Books Like...
'Shoulda Been A Cowboy' by Lorelei James is a romance novel that delves into the lives of Cam McKay, an injured war hero turned county sheriff, and Domini Katzinski, the manager of a local diner. Both characters are dealing with their own emotional and physical scars, navigating their relationship while facing personal demons and insecurities. The story follows their journey of self-discovery, healing, and love, as they learn to overcome their fears and support each other through their vulnerabilities. The book explores themes of redemption, acceptance, and intimacy, with a writing style that combines emotional depth with steamy romantic scenes.
If you liked Shoulda Been A Cowboy, here are the top 27 books to read next:
(We also have 100 recommendations for the series: Rough Riders)
- #1
"His Road Home" by Anna Richland is a touching romance novel that follows the story of Rey, a wounded soldier who, due to a traumatic brain injury, struggles to communicate his feelings and emotions to Grace, a Korean American woman who is unexpectedly drawn into his life. The plot revolves around the unique circumstances that bring Rey and Grace together, exploring themes of love, compassion, and new beginnings. The writing style of the book is described as beautiful, heartwarming, and poignant, with a focus on the challenges faced by veterans and the power of human connection in overcoming adversity.
“Nope, but I’m sure you’ll tell me.” Cruz couldn’t complain about the Afghan-American’s interpreting, but the poetry was new. Add spring fever to the training missions, medic duties, tribal politics a... - #2
Molly Jennings returns to her hometown of Tumble Creek after inheriting a house, seeking refuge from a stalker ex-boyfriend who is a police officer skilled in manipulation. Despite her past, Molly reconnects with Ben Lawson, the Chief of Police and her brother's former roommate, whom she has been attracted to since high school. As they navigate their growing feelings, secrets are revealed, including Molly's career as an erotic fiction writer, adding tension to their relationship. The book combines elements of romance, suspense, and humor, with a light comedic style and sizzling sexuality that keeps readers engaged.
Instant coffee mixed with the smell of laundry detergent when she drew in a deep, sad breath. She’d forgotten all about small town markets. They didn’t carry whole beans or special roasts, though a lo... - #3
Beneath the Scars by Cherise Sinclair is a BDSM romance novel that explores the relationship between Josie, a single mother, and Holt, a scarred Dom. The story delves into Josie's journey of self-discovery as she navigates her attraction to Holt, her experiences with submission, and her struggle to trust men due to past heartbreak. Set in the Shadowlands club, the book showcases the slow-burn romance between Josie and Holt, highlighting themes of family dynamics, trust, and second chances at love.
Why was her kick-ass heroine drooling over the hero as if he was an ooey-gooey-chocolate chewy? Grumbling under her breath, Josephine Collier stepped out of her car. The half-written book was a teen f...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Masters of the Shadowlands ) - #4
'A Photo Finish' in the 'Gold Rush Ranch' series by Elsie Silver is a captivating romance novel that follows the story of Violet Eaton, a strong, independent young woman, and Cole Harding, a grumpy and damaged ex-military man. The book beautifully explores their complicated past, their undeniable chemistry, and the hurdles they face as they navigate their journey to love. The writing style is described as intense, emotional, and filled with depth, focusing on themes of PTSD, mental health, and the struggles of war veterans.
The plot revolves around Violet and Cole's unexpected reunion, their complex emotions, and the development of their relationship amidst their individual battles and personal growth. The author, Elsie Silver, skillfully weaves a story that delves into the characters' past traumas and their path to healing, all while creating a romance that is both heartwarming and intense.
Everything around me moves in slow motion. The pointy black ears ahead of me, leading to the shiny black mane down the neck that rocks in a steady rhythm beneath me. My fingers tangle into that mane, ...
(Also, see 90 recommendations for the series Gold Rush Ranch ) - #5
'Rush' in the series 'City Lights' by Emma Scott follows the intertwined stories of Charlotte, a Julliard graduate violinist struggling with grief and loss, and Noah, an adrenaline junkie journalist and extreme sports enthusiast who becomes blind after a near-fatal accident. As these two broken individuals come together, they embark on a journey of healing, acceptance, and love. The narrative explores themes of resilience, anger, grief, acceptance, hope, and the transformative power of love in the face of life-altering challenges. Emma Scott's writing style beautifully captures the emotional depth of the characters, their struggles, and their journey towards healing and finding solace in each other.
- #6
'Willing Victim' by Cara McKenna revolves around the unconventional relationship between Laurel, a waitress, and Flynn, an underground fighter. Despite the initial hesitation due to the book's title and synopsis, readers find themselves engrossed in the dynamic between the characters. Flynn, who enjoys rough sex and enacting rape fantasies, is portrayed as a complex character with a surprising depth of kindness and honesty. Laurel, drawn to Flynn from their first encounter, embarks on a journey of exploring her desires and boundaries with him. delves into their evolving relationship, filled with explicit sexual encounters and moments of genuine tenderness.
The narrative of 'Willing Victim' is praised for its authenticity and character development, particularly in portraying Flynn as a multifaceted individual beyond his sexual preferences. The story unfolds through Laurel's perspective, offering insights into her emotional journey and the complexities of their interactions. Despite the controversial themes of BDSM and rape fantasies, the book is commended for handling these topics with sensitivity and ensuring that all intimate encounters are consensual and respectful.
The afternoon had started out idyllic—a perfect July day in Boston, sunny with a cooling breeze, and a prime, shaded bench all to herself off the waterfront’s beaten tourist path. A pleasant escape fr... - #7
Seven Years to Sin by Sylvia Day is a historical romance novel set in the Georgian era. The story follows Lady Jessica Sheffield and Alistair Caulfield, whose paths cross after seven years. Lady Jessica, a widow, and Alistair, a self-made man with a disreputable past, embark on a passionate journey aboard a ship bound for Jamaica. As they are swept away by their intense emotions, they discover a love worth waiting for, all while navigating their tormented pasts and societal expectations.
It was a question Jess had asked herself many times, yet the answer was moot. She was determined to go. She had been given a brief window of time in which she could do something extraordinary. It was ... - #8
'Float Plan' by Trish Doller follows Anna, who is grieving the loss of her fiance, as she embarks on a sailing trip they had planned together. Unable to handle the boat alone, she hires Keane, a professional sailor with a prosthetic leg, to help her navigate through various Caribbean ports. As Anna and Keane bond over their shared tragedies, the book explores themes of grief, healing, and the slow-burn romance that develops between them. The story is described as a travelogue, rich in descriptions of the settings and the characters' emotional journey as they navigate through their pasts towards a hopeful future.
Last-minute shoppers are clearing shelves of stuffing mix and pumpkin pie filling as I heap my cart with everything I might need. (Dry beans. Canned vegetables. Rice.) I move through the grocery store... - #9
'Mutually Beneficial' is a contemporary romance novel in the 'Indecent Proposals' series by authors Ava Guerre and Heather Guerre. The story follows Annaliese Teague, a woman struggling to make ends meet, who strikes a unique arrangement with her landlord, Jason Andreas, in lieu of rent payment. Despite the initial quid pro quo nature of their relationship, the book delves into their emotional journey, tackling heavy topics such as PTSD, anxiety, and family dynamics. The writing style is described as easy to read, engaging, and filled with steamy scenes that flow seamlessly with the storyline, creating a captivating and emotional narrative.
So when he came knocking on her door on the eighth of the month, she was alarmed, but she wasn’t surprised. She’d just gotten back in from her coworker’s wedding and hadn’t even kicked off her shoes w... - #10
Walk Through Fire by Kristen Ashley is a second chance romance that delves into the passionate and tumultuous love story between Millie and High. The book explores their intense connection, the heartbreak of their separation, and their journey towards reconciliation after twenty years. Through flashbacks, readers witness the depth of their love and the challenges they face in the present day as they navigate hurt, anger, and a desire to rebuild what they once had. Kristen Ashley's writing style weaves together past and present, creating a compelling narrative that evokes emotions and captures the complexities of love and relationships.
Therefore, I was standing in line at Chipotle, trying to decide on pinto or black beans for my burrito, telling myself I was going to have salad for dinner (this would not happen but I was telling mys...