Review: SONG FOR A COWBOY by Sasha Summers

There are a slew of books coming up in the next couple of weeks that my reading partners and I are SUPER excited about. This one, SONG FOR A COWBOY by Sasha Summers, is absolutely one of them. Another fantastic read by an author who always makes us smile.

Author: Sasha Summers
Series: Kings of Country (#2)
Release Date: January 26, 2021
Pages: 312
Review Copy: Received ARC from author*

Blurb:
Country star Emmy Lou King is singing the blues over the cowboy who got away…

Emmy Lou King’s whole family is legendary in country music. When she lands the opportunity to sing the American Football League anthem and serve on one of the AFL’s anti-drug charities, she’s sure she can handle working with Brock Watson. She was charmed by the cowboy once upon a time—and she’s never loved anyone else—but she can handle it. Right?

Brock Watson is feeling the pressure. From dealing with his father’s declining health, to keeping their ranch running, staying in game-ready shape, and his dedication to the charity that changed his life, there’s no time for anything else. Emmy Lou included. After six years, he’d like to think she couldn’t mess with his head anymore. But one look, one smile—and he knows she’s as dangerous as ever. He can’t resist her—he never could.

The more time Emmy Lou spends with Brock, the harder it is for them to keep their distance.

Initial Thoughts/Expectations:
Song for a Cowboy is book two in the Kings of Country series and the characters and the overarching storyline were all set in place in book one, Jace. I was beyond excited for more time with the King Family when I received a copy of the book and sat down to begin it, yet I was still surprised with how fully and happily I became entrenched in their world again. I was smiling so big by the end of the opening scene.

What I Loved:
This book was Emmy Lou’s story and I loved watching Emmy Lou come into her own and think that was as much the point of this book as her romance with Brock. She has always been a bit sheltered, but her ridiculously large heart has kept her a genuinely adorable person – seriously, there are times in this book when you realize how she could have ended up way different. She struggles and learns a good deal about herself and those she can rely on throughout this book.

I loved Emmy Lou and Brock and believe there is little better than a couple finding each other again after they have done some growing and living! There may have been outside forces that pushed them apart and while some mourning can be done for the time they lost, they are stronger for having had the chance to grow before being settled with one another. There are a few times I wanted to make them sit down and talk to each other, but the miscommunication that is at the heart of their issues was set in place so long ago and is so very deep-set. Brock is a pro football player and that storyline helps to force them together and brings in a few entertaining moments throughout the book.

All the supporting characters bring so much to the story. Krystal and Jace, the main characters from book one, are the cutest and after book one it is so nice to see them so happy. Travis, Emmy Lou’s brother, is witty as ever but obviously dealing with a lot and I cannot wait to get his story – it’ll be an interesting one for sure. Sawyer, the Kings’ bodyguard with a secret (to most) family connection, continues to intrigue me – he is going to get his story too! The King family is as complicated as ever but the fact that those siblings care about each other like they do attests to their love and truly deep bond. The drama and the love between them keeps me wanting more!

What I Didn’t Love:
Nothing at all. However, I will admit that a few days after finishing the book I realized there was something integral to Emmy Lou and Brock’s story that I don’t recall being fully addressed. After giving it some thought I feel there is a storyline involving she-who-shall-not-be-named (Emmy Lou’s mother) that is still running its course. I am hopeful that there will be a little more resolution as we progress through to Travis’ story and beyond.

Final Thoughts:
I do not suggest reading Song for a Cowboy as a stand-alone because you’d miss out on so much important background information. While this is Emmy Lou and Brock’s story it is closely entwined with the King Family’s story which begins in Jace. The family drama is a focal point, but humor between the siblings lightens things up the right amount throughout.

When I read the last paragraph I was both happy with the ending and sad that it had to end. Sasha Summers’ writing and the characters she creates never fail to draw me in and make me forget the world around me. I had big expectations going in to the book and they were not only met, but exceeded!

I cannot wait for more. You really can’t go wrong with a Sasha Summers book.