Taking the Reins

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Taking the Reins

by Bailey, Ivy

Taking the Reins is the kind of story that feels like a warm cup of coffee on a crisp morning. It follows a protagonist who finds herself navigating the complexities of a small town and the stubborn, infuriating man who seems determined to get under her skin. As she reconnects with her love for horses, she is forced to confront both her past mistakes and the unexpected potential for a future she never planned. The pacing is gentle and character-focused, leaning heavily into the friction of enemies-to-lovers tension and the slow-burn satisfaction of personal growth. If you enjoy stories where the setting is as much a character as the people, and you have a soft spot for equestrian themes mixed with genuine, low-stakes romantic banter, this book will be your new comfort read.

10 Books similar to 'Taking the Reins'

Since you enjoyed the cozy, horse-centric atmosphere of Taking the Reins, these picks lean into that same blend of rural charm and emotional healing. We selected books like Sugar Creek and Sweet Tea and Sympathy because they capture that specific small-town magic where personal reinvention feels possible. If you are specifically looking for that deep, almost spiritual bond between humans and horses, The Horse Whisperer and A Horse for Christmas offer the same resonant connection. Each of these stories focuses on finding one's footing, whether through a tough-love romance or a quiet journey back to nature.

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The Horse Whisperer
The Horse Whisperer

by Nicholas Evans

Like 'Taking the Reins', this novel centers on the profound, healing bond between humans and horses. It shares the emotional depth and rural setting that fans of equestrian-focused romance will find deeply resonant.

Wild at Heart
Wild at Heart

by K.A. Tucker

This book captures the same spirit of finding oneself in a rugged, outdoor setting. Readers who enjoy the intersection of personal transformation and romantic tension in Ivy Bailey's work will appreciate this narrative.

Riding Freedom
Riding Freedom

by Pam Muñoz Ryan

While slightly younger in target audience, this story features the same empowering connection between a protagonist and their horse. It mirrors the 'Taking the Reins' theme of overcoming societal expectations through equestrian passion.

The Last Letter from Your Lover
The Last Letter from Your Lover

by Jojo Moyes

Moyes excels at the same kind of emotional, character-driven storytelling found in Bailey's work. Fans who enjoy the romantic stakes and character development in 'Taking the Reins' will find this equally compelling.

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Sugar Creek

by Jenny Hale

This novel offers the quintessential small-town romance vibe that fans of Ivy Bailey crave. It focuses on community, healing, and finding love in unexpected places, much like 'Taking the Reins'.

Ride Steady
Ride Steady

by Kristen Ashley

For readers who enjoy the grittier, more intense side of romance alongside the equestrian or rural lifestyle elements, this book provides a satisfying emotional arc. It balances intense personal growth with a strong romantic payoff.

The Giver of Stars
The Giver of Stars

by Jojo Moyes

This book features a strong female protagonist finding her footing in a rural landscape, mirroring the independence and resilience found in 'Taking the Reins'. The focus on female friendship and overcoming adversity is a perfect match.

A Horse for Christmas

by Jane Porter

This story leans heavily into the equestrian lifestyle and the healing power of animals, directly mirroring the core themes of Ivy Bailey's writing. It is a perfect choice for readers seeking a cozy, horse-centric romance.

The Girl Who Loved Wild Horses
The Girl Who Loved Wild Horses

by Paul Goble

While distinct in its literary style, this book captures the deep, almost spiritual connection between a girl and her horses. It is a beautiful exploration of the themes of freedom and nature present in 'Taking the Reins'.

Sweet Tea and Sympathy
Sweet Tea and Sympathy

by Molly Harper

Readers who enjoy the 'fish out of water' aspect of small-town romances will love this. It captures the same lighthearted yet emotionally grounded tone found in Bailey's work, focusing on personal reinvention.