Book Review - Cupid Returns To The Lonesome Buzzard Ranch

Cupid Returns to the Lonesome Buzzard Ranch

Hebby Roman 

December 2020 

Will a long-awaited wedding at the Lonesome Buzzard Ranch spark another round of unlikely romances? 

Les Springer, the owner of the Lonesome Buzzard Ranch, is a little rusty on relationships. When his new girlfriend, Lilly Mayfield, feels neglected and wonders if he’s seeing someone else, she decides two can play at that game. 

Eva González, Les’ widowed housekeeper, and Jiggs Davis, Les’ bachelor foreman, can’t wait to be married until Eva’s unconventional daughter shows up and has Jiggs bolting for the door. Cheyenne MacPherson thinks she’s in love with Jayce Fulton, but her observations of wedded bliss leave a lot to be desired. Jayce wants a forever-after-kind of love, but can he convince Cheyenne to let him put a ring on her finger?

Laney Springer, Les’ oldest daughter, hasn’t had a serious relationship since her fiancé dumped her in college. When she runs into her childhood friend, Edward Coleridge, he makes her feel desirable again. Edward has known Laney since they were children. But he’s six years younger and worries she only thinks of him as her kid brother. 

María González, Eva’s daughter, has failed at everything she’s tried. At the ranch, she’s swept off her feet by the multi-millionaire, sophisticate Nigel Lafitte. But María worries she’s not good enough for him. What does Nigel have to do to convince her to take him seriously? 

Chris Henderson, Laney’s roommate, swears off cowboys when she learns her current boyfriend is two-timing her. At the Springer ranch, she meets New Mexico’s most eligible cowboy millionaire, Connor McCullar. Connor’s trust has been shattered in the past, and he prefers to play the field. Will Chris be the woman to break down his defenses?

Brenda Thompson, Cheyenne’s best friend, is divorced and a single-mother, and after years of disappointing dates she’s almost given up on men. Chuck Hornbill is shy and awkward with women, and while Brenda fascinates him, she also scares the pants off him. How can he convince her to give him a chance? 

Between The Pages 

Cupid’s return brings another group to the Lonesome Buzzard Ranch and another fun read. There are a lot of characters within the pages of this book, but the author makes the read easy to keep track of who is who so there is no confusion. With a great descriptive voice, the author places you in every scene. New characters are introduced, which are interesting to read about, and we get to revisit original characters to see what they have been up to, but my favourite remains with Les, who is the leader of the pack. I heard a third book is coming soon and I hope Les gets the nerve to walk down the aisle. There are a few sweet moments and many laugh out loud scenes. An entertaining read that will make you smile. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Book Review - The Christmas Promise

The Christmas Promise 

Janice Carter

January 2021 

The Christmas season... 

Is perfect for new beginnings 

After a tragedy seventeen years ago, author Ella Jacobs never wanted to come back to Lighthouse Cove. Not to the whispered rumors, the judgment or even to Ben Winters, the boy she loved. Now she's returned in time for Christmas--and some much-needed closure. But old flames burn bright. Can Ella find her way back to Ben...or will the secrets of their past extinguish their love for good? 

Between The Pages 

An emotional second chance journey. I anxiously awaited a return to Lighthouse Cove, especially to read more about Ella and Ben. Ella took the brunt of the blame for the accident that happened seventeen years ago, which made for an emotional read. Ben is such a likable character and he deserves a happy-ever-after. A surprising bonus was the reveal of the person leaving flowers near the lighthouse. The writing is smooth and the plot is enjoyable. It was fun to revisit this quaint town and to see how the characters have grown as well as the town. Walking through Lighthouse Cove with the snow on the ground and the magical season of Christmas is a walk/read worth taking. 

Rating 

4.5 Stars

Book Review - Mistletoe Cowboy

Mistletoe Cowboy 

Leigh Riker 

November 2020 

The best Christmas gift… 

is a second chance with her! 

Cody Jones is a good cowboy with a bad past. But he’s paid for his mistakes and is finally coming home to Barren, Kansas. Only this time, ranch princess Willow Bodine won’t be waiting. She’s gotten engaged to another man: Cody’s enemy. Now Cody must prove that a bad boy cowboy can change his spurs…and become the man Willow truly deserves by Christmas. 

Between The Pages. 

Book 8 in the Kansas Cowboys is another hit in this series. Cody’s character made this story come alive. The handsome and sweet cowboy is making amends and deserves a second chance. I was rooting for him as soon as he stepped onto the pages. His attempt to rescue a horse was a perfect plot twist, which hooked me immediately. Willow is a good heroine. I just wished she would have followed her heart and instincts a bit sooner. It was fun to revisit this town and its secondary cast. An emotional story with a little drama. Will Cody get his horse? You’ll have to read to find out! 

Rating 

4.5 Stars

Book Review - Montana Wedding

Montana Wedding 

Cari Lynn Webb 

December 2020 

Can a fake date 

Become the real deal?  

Triplet Georgie Harrison will do anything to keep her family—including her newfound Blackwell relatives—from worrying about her. Which is exactly why she’s enlisted way-too-charming rodeo cowboy Zach Evans to be her fake boyfriend for her sister’s Montana ranch wedding. The problem is that Georgie’s not just tempted to fall for her own ruse…she’s also falling hard for the roguish cowboy she can never have. 

Between The Pages 

The final book in the Blackwell Sisters brings anticipation and sadness. We get to meet the last Harrison sister, Georgie, and the captivating cowboy, Zach Evans. Their initial meeting grabs your attention and has you turning the pages to follow their heartwarming romance. The plot is filled with so much emotion you’ll root for Georgie and Zach even more. The wedding of Georgie’s sister is a nice backdrop to the story as it brings together the whole Blackwell clan with some of my favourite characters, especially Big E, who stands out in every scene. I’m sad to see this series end, but I’m hoping the authors get together again to bring more excitement to the Blackwell Ranch with new characters, and of course the regular favourites we’ve grown to love. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Book Review - Montana Match

Montana Match 

Carol Ross 

November 2020 

Thanksgiving in Montana 

Is about family—and love! 

Thanksgiving is the perfect time for Fiona Harrison to turn her life around. And she is sure finding a suitable husband will please her newfound family in Montana. When a dating app sends her every dud in town, handsome bartender Simon Clarke offers to be her matchmaker. If only Simon fit her criteria… Learning the truth about the twinkle-eyed charmer could change everything—but for better or worse? 

Between The Pages 

Another Blackwell hit, but this one adds a good slice of humour. The premise is cute with Fiona looking for her perfect match, and Simon lights up the pages. Their connection is perfect and their fun banter makes this story a page-turner that reads well from beginning to end. There are so many great scenes that have you laughing and smiling. The cast in the Blackwell series is one of the best and this book adds some new ones that became fast favourites such as Simon’s friend, Luke, who definitely deserves a story to find his perfect match. If you enjoy reading heartwarming romance mixed with humour then this is your must read. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Book Review - Stranger In The Storm

Stranger In The Storm 

Patricia McAlexander 

June 2020 

After she discovers the abusive side of his personality, Janet Mitchell leaves Jack Dexter, the professor who swept her off her feet. Will she discover the same darkness in Wes, the handsome young man who rescues her during a hurricane? 

Years ago, Wes Corbett vowed not to get romantically involved again, fearing anyone close to him might be harmed by his brother William, a born criminal. Now, as he weathers the storm with Janet, their mutual attraction becomes clear. Can he keep that vow—even though he knows William is on the loose and may be headed directly for them? 

Between The Pages 

A wonderful romance thriller. This story is filled with twists, turns, and suspense. The author presents a well-developed plot with interesting characters and action. While you’ll want to dislike the villain, he’s a vital character in this story, adding family drama and growth for the main characters. The budding relationship between Janet and Wes is sweet and their trust in each other is touching. This book is perfect for a lazy day read when you want to get lost in a story of romance and suspenseful action. 

Rating 

4.5 Stars

Book Review - Ava's Prize

Ava’s Prize 

Cari Lynn Webb 

November 2018 

He needs a great idea 

She can provide it—but at what cost? 

The battle lines are drawn when army medic turned EMT Ava Andrews enters a contest devised by San Francisco entrepreneur Kyle Quinn. The first responder isn’t just competing for a tempting grand prize. She’s fighting her attraction to the self-made millionaire…and losing the war. But private and professional boundaries blur when a breach of trust threatens Ava’s future with Kyle. 

Between The Pages 

This story is all about the characters. While I enjoy a book with a picturesque setting or packed with action, this story hits the mark with exceptional characters. Ava stood out in The Doctor’s Recovery (book two in the series), so I was anxious to read her story. Kyle was an interesting character. Once you get to know Kyle, he grows on you. Then he does something stupid and you want to slap him (typical hero, lol) but he makes up for everything in the end. The author takes you through the characters’ journey of growth. Their stories are complicated and emotional. Friendship with undeniable chemistry. You will root for Ava and Kyle from beginning to end. The additional cast of family and friends is a bonus. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Book Review - Undercover Outlaw

Undercover Outlaw 

Gini Rifkin

October 2020 

Jesse is determined to track down the man who killed his brother in cold blood. Impersonating an outlaw, his quest for justice becomes a living, breathing, part of his soul. 

Trinity is heading to Denver to escape her vicious guardians. When her stagecoach is robbed, Jesse kidnaps her, and all her well-laid plans collide with his, leaving them both in danger. 

Trapped in Prairie Ridge by a flood, Jesse and Trinity's feelings soon run as high and wild as the river. When Jesse is accused of murder, Trinity stands by his side, and they take on the town's tyrannical leader. As the city cowers in fear, help comes from an unexpected source, but can it save Jesse from a hangman's noose.

Between The Pages 

Once again, the author masterfully captured my attention within the opening pages. Jesse portrays an outlaw, but he’s a gentleman of a cowboy. Trinity is striving for independence and finds it Prairie Ridge. Though not the destination she had in mind, she finds friendship, family, and love. This story grabbed my interest and held steadfast. There’s a bit of suspense with Jesse undercover in a group of outlaws, as well as plenty of action. So many scenes will make you smile – Trinity standing by her man, Trinity befriending the “ladies”, Jesse with his uncle Sol, and Trinity with Sol. The story peaks when the “ladies” help Trinity save Jesse. Seeing the women riding in to save the day was perfect. I also hoped for a connection between two other characters and the author didn’t disappoint with a ‘shy smile’ at the end. Get comfy in your chair because you won’t want to put this book down. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Book Review - Holidays Inc.

Holidays Inc. 

Rachelle Paige Campbell 

November 2020 

Former child actress, Danielle "Dani" Winter, left Hollywood to transform an old cinema into a dinner theater, seeing the project as her chance to take control of her future. The middle-of-nowhere location in Wisconsin is a perfect escape from backstabbing celebrity friends. The small town welcomes her help with open arms, but one man questions her plan. 

After unsuccessful writing stints on both coasts, Paul Howell returns home to New Hope. He's shocked to discover that his sister has sold the family business to a beautiful woman. With the encouragement of his neighbors, he reluctantly agrees to write Dani's next musical. 

Working together, they discover more similarities than differences and grow close. When Dani's former best friend and America's sweetheart, Kara Kensington arrives, their blossoming relationship is threatened in more ways than one.

Between The Pages 

This sweet romance, based in a small town, was enjoyable to read. The main characters are well-developed. Both have experienced difficulties in their careers, but together they form a bond and chemistry soon grows on and off the stage. The setting is so visual you can hear the music and watch the plays happening in the theater. The cast is a bonus of enjoyment with lots of extra characters you want to get to know. There’s even a secondary budding romance going on. I look forward to another stroll down the streets of this small town in the Finding New Hope series. 

Rating 

4 Stars

Book Review - Montana Dreams

Montana Dreams 

Anna J. Stewart 

October 2020 

Can a single dad and a business whiz… 

Find the right connection? 

Swapping Silicon Valley for a Montana ranch isn’t Peyton Harrison’s choice. Nor is bringing along a bodyguard. But until threats subside at Peyton’s tech company, Matteo Rossi intends to watch over her while also reconnecting with his young son. Peyton’s instant bond with little Gino is making her rethink her path—and her feelings for Matteo. Is a new dream unfolding under Montana’s endless sky? 

Between The Pages 

There’s nothing better than a heartwarming romance mixed with a little mystery. Someone has threatened Peyton, and Matteo is her irresistible bodyguard. This story starts at a good pace and amps up as the main characters arrive on the Montana ranch. Family is everything in this series and Peyton being the oldest of her sisters plays a significant role. The side plot of mystery is interesting and flows well with the family drama. The complete cast is outstanding and is masterfully led by Big E. I smiled at the brief mention of Butterfly Harbor (fans of the author will understand). The setting is so vivid in this series that I want to visit this ranch and stay a while. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Book Review - Shot Through The Heart

Shot Through The Heart
Andrea Downing 

August 2020 

Gunslinger Shiloh Coltrane has returned home to work the family's Wyoming ranch, only to find there's still violence ahead. His sister and nephew have been murdered, and the killers are at large. 

Dr. Sydney Cantrell has come west to start her medical practice, aiming to treat the people of a small town. As she tries to help and heal, she finds disapproval and cruelty the payment in kind. When the two meet, it's an attraction of opposites. As Shiloh seeks revenge, Sydney seeks to do what's right. Each wants a new life, but will trouble or love find them first? 

Between The Pages 

This historical western romance couldn’t have started any better. On the very first page the hero goes flying through the glass window of the Painted Lady Saloon. There’s an instant pull into the story with the action and the chemistry from the main characters. Shiloh, the hired gunman, is the perfect wild-west cowboy, and Sydney, the doctor, is a determined and strong woman. The author places the reader in the setting with every action scene and there are several that have the pages turning with anticipation. The ending is quick, and I wanted a bit more, but the read was absolutely enjoyable. 

Rating

4.5 Stars

Book Review - The Doctor's Recovery

 

The Doctor's Recovery

Cari Lynn Webb 

May 2018 

When a doctor and a filmmaker reconnect… 

Just who is healing whom? 

Two years ago, Dr. Wyatt Reid shared an unforgettable goodbye kiss with Mia Fiore. Now a scuba diving accident brings the daredevil documentary filmmaker into his San Francisco ER. Could this be their shot at a real relationship? But Wyatt, haunted by family tragedy, saves lives, and Mia risks hers every day. Can they find the way to a future on both their terms? 

Between The Pages 

He saves lives and she risks hers - the beginning of a complex relationship. This sweet romance is a delightful read. The main characters are interesting, both with complicated family history. The story stalled slightly for me while Mia was in the hospital, but the introduction of Wyatt’s mother maintained the read as the plot grows with solid emotional scenes from the main characters feeling the pressure of their pasts – Mia over her father – and Wyatt with the death of his brother and his relationship with his mother. The ending is heartwarming and touching. The cast in this series is growing and makes each new book an adventure with old and new characters. 

Rating 

4.5 Stars

Book Review - To Heal A Heart

To Heal A Heart 

Jana Richards 

June 2020 

Garrett Saunders' world changed two years ago on a road in Afghanistan. Back home, he feels like a stranger. As he struggles to find his place in the world, he meets a horse destined for the slaughterhouse and a woman bent on rescuing the strays of the world, including him. 

Blair Greyson moves to Masonville to look after her ailing grandfather and give her rescue horses a home. Right away she butts heads with a surly former Marine. Despite a rocky start, they come to an agreement: Blair will board Garrett's rescue horse and he'll help with repairs around her farm. 

Garrett finds purpose working with Blair—and falls in love with her. But she's hiding a secret. Can she forgive herself and accept Garrett's love, or will she let guilt and regret continue to rule her life? 

Between The Pages 

This story is a wonderful and tender romance. The main characters are perfect for each other, both with their own haunting pasts. Their easy friendship soon turns into something more, leading to some sizzling chemistry. There’s an equally good supporting cast, many of which have their own stories to tell (hopefully in future books). The horses and dogs were outstanding highlights. The author does a great job of mixing witty banter into an emotion-filled story line. The bond of family and friendship is heartwarming, and some scenes will bring a tear to the eyes. This story is as ‘right as rain’. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Book Review - An Alaskan Proposal

An Alaskan Proposal

Beth Carpenter 

January 2019 

Can he teach her survival skills— 

without endangering his heart? 

When Sabrina Bell taps Leith Jordan for a crash course in conquering the great Alaskan outdoors, he figures he’s on safe ground. They’re polar opposites and his spectacular home state’s just a pit stop for the hotshot fashionista. So no one’s more surprised than Leith when he starts falling for her. Now he’s a man with a plan: get Sabrina to fall in love with Alaska…and, hopefully, with him.  

Between The Pages 

This was such an enjoyable story. I was hooked at chapter one. Sabrina and Leith are the cutest couple and their budding romance was fun to read. The plot is not only engaging; it’s a learning tool in camping, fishing, and wildlife. As with the previous books in this series, the author places the reader in a breathtaking setting. This story will make you smile and laugh. As a dog person, the two adorable dogs were an additional bonus to the story line. Camping, fishing, and attending a wedding with the characters from the first three books made this book a page-turner. I am looking forward to the next adventure in this must read series. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Book Review - Mountain Blaze

Mountain Blaze

Debby Grahl 

November 2020 

Disillusioned by his wife’s betrayal, rodeo star Dillon McCoy comes home to the mountains of North Carolina to lick his wounds. When he agrees to take over the family ranch, the Lazy M, he’s unaware danger waits. 

Diana Thompson is having doubts about her engagement to Trent Sawyer. She agrees to leave Chapel Hill and spend Thanksgiving with her friend Jenn at the Lazy M. When Diana and Dillon meet, neither can deny their attraction, but both must resolve past relationships while fighting their growing desire. 

After Dillon turns down an anonymous offer to purchase the ranch, attempts are made on his life. When a body is found, Dillon sets out to discover who wants the McCoy land enough to commit murder. 

Between The Pages 

This book grabs you with its beautiful cover and the steamy romance has the pages turning with ease. Diana and Dillon have instant chemistry and a growing bond leading to forever, once they get past the hurdles standing in the way. The plot is an engaging mystery with twists and turns that has you guessing who is up to no good. A captivating read from beginning to end. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Book Review - Montana Wishes

 

Montana Wishes

Amy Vastine 

September 2020 

Caught between friendship 

and falling in love… 

Amanda Harrison’s life is changing way too fast. Discovering that she’s really one of the Montana Blackwells was hard enough. Now Blake Collins—her best friend and the guy Amanda’s secretly in love with—is engaged to someone else. But Montana cowboy country has a way of claiming its own. And being a Blackwell means Amanda must learn how to fight for herself…and for the love she deserves. 

Between The Pages 

The beautiful cover draws you in immediately! And the story is so good! Amanda and Blake are the perfect couple that you root for from the first chapter. Best friends who are meant to be together. The plot is emotionally charged. There are smiles, a few laughs, tension, tears, and an adorable dog. A superb cast and a picturesque setting. This book is all about family and friends…a must read romance. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Book Review - A Legacy of Love and Murder

A Legacy of Love and Murder

Brenda Whiteside

March 2016

In Austria to meet her great-grandfather and explore his castle estate filled with priceless art, August Myer arrives to find he’s died suspiciously. As one of the heirs, her life is in danger, turning this fairytale Alpine adventure into a nightmare of veiled threats, unexplained accidents, and murder.

Inspector Tobias Wolf splits his time between his profession and fighting the spread of neo-Nazism. But when the beautiful, intriguing American crosses his path during a murder investigation, ensuring her safety challenges his priorities…and his heart.

When August learns the handsome inspector is concealing a personal involvement, and the death of her great-grandfather is somehow connected, she takes the investigation into her own hands. The outcome could be the death of both of them.

Between The Pages
This was such an enjoyable read. There’s a bit of everything – suspense, mystery, family drama, and a spicy romance. August is spunky and Wolf is incredibly charming. He is a tad older than she is, but they make a cute couple and have great chemistry. Though the person behind the murder is revealed early, the plot is engaging and keeps the pages turning with anticipating suspense. There’s a Nazi connection from World War Two linking to the castle, which was a good twist and made for an interesting read. This romance suspense is a hit.

Rating
5 Stars

Book Review - Can’t Hurry Love

Can’t Hurry Love 

Melinda Curtis 

March 2020 

Head-over-heels in love, Lola Williams gave up everything to marry Randy, including a promising career in New York City. Now, after one year of marriage and one year of widowhood, Lola finds herself stranded in Sunshine, Colorado, reeling from the revelation that Randy had secrets she never could have imagined. She swears she's done with love forever but the matchmaking ladies of the Sunshine Valley Widows Club have different plans...

Sheriff Drew Taylor also knows what it feels like to be unlucky in love. So when Lola comes to him for help uncovering Randy's hidden life, Drew finds himself saying yes against his better judgment - especially with the Widows Club eyeing them both. Soon enough, Lola is upending Drew's peaceful, predictable world...and he kind of likes it! But will this big-city girl ever give her heart to a small-town guy again?

Between The Pages
If you like a romance with a good sense of humour, then this is the book for you. There are so many laugh-out-loud and adorable moments in this story. Lola with the blow-up dolls, the whip cream beards, and Rosie the pig to highlight just a few. The main characters are delightful and the rest of the cast are entertaining. The story is packed with emotion as Lola uncovers secrets about her deceased husband. There is even a side story about two of the older widows. Lots of drama and fun. I’m anxious to know who the Sunshine Valley Widows Club will pick next on their matchmaking list.

Rating
4.5 Stars

Book Review - Montana Welcome

Montana Welcome 

Melinda Curtis 

August 2020 

A bride on the run

And a cowboy to show her the way home… 

Lily Harrison’s wedding day isn’t quite what she imagined. Not only does her fiancé not love her, she’s just discovered she’s a Blackwell—a member of Montana’s well-known ranching family. Now Lily’s ditched her own wedding for a road trip with handsome cowboy Conner Hannah. But will Lily find her answers in Montana…or lose the cowboy she’s already begun falling for?

Between The Pages
What a great returning start to the Blackwell ranch. This is the first book in The Blackwell Sisters and I’m already a fan. In this story, Big E meets the first of five granddaughters he didn’t know existed. I adored Big E in The Blackwell Brothers and in this story he has more of a leading role, which I hope continues throughout the series. Lily and Conner are perfect for each other. Their interaction is quite captivating. Conner is swoon-worthy. This cowboy steals the show. There’s a little bit of everything in this entertaining read. A great cast of old and new favourites. Plenty of emotion and humour, and a good kick of family drama. I am looking forward to the next book.

Rating
5 Stars

Book Review - The Cowboy’s Secret Baby

The Cowboy’s Secret Baby
Leigh Riker
July 2020

He’s a temporary neighbor… 

But will her surprise make him stay? 

Single mom of three Elizabeth Barnes has reason to avoid her rodeo star neighbor. She needs to protect her family after her ex’s public scandal, and charismatic Dallas Maguire is only passing through. Turning to him for comfort was a onetime lapse—with unexpected consequences! Though Elizabeth can’t keep hiding the truth—or her feelings—can a bachelor cowboy transform into a family man? 

Between The Pages 
The Kansas Cowboys have such a compelling cast, with Lizzie and Dallas adding even more enjoyment to the series. They try to fight an undeniable attraction, which strengthens their characters as their friendship turns to more. Heartbreaking emotion and a heartwarming romance will keep you captivated in this story. The upcoming rodeo brings previous favourite characters into many scenes with some added twists and heartache for Dallas’ sister-in-law. Another hit for the Kansas Cowboys.

Rating 
4.5 Stars