiding for 13 years from a family and a boyfriend that could harm her if they knew where she was. Cole and Jess have to decide if they are going to give a relationship a chance, or whether they are just to remain friends. This book has a lot of laughs and smiles just like the other books, however it does get serious at a certain point.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in the series, I would recommend that you read them in order if at all possible though.
I received a free copy of this book in return for my honest opinion.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in the series, I would recommend that you read them in order if at all possible though.
I received a free copy of this book in return for my honest opinion.
June 21, 2015
Thirteen years ago, Jess Alcott was back in her hometown and was called Starr Smith and dating a guy called Billy. One night they went driving and stopped at Mack's as Billy wanted to buy some booze. Things ended badly and Billy shot Mack. Over the next few days, things went down hill from there and Starr discovered she was pregnant with Billy's baby and he left her for dead. That night, she escaped with a new identity and went to live her life as Jessalyn Alcott . Now years later , someone from her past has contacted her just as she was leaving town to head to a friends wedding in Whisper Creek and now due to events that have happened in her hometown - her past is going to come back in full mode to haunt her. Nervous, she tries to keep her past under wraps , but her friends here know her well. Will they help Jess face her demons in order to move forward with her future , especially since her possible future contains a hunky cowboy ranch hand called Cole Driscoll ?
This was a fast-paced contemporary romance with a hint of suspense and abuse. If you love reading about witness protection type stories and starting new only to have your past creep up on you, then Once Upon a Cowboy is the book for you and never fear readers as it does end on a HEA note.
This was a fast-paced contemporary romance with a hint of suspense and abuse. If you love reading about witness protection type stories and starting new only to have your past creep up on you, then Once Upon a Cowboy is the book for you and never fear readers as it does end on a HEA note.
July 23, 2015
This was my first book by this author, and so it was kind of refreshing to be able to explore a new writing style and just sort of jump in with no preconceived expectations. I had read the synopsis and thought it sounded like something that was right up my alley, and boy was I right! I am a sucker for a well written western romance story equipped with a smooth talking, good heart-ed cowboy and this book definitely had all of that and then some!
The main characters Cole and Jesslyn had amazing chemistry, and you could tell the author put a lot of time and care into developing their characters. I thoroughly enjoyed reading their story, and also getting small glimpses of the other characters in the series, which I plan to acquaint myself with in the near future. The story line had a nice flow to it, and had just enough mystery to keep me on the edge of my seat and continually flipping pages.
This was definitely a nice little introduction to author Maggie McGinnis, she is now earned herself a spot on my must read author list!
ARC copy requested through NetGalley and kindly provided by Random House Publishing Loveswept in exchange for a honest review.
The main characters Cole and Jesslyn had amazing chemistry, and you could tell the author put a lot of time and care into developing their characters. I thoroughly enjoyed reading their story, and also getting small glimpses of the other characters in the series, which I plan to acquaint myself with in the near future. The story line had a nice flow to it, and had just enough mystery to keep me on the edge of my seat and continually flipping pages.
This was definitely a nice little introduction to author Maggie McGinnis, she is now earned herself a spot on my must read author list!
ARC copy requested through NetGalley and kindly provided by Random House Publishing Loveswept in exchange for a honest review.
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