Title: Bucked
Author: Cat Johnson
First published January 1, 2010
212 pages, ebook
ISBN: 9781605049007 (ISBN10: 160504900X)
Rating: 3.92
Overview
A Rancher’s Heart by Vivian Arend tells the story of Caleb Stone, a cowboy who has all but given up on love. As the head of his family and a single father, he’s got his hands full with running the ranch and raising his two daughters.
But when Tamara arrives at his doorstep as the new live-in nanny, Caleb’s world is turned upside down. Tamara is trouble with a capital T, and Caleb can’t resist her tantalizing and tempting ways.
Though they both try to resist their attraction, sparks fly between them. Can they find a way to overcome their fears and capture each other’s hearts?
Find out in this first book of a brand-new series from New York Times bestselling author Vivian Arend.
About the Author
If you’re looking for the reading order of a series or a list of books, check out Cat Johnson’s website at CatJohnson.net. For any inquiries related to film or TV, you can email Cat directly at [email protected].
Cat Johnson’s writing journey began in first grade when she won an essay contest at Hawthorne Elementary School. As the winner, she was given the opportunity to ride in the Chief of Police’s car in the Memorial Day Parade.
Since then, she has come a long way and is now a successful writer who is passionate about her craft.
Although Cat has previously been published under a different name in the Young Adult genre, she released her first romance novel in 2006. Today, she is a best-selling and award-winning author of contemporary romance.
She’s also known for her promotional skills and has sponsored real-life bull riding cowboys and even used bologna to promote romance.
Editoral Review
Bucked by Cat Johnson is a western romance novel that was first published on January 1, 2010. The author, Cat Johnson, has garnered a reputation for writing steamy romances set in the world of cowboys and rodeos.
This book follows in that tradition, exploring themes of love, redemption, and forgiveness against the backdrop of professional bull riding. The novel revolves around the two main characters, Harley and Austin.
Harley is a bull rider who has been suspended from the circuit due to a recent injury. Searching for a way to pass the time while he heals, he takes a job on Austin’s ranch.
Austin is a recently widowed ranch owner who is struggling to keep her business running without her husband. At first, Harley and Austin clash, but as they work together to save the ranch, they begin to fall in love.
What sets this book apart from other romance novels is Johnson’s attention to detail. She skillfully weaves in tidbits about bull riding and ranch life, adding depth and authenticity to the story.
The pacing is also excellent, with tension building as the stakes get higher for both Harley and Austin. It’s clear that Johnson has done her research, and as a result, the setting feels like a character in its own right.
The heat and dust of the rodeo circuit, the beauty of the Montana plains, and the ruggedness of the cowboys all come through vividly on the page. This attention to detail makes the book a joy to read, even for people who are not typically fans of the romance genre.
That said, Bucked is not a perfect book. Some of the dialogue can be a bit clunky or on-the-nose, and the character development is not always as deep as it could be.
Additionally, the plot can occasionally feel a bit predictable. However, these flaws are relatively minor, and overall, the book is a fun and entertaining read.
One of the biggest strengths of Bucked is how it humanizes the world of professional bull riding. Johnson shows the inherent dangers and sacrifices involved in the sport, and as a result, the book becomes about more than just romance.
Rather, it’s a story about following your dreams and doing what you love, no matter the cost. In conclusion, Bucked by Cat Johnson is a well-written and captivating romance novel that will delight fans of the genre.
While it has its flaws, the attention to detail and the compelling characters make it a worthwhile read. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys steamy romances, westerns, or stories about following your dreams.
Overall, I give it a score of 4 out of 5 stars.
