Review of Love, Canter, Action by Katie Gilbert
When I first spotted Love, Canter, Action by Katie Gilbert on our office bookshelf, I couldn’t help but feel a twinge of excitement. As someone who adores stories infused with romance and the rugged charm of the countryside, not to mention a deep-seated affection for horses, this book seemed like a perfect fit for my reading list. Little did I know, it would captivate me in ways I hadn’t anticipated.
The story revolves around Nora, a young woman navigating the choppy waters of life after the loss of her mother. She’s been working at Shep Horse Ranch, a job that not only gave her purpose but felt like a home amidst family turmoil. With the ranch on the brink of closure, Nora’s future seems bleak until Mrs. Shep presents her with a golden opportunity: a chance to attend equestrian school in Montana, accompanied by a job as a horse wrangler on a movie set. Just when Nora’s stars begin to align, she encounters Alexander Mathis—a character who epitomizes the tension and drama of youthful relationships.
What struck me the most was the authentic depiction of both horses and ranching culture in this story. In many contemporary romance novels today, "cowboy stories" often miss the mark, feeling more like marketing gimmicks than genuine homages to the lifestyle. Yet, Gilbert immerses her readers in a world that radiates a sincere love for horses and ranch life. Nora’s interactions with the animals are as heartfelt as her romantic entanglements, and it’s refreshing to see this seamless blend.
Now, let’s talk about Alec. At first, I found him to be a bit of a pretentious jerk—an archetype I thought I could predict. But, as the story unfolded, I appreciated the depth of his character. The third-act conflict had moments that slightly marred his charm, but his growth and vulnerability brought me back to rooting for him. The way he communicates his feelings at key moments won me over. It’s undeniably relatable, reflecting the tumultuous nature of teenage emotions, balancing both love and anger.
What also stood out to me was how Love, Canter, Action dives beyond the romantic surface. Nora’s journey is a potent exploration of loss and familial estrangement, expertly woven into a narrative that never shies away from complex emotions. The grief of losing a parent and the struggle of reconciling with a father who has been absent for most of her life adds layers that enrich the reading experience and resonate with anyone who has navigated similar waters.
However, my only nagging issue lies within the familiar constraints of young adult romance—its pacing often sidelined the romantic tension in favor of emotional exploration. I craved more of those sweet, cheesy moments between Nora and Alec. I’m not asking for anything overly explicit, but those delightful moments of young love—the playful banter, the stolen glances—seemed fleeting. That is, after all, part of the magic that draws many of us to romance stories.
Set to release on May 13, 2025, Love, Canter, Action is a story perfect for those who cherish heartfelt young adult romances, especially with a sturdy backdrop of horses and ranching. As I closed the book, I felt a wave of satisfaction coupled with a touch of nostalgia for that youthful exuberance of first love and self-discovery. If you’re looking for a story that has both emotional depth and the invigorating energy of young romance, look no further than this upcoming gem by Katie Gilbert. You’ll be hooked—and maybe, just like me, you’ll find a new favorite.