Raging Romantics
#20 We ❤ Cowboys
The librarians ride again, back into the land of cowboy romances with a book discussion! We chose two historicals and one contemporary romance to take a deep dive into the journey the cowboy trope had gone on. We discuss what original cowboy romance books look like, problematic heroes, cinnamon rolls, independent women, and whether or not Jen will read more cowboys now. Jackie also discovers that once again, you should never reread books that were your favorites years ago...because you will question your life choices.
Content Warning: Discussions of abusive relationships, domestic abuse, bully romances, forced consent, rape, dubious consent, age gaps, racial slurs, slavery and divorce, and use of language
The below links are resources for you to use at your own discretion. We here at Raging Romantics support and love you.
National Domestic Violence Hotline
RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline
National Resource Center on Domestic Violence
National Human Trafficking Hotline
Books read:
- Only Mine by Elizabeth Lowell
- Wild Rain by Beverly Jenkins
- Down Home Cowboy by Maisey Yates
Other books we mention:
- Lorelei James Rough Riders series
- Libertie by Kaitlyn Greenidge
- Only His by Elizabeth Lowell (Willow and Caleb's story)
- Mr. Perfect by Linda Howard
Terms:
- Dubcon - dubious consent
- Bully Romance - where the heroine falls for a hero who is a bully. He may torment, tease, belittle, or deride the main character and others in the story.
- Cinnamon roll - A sweet, supportive, kind, and oh-so-sweet hero who is just too good for this world.
- Instalust - Immediate sexual attraction