and right when you think the cowboys in this series can’t get any better, you read about a grumpy one 🫡🤠 yeehaw. loved the whole cowboy and horse trainer theme, loved the meet “not” cute, and loved everything about their relationship!

~Contemporaty, Romance, Small-Town, and more!~

Training the Heart by Paisley Hope follows Ivy Spencer, the new temporary horse trainer at the Silver Pines Ranch. Her new boss, Wade Ashby, is still grieving his father's death while also recovering from his failed marriage. With the weight of his family's ranch on his shoulders, it is no wonder he comes off as grumpy and closed off. Despite Ivy and Wade's differences, they have one thing in common: helping the ranch succeed, even if they have different ideas on how to do it. Even though they are both determined to keep things professional, sometimes a flame can't be put out, and feelings can't be ignored.

4.75| This book was a nice mix of romance and real life. While some aspects of this book seemed very book-like, there were also realistic elements in there as well, like grief. This is a topic I'm glad wasn't dropped from the last book. Seeing how Wade was dealing with the grief verus how CeCe did was refreshing. The language in this book was a significant upgrade; It felt less forced and more natural than the previous book. The continuation from the last book to this one was great. I loved seeing Nash and CeCe from a different perspective and how their life progresses. If you haven't read the previous book, it might cause some confusion with the backstory; nothing you don't eventually catch on to, but some parts might feel a little lacking. The pacing of this book was good. Some parts felt a little slow or a little fast, but nothing major that ruined the experiance. I did find the time skip a little disorienting; it gets better as the book goes on, but it felt a little sudden at the time. One part this book nailed was the small-town vibe. I also loved the family dynamic and how that extended to Ivy's mom.

I enjoyed hearing more about the horse world throughout the book. I was a bit confused at times; I wish the glossary had been pointed out. I had no way of knowing it was there until the book was already over. It was a fun addition; I just wish I had known it was there. One part I especially enjoyed was how much Ivy felt like a part of the town and family at the end of the book. She forged real relationships on her own, not because of Wade, which was delightful to see. The side characters in this book were top-tier. I love how we got a glimpse of their own storylines throughout the book, and I am hoping to see some of those stories continued throughout the series. I adored Wade and Ivy's relationship. They had so much chemistry, and the banter was off the charts and a joy to read. The scenery and descriptions were great and did a wonderful job setting the scene.

Overall, this was a fun read that was hard to put down. It did have serious points but managed to stay relatively light-hearted. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves some good banter and small-town vibes. I can not wait to see what happens with Ginger and Cole! I look forward to reading more!

I cannot get enough of these!! The cowboy/ ranch vibes books are my comfort reads right now and this hit the spot. The characters were perfection and it was such a fun, easy read!

I really, really enjoyed this book. It is so romantic with the way the characters fell so completely and without intention. It's also so charming with the smalltown feel, it being set on a ranch & having a cowboy vibe, and having such a close family involved. It's also hella spicy, which was fun, too.

The first book in this series caught my eye on social media, and for that I am so thankful. I absolutely love the writing and the characters, and I cannot wait for the next book!

Read this if you love: workplace romance, small town, cowboy/cowgirl/ranching, steamy romance, grumpy vs sunshine, he takes care of her, close knit family, good friend group books!

I LOVED this story; it was such a fun sequel to the first book I enjoyed so much!

3.75/5
This had every trope you could ever need, honestly. I really liked seeing both of these characters really come out of their own and enjoy the easy relationship they had. Wade and Ivy’s relationship also felt very attainable. There was nothing extravagant about it. Just two people having fun together and watching movies to start.

The Ashby family sounds like so much fun. I maybe should’ve refreshed my memory on Holding the Reins a little before this just so I could’ve been reminded of where we were at when this started, but it was good enough without it.

The brothers best friend -> workplace romance -> single dad and the woman who is friends with his sister but they’ve had the craziest banter their whole lives -ness of this series is really giving exactly the same as Rebel Blue Ranch. But don’t get it twisted, I’m still eating it tf up

This book was 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ it was honestly a bit much for me. But I know a lot of people will love how often they be fuckin, so I won’t really hold that against it

ARC from NetGalley and Random House

UGH my heart, Ivy and Wade are everything! I love grumpy bossman Wade and sunshine-y Ivy. The immaculate friendship/family dynamics carries from the first book on into the second in the series, and it continues to give the most wholesome, heartwarming found family vibes. If you love cowboy romances this is one to read! Thanks Netgalley for the e-ARC!

What a beautiful book. I thought nothing could top the first book and Nash, but then Wade came along and became my new favorite.

This will definitely be one of my best reads of the month, it has all the tropes I love in a book, boss/employee, sunshine/grumpy, slow burn. Really super recommended, I loved it from start to finish, I read it very fast because it had me so intrigued I couldn't stop.

Ivy, you became one of my Fmc this year.

Okay - Wade and Ivy are just EVERYTHING! I loved Holding The Reins but this one - just so yummy. Wade is my new book boyfriend. The book has a lot of yummy tropes, including high chemistry and slow burn, friends to lovers, grumpy/sunshine, some dom/sub stuff and lots of sexy moments. I will be rereading this again and again. Five stars.
Thank you to the author and publisher for this arc.

Review of Training the Heart

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Training the Heart is a spectacular addition to the series that has truly stolen my heart. After being captivated by Holding the Reins, I wasn't sure if any couple could top that, but Wade and Ivy have proven me wrong. Paisley has delivered another enchanting story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, and I can't wait for Riding the High!

The chemistry between Wade and Ivy is electric, and the author skillfully weaves their love story with just the right amount of spice. The way they navigate their challenges feels authentic, making their relationship relatable and deeply engaging. Paisley has a gift for creating characters who not only feel real but also resonate with readers on an emotional level.

The pacing of the book is well-balanced; it allows for moments of intense passion while also delving into the deeper aspects of Wade and Ivy's lives. Their individual growth throughout the story is a highlight, showcasing how love can transform and strengthen us. The themes of trust, vulnerability, and commitment are explored beautifully, making this more than just a romance—it’s a journey of the heart.

The supporting cast adds depth and richness to the narrative, with each character contributing to the overarching story in meaningful ways. Their interactions provide both humor and insight, enriching the world that Paisley has built.

Overall, Training the Heart deserves infinity stars. It’s a perfect blend of love, spice, and emotional depth, solidifying Paisley’s place as a must-read author in this genre. I am eagerly anticipating the next installment, Riding the High, and I recommend this book to anyone looking for a heartfelt romance that leaves a lasting impression.

Ummm wow just wow. I thought the last book couldn't be beat with Nash but then here comes Wade Ashby and oh man, I was so so wrong. Just like book 1 we start out strong with the dedication page. "To those searching for their grumpy, loyal, protective cowboy who will tattoo mine on his hand just so it looks pretty wrapped around your throat, don't give up, babe. Your Wade Ashby is out there." If that doesn't make you want to dive right into this book I don't know what will.

⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
- small town romance
- boss/employee
- hidden romance
- grumpy/sunshine
- forced proximity
- one bed
- dom/sub
- possessive MMC
- he fell first
- talks of alcohol abuse, narcissism, and abuse

I absolutely DEVOURED this book I think even faster than the first book. This is a small town/ ranch romance book with spice. Make sure to check the triggers as it does contain some topics that aren't ok for everyone.

Ivy Spencer the FMC just got hired to be the new temporary horse trainer for Silver Pines ranch. And grumpy Mr. Wade Ashby the MMC is her boss and neighbor on the ranch. She is always full of sunshine and sass and doesn't let any man stand in her way of getting things done. Wade is the complete opposite to Ivy, he's ridiculously grumpy to everyone including his family and a little possessive later on. However, the dynamic between these two is like no other and I just loved reading their story. I binged this book in under 24 hrs and loved every minute of it.

"Let go Ivy, soak my face. Fucking suffocate me, and say my name when you do."

"Do you know what happens to little brats, Ivy?"..."They get fucked, hard."

"You're going to look so fucking pretty wearing my collar, Ivy."

A huge thank you to NetGalley, Paisley Hope and Random House Publishing for the eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

I did not think it was going to be possible to love a book in this series anymore than the first… and then I met Wade & Ivy.

I am head over heels obsessed with this series and this book in particular had me giggling, blushing, and kicking my feet the entire time. Ivy added so much sass while Wade was so grumpy, and it truly made for the absolute best banter and chemistry! I will always love a workplace romance, so the author nailed it with this story.

I loved this book, I will reread this book, and I am counting down the days for book 3!

This was an absolutely perfect small town cowboy romance. Wade was such a grump at first and Ivy the most sunshine

This was an absolutely perfect small town cowboy romance. Wade was such a grump at first and Ivy the most sunshine

I was looking forward to reading this since I really enjoyed the first book in the series but this one was difficult to get through. Way too much spice and not enough substance. Will still plan on reading the next book in the series.

An incredible second book in the silver pines series. The spice was…off the charts good. I was fanning myself though the whole book. The tattoo…I cannot. Massive clap for not having a really big pivotal third act breakup. There was also never any miscommunication or doubt in the relationship which I loved it just felt so…adult. If there were questions they talked about it instead of leaping to conclusions.

From a character standpoint you see Ivy grow back into herself after years of doubt and second guessing. You don’t expect to see character growth from Wade, but you surprisingly do. In the first book of this series you learn he has an ex wife. Throughout this book you see him start to see that you accept the love you think you deserve not the love you actually deserve. In addition to that the moments between Wade and Ivy where he just loves her silently though his actions not his words.

Paisley Hope is quickly becoming one of my new favorite authors! I adored book one in this series, and absolutely loved this book, Training the Heart. This book’s main characters are Wade Ashby and Ivy Spencer. It’s a workplace romance, Ivy is the new horse trainer at Wade’s family ranch. Wade starts out as a dominant grump while Ivy is all sunshine and sass. I loved the nicknames they had for each other and their banter which are just two of the elements of their undeniable chemistry that they share. This book is even spicier than book one, and I ate it up. The steamy scenes are so well written. Wade is such a dirty talker and it was so well done. I also thought the quiet moments that the characters shared together showcased how sweet and tender their romance could be too.

Just like Nash in the first book, Wade is top tier book boyfriend material.

I cannot wait until book three, the Silver Pines Ranch series has my heart!

If you love cowboy romances that are spicy, have a grumpy sunshine vibe, and main characters with off the charts chemistry, then this book is for you!

Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

5 freaking stars from me



I loved the first book, but this one is top tier. I knew I would love Wade once I dived into his story. Something about a boss/employee romance that just really excites me. This one was smoking hot too 🥵🥵 Bossy Wade is definitely a new favorite book boyfriend for me. His tattoo, the scrunchies, this man deserves all the best in life. Really would love to see his ex get what's coming to her.
I really emphasized with Ivy about her ex. Verbal and mental abuse are not something to take lightly. What he had his doctor do was beyond deplorable.
I loved how we got to be back with the whole Ashby clan. This family is truly amazing. Can't wait to see Cole finally get swept off his feet.

I've read two books by this author and my review is the same for both: mostly smut - which is fine! but plot/characters not well written or captivating enough to carry me through personally. Could be a 3 or 4 star read for someone with different taste. I just wasn't charmed or compelled.

since I've given a bit of a harsh review twice I feel I should mention that I have enjoyed other western-set romance series very much! I'm not categorically the wrong audience.

Paisley DID IT AGAIN!!

Wade Ashby can do no wrong and I will take his grumpy self anytime/any day! I love Wade and Ivy individually and I am obsessed with the together. This grumpy, takes everything on as head of the ranch MMC has BDE and I am for it! Ivy is INDEPENDENT and doing her thing! She is sassy and loves pushing Wade's buttons.

You guys... this book has tension but boy when they get into it! You are not going to want to put it down!

This book was such an enjoyable read. From them trying to break their walls down and realize that they do deserve each other and can have love is perfection. The Not-Angels are there and Ginger is pushing Cole's buttons. (Can't wait for that book) Nash is still a simp for Cece, Mama Jo is still the Boss Lady and Papa Dean... this man and his filter is the best!!

Add this to your TBR as you will want to read it ASAP when released!

If you like:
Small Town
Cowboy
Grumpy x Sunshine
Lessons
No 3rd Act Break Up
Accidental Pregnancy
Workplace
Man Obsessed
Road Trip/One Bed
Strong FMC