I wasn’t expecting to bail my little sister’s best friend out of jail.
But what else could I do? I’ve wanted her for far longer than I care to admit. Too bad she thinks I’m a notorious playboy, leaving me firmly in the friend zone. Not that I didn’t earn that reputation once upon a time, but Birdie is the only one I have eyes for now.
Luck is on my side when, after a few too many shots, the girl of my dreams propositions me. Will I be the first one to take her for a roll in the hay and teach her everything I know?
Getting involved with the woman I’ve been yearning for is a bad idea. But it’s one I plan to take for a ride, especially when Birdie becomes my fake girlfriend with benefits.
This might not be my first rodeo, but agreeing to give her spicy lessons blurs the lines between friendship and what lies beyond. If I’m already bending the rules, I’m determined to lasso her heart.
(ARC Read)
This was such a cozy, feel-good romance that was simply a really cute and enjoyable read. Lassoed Love follows Birdie, an awkward, big-hearted animal lover who drunkenly asks her best friend’s older brother for… spicy lessons. And honestly? From that moment on, I was hooked by the charm of their story.
Birdie is quirky, sweet, and a little awkward, especially when she tries to flirt, which only made her more lovable. She runs an unofficial animal rescue out of her home, and I loved that she wasn’t afraid to literally go to jail for saving animals… even when her dad is the small-town sheriff. She gives so much of herself to everyone around her, whether it’s rescuing animals or caring for her mom as she navigates Parkinson’s. Ann Einerson handled the chronic illness representation with such care and tenderness, and it added a beautiful emotional layer to the story. Birdie has been carrying so much on her shoulders, and watching her finally choose something for herself, and step into her confidence, was incredibly satisfying.
Walker Halstead? Absolute green flag cowboy hero. He’s her best friend’s older brother who has been quietly pining for Birdie for years, never acting on his feelings because she friend-zoned him and assumed he’d never go for someone like her. Despite his former playboy reputation, Walker is completely devoted. He’s patient, gentle, and so intentional with her, taking things slow and showing her how she deserves to be treated.
“Any man who can’t see your worth in your most vulnerable moments isn’t worth your time—period.”
The little things absolutely made this romance shine — opening her door, making her special lattes, bringing her flowers, quietly helping her family without expecting recognition. He’s a deputy sheriff, a cowboy, and completely head over boots for Birdie.
“Birdie Matterson is my endgame. I may have been her first, but I fully intend to be her last.”
I mean… come on. How could you not melt?
Their fake dating and spicy lessons blur the lines in the best way. The chemistry builds naturally, and I loved watching Birdie gain confidence while Walker supported her every step of the way. The spice was perfectly balanced with the plot, and yes, there are definitely some memorable moments (including rope). I loved the “eyes on me” energy, the trust, and the way their emotional connection deepened alongside the heat.
“Use me—for your pleasure, to live out your every fantasy, to chase the rush of your first orgasm. All. Of. It. All you have to do is ask, and I’m here to serve you.”
Beyond the romance, the relationships really brought this story to life. The girl group chats were hilarious, Walker’s family dynamic added warmth, and the small-town charm made everything feel cozy and lived-in. Even with heavier moments surrounding Birdie’s mom’s illness, the story never felt overwhelming — it just added depth and heart.
Another thing I really appreciated? No unnecessary third-act breakup. Just open communication, emotional growth, and two people choosing each other in a way that felt mature and genuine. The ending was incredibly satisfying, and I’m already so excited for Charlie and Heath after those heated exchanges. I need their story immediately.
This was a quick, easy, heart-warming read that left me smiling the entire time. Sweet, spicy, and full of charm, Lassoed Love is perfect if you’re in the mood for a cozy small-town romance with a devoted cowboy hero.
Release Date: March 26th, 2026
Thank you to Ann Einerson and The Smuthood INC. for the ARC read!