Rough Ride

I’ll admit, I rolled my eyes at the ‘I don’t date cowboys’ opener—until *Rough Ride* proved it was subverting the trope, not leaning on it. Cassie Cole writes rivalries that sizzle, but what hooked me was how she balances the playful competition between Johnny, Elijah, and Sawyer with genuine camaraderie. These aren’t just three alpha archetypes vying for the heroine’s attention; they’re fully realized men with histories, insecurities, and a brotherhood that feels earned. The audiobook’s pacing mirrors a rodeo itself: slow, measured buildup (the ‘chute gate’ of tension), explosive bursts of conflict, and a finale that’s equal parts triumphant and tender. Ramona Radcliff’s narration is the standout—her delivery of the heroine’s sarcasm is *chef’s kiss*, especially in the early chapters where she’s fending off advances with razor-sharp wit. Julio Maxwell, however, takes a beat to find his footing. His Sawyer starts a touch too gruff, almost cartoonish, though he hits his stride by the midpoint, particularly in the quieter, more introspective scenes. My only real critique? The transition sounds between chapters (a faint horse whinny, crowd cheer) occasionally feel jarring, like a DJ overmixing a track. And while the steamy scenes are well-handled, one or two could’ve used a bit more emotional buildup to match the physical heat. Still, this is a romance that remembers humor and heart aren’t mutually exclusive. The bar setting isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a character, pulsing with life, and the cowboy trio’s dynamic avoids the pitfalls of forced drama. If you’re tired of reverse harems where the conflict is manufactured or the heroine is a passive prize, *Rough Ride* delivers a story where the real competition isn’t between the men, but against their own fears. And yes, the narration’s flaws are minor compared to the sheer *fun* of this ride. Just don’t blame me if you suddenly crave a margarita and a line dance by Chapter 3.