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Central Texas #1
Rough Country
Good fences do NOT make good neighbors, especially when that neighbor is a city boy with more dollars than sense.
Emery McAvoy is a walking disaster who should never be allowed to step foot on another ladder. Heck, I’d bet my favorite Golden Girls T-shirt that he rearranged his entire life because his ten-year-old daughter likes ponies.
It’s rather inconvenient, then, that he’s one of the hottest, sweetest men I’ve ever met. I regret looking him up on that dating app because now I have photographic evidence that he’s exactly my type.
Not that I’d ever fall for the city boy next door.
Rough Country is a grumpy sunshine romance that features a burnt-out city boy with a knack for trouble, a surly, brokenhearted cowboy with an enviable T-shirt collection, and a ten-year-old girl who loves horses, boots, and swirly skirts.
Emery McAvoy is a walking disaster who should never be allowed to step foot on another ladder. Heck, I’d bet my favorite Golden Girls T-shirt that he rearranged his entire life because his ten-year-old daughter likes ponies.
It’s rather inconvenient, then, that he’s one of the hottest, sweetest men I’ve ever met. I regret looking him up on that dating app because now I have photographic evidence that he’s exactly my type.
Not that I’d ever fall for the city boy next door.
Rough Country is a grumpy sunshine romance that features a burnt-out city boy with a knack for trouble, a surly, brokenhearted cowboy with an enviable T-shirt collection, and a ten-year-old girl who loves horses, boots, and swirly skirts.
306 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 18, 2024
330 people are currently reading
493 people want to read
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September 22, 2024
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes down below.
“You’ve been giving me nothing but shit for weeks,” I said, undressing methodically, but with haste. “So now you’re going to be a good boy and take what I give you.” “Fuck you,” he said, snarling as he started pushing his jeans and underwear down to his ankles, kicking them off.
Oh boy, I had a really good time reading this. Kelly Fox might be one of my favorites. She seems to always hit the sweet spot between genuinely funny, stupid hot, emotional and sweet. The spice was definitely spicin’ in this one *fans self*.
Woody is grumpy and prickly and would rather keep his walls up and everyone else out than be vulnerable, but deep down he’s a sensitive sweetheart and needs to be protected at all cost. If a character is *too* hostile and difficult, this kinda dynamic often doesn’t work for me as it just gets annoying, but I thought it was done really, really well. I wanted to give him a hug. Also, prickly punk rancher who loves to hear he’s a good boy and wants all the hugs and kisses? Sign me up, every time.
Emery was pretty awesome too. I didn’t understand his background as much and it wasn’t a big focus in the story, but he was a great character anyway. He’s also a really good dad, and I enjoyed all the scenes with his daughter, Stevie. Emery is dominant and possessive, but equally caring and kind. He’ll bone you through the mattress and then cuddle and feed you after. Pretty solid deal.
Absolutely recommend this one.
I wrapped my arms around him, keeping him upright as I kissed the top of his head and then his ears. I made a moany complaining noise, and he tilted his face up, accepting my kisses like maybe he needed them just as badly.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Single dad
City boy in Texas
Grumpy punk rancher
Neighbours
Size difference
Mild enemies to lovers
Poet MC
‘good boy’
Possessiveness
Docking
Hookups to more
Multiple orgasms
Sex toys
Face-riding
Grumpy/sunshine
Small town
High heat
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Brief mention of death of parent (past)
Injured dog (hit by car)
Off-page leg amputation (dog)
Mentions of neglected animals and animal death (off page)
Mentions of past medical maltreatment of MC
Explicit sexual content
References to homophobia (past)
Past sexual harassment/blackmail
Alcohol consumption
Mention of SC being kicked out by homophobic parents (past)
Face-fucking
MC and child suffering anaphylaxis
MC and child hospitalized
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: Yes, brief
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Contemporary romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Main characters’ age: 36 and not specified
Kid’s age: 10
Series: Interconnected standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 306
Happy ending: Yes
I sniffed, then huffed, then plonked my forehead on his wide chest. “I never stood a chance against you, did I?”
I chuckled. “You’re pretty needy for such an ornery cuss.” He bit at my pec. “Shut up.”
“Ewwwww. Why did you hafta go and fall in love with my friend, Dad!” “Whatever,” Emery said, giving my cheek a raspberry. “You love him, too.” “Doesn’t mean I wanna see y’all kissin’ and stuff.”
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
“You’ve been giving me nothing but shit for weeks,” I said, undressing methodically, but with haste. “So now you’re going to be a good boy and take what I give you.” “Fuck you,” he said, snarling as he started pushing his jeans and underwear down to his ankles, kicking them off.
Oh boy, I had a really good time reading this. Kelly Fox might be one of my favorites. She seems to always hit the sweet spot between genuinely funny, stupid hot, emotional and sweet. The spice was definitely spicin’ in this one *fans self*.
Woody is grumpy and prickly and would rather keep his walls up and everyone else out than be vulnerable, but deep down he’s a sensitive sweetheart and needs to be protected at all cost. If a character is *too* hostile and difficult, this kinda dynamic often doesn’t work for me as it just gets annoying, but I thought it was done really, really well. I wanted to give him a hug. Also, prickly punk rancher who loves to hear he’s a good boy and wants all the hugs and kisses? Sign me up, every time.
Emery was pretty awesome too. I didn’t understand his background as much and it wasn’t a big focus in the story, but he was a great character anyway. He’s also a really good dad, and I enjoyed all the scenes with his daughter, Stevie. Emery is dominant and possessive, but equally caring and kind. He’ll bone you through the mattress and then cuddle and feed you after. Pretty solid deal.
Absolutely recommend this one.
I wrapped my arms around him, keeping him upright as I kissed the top of his head and then his ears. I made a moany complaining noise, and he tilted his face up, accepting my kisses like maybe he needed them just as badly.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Single dad
City boy in Texas
Grumpy punk rancher
Neighbours
Size difference
Mild enemies to lovers
Poet MC
‘good boy’
Possessiveness
Docking
Hookups to more
Multiple orgasms
Sex toys
Face-riding
Grumpy/sunshine
Small town
High heat
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Brief mention of death of parent (past)
Injured dog (hit by car)
Off-page leg amputation (dog)
Mentions of neglected animals and animal death (off page)
Mentions of past medical maltreatment of MC
Explicit sexual content
References to homophobia (past)
Past sexual harassment/blackmail
Alcohol consumption
Mention of SC being kicked out by homophobic parents (past)
Face-fucking
MC and child suffering anaphylaxis
MC and child hospitalized
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: Yes, brief
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Contemporary romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Main characters’ age: 36 and not specified
Kid’s age: 10
Series: Interconnected standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 306
Happy ending: Yes
I sniffed, then huffed, then plonked my forehead on his wide chest. “I never stood a chance against you, did I?”
I chuckled. “You’re pretty needy for such an ornery cuss.” He bit at my pec. “Shut up.”
“Ewwwww. Why did you hafta go and fall in love with my friend, Dad!” “Whatever,” Emery said, giving my cheek a raspberry. “You love him, too.” “Doesn’t mean I wanna see y’all kissin’ and stuff.”
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
March 5, 2025
"I thought I knew about soul connections and love, but I hadn't known anything at all until this exact moment."
Oh wow yeah I definitely enjoyed this book!!
Thus It took me a little while to get into the story, but once I did, i was completely hooked and I ended up loving it. The relationship between Emery and Woody is so well-developed, and the chemistry between them is undeniable.
The book is about Emery, who moves to Central Texas with his daughter, Stevie, trying to start fresh. He ends up next door to Woody, a rough-around-the-edges cowboy with a heart of gold who runs an animal sanctuary. At first, they clash a lot, but as they spend more time together, their connection deepens, and what starts as an awkward, slow-burn relationship turns into something so much more.
"I looked up at Emery, and the warm affection in his eyes made me realize that I'd never really gotten that look from anyone." "Like maybe I wasn't that hard to love after all."
I was a little unsure about the kid (Stevie) at first, but she was surprisingly mature and sweet for her age, and her relationship with both her dad and Woody was really well done. It just fit in the story, and I ended up loving how she played a part in their journey.
The romance was definitely slow-burn, but once it heated up, it was sooo hot. And did I mentioned it had a docking scene? No? Well it was one of the hottest things in the book. But all in all their heated scenes were done so well and their relationship was a beautiful mix of emotional growth and passionate moments.
„And that’s what this was. Possession. Even if I wasn’t his, he didn’t want anyone else touching me. Didn’t matter what else I told myself; I was a slut for his hands, his mouth, his tongue, that fucking cock.“
So If you’re into a slower burn with heartfelt moments and some hot intimacy, this one is definitely worth it!!
4,5⭐️
Oh wow yeah I definitely enjoyed this book!!
Thus It took me a little while to get into the story, but once I did, i was completely hooked and I ended up loving it. The relationship between Emery and Woody is so well-developed, and the chemistry between them is undeniable.
The book is about Emery, who moves to Central Texas with his daughter, Stevie, trying to start fresh. He ends up next door to Woody, a rough-around-the-edges cowboy with a heart of gold who runs an animal sanctuary. At first, they clash a lot, but as they spend more time together, their connection deepens, and what starts as an awkward, slow-burn relationship turns into something so much more.
"I looked up at Emery, and the warm affection in his eyes made me realize that I'd never really gotten that look from anyone." "Like maybe I wasn't that hard to love after all."
I was a little unsure about the kid (Stevie) at first, but she was surprisingly mature and sweet for her age, and her relationship with both her dad and Woody was really well done. It just fit in the story, and I ended up loving how she played a part in their journey.
The romance was definitely slow-burn, but once it heated up, it was sooo hot. And did I mentioned it had a docking scene? No? Well it was one of the hottest things in the book. But all in all their heated scenes were done so well and their relationship was a beautiful mix of emotional growth and passionate moments.
„And that’s what this was. Possession. Even if I wasn’t his, he didn’t want anyone else touching me. Didn’t matter what else I told myself; I was a slut for his hands, his mouth, his tongue, that fucking cock.“
So If you’re into a slower burn with heartfelt moments and some hot intimacy, this one is definitely worth it!!
4,5⭐️
April 24, 2025
3.75⭐, but I'll round it up, because the series is your typical Kelly Fox country romanza, it's light, easy, sexy and gives you the cowboys and the Texas countryside, so there's that.
I really liked the main characters and their dynamic, it was hot, it was exciting, but some things just didn't fit into the story, at least for me, that's why I can't rate it more, even though I will read the whole series for sure.
🟢 Single dad, a finance bro / a cowboy who rescues exotic game
🟡 Age gap - I'm guessing about 6-8 years, the older MMC is 36
🔵 Both gay
🟣 Size difference
🟢 There's a kid (it's digestible, but some of it could be left out)
🔵 Hurt / comfort (very good)
🟠 Grumpy / just a hot dad (not really a sunshine)
🟣 I don't like the cover
🌶️ Sex is abundant, it's descriptive; lots of rimming; oral, kissing, penetrative; t/b (excl.)
"I read the quick hits listed on his profile: gay, exclusive top, 6’ 2”, 250 lbs, strictly casual, negative, condoms a must, hotel or you host, and favorite porn categories— rough, dominant, size difference, romantic. My sexual fantasies just got a serious upgrade."
Emery is the finance bro dad, he's tall, buff, big arms, big shoulders, big hands, biggest dick, he's got a little bit of belly going on, he's just the hottest dad (not a daddy). He's rough in bed, likes being in control but tops it up with a completely loving and caring personality, which was such a surprise for me - I'm glad the author didn't go down the daddy road, that would've just made the story too predictable.
Emery buys a house in the countryside (same universe as the author's other ranch series) and meets the surly neighbor Woody, who's actually not only a cowboy who runs a sanctuary for abandoned exotic game, but also a renowned poet whose work made Emery move here in the first place
"God, no wonder his bitter attitude turned me on. It was a cover for the sensitive poet underneath. Maybe that was romanticizing things a little— okay, a lot— but I’d read this man’s words, felt them in my soul. How many times had I secretly wished I could meet the guy who made me sentimental about the Texas landscape, of all things?"
that was a really nice twist and one of the reasons I didn't rate this book higher because Woody's poetry is fantastic and should've had more importance in the story. The poems he wrote later on were gay erotic poems and I was waiting for his book to drop and get to the bestseller's list, I wanted it to be a big deal, but that didn't happen, in fact, it was hardly mentioned in the epilogue.
Woody and Emery have a like-hate type of getting to know each other, mostly because Emery lives in Woody's ex's house, so there's trauma, there's intense heartbreak and Woody's sad life on top of it all - and Emery's here to heal all the wounds. The dialogues were funny, though. I really liked that initial dynamic until Woody opened up more and then when they got more emotional with each other, and even that part was very good.
No drama, no other men, no breaking up, just the beginning of a loving, emotionally healthy and serious relationship.
It's a good story that I liked a lot, but just the parts that are exclusive to Emery and Woody.
The rest was a bit unnecessary, like multiple scenes with Emery's mother, the daughter was quite present in the book and I'm all for teaching the kid all the right words and explaining to them the reality of sex and relationships, but I don't necessarily want to read that in a book about two guys getting together.
The daughter was also 10/11 years old and she talked like she was 18 most of the time, so that was a bit too much of her in the book.
I liked seeing Emery as a dad, he's a single father who's extremely caring and loving, but let's leave it at the hot dad part, I don't want to read about kids as much.
The last couple of chapters quickly finished up the story and the epilogue gives you one year into their relationship, all of it quickly told and I wasn't as satisfied.
I wanted Woody's book to get more attention, I wanted his ex to get a bigger middle finger than he got, the proposal and the wedding were also sped up.
So, definitely not a 4⭐ book, but sweet and easy, it's a good book for in-between when you need something while you're looking for your next best read.
I really liked the main characters and their dynamic, it was hot, it was exciting, but some things just didn't fit into the story, at least for me, that's why I can't rate it more, even though I will read the whole series for sure.
🟢 Single dad, a finance bro / a cowboy who rescues exotic game
🟡 Age gap - I'm guessing about 6-8 years, the older MMC is 36
🔵 Both gay
🟣 Size difference
🟢 There's a kid (it's digestible, but some of it could be left out)
🔵 Hurt / comfort (very good)
🟠 Grumpy / just a hot dad (not really a sunshine)
🟣 I don't like the cover
🌶️ Sex is abundant, it's descriptive; lots of rimming; oral, kissing, penetrative; t/b (excl.)
"I read the quick hits listed on his profile: gay, exclusive top, 6’ 2”, 250 lbs, strictly casual, negative, condoms a must, hotel or you host, and favorite porn categories— rough, dominant, size difference, romantic. My sexual fantasies just got a serious upgrade."
Emery is the finance bro dad, he's tall, buff, big arms, big shoulders, big hands, biggest dick, he's got a little bit of belly going on, he's just the hottest dad (not a daddy). He's rough in bed, likes being in control but tops it up with a completely loving and caring personality, which was such a surprise for me - I'm glad the author didn't go down the daddy road, that would've just made the story too predictable.
Emery buys a house in the countryside (same universe as the author's other ranch series) and meets the surly neighbor Woody, who's actually not only a cowboy who runs a sanctuary for abandoned exotic game, but also a renowned poet whose work made Emery move here in the first place
"God, no wonder his bitter attitude turned me on. It was a cover for the sensitive poet underneath. Maybe that was romanticizing things a little— okay, a lot— but I’d read this man’s words, felt them in my soul. How many times had I secretly wished I could meet the guy who made me sentimental about the Texas landscape, of all things?"
that was a really nice twist and one of the reasons I didn't rate this book higher because Woody's poetry is fantastic and should've had more importance in the story. The poems he wrote later on were gay erotic poems and I was waiting for his book to drop and get to the bestseller's list, I wanted it to be a big deal, but that didn't happen, in fact, it was hardly mentioned in the epilogue.
Woody and Emery have a like-hate type of getting to know each other, mostly because Emery lives in Woody's ex's house, so there's trauma, there's intense heartbreak and Woody's sad life on top of it all - and Emery's here to heal all the wounds. The dialogues were funny, though. I really liked that initial dynamic until Woody opened up more and then when they got more emotional with each other, and even that part was very good.
No drama, no other men, no breaking up, just the beginning of a loving, emotionally healthy and serious relationship.
It's a good story that I liked a lot, but just the parts that are exclusive to Emery and Woody.
The rest was a bit unnecessary, like multiple scenes with Emery's mother, the daughter was quite present in the book and I'm all for teaching the kid all the right words and explaining to them the reality of sex and relationships, but I don't necessarily want to read that in a book about two guys getting together.
The daughter was also 10/11 years old and she talked like she was 18 most of the time, so that was a bit too much of her in the book.
I liked seeing Emery as a dad, he's a single father who's extremely caring and loving, but let's leave it at the hot dad part, I don't want to read about kids as much.
The last couple of chapters quickly finished up the story and the epilogue gives you one year into their relationship, all of it quickly told and I wasn't as satisfied.
I wanted Woody's book to get more attention, I wanted his ex to get a bigger middle finger than he got, the proposal and the wedding were also sped up.
So, definitely not a 4⭐ book, but sweet and easy, it's a good book for in-between when you need something while you're looking for your next best read.
October 24, 2024
Loved this one. Perfect mix of swoon and spice. And the banter was bantering.
Emery and Woody ❤️
....
"What about the water? Am I about to die of dysentery?"
"You aren't gonna ask me what I like in bed?"
"You've been giving me nothing but shit for weeks... So now you're going to be a good boy and take what I give you."
"Fuck you."
"Stop finger painting back there." "Fuck me."
"I normally don't do this"
"Me either. Thank you for letting me hold you."
"Fuck baby. Your hole is so warm and soft this morning." "I wanna fill you up so badly, darling. When are you gonna let me breed you good and proper?"
"I thought I knew about soul connections and love, but I hadn't known anything at all until this exact moment."
"I looked up at Emery, and the warm affection in his eyes made me realize that I'd never really gotten that look from anyone." "Like maybe I wasn't that hard to love after all."
....
⚠️ possible spoilers in tropes and trigger warnings below
Tropes:
Country boy and city boy
Enemies to lovers
Neighbors
Single dad (from surrogacy, no baby mama drama)
Great banter
TWs:
Anaphylaxis
Use of epi pens
Hospital stays
Abusive ex
MC doesn't feel worthy of love
Emery and Woody ❤️
....
"What about the water? Am I about to die of dysentery?"
"You aren't gonna ask me what I like in bed?"
"You've been giving me nothing but shit for weeks... So now you're going to be a good boy and take what I give you."
"Fuck you."
"Stop finger painting back there." "Fuck me."
"I normally don't do this"
"Me either. Thank you for letting me hold you."
"Fuck baby. Your hole is so warm and soft this morning." "I wanna fill you up so badly, darling. When are you gonna let me breed you good and proper?"
"I thought I knew about soul connections and love, but I hadn't known anything at all until this exact moment."
"I looked up at Emery, and the warm affection in his eyes made me realize that I'd never really gotten that look from anyone." "Like maybe I wasn't that hard to love after all."
....
⚠️ possible spoilers in tropes and trigger warnings below
Tropes:
Country boy and city boy
Enemies to lovers
Neighbors
Single dad (from surrogacy, no baby mama drama)
Great banter
TWs:
Anaphylaxis
Use of epi pens
Hospital stays
Abusive ex
MC doesn't feel worthy of love
October 14, 2024
I feel like I'm not going to have much to say about this one.
I liked it. It was sweet, a good introduction to this author for me overall.
Plot-wise? Meh...not much of anything really happened.
Woody is grumpy, understandably, after we learn he's been through heartbreak very recently and has had very little love shown to him in his life.
Emery is sweet, kind and caring, and voluntarily chose to be a single parent in his twenties. He's dominant in bed, but so soft and nurturing outside of it.
He moved from the city to small town Texas with his ten year old daughter, because that's what she wanted most.
He's fixing up the house he bought on the land right next to Woody's. They don't get off to the best start, but it's not that bad either.
Woody takes some time to soften, but he has a soft heart underneath his barbed wires.
They have a lot sex - sexy, but got to be a bit much near the end when I was honestly wanting this book to be done and over with.
So there was lots of good things about this book overall. I enjoyed Woody and Emery together, they had some good chemistry. I was, overall, pretty happy with this.
But...I was kind of over this by the 70% mark and just pushed through to push through. Not that I was going to DNF, exactly, but...if I didn't push through it'd be slowww going to the finish line.
There was some excitement near the end with some bees, but that was about it for excitement in the second half, to be honest.
And Stevie, as sweet as she was, was kind of a 'meh' child character overall. She was sweet and adorable, no doubt, but at times she didn't act like a ten, almost 11 year old at all. Way too mature. Which, sometimes I don't mind this with child characters if done well. Or if they've been through too much and they've had to grow up too much, too fast. Or if they had to take care of their younger sibling, etc.
But there was no real reason for Stevie to be so mature other than...the author not writing kids all that well, tbh.
Again, I liked Stevie still, but...I wish she had been more like a kid. The conversations she'd have with her father, and with Woody were borderline ridiculous to me. Especially her conversation with Woody about their relationship, almost like Woody was having a conversation with Emery's mother instead of his daughter.
It just came off slightly cringe for me. While she could have an opinion about her dad having a relationship, to be sure, she didn't have to be so invested and mature about it on top of that. All that "don't hurt him" talk? Like an 11 year old would be thinking of that? Come on.
I wasn't completely wowed by this, but it was solid overall. Woody was a lot to take at first, but I did come to like him, a lot, as he softened and lowered his walls to let in Emery.
I'll read more from this author in the future, but I won't be chomping at the bit to do so.
Still, this gets points for the hot sex, Woody and Emery being good, interesting characters, and the first half, overall, being pretty strong and an entertaining read, and some parts in the second half as well.
So I recommend this for that, and will pick up a Kelly Fox book in the future 😊
I liked it. It was sweet, a good introduction to this author for me overall.
Plot-wise? Meh...not much of anything really happened.
Woody is grumpy, understandably, after we learn he's been through heartbreak very recently and has had very little love shown to him in his life.
Emery is sweet, kind and caring, and voluntarily chose to be a single parent in his twenties. He's dominant in bed, but so soft and nurturing outside of it.
He moved from the city to small town Texas with his ten year old daughter, because that's what she wanted most.
He's fixing up the house he bought on the land right next to Woody's. They don't get off to the best start, but it's not that bad either.
Woody takes some time to soften, but he has a soft heart underneath his barbed wires.
They have a lot sex - sexy, but got to be a bit much near the end when I was honestly wanting this book to be done and over with.
So there was lots of good things about this book overall. I enjoyed Woody and Emery together, they had some good chemistry. I was, overall, pretty happy with this.
But...I was kind of over this by the 70% mark and just pushed through to push through. Not that I was going to DNF, exactly, but...if I didn't push through it'd be slowww going to the finish line.
There was some excitement near the end with some bees, but that was about it for excitement in the second half, to be honest.
And Stevie, as sweet as she was, was kind of a 'meh' child character overall. She was sweet and adorable, no doubt, but at times she didn't act like a ten, almost 11 year old at all. Way too mature. Which, sometimes I don't mind this with child characters if done well. Or if they've been through too much and they've had to grow up too much, too fast. Or if they had to take care of their younger sibling, etc.
But there was no real reason for Stevie to be so mature other than...the author not writing kids all that well, tbh.
Again, I liked Stevie still, but...I wish she had been more like a kid. The conversations she'd have with her father, and with Woody were borderline ridiculous to me. Especially her conversation with Woody about their relationship, almost like Woody was having a conversation with Emery's mother instead of his daughter.
It just came off slightly cringe for me. While she could have an opinion about her dad having a relationship, to be sure, she didn't have to be so invested and mature about it on top of that. All that "don't hurt him" talk? Like an 11 year old would be thinking of that? Come on.
I wasn't completely wowed by this, but it was solid overall. Woody was a lot to take at first, but I did come to like him, a lot, as he softened and lowered his walls to let in Emery.
I'll read more from this author in the future, but I won't be chomping at the bit to do so.
Still, this gets points for the hot sex, Woody and Emery being good, interesting characters, and the first half, overall, being pretty strong and an entertaining read, and some parts in the second half as well.
So I recommend this for that, and will pick up a Kelly Fox book in the future 😊
August 17, 2025
Oooh this was a good one. Just that perfect balance of funny, emotional and spicy. Throw in the grumpiest grump and it’s so much fun to read. I love when one person is super grumpy and prickly and the other thinks it’s funny and endearing and can see right through them.
The basic of this story is city boy moves to the country and the country boy thinks he’s an idiot. The complex is country boy has a lot of black cat energy and doesn’t want to get close to anyone, especially the hot new neighbor with his adorable daughter.
Both characters were adorable and sweet and the found family vibes were just so heartwarming. And the spice. Whoo boy (see this book brought out my Texan). It’s good. Emory and Woody have their preferences stated right from the beginning, with Emory being a dirty talking dominant alpha male, no doubt about that. But that was more than ok with Woody. Despite his alpha-ness, Emory was still a sweetheart and it made this story feel quite cozy.
Contemporary MM
Country Boy/City Boy
Possessive MC
Black Cat Energy
Single Dad
Found Family
Good Boy Vibes
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
The basic of this story is city boy moves to the country and the country boy thinks he’s an idiot. The complex is country boy has a lot of black cat energy and doesn’t want to get close to anyone, especially the hot new neighbor with his adorable daughter.
Both characters were adorable and sweet and the found family vibes were just so heartwarming. And the spice. Whoo boy (see this book brought out my Texan). It’s good. Emory and Woody have their preferences stated right from the beginning, with Emory being a dirty talking dominant alpha male, no doubt about that. But that was more than ok with Woody. Despite his alpha-ness, Emory was still a sweetheart and it made this story feel quite cozy.
Contemporary MM
Country Boy/City Boy
Possessive MC
Black Cat Energy
Single Dad
Found Family
Good Boy Vibes
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
October 7, 2024
Yes to prickly animal sanctuary owner falling in love with his huge cinnamon roll single father neighbour. Kelly Fox manages to make you laugh and then proceeds to punch you right in the feels. Heartfelt and wholesome as always.
September 26, 2024
This absolute sweetness is just what I needed!
Emery buys a house in Texas because he’s burnt out from the city life. He is learning how to fix it up himself. When his neighbour keeps calling him stupid, for not knowing basic things, sparks fly!
Woody was such a black cat character and I was living for it. The way Emery peeled every layer to get to the cinnamon roll underneath was so cute!
Emery’s daughter, Stevie, was absolutely adorable. Single dad romances always have me in my feels🥹the bond Woody and Emery had was everything!
If you like low angst, single dad, cowboy romances, definitely give this one a go🫶🏻
Emery buys a house in Texas because he’s burnt out from the city life. He is learning how to fix it up himself. When his neighbour keeps calling him stupid, for not knowing basic things, sparks fly!
Woody was such a black cat character and I was living for it. The way Emery peeled every layer to get to the cinnamon roll underneath was so cute!
Emery’s daughter, Stevie, was absolutely adorable. Single dad romances always have me in my feels🥹the bond Woody and Emery had was everything!
If you like low angst, single dad, cowboy romances, definitely give this one a go🫶🏻
September 26, 2024
Made me sob a little but damn it this was HEARTWARMING
dnf-or-hated
November 1, 2024I'm going to be honest here, I'm not leaving a rating or a review because I could not get into this book, it's so boring, it took me almost a month to slog through 40% and I wanted to just mark DNF and call it but then I thought I'd read the last chapter and epilogue to see if it'd even been worth trying to go back and finish, but the truth is, and it absolutely might just be my mood, I don't want to, but maybe I'll try again one day.
Of course as always YMMV.
DNF @ 40%
Of course as always YMMV.
DNF @ 40%
May 28, 2025
Rough Country is a neighbors, grumpy/sunshine, single dad romance.
This book is really cute and sweet but it also gets deep and romantic! I loved it. I usually love Kelly Fox romance novels because she gets deep in your soul and when her characters connect, it's the most adorable and relatable thing.
This book at first comes across as your average MM romance but let me tell you, I kept going back to reread some of my favorite scenes. I just adore these two.
1st re-read : 5/27/25 - 5/28/25
This is even better the second time around. I read all of the little details that I sort of missed last time.
I can't get over how beautiful this love story between Woody & Emery is.. they are sooo perfect and beautiful and this book is so incredibly touching in the perfect Kelly Fox way!!!
This book is really cute and sweet but it also gets deep and romantic! I loved it. I usually love Kelly Fox romance novels because she gets deep in your soul and when her characters connect, it's the most adorable and relatable thing.
This book at first comes across as your average MM romance but let me tell you, I kept going back to reread some of my favorite scenes. I just adore these two.
1st re-read : 5/27/25 - 5/28/25
This is even better the second time around. I read all of the little details that I sort of missed last time.
I can't get over how beautiful this love story between Woody & Emery is.. they are sooo perfect and beautiful and this book is so incredibly touching in the perfect Kelly Fox way!!!
October 16, 2024
This is a gem, an outstanding story !
This is a gem, an outstanding story !
I’d give it 10 Stars !!! Love this author!
Emery, 36, a city boy, a wide shouldered, hunk, with a 10 year old girl, Stevie, bought a 50 acre farm to live a clean air life. His neighbor is a grouch.
Woody/Lockwood, runs a sanctuary for exotic animals who have been injured or abused. He’s a cowboy, slim, strong and stoic, and brokenhearted. His brother Rowdy works with him.
We are in Tx hill country, where Emory is remodeling the farm and getting horses.
He’s determined to get it done.
We have issues like a ladder rescue, a broken dog, and more as we go along. More animals, broken fences, and a new pony who befriends a donkey !
We learn histories, the guys flirt, but Woody is afraid to try again.
The characters are realistic, Stevie is a great character on hr own, plus there is lots of action. We embrace these two men, their conversations, deep thoughts, and hidden depths as they hey fall hard for each other.
Sexy times are exciting, well described and include easy conversation with things not usually mentioned in books.
These two are erotic, scorching hot and amazing together.
Emery and Woody are strong to have overcome their sadness in the pasts and form a great family, faults and all.
When a tragedy occurs, Woody saves a life, nearly costing his own.
I highly recommend this heartwarming book. The wrap up is emotional, so have tissues handy ! I cried big tears a few times !
ENJOY !
======
This is a gem, an outstanding story !
I’d give it 10 Stars !!! Love this author!
Emery, 36, a city boy, a wide shouldered, hunk, with a 10 year old girl, Stevie, bought a 50 acre farm to live a clean air life. His neighbor is a grouch.
Woody/Lockwood, runs a sanctuary for exotic animals who have been injured or abused. He’s a cowboy, slim, strong and stoic, and brokenhearted. His brother Rowdy works with him.
We are in Tx hill country, where Emory is remodeling the farm and getting horses.
He’s determined to get it done.
We have issues like a ladder rescue, a broken dog, and more as we go along. More animals, broken fences, and a new pony who befriends a donkey !
We learn histories, the guys flirt, but Woody is afraid to try again.
The characters are realistic, Stevie is a great character on hr own, plus there is lots of action. We embrace these two men, their conversations, deep thoughts, and hidden depths as they hey fall hard for each other.
Sexy times are exciting, well described and include easy conversation with things not usually mentioned in books.
These two are erotic, scorching hot and amazing together.
Emery and Woody are strong to have overcome their sadness in the pasts and form a great family, faults and all.
When a tragedy occurs, Woody saves a life, nearly costing his own.
I highly recommend this heartwarming book. The wrap up is emotional, so have tissues handy ! I cried big tears a few times !
ENJOY !
======
September 19, 2024
Nice story of being loved
Not a bad story, all the right feels. It is nice to be loved and these two were cute.
My only remark is why in stories do they make kids out to be these older than their age, to smart for their age, well more educated than any 26yr old I know and so spoiled but oh so nice. Why can a 10 yr old kid be a ten yr old kid. No one in books has a everyday child, it amazes me.
Not a bad story, all the right feels. It is nice to be loved and these two were cute.
My only remark is why in stories do they make kids out to be these older than their age, to smart for their age, well more educated than any 26yr old I know and so spoiled but oh so nice. Why can a 10 yr old kid be a ten yr old kid. No one in books has a everyday child, it amazes me.
January 14, 2025
I went into this book expecting a heartfelt romance, but what I got instead was a never-ending stream of smut with barely any story to hold it together. Don’t get me wrong—I enjoy steamy scenes, but I need them to be tied to emotions and a plot that actually makes sense. Here, everything felt rushed and surface-level. Emery and Woody went from neighbors to lovers to soulmates so quickly that I was left wondering if I’d accidentally skipped a few chapters. There was no real development, just a lot of telling instead of showing.
And don’t even get me started on the cringey Google Translate French moments—I had to put the book down and take a breather a couple of times because I just couldn’t deal. Stevie’s character was also a mess. One minute she felt like a little kid, and the next, she was doling out relationship advice like a middle-aged therapist. It was chaotic, and not in a fun way. This book left me confused and annoyed, but at least now I know what to expect if I ever decide to pick up another book in this series.
And don’t even get me started on the cringey Google Translate French moments—I had to put the book down and take a breather a couple of times because I just couldn’t deal. Stevie’s character was also a mess. One minute she felt like a little kid, and the next, she was doling out relationship advice like a middle-aged therapist. It was chaotic, and not in a fun way. This book left me confused and annoyed, but at least now I know what to expect if I ever decide to pick up another book in this series.
October 10, 2024
3.5 🌟 rounded up
A solid read with a few minor personal taste issues.
Emery (H1) is a single Dad who just uprooted his life in the city to live on the land in central Texas. When he bites off more than he can chew, he finds himself in a few precarious situations, which is where his grumpy, kind of judgemental but really a marshmallow, neighbour Woody (H2) comes to the literal rescue.
I didn’t care for the taunting and jealousy that Emery inflicted on Woody. And really it just kind of made me feel that Woody needed someone better than Emery, not someone who purposefully riled him up and intentionally flirted with men in front of him. Especially given Woody’s recent history. It felt a bit gross to me, and is really not something I enjoy in my romances. If this was a f/m romance I would have dnf’d SO FAST. But alas, I persevered and I am glad I did.
There was a lot of pushing away by Woody because he had recently been hurt, and I did feel bad for Emery at certain points for having to be rejected so consistently. That being said, it’s not like Emery was certain of what he wanted anyways, so I kind of understood where Woody was coming from and it didn’t frustrate me too much for this reason.
Once they’re together, these two were great. I really enjoyed reading it, and loved the dynamic between Woody and Stevie, they were super adorable!
Ultimately a good read.
Safety:
- No virgins.
- H1 doesn’t do relationship and is a manwhore prior to the events of the book. No recent history given that I can remember, other than he semi-recently went to Bora Bora and slept his way through the island (yuck).
- H2 hasn’t been with anyone in a few months, when his last relationship ended. He was supposedly in love with this man and struggling with the break up at the start of this book.
- No op drama other than jealousy mentioned above.
A solid read with a few minor personal taste issues.
Emery (H1) is a single Dad who just uprooted his life in the city to live on the land in central Texas. When he bites off more than he can chew, he finds himself in a few precarious situations, which is where his grumpy, kind of judgemental but really a marshmallow, neighbour Woody (H2) comes to the literal rescue.
I didn’t care for the taunting and jealousy that Emery inflicted on Woody. And really it just kind of made me feel that Woody needed someone better than Emery, not someone who purposefully riled him up and intentionally flirted with men in front of him. Especially given Woody’s recent history. It felt a bit gross to me, and is really not something I enjoy in my romances. If this was a f/m romance I would have dnf’d SO FAST. But alas, I persevered and I am glad I did.
There was a lot of pushing away by Woody because he had recently been hurt, and I did feel bad for Emery at certain points for having to be rejected so consistently. That being said, it’s not like Emery was certain of what he wanted anyways, so I kind of understood where Woody was coming from and it didn’t frustrate me too much for this reason.
Once they’re together, these two were great. I really enjoyed reading it, and loved the dynamic between Woody and Stevie, they were super adorable!
Ultimately a good read.
Safety:
- No virgins.
- H1 doesn’t do relationship and is a manwhore prior to the events of the book. No recent history given that I can remember, other than he semi-recently went to Bora Bora and slept his way through the island (yuck).
- H2 hasn’t been with anyone in a few months, when his last relationship ended. He was supposedly in love with this man and struggling with the break up at the start of this book.
- No op drama other than jealousy mentioned above.
September 27, 2024
This book is entertaining, snarky, prickly at times, and definitely "feel good". Woody is the grumpy next door neighbor who was born in central Texas and does abide by city folk who move into the area and almost get themselves killed because they don't know what they are doing. When good-looking Emery, a single Dad, moves in next door, Woody knows it is his duty to educate the man - and keep a close eye on him with his binoculars.
Emery moved to the property because he needed extended time from work, his daughter was interested in horses, and they would be closer to his mother. He didn't expect his curmudgeonly neighbor to get him all hot and bothered. It doesn't help that Woody is probably the most attractive man he's ever seen and just his type. Although Woody certainly isn't a ray of sunshine something in him just calls to Emery.
This book has supportive friends and family, low-angst, high heat, and a beautiful forever love.
Emery moved to the property because he needed extended time from work, his daughter was interested in horses, and they would be closer to his mother. He didn't expect his curmudgeonly neighbor to get him all hot and bothered. It doesn't help that Woody is probably the most attractive man he's ever seen and just his type. Although Woody certainly isn't a ray of sunshine something in him just calls to Emery.
This book has supportive friends and family, low-angst, high heat, and a beautiful forever love.
April 14, 2025
I thought this was a good story, but there were a couple things that had me knock off a couple of stars.
What I liked:
- I liked the main characters, Emery and Woody, and it did seem like they had good chemistry.
- Woody starts off as prickly as a porcupine, but is really a cinnamon roll inside, which can be one of my favorite characters types.
- I loved Rowdy and I'm glad we get a second book with him as the MC.
- I liked that we got cameos of some Rebel Sky Ranch characters.
- the writing style was easy to follow and enjoyable to read.
What didn't work for me:
- I don't understand when child characters talk/act like adults. It totally brings me out of the story because no 10yo talks like this in real life.
- the relationship felt a little rushed. We didn't see very much relationship building outside of attraction followed by sex.
What I liked:
- I liked the main characters, Emery and Woody, and it did seem like they had good chemistry.
- Woody starts off as prickly as a porcupine, but is really a cinnamon roll inside, which can be one of my favorite characters types.
- I loved Rowdy and I'm glad we get a second book with him as the MC.
- I liked that we got cameos of some Rebel Sky Ranch characters.
- the writing style was easy to follow and enjoyable to read.
What didn't work for me:
- I don't understand when child characters talk/act like adults. It totally brings me out of the story because no 10yo talks like this in real life.
- the relationship felt a little rushed. We didn't see very much relationship building outside of attraction followed by sex.
Read
September 18, 2024First off, I always appreciate that even when trying to create a standalone story, an amazing author writes great side characters who just beg throughout the story for their own book... which means we get even more of Texas Hill Country when Kes and Rowdy get their book... but I digress, we need to start with Emery and Woody and Emery's adorable daughter, Stevie - they are all sweet and wonderful and I absolutely love how devoted to Stevie that Woody is - even without exploring a relationship with Emery - it's absolutely lovely to read!
Emery and Woody are amazing opposites and it was lovely to watch the two men navigate their pasts and their beliefs to find common ground and chemistry!
This book was another lovely read from Kelly Fox and I can't wait for the next one!
Emery and Woody are amazing opposites and it was lovely to watch the two men navigate their pasts and their beliefs to find common ground and chemistry!
This book was another lovely read from Kelly Fox and I can't wait for the next one!
April 14, 2025
2.5 ⭐️
Staring at my messy hair in the mirror, I placed my hand on my chest. “I’m sorry I didn’t protect you before,” I said to my heart. “I’m trying to protect you now.”
the rating is pretty low but this wasn’t, like, bad. it was just a bit rushed and then it didn’t really need the last fifteen pages or so. though the steam was pretty steamy. sadly, i am very hard to please with children characters, and stevie was sweet but bothered more than she enchanted me. like, when did the kid ever go to School?? ya kno????
anyways, still a fun read with plenty of sweet moments, but i guess i just wanted more out of the story and i hate when i physically roll my eyes whilist reading, it makes me feel so mean.
Staring at my messy hair in the mirror, I placed my hand on my chest. “I’m sorry I didn’t protect you before,” I said to my heart. “I’m trying to protect you now.”
the rating is pretty low but this wasn’t, like, bad. it was just a bit rushed and then it didn’t really need the last fifteen pages or so. though the steam was pretty steamy. sadly, i am very hard to please with children characters, and stevie was sweet but bothered more than she enchanted me. like, when did the kid ever go to School?? ya kno????
anyways, still a fun read with plenty of sweet moments, but i guess i just wanted more out of the story and i hate when i physically roll my eyes whilist reading, it makes me feel so mean.
September 22, 2024
French Bread
Crusty on the outside but soft in the middle explained Woody perfectly. I really enjoyed this grumpy/sunshine romance set in Texas Hill Country. Emery was so sweet and patient with Woody and little Stevie just made everything sweeter. I loved the development of this little family and cannot wait for the next book!
Crusty on the outside but soft in the middle explained Woody perfectly. I really enjoyed this grumpy/sunshine romance set in Texas Hill Country. Emery was so sweet and patient with Woody and little Stevie just made everything sweeter. I loved the development of this little family and cannot wait for the next book!
April 29, 2025
another DNF from me. This was a new author I tried and might give her another chance but dear lord could but make this book work. One thing that killed me was that she kept switching b/t using their first names and then sometimes their last names and I never knew who was who
I think the people that loved this book are lying
I think the people that loved this book are lying
February 19, 2025
had a lot of good elements this was a good one short and sweet
May 28, 2025
Rating: 4/5 🌟
Spice: 3.5/5 🌶️
Characters: Woody and Emery
Spice: 3.5/5 🌶️
Characters: Woody and Emery
August 17, 2025
3.5 rounded down. not necessarily bad in the sense that i don’t really have any actual problems with the overall story & writing style, i just didn’t find it that engaging / exciting.
September 26, 2024
4,5 stars
Rough Country by Kelly Fox is about Emery and Woody. A sunshine city boy single dad and a grumpy, sweet on the inside cowboy. Their story was so good, I loved it. It was sweet, sexy, full of feels and very well written.
Rough Country by Kelly Fox is about Emery and Woody. A sunshine city boy single dad and a grumpy, sweet on the inside cowboy. Their story was so good, I loved it. It was sweet, sexy, full of feels and very well written.
August 16, 2025
4.5 stars, rounded up
At this point, I'm convinced that Kelly Fox can do no wrong for me. I love all her books, simple as that. Her writing always pulls me in, her characters always feel wonderfully real, so perfectly imperfect. The romance always makes me swoon, the spice is always just right, and the story always has the right amount of angst without it feeling suffocating or too much. Rough Country is no different and I didn't expect anything else.
Emery is a burned-out city guy, Woody is a broken-hearted country guy. While at a glance, these two shouldn't go together, they absolutely do. Neither of these men really know how to love or be loved and it was wonderful watching them grow closer and find what they needed in each other. The side-characters added another layer to it. I loved Emery's mom, I loved Kess and Rowdy (who will be getting their own book) and I adored Emery's daughter Stevie.
This is a beautiful story set in the Central Texas Hill Country and while I would've been perfectly happy if it had been a true standalone, I am glad that 1) we WILL be getting Kess and Rowdy's book and 2) we got a few sneaky cameo's and mentions of Kelly's other books.
Another winner for Kelly Fox! If you love her other books, you should definitely read this one. If you love MM contemporary romance with a lot of heart, you should also definitely read this. In other words, just read this. It's worth it, promise.
I received an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in exchange for an honest review.
At this point, I'm convinced that Kelly Fox can do no wrong for me. I love all her books, simple as that. Her writing always pulls me in, her characters always feel wonderfully real, so perfectly imperfect. The romance always makes me swoon, the spice is always just right, and the story always has the right amount of angst without it feeling suffocating or too much. Rough Country is no different and I didn't expect anything else.
Emery is a burned-out city guy, Woody is a broken-hearted country guy. While at a glance, these two shouldn't go together, they absolutely do. Neither of these men really know how to love or be loved and it was wonderful watching them grow closer and find what they needed in each other. The side-characters added another layer to it. I loved Emery's mom, I loved Kess and Rowdy (who will be getting their own book) and I adored Emery's daughter Stevie.
This is a beautiful story set in the Central Texas Hill Country and while I would've been perfectly happy if it had been a true standalone, I am glad that 1) we WILL be getting Kess and Rowdy's book and 2) we got a few sneaky cameo's and mentions of Kelly's other books.
Another winner for Kelly Fox! If you love her other books, you should definitely read this one. If you love MM contemporary romance with a lot of heart, you should also definitely read this. In other words, just read this. It's worth it, promise.
I received an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in exchange for an honest review.
December 6, 2024
This was my first book by this author and I picked it up because I have the ARC for book two sitting on my Kindle and when I started reading it I felt like I was missing something and realised the MCs were side characters in this so decided to read this first.
Had I known going into this to mainly expect smut over an actual story, i think I would have enjoyed it more as there is nothing wrong with erotica and books being written with that as the focus. However, I went into this expecting an actual romance, and that wasn't delivered. When Emery & Woody started talking about love, etc, I was left wondering HOW & WHEN exactly that had happened as all I had experienced as the reader was them banging it out every other page. I don't really have much more to say about this tbh, although having read this i will be going into the ARC for book two with different expectations of what the story is going to be so fingers crossed my overall enjoyment of it improves in comparison to this one. 🌶🌶🌶
Had I known going into this to mainly expect smut over an actual story, i think I would have enjoyed it more as there is nothing wrong with erotica and books being written with that as the focus. However, I went into this expecting an actual romance, and that wasn't delivered. When Emery & Woody started talking about love, etc, I was left wondering HOW & WHEN exactly that had happened as all I had experienced as the reader was them banging it out every other page. I don't really have much more to say about this tbh, although having read this i will be going into the ARC for book two with different expectations of what the story is going to be so fingers crossed my overall enjoyment of it improves in comparison to this one. 🌶🌶🌶
November 20, 2024
I'm puzzled by this book. Like most Kelly Fox books these days, it was mostly erotica. When the characters started talking about love and all that, I was like, "When did that happen?" Must have happened off page, because there was really nothing happening on-page to suggest the MCs should or would be in love OR a relationship. I'm sure some people will enjoy this, but since book sex does nothing for me and the "relationship" didn't happen on page, I'm just left with a feeling of ".....what?" I used to love this author for the emotion she put into her books, but I'm not much of a fan of the new Kelly Fox. Guess I'll just reread the older stuff.
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