Yep, I've fallen in love with the Ashby family at Silver Pines Ranch. Paisley Hope is a talented writer who definitely likes to turn up the heat in her romance novels.
Ivy & Wade are both headstrong characters who have been treated poorly by their ex's & came out the other side stronger from it.
I'm already beyond excited for Cole & Ginger's story in the next Silver Pines book in the series. My hope is Olivia's story is to follow that cause a few easter eggs hints have been dropped in Paisley's stories & I for one, am looking forward to more stories involving the Ashby family.
Thank you, #NetGalley. I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book, with all thoughts and opinions are my own. If you're looking for spunky characters, a little drama, plenty of passion, & lots of swoon, then I recommend reading this wonderful Training the Heart romance story.

Training the Heart is the second book in Paisley Hope’s Silver Pines Ranch series. It is a spicy and swoony contemporary romance. I adore the sassiness of Ivy and what a spitfire she is, despite her past heartaches. Wade had me swooning early on and I love the chemistry between them. The banter is great. I can totally picture the vivacious Ivy and the grumpy-yet-silently-pining Wade. I love the big Ashby clan and the girl gang vibes throughout it.

Ivy is my hero. Right off the bat when she shows up late to her job interview and explains it’s because the spice finally hit in her slow burn romance book. All while cussing like a sailor. And then the later mentions of her spicy audiobooks had me cracking up. Speaking of cussing like a sailor, anyone that knows me knows that f-ck is regularly used in my vocabulary. But, wow, does this book love the word f-ck. Like, A LOT a lot. So if that’s not your thing, consider yourself warned.

I read Paisley Hope’s debut novel and the first book of this series, Holding the Reins, as her indie published debut novel. She has since been picked up by a big publisher. I really enjoyed the first book but it had a lot of typos and grammar errors in it, which I assume traditional editing and publishing will fix. That being said, I read Training the Heart as an uncorrected ARC proof so I have yet to find out if that aspect has improved. Either way, the bones of her stories are great and I can’t wait to read more of her books in the future.

If you are looking for a book similar to Elsie silver’s books then you will love this book. The romance was perfect and so cute

No one writes grumpy sunshine better than Paisley! I loved this so so much, these books are my comfort/safe space, I love the relationship dynamic, the banter, flirting, spice it's all perfect!

Silver Pines is the place to be!

Ivy and Wade excuse me but wow that was hot. The grump and the spitfire to make his life more interesting. I enjoyed both characters and where their story took them, both having horrible past relationships and yet they still managed to work through things (no third act breakup, YES!!) Training the Heart picks up right where book 1 left off and takes you on a ride that doesn't stop until the end. That little surprise at the end, I ain't mad at it. The dynamic of all the characters was a hit as usual and setting things up for book 3 can't wait to dive into that.

You're in for quite a spicy story because it's always the grumpy quiet ones that love to get certain tattoos that just make you go excuse me sir..yes!

Thank you NetGalley and Random House Ballantine for the chance to read this book! Oh, how I missed a good cowboy romance book. These books really do fool you because they have both the romance aspect (and this one definitely had the romance my god) and the emotions surrounding peoples lives and how difficult they really can be. Hope brings a story of two people both struggling with loss and with relationships past and makes it both feisty and heartwarming. This was a really good story, similar to ones I've read prior with the ideas of the characters and their relationships to each other (the dynamics reminded me very much of Rebel Blue Ranch) but it is totally one I will be recommending to all my romance lovers!

Every time I read a cowboy romance, I have a smile on my face. There is something about cowboy romances that just work. Paisley Hope is serving us my a fantastic cowboy romance trilogy (with a hint a hockey, lol) in her latest book - Wade and Ivy are a classic grumpy/sunshine pairing. I love how they were both dealing with their own insecurities, while working towards a mutual goal. This book is very steamy, and I was here for it! But but my favorite part of this book was the set up for book 3 Ginger and Cole - Here we come! Their chemistry jumps off the pages, oh my gosh, I cannot wait!

Thank you #netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I enjoyed Holding the Reins (Nash and CeCe’s book), and was so excited to dive in to Wade’s book!

Training the Heart follows Wade Ashby, the grumpy owner of Silver Pines Ranch, who is in desperate need of a temporary new horse trainer once his current trainer begins maternity leave. Enter Ivy Spencer, horse trainer extraordinaire and sunshine to Wade’s black cloud. The two work closely together at the ranch as they decide to start training and racing derby horses for the first time since Wade’s father’s passing. As tensions increase, so do other emotions, and keeping his hands off his employees (even ones who infuriate him to the point of obsession) may be harder than Wade thought.

I always enjoy a good cowboy romance and I really love the world of Silver Pines Ranch that Paisley has created, but I really couldn’t connect with Wade or Ivy. It was a little too insta lust/insta love for me and I think that really detracted a lot from the story. I wasn’t as invested in their relationship as I would have liked to have been. I did really love Mama Jo and Ginger’s characters, though!

As a warning, this book was much heavier than Holding the Reins, so please keep that in mind while reading. Both Wade and Ivy (particularly Ivy) overcome a lot of personal trauma through the development of their relationship.

Overall, I don’t think this was quite the book for me. However, if you enjoy (extra) spicy romances featuring broody cowboys, forbidden workplace relationships, and moving on from emotional abuse, then this is definitely the book for you and I encourage you to pick it up when it comes out later this year!

Thank you to NetGalley and Dell Books for the ARC!

This book was everything. It was the perfect followup book to CeCe and Nash's story. The rancher/cowboy vibe is my jam and I cannot get enough. I love this whole family as well as bffs Ginger and Olivia. I think Ivy was the perfect addition to this little crew. And Wade. Freakin'. Ashby. Where can I get one? Good lawddd, I am fanning myself thinking about him. He just went out and tattooed "mine" on his hand for a little hand necklace accessory like it ain't no thang. He is a stud and him and Ivy together *chef's kiss* Every scene with them on page is just hot and mind numbing perfection. I absolutely ate this up and I cannot wait for book 3, which better be Cole and Ginger because they need their own story STAT.

*ARC Review*

😮‍💨🔥 let me start by saying, as excited as I was for this book, I wasn’t really that excited about Wade story… Boy did Hope change my mind 😂 This book has it all! Training the Heart follows the Ashby family in their small town in Kentucky with all that small town charm. Wade Ashby is the epitome of grumpy to sunshine cowboy. Ivy Spencer, his new horse trainer, is a spitfire that blows into the ranch like Wade’s personal wrecking ball! We get to see our favorite characters back, (Ginger is my girl) and all their hysterical antics. The witty banter in this book between all the characters is just perfection! The emotions are heavy and real, the spice is explosive💥🤌🏻, and just the overall story is one of hope (no pun intended) and so much love it made my heart melt! Paisley Hope, you changed my mind about Wade, he’s my favorite cowboy now. Also, I’ll never look at a scrunchie the same again 😂👏🏻
🌶️🌶️🌶️

Ok Wade 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

While Holding the Reins felt like a copy paste of Done & Dusted, Training the Heart felt a bit more original, but it still has some elements that are a copy paste of Swift & Saddled. I did really enjoy the spice in this one though.

Thank you Net Galley for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion!

Paisley Hope has quickly expedited herself into favorite author territory with her last few releases. I ate up Wolfe, I ate up Holding the Reigns, and Training the Heart was absolutely no different. Wade Ashby?! We love the man you are, because oh my sweet lord was he everything I wanted in an MMC and more. Grumpy ranch owner meets horse trainer is always a recipe for deliciousness and this was no exception. Wade and Ivy were absolutely dynamite together. Chemistry- 10/10. I knew Wade would steal the show from book 1 and he did not disappoint whatsoever. Paisley, girl, you had me from the dedication babes. 5/5 fantastic stars!!

Paisley Hope has quickly expedited herself into favorite author territory with her last few releases. I ate up Wolfe, I ate up Holding the Reigns, and Training the Heart was absolutely no different. Wade Ashby?! We love the man you are, because oh my sweet lord was he everything I wanted in an MMC and more. Grumpy ranch owner meets horse trainer is always a recipe for deliciousness and this was no exception. Wade and Ivy were absolutely dynamite together. Chemistry- 10/10. I knew Wade would steal the show from book 1 and he did not disappoint whatsoever. Paisley, girl, you had me from the dedication babes. 5/5 fantastic stars!!

In *Training the Heart*, the second novel in the Silver Pines Ranch series, author [Author's Name] delivers a captivating and steamy cowboy romance that explores the tumultuous relationship between grumpy ranch owner Wade Ashby and sunny horse trainer Ivy Spencer. This story is a delightful blend of tension, emotional growth, and undeniable chemistry set against the picturesque backdrop of Silver Pines Ranch.

Wade Ashby is a well-developed character who embodies the archetype of the emotionally guarded cowboy. The weight of his family's legacy, compounded by the recent loss of his father and the scars of a failed marriage, has left him reluctant to let anyone in. He thrives on control and stability, striving to be the anchor for his family and the ranch. This internal struggle creates an engaging conflict that drives the narrative forward.

In contrast, Ivy Spencer is a breath of fresh air. With her sunny disposition and resilient spirit, she represents hope and new beginnings. Having faced a turbulent childhood and a string of setbacks, Ivy is determined to start anew at Silver Pines Ranch, aiming to fulfill her dream of training a racehorse for the Kentucky Derby. Her passion for animals and her ability to see the good in every situation make her a relatable and endearing character.

The clash between Wade and Ivy is at the heart of the story. With their opposing views on horse training—Wade's methodical, control-driven approach versus Ivy's more instinctive and chaotic style—the tension between them is palpable. As Ivy’s methods challenge Wade’s long-held beliefs, the friction ignites a spark that leads to unexpected passion. Their chemistry is electric, and the steamy moments between them are beautifully written, capturing the complexity of their emotions.

The setting of Silver Pines Ranch adds to the charm of the narrative, enveloping readers in the beauty of the countryside and the challenges of ranch life. The author’s vivid descriptions create an immersive experience, allowing readers to fully appreciate the stakes of horse training and the intimate bond that develops between the characters.

As the story unfolds, both Wade and Ivy embark on a journey of personal growth. They confront their fears and vulnerabilities, ultimately learning to trust each other and embrace the changes that come with their evolving relationship. The emotional depth of their journey resonates well beyond the pages, making their eventual union all the more satisfying.

*Training the Heart* is a compelling read that expertly balances steamy romance with heartfelt themes of healing and self-discovery. Wade and Ivy's character development is beautifully portrayed, and their undeniable chemistry keeps readers eagerly turning the pages. For fans of cowboy romances and heartwarming love stories, this book is a delightful addition to the genre, leaving readers with a sense of hope and the belief that love can flourish even in the most challenging of circumstances.

Stars: 4.5
Spice: 3.5

This one was even better than book 1! I love a small-town romance, and Paisley did it better than last time. I adore Wade and Ivy's dynamic, and their banter. Wade our grumpy and broody MMC with a dirty mouth makes him a perfect book boyfriend in my world. He needed someone like Ivy to shake things up in his world, and that's exactly what she did. I love that Ivy listens to smutty audio books. A girl after my heart! She came and softened our Wade up, even if it was only for her. Seeing what she came from makes you love her even more. It was so good to see her find her place with this new group; they all fell for Ivy in their own ways. Not to mention the spice is this book is chef's kiss!

X Grumpy/Sunshine
X Boss and Employee
X Forced Proximity/One Bed
X Cowboy Romance

Thank you, NetGalley and Random House, for the chance to ARC read this one.

4+/5 ⭐️, 4/5 🌶️, 1/5 💧

🏇 Small Town Cowboy Romance
🏇 Grumpy vs Sunshine
🏇 Workplace / Forced Proximity
🏇 Grief / Emotional Abuse / Addiction

⚠️ Check content warnings if some of the previous topics are triggers for you.

Paisley Hope has become a favorite small town/ cowboy romance author with these books, up there with Elsie Silver. After reading this book, I think I’ll be tuning in for the next Kentucky Derby because why not? It was described like I was reading a thriller hanging on every word, and I loved it.

The developing romance was so well done, weaving in complex issues seamlessly. The spice I thought also kicked up quite a bit, to the point where I’m not sure some of the scenes moved the story forward as much as just solidifying that yes, they are obsessed with each other and their chemistry is off the charts.

There was great plot and I think if some of those vulnerable and emotional moments were expanded on as thoroughly as the spicy scenes, it would’ve tipped it up a notch. Regardless, it was wonderfully done. The characters independently were wonderful and strong, as well as together as a couple, and I loved seeing both aspects of this. Lovely and would highly recommend!

This book was a fun read. It went relatively quick- I read it in less than 2 days. It was super spicy, which was a surprise but well written. Just what I needed after some heavy fantasy books. Do yourself a favor and snag this book. It will make you smile and swoon!

This book is incredibly spicy and definitely not for the faint of heart. I thought the previous title in the Silver Pines series was sexy, but this one took it to a whole new level. Wade and Ivy perfectly embody the grumpy sunshine trope, which is one of my favorites. Their chemistry is off the charts! I thoroughly enjoyed this read and would recommend it to anyone looking for some serious spice!

Training The Heart
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BRB, I’M MOVING TO A RANCH ASAP 🐴🤠 This is the second book in the Silver Pines Ranch series and I absolutely loved the first book and was so excited when I got this arc! This series has just been a lot of fun…it’s spicy SPICY 🌶️😮‍💨 but the characters and the story still have depth, there are still real struggles and Ivy and Wade are relatable so I just enjoy the hell out of it all, but my closed door cuties may not love all the spice lol We pretty much pick up right where we left off from the first book and it’s like I never left Kentucky. I am fully invested in this ranch and in this family, just call Danielle Ashby. Dual POV, quick chapters, we’re laughing, smiling, swooning…everything, we’re feeling everything. “That’s good Wade, because I never knew home until I found you.” All I’ll say is that Ivy and Wade deserved EVERYTHING, they truly needed it all 🥹 I feel like Paisley Hope writes amazing banter and amazing men 👸🏼 There is a third book that I need immediately lol ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
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Thank you @authorpaisleyhope @dellromance and @netgalley for this e-arc! Training The Heart hits the shelves December 31, mark your calendars!
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I would like to add that there are some trigger warnings written by the author : fertility struggles, alcoholism, and emotional abuse ♥️

4.5⭐️ - This book was so good! It was so fun. I laughed and cried. It dealt with some heavy themes but nothing too crazy.

This book is spicy! 🌶️🌶️🌶️

I enjoyed the grumpy/sunshine dynamic and the boss/employee dynamic. There was a bit of forced proximity.

The next book has to be about Ginger and Cole right? I am so here for it! I cannot wait.

I highly highly highly recommend this fun series!

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SPOILERS AHEAD - STOP READING HERE IF YOU WANT TO AVOID SPOILERS!!!

- The vindictive part of me so badly wanted to see Janelle and Brad find out about Wade and Ivy’s happily ever after. I wanted Janelle to have to swallow that tough pill that she lost and failed at her manipulation and I wanted to see Brad when he found out Ivy was pregnant at a derby event or something. I feel cheated that I didn’t get that experience.

- I predicted that it was Wade that paid for mom’s rehab and that he was fixing the cabin for her so that was no surprise for me.

- The surprise pregnancy wasn’t a problem for me. They were already in love and it was there for a reason relating to the plot.

- idk what to say about this other than Wade using her scrunchy was kinda hot… 🥵