What do you think?
Rate this book
Flying Diamond 5 #4
Rancher's Strength
Ryder Saffort thought he’d found his forever—until the woman he loved walked away without looking back.
Lexie was his everything, but when she couldn't give him the family he dreamed of, she made the heartbreaking choice to let him go. It’s been three years, and though life has moved on, no one else has ever come close to filling the space she left behind.
Lexie never stopped loving Ryder. Leaving him nearly broke her, but watching him live a life she couldn’t give him would’ve destroyed her.
She’s built a quiet existence, convincing herself she made the right call—until tragedy pulls them back into each other’s orbit.
Bound by a promise made long ago, Ryder and Lexie are named guardians of their late friends’ children. But there's a to honor the will, they must reunite under one roof—as husband and wife.
What starts as a fake marriage quickly unearths the pain, passion, and unfinished love between them.
As autumn settles over the Flying Diamond 5, danger still looms on the horizon. And when the past threatens not just their hearts but the family they’re trying to protect, Ryder and Lexie will have to decide if love lost can truly be found again.
He never stopped loving her. She never stopped believing he deserved more. But maybe… they were always meant to find their way back.
Lexie was his everything, but when she couldn't give him the family he dreamed of, she made the heartbreaking choice to let him go. It’s been three years, and though life has moved on, no one else has ever come close to filling the space she left behind.
Lexie never stopped loving Ryder. Leaving him nearly broke her, but watching him live a life she couldn’t give him would’ve destroyed her.
She’s built a quiet existence, convincing herself she made the right call—until tragedy pulls them back into each other’s orbit.
Bound by a promise made long ago, Ryder and Lexie are named guardians of their late friends’ children. But there's a to honor the will, they must reunite under one roof—as husband and wife.
What starts as a fake marriage quickly unearths the pain, passion, and unfinished love between them.
As autumn settles over the Flying Diamond 5, danger still looms on the horizon. And when the past threatens not just their hearts but the family they’re trying to protect, Ryder and Lexie will have to decide if love lost can truly be found again.
He never stopped loving her. She never stopped believing he deserved more. But maybe… they were always meant to find their way back.
246 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 25, 2025
133 people are currently reading
351 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
June 24, 2025
4.5⭐️ | 2.5🌶
This book is so much more than a romance. It deals with some triggering themes so please check TW, but this was fantastic. I did cry. My heart broke a little, more than once, but i absolutely loved this story. I loved the characters and their journeys. I felt everyone's pain so intensely. Thank you to luna literary management for the arc
This book is so much more than a romance. It deals with some triggering themes so please check TW, but this was fantastic. I did cry. My heart broke a little, more than once, but i absolutely loved this story. I loved the characters and their journeys. I felt everyone's pain so intensely. Thank you to luna literary management for the arc
June 23, 2025
This was my first step into the series and it was a great intro! Second chance between Ryder and Lexi after a heartbreaking situation that brings the two divorcees back together. They have to not only maneuver a whole new family dynamic but also have to communicate on the daily. Personally I had a bit of a hard time getting to like Ryder, he was so hurt from the past that it came out in his words and actions but he was a huge mental health advocate and we love to see that.
Absolutely flew through this book, will have to go back and read more of the series!
Absolutely flew through this book, will have to go back and read more of the series!
June 28, 2025
4.5 stars
I finished this book a few days ago, but I need to gather my thoughts before writing this review. This story carries a lot of emotion and hits close to home, but I am so glad I read the book.
Lexi and Ryder were married, but she left, and her decision wrecked them both. While tragedy brings them back together, there is still a lot of healing and conversation that needs to happen. The condition of their friends will is for them to marry, if they intend to take the children.
My heart was in for a workout, tears were shed, but I loved this book from beginning to end. I recommend this book and the series, but check for triggers if you need to.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
I finished this book a few days ago, but I need to gather my thoughts before writing this review. This story carries a lot of emotion and hits close to home, but I am so glad I read the book.
Lexi and Ryder were married, but she left, and her decision wrecked them both. While tragedy brings them back together, there is still a lot of healing and conversation that needs to happen. The condition of their friends will is for them to marry, if they intend to take the children.
My heart was in for a workout, tears were shed, but I loved this book from beginning to end. I recommend this book and the series, but check for triggers if you need to.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
June 24, 2025
Married Again, With Children
A second chance love story that proves family is what you make it and love never truly lets go.
Lexie (FMC): Divorce Attorney • Sassy and Fierce • Determined • Black Cat Energy • Still Loves Her Ex-Husband •
Ryder (MMC): Cowboy Rancher • Good with Technology • Protective • German Shepherd Energy • Still in Love with His Ex-Wife •
Tropes:
🐎 Rancher Cowboy x Attorney
⚖️ Second Chance
🐎 Country Small Town
⚖️ Found Family
🐎 Forced Proximity
⚖️ Instant Family
🐎 Secret Tattoo
⚖️ Horses & Cattle
🐎 Cowboy Hats
⚖️ “My Wife”
🐎 Mental Health & Therapy Rep
Rating: 🤠🤠🤠🤠(4⭐️)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️ (praise, dirty talk, 👅, public play, self pleasure)
T/W: divorce (referenced), car accident (referenced), friend death (referenced), leaving children orphaned (on page), therapy (on page), alcohol consumption (on page), adoption (referenced), jail/inmate (referenced), depression (referenced), attempted suicide (referenced), 🔫 violence (on page), medical treatment (on page), hospital scenes (on page), infertility issues (referenced), dementia (referenced)
Lexi and Ryder’s story is a beautiful storm of heartbreak, healing, and homecoming. After divorcing three years ago because Lexi couldn’t give Ryder the children she thought he deserved, fate throws them back together when they’re named guardians of their best friends’ children following a tragic accident. The only catch? They have to get married—again.
What could’ve felt like a setup for melodrama turns into a moving and mature romance that balances emotional vulnerability with genuine chemistry. Lexi is your classic black cat heroine—guarded, independent, and terrified of being someone’s burden. Watching her slowly crack open under the weight of Ryder’s unwavering love was so satisfying. And Ryder? Total golden-hearted, German Shepherd energy. He’s patient, grounded, and completely gone for Lexi, even after all these years. His “my wife” moment? SWOON.
This book thoughtfully weaves in themes of infertility, mental health, and the messy, tender reality of forming a family through grief. While the premise carries weight, this is not a dark book. It’s heartfelt, hopeful, and healing. Yes, there are some rough edges—some character moments that don’t always land—but the heart of the story more than makes up for it.
Swoony Line:
“Ryder, you’re my home. You’ve always been my home. The kids, you, me, and all of us together are where I’m meant to be. Forever.”
I received an ARC copy and wanted to leave an honest review.
A second chance love story that proves family is what you make it and love never truly lets go.
Lexie (FMC): Divorce Attorney • Sassy and Fierce • Determined • Black Cat Energy • Still Loves Her Ex-Husband •
Ryder (MMC): Cowboy Rancher • Good with Technology • Protective • German Shepherd Energy • Still in Love with His Ex-Wife •
Tropes:
🐎 Rancher Cowboy x Attorney
⚖️ Second Chance
🐎 Country Small Town
⚖️ Found Family
🐎 Forced Proximity
⚖️ Instant Family
🐎 Secret Tattoo
⚖️ Horses & Cattle
🐎 Cowboy Hats
⚖️ “My Wife”
🐎 Mental Health & Therapy Rep
Rating: 🤠🤠🤠🤠(4⭐️)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️ (praise, dirty talk, 👅, public play, self pleasure)
T/W: divorce (referenced), car accident (referenced), friend death (referenced), leaving children orphaned (on page), therapy (on page), alcohol consumption (on page), adoption (referenced), jail/inmate (referenced), depression (referenced), attempted suicide (referenced), 🔫 violence (on page), medical treatment (on page), hospital scenes (on page), infertility issues (referenced), dementia (referenced)
Lexi and Ryder’s story is a beautiful storm of heartbreak, healing, and homecoming. After divorcing three years ago because Lexi couldn’t give Ryder the children she thought he deserved, fate throws them back together when they’re named guardians of their best friends’ children following a tragic accident. The only catch? They have to get married—again.
What could’ve felt like a setup for melodrama turns into a moving and mature romance that balances emotional vulnerability with genuine chemistry. Lexi is your classic black cat heroine—guarded, independent, and terrified of being someone’s burden. Watching her slowly crack open under the weight of Ryder’s unwavering love was so satisfying. And Ryder? Total golden-hearted, German Shepherd energy. He’s patient, grounded, and completely gone for Lexi, even after all these years. His “my wife” moment? SWOON.
This book thoughtfully weaves in themes of infertility, mental health, and the messy, tender reality of forming a family through grief. While the premise carries weight, this is not a dark book. It’s heartfelt, hopeful, and healing. Yes, there are some rough edges—some character moments that don’t always land—but the heart of the story more than makes up for it.
Swoony Line:
“Ryder, you’re my home. You’ve always been my home. The kids, you, me, and all of us together are where I’m meant to be. Forever.”
I received an ARC copy and wanted to leave an honest review.
July 4, 2025
What a beautiful, emotional and gripping story! It made me laugh, cry, squeal, scream, gasp, & giggle. It was marvelous!
Lexie is a brilliant lawyer who grew up in a great family, barrel racing & living her best country life.
Ryder is a former security expert turned rancher who grew up in the foster system, desperately wanting a family.
They were married. Then they weren't. She left him so that he could have the family she could never give him. They are thrown back together when they become co-guardians to her best friend's children. They have to get married again to ensure their guardianship which means they have to spend a lot of time together and act married in a way that everyone will be convinced. The seeming married part isn't difficult, it's the keeping it fake that they struggle with. Delightful!
Lexie is incredible. She is bold & fierce & vulnerable & soft & strong. She never stopped loving Ryder but she thought she was doing the right thing letting him go. Her pain & emotions around infertility are tough. Your heart will break for her. And it will also rejoice as she starts to heal that.
Ryder is amazing. He is sweet & kind & gentle & ultra protective & understanding. He is a natural dad & is obsessed with Lexie. He never stopped loving her. His mental health discussions are difficult. They are raw and emotional. His journey of continuous healing & self awareness will make you think and maybe even do a self check-in.
The conversations around men seeking mental health support are so important & incredibly well handled. It's okay to not be okay, to talk to professionals & need medical support. And it is okay to prioritize yourself & your safety.
This was my first Bonnie Poirer book & my brain loved her writing. The dialogue was interesting & I didn't struggle to keep track of people or places. So excited to read more of her work!
There are tough topics, so make sure to check out the content warnings.
Lexie is a brilliant lawyer who grew up in a great family, barrel racing & living her best country life.
Ryder is a former security expert turned rancher who grew up in the foster system, desperately wanting a family.
They were married. Then they weren't. She left him so that he could have the family she could never give him. They are thrown back together when they become co-guardians to her best friend's children. They have to get married again to ensure their guardianship which means they have to spend a lot of time together and act married in a way that everyone will be convinced. The seeming married part isn't difficult, it's the keeping it fake that they struggle with. Delightful!
Lexie is incredible. She is bold & fierce & vulnerable & soft & strong. She never stopped loving Ryder but she thought she was doing the right thing letting him go. Her pain & emotions around infertility are tough. Your heart will break for her. And it will also rejoice as she starts to heal that.
Ryder is amazing. He is sweet & kind & gentle & ultra protective & understanding. He is a natural dad & is obsessed with Lexie. He never stopped loving her. His mental health discussions are difficult. They are raw and emotional. His journey of continuous healing & self awareness will make you think and maybe even do a self check-in.
The conversations around men seeking mental health support are so important & incredibly well handled. It's okay to not be okay, to talk to professionals & need medical support. And it is okay to prioritize yourself & your safety.
This was my first Bonnie Poirer book & my brain loved her writing. The dialogue was interesting & I didn't struggle to keep track of people or places. So excited to read more of her work!
There are tough topics, so make sure to check out the content warnings.
June 25, 2025
"There's nothing wrong with you...you're perfect in every way that matters to me." -Ryder to Lexie
Lexie & Ryder. Whew girl. These two are tough. Lexie is a strong, caring woman who wants to take care of everyone around her. What that does, unfortunately, is alienate her from the very people who want to love her with all their might. She falls in love with Ryder, get married, and because of something beyond her control, makes bad decisions for both of them. She regrets every minute of it. Lexie is so complex and has so much woven into her - her family dynamics, her relationship with Ryder and his friends, her feelings of not being enough, all while trying to care for everyone dear to her.
Ryder is a rough and tough, extremely generous cowboy who was destroyed when Lexie turned away from him. He falls into a deep depression (check the triggers at the beginning of the book). He gives her what she "wants" but his heart never gave up on her. He has depth and loves so completely. His loyalty and commitment to those around him runs DEEP. The lengths he goes to to make sure everyone is cared for leaves him vulnerable and when Lexie leaves (happens before this story starts so no spoilers) and his mental health takes a tumble. His friends are there to help him through but there is conflict when his friends see her hanging around again.
The plot line of this story revolves around two small children (Ruby and Sawyer) who become theirs after a terrible accident that takes their parents. They are no longer married but have these two kids they have to raise together. Forced proximity at its most heart breaking I think. The children are adorable and beautiful and their fragile emotions are handled so well by both Ryder and Lexie. As Lexie said, Ryder was born to be a dad.
When these two come together you know "it's gonna be forever, or it's gonna go down in flames," as TS says. These two prove it can do both.
Ryder owns and runs the Flying Diamond 5 Ranch with his 4 best friends. The community they have created has me wanting to pack my bags and go live there. We see peeks of the other characters from the other books, the theme of family, loyalty, and courage coming through each of them. And when you get to wild rag scene, know I was in tears.
I love this book and these characters! This is the fourth book in the series - I have not read the previous 4 but this works as a standalone, you just don't have the stories of the other couples. I will 100% be devouring these books before the next release.
"'I don't like your mom,' Ruby said, a frown across her sweet little face. 'You're amazing and she just forgot you. Well she can't have you back, even if she begs. I won't let her. Sawyer and I belong to you now, so she can stay away; we're your family." -sweet sweet Ruby to Ryder
tropes include:
*second chance romance
*small town romance
*cowboys
*it was always you
*forced proximity
*found family
I received an eARC of this book for free and my review is voluntary. Thank you to Bonnie Poirier and Luna Literary Management for providing the copy and giving me the opportunity for an early read.
Lexie & Ryder. Whew girl. These two are tough. Lexie is a strong, caring woman who wants to take care of everyone around her. What that does, unfortunately, is alienate her from the very people who want to love her with all their might. She falls in love with Ryder, get married, and because of something beyond her control, makes bad decisions for both of them. She regrets every minute of it. Lexie is so complex and has so much woven into her - her family dynamics, her relationship with Ryder and his friends, her feelings of not being enough, all while trying to care for everyone dear to her.
Ryder is a rough and tough, extremely generous cowboy who was destroyed when Lexie turned away from him. He falls into a deep depression (check the triggers at the beginning of the book). He gives her what she "wants" but his heart never gave up on her. He has depth and loves so completely. His loyalty and commitment to those around him runs DEEP. The lengths he goes to to make sure everyone is cared for leaves him vulnerable and when Lexie leaves (happens before this story starts so no spoilers) and his mental health takes a tumble. His friends are there to help him through but there is conflict when his friends see her hanging around again.
The plot line of this story revolves around two small children (Ruby and Sawyer) who become theirs after a terrible accident that takes their parents. They are no longer married but have these two kids they have to raise together. Forced proximity at its most heart breaking I think. The children are adorable and beautiful and their fragile emotions are handled so well by both Ryder and Lexie. As Lexie said, Ryder was born to be a dad.
When these two come together you know "it's gonna be forever, or it's gonna go down in flames," as TS says. These two prove it can do both.
Ryder owns and runs the Flying Diamond 5 Ranch with his 4 best friends. The community they have created has me wanting to pack my bags and go live there. We see peeks of the other characters from the other books, the theme of family, loyalty, and courage coming through each of them. And when you get to wild rag scene, know I was in tears.
I love this book and these characters! This is the fourth book in the series - I have not read the previous 4 but this works as a standalone, you just don't have the stories of the other couples. I will 100% be devouring these books before the next release.
"'I don't like your mom,' Ruby said, a frown across her sweet little face. 'You're amazing and she just forgot you. Well she can't have you back, even if she begs. I won't let her. Sawyer and I belong to you now, so she can stay away; we're your family." -sweet sweet Ruby to Ryder
tropes include:
*second chance romance
*small town romance
*cowboys
*it was always you
*forced proximity
*found family
I received an eARC of this book for free and my review is voluntary. Thank you to Bonnie Poirier and Luna Literary Management for providing the copy and giving me the opportunity for an early read.
July 1, 2025
🌸 𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖 🌸
𝓡𝓪𝓷𝓬𝓱𝓮𝓻'𝓼 𝓢𝓽𝓻𝓮𝓷𝓰𝓽𝓱 by Bonnie Poirier
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Rancher’s Strength is an emotional and heartfelt second-chance romance that proves family isn’t always about blood it’s about love, loyalty, and healing. This is book four in the Flying Diamond 5 Cowboy series, and it continues the beautiful found-family dynamic the series is known for. The support, connection, and unconditional love shared among the characters make you wish you were part of the Flying Diamond 5 ranch family too.
This story follows Lexi, a black-cat FMC and an attorney, and Ryder, a strong rugged rancher. They were once married, but Lexi left three years ago, convinced she was doing what was best for Ryder. Her leaving shattered them both. Now, after the tragic loss of close friends, Lexi and Ryder are unexpectedly reunited and find themselves guardians to two young children.
Forced to live under the same roof, Lexi and Ryder must navigate their grief, co-parenting, and the lingering feelings they still have for one another. There are tough, honest conversations about their past, their mental health, and how to move forward not just as guardians, but possibly as partners again. Ryder’s dedication to his own healing and to protecting Lexi and the children was deeply moving.
Their chemistry is undeniable, and their love story is raw, emotional, and beautifully real. Watching them rediscover each other and work through their pain together was incredibly satisfying. They made the perfect team both as a couple and as protectors of the kids.
Tropes you’ll love:
🐎 Rancher Cowboy x Attorney
🩵Second Chance Romance
🐎 Small-Town Setting
🩷 Found Family
🐎 Forced Proximity
🩵Instant Family
🐎 Secret Tattoo
🩷 “My Wife”
🐎 Mental Health & Therapy Rep
🩵Cowboys, Horses, and Cattle
Rancher’s Strength does deal with some heavy topics, including grief, divorce, and trauma, but it balances them beautifully with hope, healing, and love. The mental health representation was refreshing and heartfelt.
𝓡𝓪𝓷𝓬𝓱𝓮𝓻'𝓼 𝓢𝓽𝓻𝓮𝓷𝓰𝓽𝓱 by Bonnie Poirier
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Rancher’s Strength is an emotional and heartfelt second-chance romance that proves family isn’t always about blood it’s about love, loyalty, and healing. This is book four in the Flying Diamond 5 Cowboy series, and it continues the beautiful found-family dynamic the series is known for. The support, connection, and unconditional love shared among the characters make you wish you were part of the Flying Diamond 5 ranch family too.
This story follows Lexi, a black-cat FMC and an attorney, and Ryder, a strong rugged rancher. They were once married, but Lexi left three years ago, convinced she was doing what was best for Ryder. Her leaving shattered them both. Now, after the tragic loss of close friends, Lexi and Ryder are unexpectedly reunited and find themselves guardians to two young children.
Forced to live under the same roof, Lexi and Ryder must navigate their grief, co-parenting, and the lingering feelings they still have for one another. There are tough, honest conversations about their past, their mental health, and how to move forward not just as guardians, but possibly as partners again. Ryder’s dedication to his own healing and to protecting Lexi and the children was deeply moving.
Their chemistry is undeniable, and their love story is raw, emotional, and beautifully real. Watching them rediscover each other and work through their pain together was incredibly satisfying. They made the perfect team both as a couple and as protectors of the kids.
Tropes you’ll love:
🐎 Rancher Cowboy x Attorney
🩵Second Chance Romance
🐎 Small-Town Setting
🩷 Found Family
🐎 Forced Proximity
🩵Instant Family
🐎 Secret Tattoo
🩷 “My Wife”
🐎 Mental Health & Therapy Rep
🩵Cowboys, Horses, and Cattle
Rancher’s Strength does deal with some heavy topics, including grief, divorce, and trauma, but it balances them beautifully with hope, healing, and love. The mental health representation was refreshing and heartfelt.
July 11, 2025
5 🌟
2 🌶️
🤍 Fake marriage
💐 Mental health rep
🤍 Second chance
💐 Found family
🤍 Forced proximity
💐 Cowboy x country turned city girl
🤍 Instant family
Rancher’s Strength is a second-chance romance with emotional damage, cowboy grunting, and enough feelings to make your heart do that squish thing. If you’re into romances that tug at your heart but also make you root like crazy for the couple, Rancher’s Strength is absolutely your vibe.
Lexie and Ryder? Whew. These two have been through it. They are the human version of “this is fine” with everything on fire behind them. Once married, now divorced, still clearly in love but of course they’d never say that out loud. Then heartbreak tore them apart, and now, they’re back in each other’s orbit, trying to raise two kids and a whole lot of unfinished emotional business between them.
Ryder is the classic gruff cowboy who keeps everything bottled up, but you just know the man has a soft side buried under all that brooding. And when it comes out? Ugh. So good. Lexie is strong and stubborn in the best way, but still raw from everything they went through. She’s protective, trying so hard to stay strong, but you can feel how much she still loves him. Even when she’s pretending she doesn’t. Watching her try to protect herself and open back up to Ryder was honestly kind of beautiful.
The Flying Diamond 5 ranch crew is like this cozy, loyal found-family situation, and I want to be adopted immediately. Start here or go back and read the whole Flying Diamond 5 series, you won’t regret it! There’s some heavy stuff like grief and depression, but it’s handled with care, not drama for drama’s sake. It never feels too dark, it just feels human. And honestly? Watching them try to navigate it all had me feeling every feeling. The tiny moments where they start to trust again. And the kids? Ruby and Sawyer completely stole the show. Seriously, you’ll just want to hug them.
And the heat? Yes, please. It’s not over the top, but when things do happen, it’s meaningful and hot and totally earned. Nothing random, just that perfect slow burn payoff once the walls finally come down.
It’s one of those books that just stays with you. If you love stories about healing, love after loss, and cowboys who don’t know how to use their words but will literally move mountains for the people they love? Yeah, you’re gonna eat this one up.
Thank you Luna Literary and Bonnie for this arc opportunity! I volunteered to review.
2 🌶️
🤍 Fake marriage
💐 Mental health rep
🤍 Second chance
💐 Found family
🤍 Forced proximity
💐 Cowboy x country turned city girl
🤍 Instant family
Rancher’s Strength is a second-chance romance with emotional damage, cowboy grunting, and enough feelings to make your heart do that squish thing. If you’re into romances that tug at your heart but also make you root like crazy for the couple, Rancher’s Strength is absolutely your vibe.
Lexie and Ryder? Whew. These two have been through it. They are the human version of “this is fine” with everything on fire behind them. Once married, now divorced, still clearly in love but of course they’d never say that out loud. Then heartbreak tore them apart, and now, they’re back in each other’s orbit, trying to raise two kids and a whole lot of unfinished emotional business between them.
Ryder is the classic gruff cowboy who keeps everything bottled up, but you just know the man has a soft side buried under all that brooding. And when it comes out? Ugh. So good. Lexie is strong and stubborn in the best way, but still raw from everything they went through. She’s protective, trying so hard to stay strong, but you can feel how much she still loves him. Even when she’s pretending she doesn’t. Watching her try to protect herself and open back up to Ryder was honestly kind of beautiful.
The Flying Diamond 5 ranch crew is like this cozy, loyal found-family situation, and I want to be adopted immediately. Start here or go back and read the whole Flying Diamond 5 series, you won’t regret it! There’s some heavy stuff like grief and depression, but it’s handled with care, not drama for drama’s sake. It never feels too dark, it just feels human. And honestly? Watching them try to navigate it all had me feeling every feeling. The tiny moments where they start to trust again. And the kids? Ruby and Sawyer completely stole the show. Seriously, you’ll just want to hug them.
And the heat? Yes, please. It’s not over the top, but when things do happen, it’s meaningful and hot and totally earned. Nothing random, just that perfect slow burn payoff once the walls finally come down.
It’s one of those books that just stays with you. If you love stories about healing, love after loss, and cowboys who don’t know how to use their words but will literally move mountains for the people they love? Yeah, you’re gonna eat this one up.
Thank you Luna Literary and Bonnie for this arc opportunity! I volunteered to review.
June 24, 2025
The story of Lexi and Ryder is a beautiful whirlwind of sorrow, healing, and reconnection. After a tragic accident makes them guardians of their best friends' kids, fate reunites them following their divorce three years earlier, as Lexi felt she couldn't give Ryder the children she thought he deserved. The only drawback? Again, they need to marry.
Lexi is a black cat from FMC. She was convinced she understood what was best for Ryder, which is the reason she had separated from him three years earlier. After the deaths of their friends, she and Ryder felt the need to reconnect with their closest family members. Her development as a character was outstanding! As additional aspects of Ryder's love for her came to light, I cherished how she became more tender.
Despite Lexi's departure, Ryder, the resilient rancher, continued to love her. I love how committed his character is to maintaining his mental well-being. He is the finest German Shepherd MMC available. He will not underestimate this second chance. Regardless of how that appears, he is undeniably meant to be a father. I cherished his talent for winning Lexi back again. There’s a truly amazing “my wife” moment!
Bonnie excelled at emphasizing the importance of mental health while portraying the character's delicacy. I particularly liked the book's depiction of infertility, illustrating that there isn't a single correct way to create a family and that families can exist in various forms. Ultimately, you won't want to overlook this sincere second-chance love story.
Lexi is a black cat from FMC. She was convinced she understood what was best for Ryder, which is the reason she had separated from him three years earlier. After the deaths of their friends, she and Ryder felt the need to reconnect with their closest family members. Her development as a character was outstanding! As additional aspects of Ryder's love for her came to light, I cherished how she became more tender.
Despite Lexi's departure, Ryder, the resilient rancher, continued to love her. I love how committed his character is to maintaining his mental well-being. He is the finest German Shepherd MMC available. He will not underestimate this second chance. Regardless of how that appears, he is undeniably meant to be a father. I cherished his talent for winning Lexi back again. There’s a truly amazing “my wife” moment!
Bonnie excelled at emphasizing the importance of mental health while portraying the character's delicacy. I particularly liked the book's depiction of infertility, illustrating that there isn't a single correct way to create a family and that families can exist in various forms. Ultimately, you won't want to overlook this sincere second-chance love story.
June 25, 2025
Thank you Bonnie Poirier and Luna Literary for the ARC!
Rancher’s Strength is now available!
Lexie and Ryder were married, but Lexie decided to end things between them. They were living their own lives, her in the city and him in a small town, until the unthinkable happened. They are drawn back together.
Rancher’s Strength is Bonnie Poirier’s fourth installment of her Flying Diamond 5 series. Full disclosure: I did not read any of the prior books before diving into this one. With that in mind, I did enjoy Ryder and Lexie’s story.
Ryder and Lexie are two people that I would want in my corner. Separately they are equally strong, determined, passionate, and would do anything for the people they care about. Both of them together, they are a force to be reckoned with. Throughout the story they navigate living together again, and what this means to them as a couple. They openly talk about their mental health, and how to support the two tiny humans they are now in charge of.
This book made me cry, and I don’t cry when I read. The main characters, as well as the secondary characters pulled at my heartstrings. Poirier engages you from the go-to. Her writing makes you feel like you are going through this with the characters, and you’re rooting for them every step of the way! The epilogue had me sobbing at 2am. I love a good epilogue, and one did not disappoint. It tied up Lexie and Ryder’s story perfectly.
Add Rancher's Strength to your TBR! As always check for trigger warnings before reading.
Rancher’s Strength is now available!
Lexie and Ryder were married, but Lexie decided to end things between them. They were living their own lives, her in the city and him in a small town, until the unthinkable happened. They are drawn back together.
Rancher’s Strength is Bonnie Poirier’s fourth installment of her Flying Diamond 5 series. Full disclosure: I did not read any of the prior books before diving into this one. With that in mind, I did enjoy Ryder and Lexie’s story.
Ryder and Lexie are two people that I would want in my corner. Separately they are equally strong, determined, passionate, and would do anything for the people they care about. Both of them together, they are a force to be reckoned with. Throughout the story they navigate living together again, and what this means to them as a couple. They openly talk about their mental health, and how to support the two tiny humans they are now in charge of.
This book made me cry, and I don’t cry when I read. The main characters, as well as the secondary characters pulled at my heartstrings. Poirier engages you from the go-to. Her writing makes you feel like you are going through this with the characters, and you’re rooting for them every step of the way! The epilogue had me sobbing at 2am. I love a good epilogue, and one did not disappoint. It tied up Lexie and Ryder’s story perfectly.
Add Rancher's Strength to your TBR! As always check for trigger warnings before reading.
August 22, 2025
I actually really liked this book in the series. It was its own little spin of the movie Life as we know it. I liked that they both weren't celibate, instead of the same old one slept around while the other was celibate. I believe he mainly slept with city girls that came through town (an assumption pulled from the first book in the series and I don't remember if it was stated if it was city girls or people from the small town in this book). I really loved how the book ended where it emphasizes that Flying Diamond 5 is a family no matter what. There was some "OW/OM" drama but it was just a scene with an irrelevant character flirting and the characters staking their claims, admitting jealousy and getting together.
I didn't like the drama between the sisters. It felt very forced, like a here damn there's some drama. It wasn't even normal sibling banter, just two grown sisters who acted like bitches that can't communicate with each other. Nobody forced the Lydia to take over the bar, they stated numerous times it could just be sold and the sisters never actually had a conversation on Lydia's "resentment" over staying and taking care of the bar or Lexies feelings about feeling "judged" she can't have kids whenever she faces her family.
The author seems to love the whole "we're going to be grown but act like children and not communicate with each other properly" for her plot, almost the whole plot could've been solved with communication and therapy.
I didn't like the drama between the sisters. It felt very forced, like a here damn there's some drama. It wasn't even normal sibling banter, just two grown sisters who acted like bitches that can't communicate with each other. Nobody forced the Lydia to take over the bar, they stated numerous times it could just be sold and the sisters never actually had a conversation on Lydia's "resentment" over staying and taking care of the bar or Lexies feelings about feeling "judged" she can't have kids whenever she faces her family.
The author seems to love the whole "we're going to be grown but act like children and not communicate with each other properly" for her plot, almost the whole plot could've been solved with communication and therapy.
June 25, 2025
This book was a solid 3.5 ⭐️ for me. I do feel it is important to mention I have not read any of the other books in this series but was attracted to these second chance lovers Lexie and Ryder. Because I didn’t know the back story (and characters) of the Diamond 5, I definitely felt lost a time or 12… so if you have the opportunity to read the previous installments, I would encourage it. This book also felt rushed at times, and I wish that further story building or deep diving into scenes could have taken place to better allow the reader to understand Lex and Ry’s back story, but again this is just my opinion 😊(and may have even been covered in previous books lol)
That being said, this couples banter and true love for one another SHINED and I loved watching Ryder unravel for his girl. I loved Lexie’s character as Bonnie portrayed her as a strong boss ass B who could cut you down but love you fiercely. Even when times got rough Lexi stood strong and I don’t feel like enough authors make a strong female main character like this. Without giving too much away, I loved the found family both among the Diamond 5 and their significant others and the newly formed Saffort family. I feel like mental health awareness was highlighted beautifully and there was a touching message as it pertains to those in foster care 🥰 over all this is a quick read, but well worth your time!
That being said, this couples banter and true love for one another SHINED and I loved watching Ryder unravel for his girl. I loved Lexie’s character as Bonnie portrayed her as a strong boss ass B who could cut you down but love you fiercely. Even when times got rough Lexi stood strong and I don’t feel like enough authors make a strong female main character like this. Without giving too much away, I loved the found family both among the Diamond 5 and their significant others and the newly formed Saffort family. I feel like mental health awareness was highlighted beautifully and there was a touching message as it pertains to those in foster care 🥰 over all this is a quick read, but well worth your time!
June 27, 2025
Another 5 star banger from Bonnie!
Im so glad i stumbled across Bonnie’s social media last year and decided to check out her debut because i absolutely love this series, and Ranchers Strength is no exception.
I loved Lexie and Ryder were so good together and they made the perfect guardians for the kids. I especially loved how protective Ryder was over all of them. Second chance romances can be hit or miss but I really enjoyed the way this one panned out. It was so obvious that Lexie and Ryder were made for each other and even though they came back together under sad circumstances, it was still incredibly sweet.
The way the women on the ranch came together was beautiful and I thought it was great how quickly they accepted Lexie into the fold. It took the men so much longer, and I may have wanted to shake them a bit, but eventually they all came around. The book had a little less banter because of that but you still felt the love and found family aspect throughout anyway.
The suspense was good as well. I really wasn’t expecting it to wrap up the way it did and I’m so intrigued how that plays into the next book. Book 5 is definitely going to be an interesting one and I can’t wait!
Im so glad i stumbled across Bonnie’s social media last year and decided to check out her debut because i absolutely love this series, and Ranchers Strength is no exception.
I loved Lexie and Ryder were so good together and they made the perfect guardians for the kids. I especially loved how protective Ryder was over all of them. Second chance romances can be hit or miss but I really enjoyed the way this one panned out. It was so obvious that Lexie and Ryder were made for each other and even though they came back together under sad circumstances, it was still incredibly sweet.
The way the women on the ranch came together was beautiful and I thought it was great how quickly they accepted Lexie into the fold. It took the men so much longer, and I may have wanted to shake them a bit, but eventually they all came around. The book had a little less banter because of that but you still felt the love and found family aspect throughout anyway.
The suspense was good as well. I really wasn’t expecting it to wrap up the way it did and I’m so intrigued how that plays into the next book. Book 5 is definitely going to be an interesting one and I can’t wait!
July 21, 2025
I was really looking forward to reading this. However this is my first DND book.
It was just too long and not a single character seemed mature enough to actually claim their age.
Ryder - Honestly his whole life has been full of people abandoning him. I suppose she is his true love because despite everything she's done he's been waiting for her, picking up her family she was too selfish to care about.
Lexie - I mean she couldn't be more selfish if she tried honestly. From the get go it's been all about protecting herself. Leaving Ryder was a victim syndrome. If she hadn't told Ryder or he had indicated no family is a nonstarter for him, I'd understand her leaving him.
But he has done his best to show her and this woman still chose to up and leave him. And then she has the audacity to hate his friends who are protective of him, the people who were there for him after she left him a mess.
The way she treats Sam at the beginning, the way she treated her dad, and then her mom and sister, honestly I couldn't like a single good thing about her because her selfishness overshadowed it. I've never disliked an FMC as much as her.
It was just too long and not a single character seemed mature enough to actually claim their age.
Ryder - Honestly his whole life has been full of people abandoning him. I suppose she is his true love because despite everything she's done he's been waiting for her, picking up her family she was too selfish to care about.
Lexie - I mean she couldn't be more selfish if she tried honestly. From the get go it's been all about protecting herself. Leaving Ryder was a victim syndrome. If she hadn't told Ryder or he had indicated no family is a nonstarter for him, I'd understand her leaving him.
But he has done his best to show her and this woman still chose to up and leave him. And then she has the audacity to hate his friends who are protective of him, the people who were there for him after she left him a mess.
The way she treats Sam at the beginning, the way she treated her dad, and then her mom and sister, honestly I couldn't like a single good thing about her because her selfishness overshadowed it. I've never disliked an FMC as much as her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 15, 2025
ARC Review: Thank you to Bonnie Poirier and Luna Literary Management for sending me a copy to read and review.
This book had it all: Romantic Suspense, Mental Health Rep, found family, adoption rep, infertility rep, and a beautiful second chance. This book had me feeling all the feelings.
Lexi is a black cat FMC. She had divorced Ryder three years previously because she was convinced she knew what was best for him. After the death of their friends, she and Ryder were forced back together with an instant family. Her character development was so good! I love how she softened as more layers of Ryder’s love for her had been peeled back.
Ryder, this strong rancher, loved Lexi even when she left him. His character is committed to taking care of his mental health, and I love to see that. He is the ultimate German Shepherd MMC. He is unwilling to take this second chance for granted. He’s also 100% always meant to be a father, no matter what that looks like. I loved how he won Lexi over again. There is a “my wife” moment that is so good!
This book had it all: Romantic Suspense, Mental Health Rep, found family, adoption rep, infertility rep, and a beautiful second chance. This book had me feeling all the feelings.
Lexi is a black cat FMC. She had divorced Ryder three years previously because she was convinced she knew what was best for him. After the death of their friends, she and Ryder were forced back together with an instant family. Her character development was so good! I love how she softened as more layers of Ryder’s love for her had been peeled back.
Ryder, this strong rancher, loved Lexi even when she left him. His character is committed to taking care of his mental health, and I love to see that. He is the ultimate German Shepherd MMC. He is unwilling to take this second chance for granted. He’s also 100% always meant to be a father, no matter what that looks like. I loved how he won Lexi over again. There is a “my wife” moment that is so good!
July 4, 2025
Being able to get this ARC was beyond words. This story has so much emotion and you have to be emotionally prepared in a way. I am so glad and honored I was able to read this book and was given the opportunity to read your work Bonnie thank you to you and to Luna Literacy for sending me this.
Lexi and Ryder they were married however she decides to leave him. The choice take made wrecked them both and it changes them forever however, when they said in tragedy strikes, it brings them together in a way they never expected. When there is a legal binding paper that has one option only and you have to decide if you’re going to do it for the good of the others what choice will you make or do they make?
Their shows how to deal with emotions and try to heal and move forward and to be able to love again but there’s also grief and how you’re able to work through it determines on the work and effort you want to put into it. I have no words but treasure those around you hold onto them tight because you never know when it will be your last thank you once again to Luna literacy for this ARC and to you Bonnie for these words!
Lexi and Ryder they were married however she decides to leave him. The choice take made wrecked them both and it changes them forever however, when they said in tragedy strikes, it brings them together in a way they never expected. When there is a legal binding paper that has one option only and you have to decide if you’re going to do it for the good of the others what choice will you make or do they make?
Their shows how to deal with emotions and try to heal and move forward and to be able to love again but there’s also grief and how you’re able to work through it determines on the work and effort you want to put into it. I have no words but treasure those around you hold onto them tight because you never know when it will be your last thank you once again to Luna literacy for this ARC and to you Bonnie for these words!
July 16, 2025
Ranchers Strength is finally out in the world. Y’all this is a second chance, small town cowboy romance with an insta family.
“I needed to control my heart because if there was one thing about Ryder Saffort, it was that he knew how to make me forget everything except him.“
I love a second chance romance. Lexie and Ryder have been divorced for years and now they find themselves thrown back into one another lives with a whole lot of new responsibilities and you could cut the s e x u a l tension with a dull butter knife. Hell you’d probably really only need a spoon.
“God, this man made my heart flutter. I should really see a doctor about that; it might be life-threatening.”
The slow burn was totally worth the wait because the spice in this book is so hot. Add in the years of yearning for the other and these two couldn’t keep their hands off each other if they tried.
“You were mine then, and you’re mine now. Don’t ever forget it.”
Grab Ranchers Strength today if you like small town cowboy romances with found family, forced proximity and a man who goes to therapy 😮💨
“I needed to control my heart because if there was one thing about Ryder Saffort, it was that he knew how to make me forget everything except him.“
I love a second chance romance. Lexie and Ryder have been divorced for years and now they find themselves thrown back into one another lives with a whole lot of new responsibilities and you could cut the s e x u a l tension with a dull butter knife. Hell you’d probably really only need a spoon.
“God, this man made my heart flutter. I should really see a doctor about that; it might be life-threatening.”
The slow burn was totally worth the wait because the spice in this book is so hot. Add in the years of yearning for the other and these two couldn’t keep their hands off each other if they tried.
“You were mine then, and you’re mine now. Don’t ever forget it.”
Grab Ranchers Strength today if you like small town cowboy romances with found family, forced proximity and a man who goes to therapy 😮💨
July 25, 2025
What a heartfelt second-chance romance! Rancher’s Strength follows Lexie and Ryder, once married and now thrown back together after the tragic loss of their best friends. Named co-guardians to two young children, they’re forced into close quarters, required to marry again, and suddenly parenting two grieving kids while navigating their own emotional wounds.
This book tackles infertility, grief, trauma, and mental health with such care. Lexie’s quiet strength and Ryder’s vulnerability (especially around therapy and healing) were beautifully written. Their love never disappeared—it was simply buried under fear and miscommunication. Watching them reconnect while creating a stable, loving home for Ruby and Sawyer was both tender and deeply moving.
With found family, therapy-positive rep, slow-burning passion, and even a suspense twist late in the story, this book delivers far more than you’d expect from a cowboy romance. Start at Book 1 if you’re new, but this one absolutely stands on its own.
This book tackles infertility, grief, trauma, and mental health with such care. Lexie’s quiet strength and Ryder’s vulnerability (especially around therapy and healing) were beautifully written. Their love never disappeared—it was simply buried under fear and miscommunication. Watching them reconnect while creating a stable, loving home for Ruby and Sawyer was both tender and deeply moving.
With found family, therapy-positive rep, slow-burning passion, and even a suspense twist late in the story, this book delivers far more than you’d expect from a cowboy romance. Start at Book 1 if you’re new, but this one absolutely stands on its own.
June 26, 2025
Bonnie Poirier gives us another story with book 4 of the Flying Diamond Ranch! Being a still new author to me, I can’t get enough of her writing!
Tropes:
• Second Chance
• Small town
• Found family
• Forced proximity
Triggers:
• Mental health
• Infertility
• Grief
After getting married, the next step was starting a family but after not being able to give that to Ryder Lexie left, giving up the only man she would ever love so that he could have something he always wanted, kids.
Three years later they find themselves guardians of their best friend’s two kids, of course with a catch. In order to have legal guardianship, they must marry, each other again. While neither Ryder or Lexie ever moved on and they both still loved each other just as strongly as before, they thought they could easily fake their way through this.
This book gives you all the feels, the heartbreak and the grief but also the joy of the possibility of a second chance.
Tropes:
• Second Chance
• Small town
• Found family
• Forced proximity
Triggers:
• Mental health
• Infertility
• Grief
After getting married, the next step was starting a family but after not being able to give that to Ryder Lexie left, giving up the only man she would ever love so that he could have something he always wanted, kids.
Three years later they find themselves guardians of their best friend’s two kids, of course with a catch. In order to have legal guardianship, they must marry, each other again. While neither Ryder or Lexie ever moved on and they both still loved each other just as strongly as before, they thought they could easily fake their way through this.
This book gives you all the feels, the heartbreak and the grief but also the joy of the possibility of a second chance.
July 4, 2025
This was my first Bonnie Poirier book - Ranchers Strength which is book 4 in the Flying Diamond 5. And the first 3 are now on my TBR!
If you are into Second chance, cowboy romance with a hint of intrigue then this is a book for you.
After a heartbreaking divorce 3 years ago where Lexi walked away due to her infertility. Lexi forced to reunite with her ex-husband to share custody of her best friend’s two children, that they are named as guardians off. The catch her best friend put in the will that they must re-marry and live together for at least 12 months!
As both Ryder and Lexie are still in love with each other, they end up giving in their feelings and create a lovely family unit for their ready made family and found family.
There are also dark forces from a nasty neighbor that has been causing stress for Ryder. Lexie comes up with a solution that puts her is the crossfire…..sorry no spoilers
A great read that I would highly recommend.
If you are into Second chance, cowboy romance with a hint of intrigue then this is a book for you.
After a heartbreaking divorce 3 years ago where Lexi walked away due to her infertility. Lexi forced to reunite with her ex-husband to share custody of her best friend’s two children, that they are named as guardians off. The catch her best friend put in the will that they must re-marry and live together for at least 12 months!
As both Ryder and Lexie are still in love with each other, they end up giving in their feelings and create a lovely family unit for their ready made family and found family.
There are also dark forces from a nasty neighbor that has been causing stress for Ryder. Lexie comes up with a solution that puts her is the crossfire…..sorry no spoilers
A great read that I would highly recommend.
June 25, 2025
ARC Review
What a beautiful second chance romance with a mental health and infertility rep! Ryder and Lexi have always loved each other. Despite being divorced for three years now, feelings still linger. Lexi always believed that Ryder deserved more from her, despite Ryder's protests. She was a successful lawyer and was getting by before disaster struck and brought her and Ryder back together. Ryder is lost without Lexi. He's still in love with Lexi and can't move on. When a tragedy brings them back together, he's determined to make her his again. He's so sweet and protective of Lexi, and the mouth of this man was so hot! Their chemistry was so sexy! I loved the mental health rep in this book. Bonnie did a phenomenal job of writing the character's vulnerability while emphasizing the importance of mental health. I also liked the infertility rep in this book, which shows that families come in all shapes and sizes and that there's no one way to have a family. Overall, this was an emotional second-chance romance you won't want to miss.
What a beautiful second chance romance with a mental health and infertility rep! Ryder and Lexi have always loved each other. Despite being divorced for three years now, feelings still linger. Lexi always believed that Ryder deserved more from her, despite Ryder's protests. She was a successful lawyer and was getting by before disaster struck and brought her and Ryder back together. Ryder is lost without Lexi. He's still in love with Lexi and can't move on. When a tragedy brings them back together, he's determined to make her his again. He's so sweet and protective of Lexi, and the mouth of this man was so hot! Their chemistry was so sexy! I loved the mental health rep in this book. Bonnie did a phenomenal job of writing the character's vulnerability while emphasizing the importance of mental health. I also liked the infertility rep in this book, which shows that families come in all shapes and sizes and that there's no one way to have a family. Overall, this was an emotional second-chance romance you won't want to miss.
June 24, 2025
I'd like to thank the author and Luna Literary Management for including me in the ARC team. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own.
I really wanted to love this book, Life As We Know It but on a ranch? Sign me up!
Unfortunately, I felt like I've been rushed through this book so fast, I'm not even sure what happened. I felt like there was very little relationship building at all, and if there was, it was more of a 'tell' than a 'show'. It was also a bit confused and repetitive - at one point Lexie (FMC) says she "kind of buried her head in sand" and 4 pages later she claims she wasn't the "bury-my-head-in-the-sand" kinda person. And that's just one example.
Apart from the writing, which I clearly didn't click with, I like their story.
I really wanted to love this book, Life As We Know It but on a ranch? Sign me up!
Unfortunately, I felt like I've been rushed through this book so fast, I'm not even sure what happened. I felt like there was very little relationship building at all, and if there was, it was more of a 'tell' than a 'show'. It was also a bit confused and repetitive - at one point Lexie (FMC) says she "kind of buried her head in sand" and 4 pages later she claims she wasn't the "bury-my-head-in-the-sand" kinda person. And that's just one example.
Apart from the writing, which I clearly didn't click with, I like their story.
June 25, 2025
Rancher's Strength by Bonnie Poirier
Let me tell you, this book had me ugly crying late into the night. Ryder and Lexie are forced under horrific circumstances to care for their best friends children after they were both killed. Does it matter that they have been divorced for years? Absolutely not! Ryder and Lexie try to navigate raising 2 children, friendships that get rattled, and their ranch under attack. I'm not going to spoil the whole book for you.
This is yet another one of Bonnies books that had me sitting on the edge of my seat, tears streaming down my face, and a fierce desire to dive into the book to kick some ash.
If you enjoy
❤️ Forced proximity
❤️ Second Chances
❤️ Small town romance
❤️ Fake Marriage
This book is for you! Dive in from book 1 (Rancher's Edge) or start here. Either way, you're not going to be disappointed.
Happy Readings!
Let me tell you, this book had me ugly crying late into the night. Ryder and Lexie are forced under horrific circumstances to care for their best friends children after they were both killed. Does it matter that they have been divorced for years? Absolutely not! Ryder and Lexie try to navigate raising 2 children, friendships that get rattled, and their ranch under attack. I'm not going to spoil the whole book for you.
This is yet another one of Bonnies books that had me sitting on the edge of my seat, tears streaming down my face, and a fierce desire to dive into the book to kick some ash.
If you enjoy
❤️ Forced proximity
❤️ Second Chances
❤️ Small town romance
❤️ Fake Marriage
This book is for you! Dive in from book 1 (Rancher's Edge) or start here. Either way, you're not going to be disappointed.
Happy Readings!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2025
This is my second book from the Flying Diamond series- and this was hit hard.
This book was definitely emotional- it deals with some heavy topics. I do love that there is mental health representation in this book.
If you like: second chance romance, cowboy/rancher romance, small town, forced proximity, found family, and romantic suspense.
I rate this book a 4⭐️and 2🌶️
I'm always a fan of second chance romances and you can just see that the main characters Lexie and Ryder are meant to be together despite them being divorced from each other- but watching these two reconnect (regardless of why)- had me watching them fall in love again with the new additions in their lives.
Lexie- is the black cat and Ryder is the german Shepard MMC and they mix so well!
Also the suspense through out the story had me intrigue.
This book was definitely emotional- it deals with some heavy topics. I do love that there is mental health representation in this book.
If you like: second chance romance, cowboy/rancher romance, small town, forced proximity, found family, and romantic suspense.
I rate this book a 4⭐️and 2🌶️
I'm always a fan of second chance romances and you can just see that the main characters Lexie and Ryder are meant to be together despite them being divorced from each other- but watching these two reconnect (regardless of why)- had me watching them fall in love again with the new additions in their lives.
Lexie- is the black cat and Ryder is the german Shepard MMC and they mix so well!
Also the suspense through out the story had me intrigue.
July 11, 2025
Goodness gracious this book broke my heart! Lexie and Ryder were previously married and at the beginning of the book we found out they are divorced. Divorce was Lexie’s choice and Ryder has never given up on her but granted her what she wanted. Ryder and Lexie ended up getting custody of 2 of their friends children after a horrible accident but there are……stipulations to getting custody. I have literally never read a book so fast. I could not put this book down. The fake marriage…the forced proximity….the second chance….I absolutely devoured this!!
I have not had a chance to read any other books in the series yet but I can’t wait to read more! Bonnie’s writing is absolutely beautiful! 🤍✨
Tropes:
Fake Marriage
Mental Health Rep
Second Chance
Found Family
Forced Proximity
Cowboy x Country Turned City Girl
Instant Family
Thank you Luna Literary for the ARC! Review is my own opinion!
I have not had a chance to read any other books in the series yet but I can’t wait to read more! Bonnie’s writing is absolutely beautiful! 🤍✨
Tropes:
Fake Marriage
Mental Health Rep
Second Chance
Found Family
Forced Proximity
Cowboy x Country Turned City Girl
Instant Family
Thank you Luna Literary for the ARC! Review is my own opinion!
June 21, 2025
I love the cowboy romance genre, and am generally a fan of second chance romance. I really enjoyed the found family story here, and the mental health rep was well done. I struggled to connect to the characters, as their actions seemed at times misaligned with how their personalities were described. I wanted Ryder to be solidly still in love, desperate to have her back, so the change to sometimes snarky and snide was disconcerting. I enjoyed such a large cast of supporting characters, but a few of them I also struggled to understand some of their actions.
Overall this is a solid read for those familiar with the series, and likely a good resolution to the storylines. Thank you to Luna Literary for access to the eARC.
Overall this is a solid read for those familiar with the series, and likely a good resolution to the storylines. Thank you to Luna Literary for access to the eARC.
June 25, 2025
I have been waiting for Ryder’s story and I was not disappointed at all. Bonnie Poirier’s series of the Flying Diamond 5 has been one of my favorite Cowboy series to read because it is raw and real.
The way the author was able to advocate and to write in a sensitive manner about men’s mental health was done so well. Knowing that Ryder is always the quiet one of the 5, just always created a curiosity of what his story was.
This story is one of second chance at a marriage and the chance to create a family after a tragic accident occurred. The way Ryder and Lexie’s story was shared caused emotional ache due to the sensitive nature of infertility, mental health, and foster care system. Please check the trigger warnings before reading.
The way the author was able to advocate and to write in a sensitive manner about men’s mental health was done so well. Knowing that Ryder is always the quiet one of the 5, just always created a curiosity of what his story was.
This story is one of second chance at a marriage and the chance to create a family after a tragic accident occurred. The way Ryder and Lexie’s story was shared caused emotional ache due to the sensitive nature of infertility, mental health, and foster care system. Please check the trigger warnings before reading.
June 17, 2025
This series… my goodness, it’s everything! I never want it to end, and I just know I’ll be shedding tears when it does. Bonnie Poirier has a way of making you feel deeply connected to every character, and Rancher’s Strength is no exception.
Ryder and Lexie completely stole my heart. Their journey—both the battles within themselves and with each other—was raw, emotional, and absolutely beautiful.
If you haven’t started this series yet, DO. NOT. WAIT. It’s emotional, heartfelt, and so worth every page. I highly recommend starting from the beginning, as the stories intertwine and each character truly deserves your full attention.
Ryder and Lexie completely stole my heart. Their journey—both the battles within themselves and with each other—was raw, emotional, and absolutely beautiful.
If you haven’t started this series yet, DO. NOT. WAIT. It’s emotional, heartfelt, and so worth every page. I highly recommend starting from the beginning, as the stories intertwine and each character truly deserves your full attention.
June 19, 2025
ARC Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5
Ryder and Lexi’s story managed to break my heart and heal it. This was an emotionally charged story filled with tragedy, plenty of tension but most of all, it was filled with a deep love that never goes away. After being forced together following a tragedy, these two managed to reconnect and put aside the past. The road to their happiness was definitely bumpy and I appreciated how raw and honest they were with each other.
This was my first book by Bonnie Poirier and it will definitely not be the last. After meeting the Flying Diamond Five in this book, I can say that I want to go read the others’ stories.
I would like to thank Bonnie Poirier and Luna Literary Management for the opportunity to read and review Rancher’s Strength.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5
Ryder and Lexi’s story managed to break my heart and heal it. This was an emotionally charged story filled with tragedy, plenty of tension but most of all, it was filled with a deep love that never goes away. After being forced together following a tragedy, these two managed to reconnect and put aside the past. The road to their happiness was definitely bumpy and I appreciated how raw and honest they were with each other.
This was my first book by Bonnie Poirier and it will definitely not be the last. After meeting the Flying Diamond Five in this book, I can say that I want to go read the others’ stories.
I would like to thank Bonnie Poirier and Luna Literary Management for the opportunity to read and review Rancher’s Strength.
June 22, 2025
This novel packed an emotional punch, blending romance, personal growth, and powerful themes like mental health, infertility, adoption, and the beauty of chosen family. Lexi, the guarded and independent heroine, reunites with her ex-husband Ryder after a heartbreaking loss forces them back into each other’s lives. Her emotional journey was compelling as she slowly opened up to love again. Ryder, a steady and devoted rancher, never stopped caring for her and showed real strength in prioritizing his emotional well-being. His gentle persistence and natural ability to step into a father figure role made their second chance feel both earned and deeply moving.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews