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Royal Pines #2
Cowboy Payback
Payback is sweeter when the heart is involved.Former Marine Trisha Jennings has a bright future—law school, a job in her father’s firm, and an engagement to a junior partner…there’s just one problem. Those are her father’s dreams, not hers. She doesn’t want to be a lawyer or a wife. So when her friend’s fiancé tosses her a lifeline in the form of a fake engagement to his twin—her former CO—she grabs on with both hands. After all, the captain’s strong and immovable, the perfect deterrent against her controlling father. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that he’s hot and she’s had a thing for him for years. Former Marine Captain Brett Brennan loves a good practical joke, until the boot is on the other foot and he finds himself in a fake engagement to his sexy, former corporal. Realizing she is struggling to come to terms with an incident from their last deployment, and knowing his ranch is a great place to heal, he uses their fake engagement to help. Afterall, he’d always have his men’s six.But Trisha is no longer a corporal under his command and out of uniform, she is all woman. He wasn’t expecting the strong attraction to the beauty or the fierce desire to help and protect her. Soon, it has him forgetting their prank engagement is just for show. Who knew payback could be so sweet?**Formally known as Cowboy Payback, now updated with new revisions and additional words**
- GenresMilitary Fiction
244 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 9, 2015
About the author
Donna Michaels
77 books547 followersHi there. Thank you for checking out my profile.
It’s all my mother’s fault. She read to me when I was little and sparked my imagination. Now, my mind is the limit, and believe me, there’s no limit to my mind.
Hello, I’m Donna Michaels, NYT & USA Today Bestselling Award winning author of Romaginative fiction. I write romance through the H’s—Hot, Humorous, Heartwarming, with strong alpha cowboys and military men who are equally matched by their heroines.
With a husband retired from the military and now working at a brewery, four children, 2 granddaughters, 2 grandsons, several rescued cats, and my parents living with us, I never run out of material. From short to epic, my books entertain readers across a variety of sub-genres, and one has even been hand drawn into a Japanese Translation. Now, if only I could read it…
It’s all my mother’s fault. She read to me when I was little and sparked my imagination. Now, my mind is the limit, and believe me, there’s no limit to my mind.
Hello, I’m Donna Michaels, NYT & USA Today Bestselling Award winning author of Romaginative fiction. I write romance through the H’s—Hot, Humorous, Heartwarming, with strong alpha cowboys and military men who are equally matched by their heroines.
With a husband retired from the military and now working at a brewery, four children, 2 granddaughters, 2 grandsons, several rescued cats, and my parents living with us, I never run out of material. From short to epic, my books entertain readers across a variety of sub-genres, and one has even been hand drawn into a Japanese Translation. Now, if only I could read it…
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
May 25, 2017
4 Captain, Cowboy, Sir Stars
May have mild spoilers
"Every time you call me sir, I get to kiss you." Oh no. Heck, no. That wasn't good. Especially since a thrill raced down her overheated body while her mind was already repeating sir in her head. Yes, sir. No, sir. Please may I have another, sir? His grin increased. "You're saying it in your head, aren't you?"-Brett and Trisha
Cowboy Payback is the Sequel to Cowboy Fiance by Donna Michaels. It works fine as a stand alone as I didn't read Cowboy Fiance and I had no problem following the book. This is my first time reading Donna Michaels and I really enjoyed it. The plot was cute. I loved Brett. He was sexy, loyal, and he could be really sweet. He was an ex Marine and a cowboy so double yum! I loved that he didn't boss Trisha around. He respected her and treated her like his equal while still be all that is Alpha male! I loved Trisha too. She was strong and smart. An ex Marine too she could take care of herself. Trisha and Brett's relationship was built up nicely with a lot of sexual tension and chemistry. Their relationship was low drama as they were open, honest and respectful of each other. This book touches on PTSD and it's effects on our veterans. Over all this book was a sweet, lighter read that just made me happy. I liked the couple from the first book Cam and Brett's brother so much I may go and read their book too. I will be reading more books from this author.
"No, Brett, talking is the last thing we need to do." and the last thing she wanted to do. "I don't want to talk about our deployment." Or all the crap in her head, eating at her, festering inside for months now. "I want a break from the darkness. You make me feel good. I just want to feel good."-Trisha
http://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessio...
May have mild spoilers
"Every time you call me sir, I get to kiss you." Oh no. Heck, no. That wasn't good. Especially since a thrill raced down her overheated body while her mind was already repeating sir in her head. Yes, sir. No, sir. Please may I have another, sir? His grin increased. "You're saying it in your head, aren't you?"-Brett and Trisha
Cowboy Payback is the Sequel to Cowboy Fiance by Donna Michaels. It works fine as a stand alone as I didn't read Cowboy Fiance and I had no problem following the book. This is my first time reading Donna Michaels and I really enjoyed it. The plot was cute. I loved Brett. He was sexy, loyal, and he could be really sweet. He was an ex Marine and a cowboy so double yum! I loved that he didn't boss Trisha around. He respected her and treated her like his equal while still be all that is Alpha male! I loved Trisha too. She was strong and smart. An ex Marine too she could take care of herself. Trisha and Brett's relationship was built up nicely with a lot of sexual tension and chemistry. Their relationship was low drama as they were open, honest and respectful of each other. This book touches on PTSD and it's effects on our veterans. Over all this book was a sweet, lighter read that just made me happy. I liked the couple from the first book Cam and Brett's brother so much I may go and read their book too. I will be reading more books from this author.
"No, Brett, talking is the last thing we need to do." and the last thing she wanted to do. "I don't want to talk about our deployment." Or all the crap in her head, eating at her, festering inside for months now. "I want a break from the darkness. You make me feel good. I just want to feel good."-Trisha
http://jessicasoverthetopbookobsessio...
November 23, 2015
“Yippee ki-ya, Captain Cowboy.”
And with that, let the games begin!
Corporal Trisha Jennings served under her former commander, Captain Brett Brennan when the two marines deployed to the Middle East. There had never been a hint, or even suggestion, of impropriety. That was not going to last much longer as their civilian lives collide in a mix-up that would have them viewing each other in an entirely different light. A pretend engagement, close quarters and the serene backdrop of beautiful Colorado was going to mean healing as well as the turning up of heat!
“She had always considered her captain to be good looking, but never realized he was so flippin’ hot. Mouth-watering hot. Good parts tingling hot.”
Despite the drama surrounding a “fake” engagement—when does that ever happen in real life—I found myself buying into the story hook, line and sinker. I admit I had my doubts at the beginning but reading about the shenanigans that went on before between the brothers this scenario became totally plausible. If you haven’t read the first in the two-book series don’t worry, I hadn’t either but the story works fine as a standalone. I do want to read the first book though, as the sibling rivalry between Brett and his brother seemed to have reached epic proportions. What could have happened that Brett thought the “engagement” was an elaborate plot by Finn? I need to find out!
Brett is everything you could want in a cowboy with his devastating good looks and take charge attitude. He is going to help Trisha whether she wants it or not as his alpha tendencies mix with his compassion to make an irresistible combination. Trisha is equally engaging as the sexy “girl next door”.
At turns sweet and blistering hot, this story was entertaining from start to finish. Trisha’s turn at defending her man was a pip! I’m happy I have one more book to look forward to with these fun characters! ~ Diane, 4 stars
And with that, let the games begin!
Corporal Trisha Jennings served under her former commander, Captain Brett Brennan when the two marines deployed to the Middle East. There had never been a hint, or even suggestion, of impropriety. That was not going to last much longer as their civilian lives collide in a mix-up that would have them viewing each other in an entirely different light. A pretend engagement, close quarters and the serene backdrop of beautiful Colorado was going to mean healing as well as the turning up of heat!
“She had always considered her captain to be good looking, but never realized he was so flippin’ hot. Mouth-watering hot. Good parts tingling hot.”
Despite the drama surrounding a “fake” engagement—when does that ever happen in real life—I found myself buying into the story hook, line and sinker. I admit I had my doubts at the beginning but reading about the shenanigans that went on before between the brothers this scenario became totally plausible. If you haven’t read the first in the two-book series don’t worry, I hadn’t either but the story works fine as a standalone. I do want to read the first book though, as the sibling rivalry between Brett and his brother seemed to have reached epic proportions. What could have happened that Brett thought the “engagement” was an elaborate plot by Finn? I need to find out!
Brett is everything you could want in a cowboy with his devastating good looks and take charge attitude. He is going to help Trisha whether she wants it or not as his alpha tendencies mix with his compassion to make an irresistible combination. Trisha is equally engaging as the sexy “girl next door”.
At turns sweet and blistering hot, this story was entertaining from start to finish. Trisha’s turn at defending her man was a pip! I’m happy I have one more book to look forward to with these fun characters! ~ Diane, 4 stars
September 9, 2015
I can't say enough good things about Cowboy Payback. This is the story of two former military members, dealing with re-entry from their most recent deployment, leaving the military, and on top of everything else, a fake engagement started by Trisha and kicked into high gear by Finn, Brett's twin brother who is looking for an opportunity for payback for his brother's recent prank.
The author includes an underlying storyline about PTSD. The reader sees aspects of PTSD in Trisha early, and I found it interesting and refreshing that it is the heroine who is experiencing PTSD. The author provides an accurate and sensitive depiction of PTSD, from the nightmares, to the triggers, to zoning out. I love how Brett recognizes the PTSD and immediately sees that as an opportunity to help her. To help her heal. He's not shy about expressing his own needs, saying to her that the ranch and his special place is where he goes to heal. I especially like when Brett brings the therapist to the house to confront Trisha, he explains to Trisha that she's been going to therapy on Wednesdays - that on Wednesdays, "I take care of me". I think that is a great, positive, constructive way to convey therapy to a skeptic.
Brett is a very sensitive character. You wouldn't expect a former Marine to show a sensitive side. His leadership skills in the military come through in his dealings with everyone he encounters. He's just a wonderfully delightful character and a good man. He's caring, sensitive, and considerate, and he figures out early on what he wants and is confident in his pursuit of that - and the object of that pursuit is Trisha.
Trisha is also a great character. Also a former Marine, it's fun to watch her try to change the nature of her relationship with Brett, and her inability to stop calling him "Sir". She is a strong but feminine character, who is also has a take-charge personality and cares about the feelings of those around her. That's why the PTSD hit her so hard - the deep feelings she had been feeling for the people she met during her deployment and their ultimate death. The fog of war causes guilt that is typical of soldiers with PTSD.
A wonderful follow-up to Cowboy-Fiance and a great read from author Donna Michaels.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
The author includes an underlying storyline about PTSD. The reader sees aspects of PTSD in Trisha early, and I found it interesting and refreshing that it is the heroine who is experiencing PTSD. The author provides an accurate and sensitive depiction of PTSD, from the nightmares, to the triggers, to zoning out. I love how Brett recognizes the PTSD and immediately sees that as an opportunity to help her. To help her heal. He's not shy about expressing his own needs, saying to her that the ranch and his special place is where he goes to heal. I especially like when Brett brings the therapist to the house to confront Trisha, he explains to Trisha that she's been going to therapy on Wednesdays - that on Wednesdays, "I take care of me". I think that is a great, positive, constructive way to convey therapy to a skeptic.
Brett is a very sensitive character. You wouldn't expect a former Marine to show a sensitive side. His leadership skills in the military come through in his dealings with everyone he encounters. He's just a wonderfully delightful character and a good man. He's caring, sensitive, and considerate, and he figures out early on what he wants and is confident in his pursuit of that - and the object of that pursuit is Trisha.
Trisha is also a great character. Also a former Marine, it's fun to watch her try to change the nature of her relationship with Brett, and her inability to stop calling him "Sir". She is a strong but feminine character, who is also has a take-charge personality and cares about the feelings of those around her. That's why the PTSD hit her so hard - the deep feelings she had been feeling for the people she met during her deployment and their ultimate death. The fog of war causes guilt that is typical of soldiers with PTSD.
A wonderful follow-up to Cowboy-Fiance and a great read from author Donna Michaels.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
February 14, 2016
4.5/5.0
Although this fast-paced, contemporary friends to lovers romance is the sequel to “Cowboy-Fiancé”, it stands alone and takes off running from the very first page.
Read full review in the 2016 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Although this fast-paced, contemporary friends to lovers romance is the sequel to “Cowboy-Fiancé”, it stands alone and takes off running from the very first page.
Read full review in the 2016 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.
November 3, 2015
SNS Rating: 4.5
~~~~~~~~~~Dee's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Very interesting, very entertaining story about dealing with PTSD, with brothers and their practical jokes, with stalkers, with recognizing love when it bites you. The story line was believable, the characters were amusing and I feel the whole situation would make a great movie. Love reading about people facing their fears, finding love and feel I'm right there seeing it all taking place. Well done Ms. Michaels.
~~~~~~~~~~Shar's ★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Trisha and Brett served together in the Marine Corps but neither were expecting the feelings that develop during a fake engagement to one another. Characters were both well developed and likable. Build up in their relationship was believable. Scenery description could have been a little better. Story is supposed to be set in this beautiful mountain ranch area but there wasn't much description to back that up. Told in dual POV, story covers PTSD, jealous female admirers and a controlling father among other things. It was an easy read but even with all the things that happened, the story just kind of moved along. This is a sequel to Cowboy Fiance and I did feel like I missed something by not reading the other book first. That being said, it can be read as a stand alone and does have an HEA.
~~~~~~~~~~Dee's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Very interesting, very entertaining story about dealing with PTSD, with brothers and their practical jokes, with stalkers, with recognizing love when it bites you. The story line was believable, the characters were amusing and I feel the whole situation would make a great movie. Love reading about people facing their fears, finding love and feel I'm right there seeing it all taking place. Well done Ms. Michaels.
~~~~~~~~~~Shar's ★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Trisha and Brett served together in the Marine Corps but neither were expecting the feelings that develop during a fake engagement to one another. Characters were both well developed and likable. Build up in their relationship was believable. Scenery description could have been a little better. Story is supposed to be set in this beautiful mountain ranch area but there wasn't much description to back that up. Told in dual POV, story covers PTSD, jealous female admirers and a controlling father among other things. It was an easy read but even with all the things that happened, the story just kind of moved along. This is a sequel to Cowboy Fiance and I did feel like I missed something by not reading the other book first. That being said, it can be read as a stand alone and does have an HEA.
June 14, 2016
Reviewed on Musings and Ramblings.
I was originally taken in by the cover, after all the dog tags and a title promised me a double threat - military and cowboy. Plus the blurb sounded pretty good. So I was so disappointed when I just couldn't get into the book. I put it down and picked it up multiple times, thinking maybe I just wasn't in the right frame of mind, but nothing seemed to work. Finally at 56% I called it quits and DNF'ed the book.
My biggest beef with the book is that there was very little dialogue between anyone else besides Trisha and Brett. Anytime they interacted with anyone else besides just each other, the scene was sharply condensed and summarized. And they really don't spend enough time together to carry us when they weren't together.
Over all I was totally bummed that this book didn't capture my attention the way I had hoped.
Netgalley and The Wild Rose Press provided me with this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
I was originally taken in by the cover, after all the dog tags and a title promised me a double threat - military and cowboy. Plus the blurb sounded pretty good. So I was so disappointed when I just couldn't get into the book. I put it down and picked it up multiple times, thinking maybe I just wasn't in the right frame of mind, but nothing seemed to work. Finally at 56% I called it quits and DNF'ed the book.
My biggest beef with the book is that there was very little dialogue between anyone else besides Trisha and Brett. Anytime they interacted with anyone else besides just each other, the scene was sharply condensed and summarized. And they really don't spend enough time together to carry us when they weren't together.
Over all I was totally bummed that this book didn't capture my attention the way I had hoped.
Netgalley and The Wild Rose Press provided me with this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 27, 2020
"Brett's Payback" (Royal Pines Book 2) by Donna Michaels is a fabulous read. I absolutely loved Brett and Trisha's story. This story was previously released as "Cowboy Payback", and now has more of Brett and Trisha's story. This is a wonderful addition to this series and picks up where "Finn's Surprise" left off. This story is full of hot cowboys, military veterans, family, humor, romance, passion, entertaining characters, and more. I'm anxious to see what will happen next with these entertaining characters in this series. Highly recommend to all fans of romance, cowboys, military, humor, and series.
September 13, 2015
Great story
Just as I knew it would, this book kept me intrigued the whole way through, waiting to read what would happen next. Donna Michaels has a wonderful style and makes every minute of her books interesting. You wouldn't have to but you will probably want to read Cowboy Fiancee first as it gives you an understanding of what is happening in this book. Can't wait for the next one in this series.
Just as I knew it would, this book kept me intrigued the whole way through, waiting to read what would happen next. Donna Michaels has a wonderful style and makes every minute of her books interesting. You wouldn't have to but you will probably want to read Cowboy Fiancee first as it gives you an understanding of what is happening in this book. Can't wait for the next one in this series.
September 11, 2015
A great second book!
I loved everything about this book and this series. Charming, handsome cowboys who are also ex-military, and you've got some sexy men. Add in the fact that they are twins who love to pull pranks on each other, and you've got a funny, sexy story. Of course, the strong willed females keep them in line. Great book. Will definitely read more by this author.
I loved everything about this book and this series. Charming, handsome cowboys who are also ex-military, and you've got some sexy men. Add in the fact that they are twins who love to pull pranks on each other, and you've got a funny, sexy story. Of course, the strong willed females keep them in line. Great book. Will definitely read more by this author.
October 3, 2015
Loved it!
Just as good as the first book by an outstanding author. I found myself very happy with the story and it's characters. Donna, please let us know what happens between Liam and Stacy.
Just as good as the first book by an outstanding author. I found myself very happy with the story and it's characters. Donna, please let us know what happens between Liam and Stacy.
October 25, 2015
This is a great story about how love can be there and all it takes is a shove to be exposed.. or in this case a harmless prank. I am a great fan of Donna's books and have read a number of them and will continue to keep reading them if she writes them.
February 19, 2017
karm's a b***h. ***slight spoiler***
Sometimes what you do comes back and hits you in the face....if your lucky!! Twin forced a fake engagement and now he has turned the tables on you with a fake engagement of your own....and ol' what a fellow Marine she is. oorah. Love the way they handle ptsd.....if you need help it is not a weakness it is a strength that you need to care for you!
Sometimes what you do comes back and hits you in the face....if your lucky!! Twin forced a fake engagement and now he has turned the tables on you with a fake engagement of your own....and ol' what a fellow Marine she is. oorah. Love the way they handle ptsd.....if you need help it is not a weakness it is a strength that you need to care for you!
August 23, 2023
Payback
This can be read as a standalone but would be better when read after the first book in the series. Brett's brother is out for payback after Brett tricked him into a fake engagement. Now it's Brett who's been tricked but he sees the benefits quickly. Trisha is out of the Marines and struggling with PTSD from her last tour. Her father is trying to run her life and she needs a fake fiance to back him off. Things heat up quickly.
This can be read as a standalone but would be better when read after the first book in the series. Brett's brother is out for payback after Brett tricked him into a fake engagement. Now it's Brett who's been tricked but he sees the benefits quickly. Trisha is out of the Marines and struggling with PTSD from her last tour. Her father is trying to run her life and she needs a fake fiance to back him off. Things heat up quickly.
January 12, 2021
Fantastic read
Looking fo a read to curl up with and truly enjoy. Well i think you will enjoy Bretts and Trisha journey. PTSD is hard to face but you don't see what they have and not suffer. Its just hard to let those you realize you love in. Donna Michaels is a Author that brings your journeys you can fall into and enjoy.
Looking fo a read to curl up with and truly enjoy. Well i think you will enjoy Bretts and Trisha journey. PTSD is hard to face but you don't see what they have and not suffer. Its just hard to let those you realize you love in. Donna Michaels is a Author that brings your journeys you can fall into and enjoy.
December 22, 2020
"Brett's Payback" is the second book in the Royal Pines series and it is a fantastic read. This is the story of Brett and Trisha finding out that they were made for one another. This one is loaded with fun, family, romance, and practical jokes. I cannot wait for the next book in this series!!
January 12, 2017
Although the subject of PTSD is not a funny situation Ms. Michaels shows what lengths we will go to, to heal ourselves. Some of those ways lead to some very funny situations. At the same time, we all know it’s the times of slumber that can be dangerous for us and those around us if not treated. Not taken care of, compounds the situation for mistakes from nightmares during the night. Leading to even more mistakes to be made during their waking hours.
Yet, in this case it’s the things that are around all this that make it so funny. Trisha Jennings has no clue she is stuffing her healing process aka her feelings. She thinks if she can only stay at the resort dude ranch where her best friend Cammie and Cammie’s fiancé Finn live (who is part owner with her ex-captain Marine Brett Brennan) she can make all her bad feelings and nightmares of what happened on hers and Brett’s last mission go away.
She needs to get there and away from her father who is overbearing and controlling. You see after six years in service she has come home for good. Her last tour was a bad one she is having a rough time of it. Her father after only one day had her whole life planned out law school, work at his old firm and marriage to one of the guys there, one he would hand pick. She needed an out.
She didn’t want law after all, she wanted to teach. So, she hatched a plan to get her captain to be her fake fiancé. So, when she called the main house at the ranch he wasn’t there she explained it all to Finn his twin and he said no problem he knew Brett would help. Little did she know this was the same scenario that got Cammie and Finn together just about.
So, Finn never told Brett what was happening just that they were going to lunch from there life gets interesting for everyone. Especially, for the captain who never planned to settle down the ranch is his wife. But on this day, he was about to get a rude awakening as to the new fiancé he was getting for all he own.
There is a scene with a spider that is the funniest thing ever. I loved it. I loved the way Ms. Michael’s used so many of the situations so well, to help set up learning moments or touching moments of thinking for the characters. They are well developed characters you can see yourself being friends with each and every one of them. I give this book 5++++ stars. Provided by author for and honest review. Follow us at:
www.1rad-readerreviews.com.
Yet, in this case it’s the things that are around all this that make it so funny. Trisha Jennings has no clue she is stuffing her healing process aka her feelings. She thinks if she can only stay at the resort dude ranch where her best friend Cammie and Cammie’s fiancé Finn live (who is part owner with her ex-captain Marine Brett Brennan) she can make all her bad feelings and nightmares of what happened on hers and Brett’s last mission go away.
She needs to get there and away from her father who is overbearing and controlling. You see after six years in service she has come home for good. Her last tour was a bad one she is having a rough time of it. Her father after only one day had her whole life planned out law school, work at his old firm and marriage to one of the guys there, one he would hand pick. She needed an out.
She didn’t want law after all, she wanted to teach. So, she hatched a plan to get her captain to be her fake fiancé. So, when she called the main house at the ranch he wasn’t there she explained it all to Finn his twin and he said no problem he knew Brett would help. Little did she know this was the same scenario that got Cammie and Finn together just about.
So, Finn never told Brett what was happening just that they were going to lunch from there life gets interesting for everyone. Especially, for the captain who never planned to settle down the ranch is his wife. But on this day, he was about to get a rude awakening as to the new fiancé he was getting for all he own.
There is a scene with a spider that is the funniest thing ever. I loved it. I loved the way Ms. Michael’s used so many of the situations so well, to help set up learning moments or touching moments of thinking for the characters. They are well developed characters you can see yourself being friends with each and every one of them. I give this book 5++++ stars. Provided by author for and honest review. Follow us at:
www.1rad-readerreviews.com.
November 2, 2015
*Book provided in exchange for honest review*
*As stated in the header, this is a sequel. It is a proper standalone however for the full backstory read Cowboy Fiancé http://amzn.to/1P4yxIT*
What does a former Marine do when she is faced with an overbearing Father and his "good" intention? If you are Trisha Jennings, you lie and say you are engaged to a man that can hold his own against your father, her friend and former CO Brett Brennan.
When Brett Brennan finds himself in a situation that he thinks is a practical joke orchastrated by his brother Finn, he rolls with punches. He loves a good practical joke, especially when it involves his brother. But he is not prepared for the consequences of this fake engagment. What starts a joke, turns into much, much more.
I liked that this was a fast paced love affair between two people who knew each other well. Friends to lovers books have always appealed to me and this one hits all the its mark. There is passion, there is angst in the form of a fake engagement but most importantly there is a heroine that is broken yet strong and takes no crap from anyone, except maybe her dad but he means no harm he just loves his daughter.
Brett cannot have been more sexy and he takes his time coming to terms with his feelings, since he had not clue what he was feeling.
There is a PTSD storyline that runs the whole story, Trisha is in denial and Brett tries to help her heal.
I recommend this as a beach read or a rainy afternoon reas. I read it in one sitting, There is a HEA and you close the book feeling satisfied where you leave the story, There is a set up for the next book and I can't wait for Liam and Stacy's story.
*As stated in the header, this is a sequel. It is a proper standalone however for the full backstory read Cowboy Fiancé http://amzn.to/1P4yxIT*
What does a former Marine do when she is faced with an overbearing Father and his "good" intention? If you are Trisha Jennings, you lie and say you are engaged to a man that can hold his own against your father, her friend and former CO Brett Brennan.
When Brett Brennan finds himself in a situation that he thinks is a practical joke orchastrated by his brother Finn, he rolls with punches. He loves a good practical joke, especially when it involves his brother. But he is not prepared for the consequences of this fake engagment. What starts a joke, turns into much, much more.
I liked that this was a fast paced love affair between two people who knew each other well. Friends to lovers books have always appealed to me and this one hits all the its mark. There is passion, there is angst in the form of a fake engagement but most importantly there is a heroine that is broken yet strong and takes no crap from anyone, except maybe her dad but he means no harm he just loves his daughter.
Brett cannot have been more sexy and he takes his time coming to terms with his feelings, since he had not clue what he was feeling.
There is a PTSD storyline that runs the whole story, Trisha is in denial and Brett tries to help her heal.
I recommend this as a beach read or a rainy afternoon reas. I read it in one sitting, There is a HEA and you close the book feeling satisfied where you leave the story, There is a set up for the next book and I can't wait for Liam and Stacy's story.
November 23, 2020
Help!
Brett's Payback: Excellent! I really enjoyed Brett and Trisha's story. I liked all the acting they were doing around everyone but there were real spark between them and everyone saw the real truth because of how they were around each other. It was a great story!
Brett's Payback: Excellent! I really enjoyed Brett and Trisha's story. I liked all the acting they were doing around everyone but there were real spark between them and everyone saw the real truth because of how they were around each other. It was a great story!
October 26, 2020
Brett's Payback is so much more than a military romance. It is a story to give people hope. PTSD is a tragic situation for many but there is hope, there is support. And if you aren't ready for help, hopefully someone will step up and ask for you.
Brett is that person for Trisha. They had been in Afghanistan, serving together, until recently. Trisha was his morale officer. He was her commanding officer. Never shall two become one. Now she was in need of a boost in morale and both are out of the marines.
She needs Brett's help. She made a mistake to keep her dad at bay and it has come back to bite her. And to think it only took one call and it is all set for Brett to help her out. Finn is going to take care of everything. She can relax. Too bad she didn't know about the prank Brett pulled on Finn last year.
Awkward moments litter the pages of Brett's Payback. When in doubt denial is your friend. Military rank and position is your scapegoat. But when it comes right down to it love trumps all. Well, maybe not all...
Brett is that person for Trisha. They had been in Afghanistan, serving together, until recently. Trisha was his morale officer. He was her commanding officer. Never shall two become one. Now she was in need of a boost in morale and both are out of the marines.
She needs Brett's help. She made a mistake to keep her dad at bay and it has come back to bite her. And to think it only took one call and it is all set for Brett to help her out. Finn is going to take care of everything. She can relax. Too bad she didn't know about the prank Brett pulled on Finn last year.
Awkward moments litter the pages of Brett's Payback. When in doubt denial is your friend. Military rank and position is your scapegoat. But when it comes right down to it love trumps all. Well, maybe not all...
September 16, 2015
What happens when an overbearing, proud father tries to plan out his daughter’s future? Operation Payback is what happens! Former Corporal Trisha Jennings is desperate to live her own life and escape her father’s plans so she comes up with a “fake fiancé.” She tries to give her former Captain, Brett Brennan, a heads up to let him know what she has done, but, his twin, Finn takes the call and Operation Payback begins. This is an emotional story that deals with the Army’s Code of not fraternizing with a subordinate and PTSD issues. Will Trisha’s lie bring them together or tear them apart? Even though feelings develop between the two are they strong enough to survive when Brett forces Trisha to face her PTSD? And what about Trisha learning to live her own life? Donna Michaels weaves magic when she writes and knows how to satisfy my hunger for romance. This can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend reading Cowboy Fiancé as well.
December 14, 2015
I enjoyed how this story unfolded. I love that they start out as friends in the military. Both Trisha and Brett have PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) from there last mission and are happy to be home safe. The fun begins when Brett thinks his twin brother orchestrated a fake engagement to Trisha. He plays along with it to see how far it will go. The joke is on him. He now has to decide to continue the charade of the fake engagement or to come clean about it.
I enjoyed this story. It was a fun to watch this story unfold and to see how their friendship develops throughout this story. I loved how they had each other's back and which gives them both hope for the future.
I look forward to reading more from this author.
I was given an ARC for an honest review thru Joandisalovesbooks review team.
I enjoyed this story. It was a fun to watch this story unfold and to see how their friendship develops throughout this story. I loved how they had each other's back and which gives them both hope for the future.
I look forward to reading more from this author.
I was given an ARC for an honest review thru Joandisalovesbooks review team.
November 4, 2020
Loved it
Payback is a brother who pulled a hell of a practical joke on his twin brother and now it's his turn. Brett has just gotten out of the Marines and returned to run the dude ranch he and Flinn own. Trisha was his Corporal for six years and she's also just gotten out. Her father is a domineering man who is determined that his daughter will go to law school, join his firm and marry one of his junior attorneys. To prevent that from happening she tells him that she and Brett are engaged. She calls the ranch to warn him but talks to Flinn instead. This is Flinn's chance to get even. When it's set up for everyone to meet Brett is convinced it's an elaborate practical joke. Things heat up quickly until the relationship is becoming real. Very enjoyable reading.
Payback is a brother who pulled a hell of a practical joke on his twin brother and now it's his turn. Brett has just gotten out of the Marines and returned to run the dude ranch he and Flinn own. Trisha was his Corporal for six years and she's also just gotten out. Her father is a domineering man who is determined that his daughter will go to law school, join his firm and marry one of his junior attorneys. To prevent that from happening she tells him that she and Brett are engaged. She calls the ranch to warn him but talks to Flinn instead. This is Flinn's chance to get even. When it's set up for everyone to meet Brett is convinced it's an elaborate practical joke. Things heat up quickly until the relationship is becoming real. Very enjoyable reading.
March 1, 2016
Trisha hates spiders, having one on her tends to lawmakers situations, “not that I don’t like the view, because believe me, I really, really do like the view,” he said, glancing down at her breasts spilling out of her lilac lace bra. “But you should probably do something about it.” Brett's game is sometimes off, "her distress had his insides turned upside down and inside out and so muddled he said the first thing that came to his mind. “I love your a**.” I enjoyed this book it was a light hearted fun read.
December 24, 2016
"Cowboy Payback" (A sequel to Cowboy-Fiancé) by Donna Michaels is an amazing read. This is a great follow up to Cowboy-Fiancé. I loved Brett and Trisha's story. I hope we get more of these characters in the future! This book has hot cowboys, military, humor, passion, close family and friends, interesting and entertaining characters, and more. Highly recommend to all fans of romance, hot cowboys, military, and happy endings.
March 19, 2016
I really liked it. It was very funny how the one brother thought that the fake engagement was a prank. I enjoyed watching their relationship build. It also enjoyed how Brett worried about Trisha's problem and got her help. The book was funny, fast paced and enjoyable. I look forward to reading other books by this author
October 27, 2020
Great story
Who would believe that two tricks in a row would accidental couples to find the match made for them. Certainly not Brett. No way for me believe he would find someone so perfect. Just love Donna Michaels books. She makes you read faster to get to the end to see what will happen, and then want to go back and read it again because it is to good to end.
Who would believe that two tricks in a row would accidental couples to find the match made for them. Certainly not Brett. No way for me believe he would find someone so perfect. Just love Donna Michaels books. She makes you read faster to get to the end to see what will happen, and then want to go back and read it again because it is to good to end.
October 27, 2020
Brett has just returned from duty as a Marine to his dude ranch and wants to unwind and help people. What he doesn't expect is his brother setting him up.
Trisha needs to escape from what her father is trying to push her into and believes Brett can help.
Surprises are a plenty in this story and it is a great read.
Trisha needs to escape from what her father is trying to push her into and believes Brett can help.
Surprises are a plenty in this story and it is a great read.
October 29, 2020
Donna Michael’s is my favorite cowboy/military writer, no matter what book I read I find myself deeply drawn into the story. Brett and Trisha’s story is so good. The story that follows is funny, sexy, emotional and romantic. There’s so much to this story, and we still catch up with Fin. And Camille from book one. 5 stars looking forward to Liams story next.
February 18, 2016
Payback is a .....
When you pull a practical joke on your twin brother, you can expect payback. When that payback turns your world upside down, then you never know how things will turn out.
When you pull a practical joke on your twin brother, you can expect payback. When that payback turns your world upside down, then you never know how things will turn out.
November 4, 2020
Pure Enjoyment
I am really liking Donna Michaels Royal Pines series. Brett and Trisha are two of my all time favorite characters! Looking forward to reading what’s next in the Royal Pines Series!
I am really liking Donna Michaels Royal Pines series. Brett and Trisha are two of my all time favorite characters! Looking forward to reading what’s next in the Royal Pines Series!
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