Reforming the Cowboy: A South Beach Book

by Marisa Cleveland

[Angie]

Reforming the Cowboy is another "reforming" Romance where there is no reforming. Billy is a washed-up Country singer who's been out of the spotlight for a decade. He's trying to make a comeback, and his first bit of exposure is a weekend gig for the grand opening of Lacey's Cafe. The owner, Lacey, had a crush on Billy when he was still touring, so needless to say, she's quite happy to meet him. Of course, the two start up a whirlwind romance, but when Billy starts getting more opportunities, can they make it work?

One of my least favorite Romance endings is when someone gives up their dream in order to be in the relationship. Reforming the Cowboy almost has this moment, but I was still annoyed because Lacey was more than willing to do it! She spends nearly 200 pages saying how her cafe is her dream and her life and she's going to make it work. But after a week she's ready to move out of state to be with Billy when he says that they don't have to be long-distance? I don't think so! Luckily, the man had a plan that did not involve her closing up her week-old business.

I knew Reforming the Cowboy wasn't going to be my jam, but for different reasons. I actually enjoyed most of it, but toward the end, Lacey just drove me bananas. I had actually been pleasantly surprised at how normal their relationship was going, and then it all went down hill when Lacey purposely misinterpreted Billy's lyrics, didn't even listen to the entire song, and chose to listen to his clearly jealously unhinged ex-girlfriend. All before being too willing to give up her dream for him. Sorry, but no.