Books, boots, and a whole lot of romance at Dixie Dude Ranch in Bandera, Texas.
First of all, WHAT?! The fact that I was invited to my very first book influencer retreat still feels a little surreal. This September, I had the incredible opportunity to attend Get Down & Dirty with Dell, hosted by Dell Romance at the historic Dixie Dude Ranch in Bandera, Texas. A weekend dedicated to romance novels, surrounded by fellow book lovers, on an authentic Texas ranch? As a lifelong horse gal and book lover, I genuinely couldn't have dreamed up a more fitting experience.
BETWEEN THE PAGES AND PASTURES
If there's one thing I love just as much as getting lost in a good book, it's spending time around horses. So when I found out this retreat would be held at Dixie Dude Ranch, I knew we were in for something special.
And let me tell you, this wasn't just a western-themed weekend. It was the real deal. From horseback riding through the Texas Hill Country to soaking up the charm of an authentic working ranch, the entire experience felt like stepping straight into the pages of a cowboy romance novel.
But as much as I loved the setting, the people were what really made the weekend unforgettable.
There's something really special about being surrounded by women who understand why you have a never-ending TBR, get emotionally attached to fictional characters, and consider talking about books a perfectly acceptable personality trait.
THE BOOKS, OBVIOUSLY
Of course, it wouldn't be a Dell Romance retreat without some incredible books!
Our featured book club read was Wanted by Paisley Hope, and y'all, FIVE STARS. I absolutely loved this book. I'm saving all my thoughts for a separate, spoiler-free review because it deserves its own moment on the blog. Just know that it was one of my favorite parts of an already unforgettable weekend.
We were also treated to books from an incredible lineup of Dell Romance authors, including Bailey Hannah, Joss Richard, Stephanie Archer, and Dilan Dyer. Needless to say, my TBR came home a little longer than when I left, and I'm certainly not complaining!
Between the books, thoughtful goodies, and the opportunity to connect with so many fellow readers and creators, I felt completely spoiled in the best possible way.
ONE FOR THE BOOKS
I started Saddle Up & Spill because I love stories, horses, and having somewhere to share my thoughts on whatever I'm reading. I never imagined that sharing those little pieces of myself online would lead to an invitation like this.
A huge thank-you to Dell Romance and Penguin Random House for dreaming up such a special weekend and inviting me to be part of it. And of course, to Ariat, Out of Print, and Lyre's Mocktails for helping make the experience even more memorable with all the thoughtful goodies and special touches.
Here's to more books, new friendships, and hopefully a few more adventures that involve cowboy boots.
Until next time,
Saddle Up & Spill. 🤎
