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Ribbon Ridge #6
You're Still the One
USA Today bestseller Darcy Burke concludes her Archer family saga with a second chance at first love…
Everyone thought college sweethearts Bex Holmgren and Hayden Archer were headed for the altar… until a tragic accident sent young Bex running from a future she wasn’t ready to claim. But when she’s offered her dream job at Archer Brewing, Bex can’t pass up the chance to reconnect with the big, crazy family that once welcomed her with open arms—and the one man she’s never stopped loving.
When he returns home after a year in France, Hayden is less than thrilled to find his ex-girlfriend working for his family’s company. He’s finally moved on, and being around her rekindles long-buried feelings he’d rather ignore. But Bex isn’t the same girl he knew—she’s more mature, more beautiful, more tempting than ever—and he can’t resist the pull of the intense passion he’s only ever shared with her.
Have five years changed them enough, or are they doomed to repeat the mistakes of the past? The only thing Bex knows for sure is that for her, Hayden is still the one.
Everyone thought college sweethearts Bex Holmgren and Hayden Archer were headed for the altar… until a tragic accident sent young Bex running from a future she wasn’t ready to claim. But when she’s offered her dream job at Archer Brewing, Bex can’t pass up the chance to reconnect with the big, crazy family that once welcomed her with open arms—and the one man she’s never stopped loving.
When he returns home after a year in France, Hayden is less than thrilled to find his ex-girlfriend working for his family’s company. He’s finally moved on, and being around her rekindles long-buried feelings he’d rather ignore. But Bex isn’t the same girl he knew—she’s more mature, more beautiful, more tempting than ever—and he can’t resist the pull of the intense passion he’s only ever shared with her.
Have five years changed them enough, or are they doomed to repeat the mistakes of the past? The only thing Bex knows for sure is that for her, Hayden is still the one.
333 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 5, 2016
About the author
Darcy Burke
140 books2,308 followersDarcy Burke is the USA Today Bestselling Author of sexy, emotional historical and contemporary romance. Darcy wrote her first book at age 11, a happily ever after about a swan addicted to magic and the female swan who loved him, with exceedingly poor illustrations. Join her Reader Club at http://www.darcyburke.com/readerclub.
A native Oregonian, Darcy lives on the edge of wine country with her guitar-strumming husband, their two hilarious kids who seem to have inherited the writing gene, two Bengal cats and a third cat named after a fruit. In her “spare” time Darcy is a serial volunteer enrolled in a 12-step program where one learns to say “no,” but she keeps having to start over. Her happy places are Disneyland and Labor Day weekend at the Gorge.
A native Oregonian, Darcy lives on the edge of wine country with her guitar-strumming husband, their two hilarious kids who seem to have inherited the writing gene, two Bengal cats and a third cat named after a fruit. In her “spare” time Darcy is a serial volunteer enrolled in a 12-step program where one learns to say “no,” but she keeps having to start over. Her happy places are Disneyland and Labor Day weekend at the Gorge.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
March 17, 2016
I feel like I've been waiting for Hayden's story since I read the first book of this series.
Hayden and Bex have quite a history and it was interesting to see them try to work things out. Or at least get to a point where it's not horribly awkward to be in the same room together. Of course there's a pesky matter of chemistry that's off the charts...
Sure, the plot was overly dramatic and a bit predictable, but isn't the HEA what we're all after anyway? Loved the family scenes, even if I couldn't keep track of who was who. This was a great ending to the series. I feel like it's safe to say that if you've enjoyed the series, you'll like this one too.
**Huge thanks to Avon Impulse and Edelweiss for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review**
Hayden and Bex have quite a history and it was interesting to see them try to work things out. Or at least get to a point where it's not horribly awkward to be in the same room together. Of course there's a pesky matter of chemistry that's off the charts...
Sure, the plot was overly dramatic and a bit predictable, but isn't the HEA what we're all after anyway? Loved the family scenes, even if I couldn't keep track of who was who. This was a great ending to the series. I feel like it's safe to say that if you've enjoyed the series, you'll like this one too.
**Huge thanks to Avon Impulse and Edelweiss for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review**
January 28, 2021
Having read the previous five books in the Ribbon Ridge series by Darcy Burke and really enjoying them, made for high hopes for You’re Still the One, the last book in the series. Burke did not disappoint!
We finally get the romantic story of Hayden, the only single child in a family of sextuplets. I don’t want to say that Burke left the best for last, because the rest were excellent, but the wine lover in me found the subplot of opening a winery very enjoyable to read.
Of course, you know Hayden and Bex get together at the end, but it’s the sweet story of lovers reuniting along with the very steamy scenes that makes this series finale so tantalizing. They have some bumps, and Burke shows once again how essential communication is in a relationship. I love how she got the rest of the family in on trying to get them back together. In previous books there were cases where the family didn’t like the partner or they kept the relationship hidden for most of the book, so this was a great change.
If you enjoy contemporary romance with fantastic character development and a family you will wish was your own, then you need to read The Ribbon Ridge Series.
We finally get the romantic story of Hayden, the only single child in a family of sextuplets. I don’t want to say that Burke left the best for last, because the rest were excellent, but the wine lover in me found the subplot of opening a winery very enjoyable to read.
Of course, you know Hayden and Bex get together at the end, but it’s the sweet story of lovers reuniting along with the very steamy scenes that makes this series finale so tantalizing. They have some bumps, and Burke shows once again how essential communication is in a relationship. I love how she got the rest of the family in on trying to get them back together. In previous books there were cases where the family didn’t like the partner or they kept the relationship hidden for most of the book, so this was a great change.
If you enjoy contemporary romance with fantastic character development and a family you will wish was your own, then you need to read The Ribbon Ridge Series.
March 12, 2016
Finally Bex and Hayden's story and it feels like I have waited forever to find out what happened with this couple!
Five years ago Bex left Hayden broken hearted when she went to see what else was out there other the ribbon ridge but now she is back and is going to be working for the Archer family. Bex knows Hayden is doing well in France with his wine making but since his brother is getting married soon she knows he will show up sooner then later. What she doesn't expect is to still feel this pull towards the only man she is loved.
Of course Hayden has missed his family but after the break up with Bex and his brothers death he definitely needed to get away. Now that's he's back he has some decisions to make. Will he go back to France and continue to do what he loved or will he find everything he's ever wanted by staying in Ribbon ridge ?
Hayden and Bex are definitely still the ones for each other. Every time they are around one another you can feel the attraction and this pull that they have. I thought there story was sweet but had the right emotional entanglement to keep me wondering what was going to happen. Burke writes these two characters with such good and painful memories you have to wonder which way they will come back together.
I have to say I really liked the ending and I actually teared up just a little. It was nerve wrecking and sweet all rolled into one. Burke definitely had a way with words when these two were talking things out.
I loved catching up with the Archers and I'm kinda said this will be last book for them but I do hope to see them in the next part of the Ribbon Ridge books since they are close to other characters. I can't wait to see how it goes with new vineyard and see if their are more wedding in the future of Ribbon Ridge.
September 3, 2016
This is the final book in the Archer siblings series, and I must say that it was an overall disappointing read.
The major problem I had with this was that there was no communication between Hayden and Bex, especially about the events of their past. They fell into a "relationship" very quickly, and never dealt with anything! The ending of the book brought everything to a head, with lots of conflict and angst, but I felt that this couple was too much in their own heads and not as an actual growing couple.
I also felt that this book was based on more manipulation than all the others combined. I get that the mom, Emily Archer, wants the family together and near her, but she took it a bit too far with Hayden and Bex. She didn't even know what her actions would do to those she "loved"! Granted, it was because Hayden and Bex had kept secrets, but her manipulating the situation to throw them together didn't exactly help matters either. It left a very bitter taste in my mental palate!
All things considered, the series is a good one, but this book was a weak finish for me. I'm interested to see what happens with the Westcott siblings, so I hope to see more of Ribbon Ridge!
The major problem I had with this was that there was no communication between Hayden and Bex, especially about the events of their past. They fell into a "relationship" very quickly, and never dealt with anything! The ending of the book brought everything to a head, with lots of conflict and angst, but I felt that this couple was too much in their own heads and not as an actual growing couple.
I also felt that this book was based on more manipulation than all the others combined. I get that the mom, Emily Archer, wants the family together and near her, but she took it a bit too far with Hayden and Bex. She didn't even know what her actions would do to those she "loved"! Granted, it was because Hayden and Bex had kept secrets, but her manipulating the situation to throw them together didn't exactly help matters either. It left a very bitter taste in my mental palate!
All things considered, the series is a good one, but this book was a weak finish for me. I'm interested to see what happens with the Westcott siblings, so I hope to see more of Ribbon Ridge!
June 21, 2017
I always love going back to Ribbon Ridge! I love getting to see what everyone is up to. I love that I finally got to read about Hayden! I think he has to be my favorite then of course his brother Liam. Hayden left to do his own thing which at first when I read about in the first book I was a bit sad because I wanted to know him better. That's why it took me long to read his story because I didn't want it to end with him! I loved that he had his own separate from his brothers and sisters. I love how he always wanted to help everyone but that he was needed. I really felt for him and I was glad that he had his best friend Cameron with him and of course Bex. I loved reading about their relationship how they were and why she left. Hayden and Bex are perfect! I loved how Bex she was there for him when he needed it the most! Such an amazing book! I'm kind of sad that there isn't any more Archer kids to read about but can't wait to read about Cameron next!
April 11, 2016
I have been looking forward to Hayden and Bex's story since they were first mentioned and it's so much more than I expected. It's an emotional roller coaster ride, as Bex and Hayden finally face their past losses, deal with old hurts and fears, and fight for their second chance.
Hayden and Bex were college sweethearts and all but married, when circumstances conspired to break them up. It's been five years since they went their separate ways and they are back in Ribbon Ridge at the same time again, with Bex working for and temporarily living with Hayden's family.
Hayden always felt like the outsider in his family and was stuck in Ribbon Ridge holding down the fort when everyone else left to find themselves. He got his chance to leave too after his brother's death, but once again feels like the outsider after being away for a couple of years. The family that needed him to hold it together before does not seem to need him anymore, he's at a crossroads career-wise and Bex's re-appearance in his life awakens all the feelings he thought he had dealt with after their break up.
Bex knew that she had lost her chance with Hayden when she broke his heart five years ago, but she thought that enough time had passed that she could return to Ribbon Ridge. Hayden's unexpected return forces her to deal with unresolved feelings from the past and a realization that she never got over him. Will she be bold enough to fight for a second chance with him or will she walk away again?
This story was poignant in so many ways. Hayden had to deal with so many feelings coming at him from all directions at the same time: his guilt and hurt over his brother's death and his inability to do anything to stop it, his feelings of inadequacy within his family, his pain from the break up with Bex and everything that happened between them; but at the heart of it was the fact that he cared a lot, maybe too much.
Hayden and Bex clearly were perfect for each other, but they had to decide if they were willing to fight for each other and having to deal with this in the midst of Hayden's overwhelming and well-meaning but intrusive family was very daunting.
The bond among the Archer family is one of the best things about this story, but I liked that Hayden was able to find a dream that was all his with his new venture.
I love this series and I think that YOU'RE STILL THE ONE is a fitting end to the series.
Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
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Hayden and Bex were college sweethearts and all but married, when circumstances conspired to break them up. It's been five years since they went their separate ways and they are back in Ribbon Ridge at the same time again, with Bex working for and temporarily living with Hayden's family.
Hayden always felt like the outsider in his family and was stuck in Ribbon Ridge holding down the fort when everyone else left to find themselves. He got his chance to leave too after his brother's death, but once again feels like the outsider after being away for a couple of years. The family that needed him to hold it together before does not seem to need him anymore, he's at a crossroads career-wise and Bex's re-appearance in his life awakens all the feelings he thought he had dealt with after their break up.
Bex knew that she had lost her chance with Hayden when she broke his heart five years ago, but she thought that enough time had passed that she could return to Ribbon Ridge. Hayden's unexpected return forces her to deal with unresolved feelings from the past and a realization that she never got over him. Will she be bold enough to fight for a second chance with him or will she walk away again?
This story was poignant in so many ways. Hayden had to deal with so many feelings coming at him from all directions at the same time: his guilt and hurt over his brother's death and his inability to do anything to stop it, his feelings of inadequacy within his family, his pain from the break up with Bex and everything that happened between them; but at the heart of it was the fact that he cared a lot, maybe too much.
Hayden and Bex clearly were perfect for each other, but they had to decide if they were willing to fight for each other and having to deal with this in the midst of Hayden's overwhelming and well-meaning but intrusive family was very daunting.
The bond among the Archer family is one of the best things about this story, but I liked that Hayden was able to find a dream that was all his with his new venture.
I love this series and I think that YOU'RE STILL THE ONE is a fitting end to the series.
Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Want more? Subscribe to my Newsletter on The Sassy Bookster.
Follow me on Twitter | Tumblr | Bloglovin’.
Like my page on Facebook.
February 10, 2025
Everyone thought college sweethearts Bex Holmgren and Hayden Archer were headed for the altar until a tragic accident split them up. Now five years later she’s offered her dream job at Archer Brewing. Hayden e returns home after a year in France working at a vineyard & is less than thrilled to find his ex-girlfriend working for his family’s company. They’ve finally moved on but being around each other rekindles long-buried feelings they’d rather ignore.
The final Archer sibling to find love & it could be read on its own but the Archers are a close family so previous characters do appear. I loved both Hayden & Bex both had struggled to ‘get over’ the other but they are adults who are still strongly attracted to each other but there’s too much water under the bridge or is there? I loved their journey to a HEA which had its ups & downs. Hayden is still struggling over Alex’s death & also being the odd one out, he’s the Archer sibling who is not a sextuplet. Bex also has her struggles from her uninterested parents to wanting a family that loves her. Sometimes an emotional book, which took me on a gamut of emotions. A very well written engrossing & captivating romance
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
The final Archer sibling to find love & it could be read on its own but the Archers are a close family so previous characters do appear. I loved both Hayden & Bex both had struggled to ‘get over’ the other but they are adults who are still strongly attracted to each other but there’s too much water under the bridge or is there? I loved their journey to a HEA which had its ups & downs. Hayden is still struggling over Alex’s death & also being the odd one out, he’s the Archer sibling who is not a sextuplet. Bex also has her struggles from her uninterested parents to wanting a family that loves her. Sometimes an emotional book, which took me on a gamut of emotions. A very well written engrossing & captivating romance
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
June 10, 2016
4 Oops Kid Stars. This is a fun series that is pure escapism and brain candy. The characters are interesting and the way they interact as a family is extremely relatable. Each book in this series is a stand alone, but they are interwoven. The series follows the sextuplets, plus one, of the Archer family. This one is the "oops" kid's story. Hayden is not one of the sextuplets, he was born about 18-months after the sextuplets. Apparently, just because you had fertility problems once doesn't mean that you'll have them again. Oops! There came Hayden!!!
Hayden and Bex have a history and what a history it is. Even the family doesn't know the details of the why Bex left five years ago. It's a secret that Hayden and Bex have held close. Now Bex is back in Ribbon Ridge, but the family forgot to let Hayden know. He's flown in from France, where he's now living, for his sister's wedding. He decided to come in a couple days early and surprise the family. The surprise is on him. There's a lot going on here and there are more than two people holding secrets.
A great finish to the Ribbon Ridge series.
Hayden and Bex have a history and what a history it is. Even the family doesn't know the details of the why Bex left five years ago. It's a secret that Hayden and Bex have held close. Now Bex is back in Ribbon Ridge, but the family forgot to let Hayden know. He's flown in from France, where he's now living, for his sister's wedding. He decided to come in a couple days early and surprise the family. The surprise is on him. There's a lot going on here and there are more than two people holding secrets.
A great finish to the Ribbon Ridge series.
February 2, 2017
This is a copy of my review from my blog: www.donnasthoughtsonbooks.wordpress.com.
I hate that this series is over because I fell in love with the whole family, but I must say what an ending to this set. I cried and laughed, and my heart hurt in a lot of places.
Hayden never felt like he fit into his family. He was always called the "oops" kid. Even though his family was kidding when they called him that he felt unwanted. He never told anyone that and in feeling his way when he saw a chance to feel wanted he took it and cost him the love of his life. He was a mess for a long time after, then his brother died and it made him forget about his lost love, that was until she came back into the picture When he came back from France it looked like everything had changed. All of his sibling were paired off either married or engaged, and they were doing great being back home. It didn't look like they missed him or needed him there. He was offered a job opportunity back in France and from the looks of things he might take it. He tried to fight the feelings that were trying to come to the surface from being around her. He couldn't fight them.
Bex has always been alone, even growing up her parents pretty much ignored her. When she got with Hayden when they were in college she was very overwhelmed with his huge meddlesome family, but she stuck it out because she loved Hayden. When an accident happens that in her mind sets her free, she ran. Now, five years later she is offered a job with his family doing the job that she loves to do. Being around this family again and especially Hayden, she realizes that she has fallen in love with Hayden if she ever was out of love with him, and his family. She is tired of being lonely and wants to be a part of them. The only problem is that Hayden has moved on and doesn't want to get back together.
Hayden and Bex fell into a sex casual fling and that was fine for Hayden because he was too afraid to give her is heart again. But, for Bex it was not ok. She wanted all of him. Hayden and his best friend and his brothers were talking about starting their own vineyard. That has always been Hayden's dream but didn't think it would happen then. Cameron (Hayden's best friend) wants to do anything that will keep Hayden here. So they buy a vineyard and Hayden turns down the job in France.
Little did either of them know that Hayden's parents set up Bex coming home to try to get Hayden to stay. They figured they both still loved each other and that if he fell in love with her again that he would stay. After Hayden finds out what they done he blew up. But he had already told Bex that they were not going to work that he didn't love her anymore. She was planning on leaving so Hayden could be happy. His family loved Bex and hated for her to leave. After Hayden let some of his emotions out he left and went back to France to get his stuff. He had told his family when he got back to leave him alone. Give him some space.
What happened to Hayden and Bex?
What happened to Hayden and his family?
Did Hayden ever spill what was on his chest?
Those are some questions you will find the answers too after you read the book. I loved this family and I really hope that are in the next part of Ribbon Ridge series that is out. I am sure Hayden will be in it considering this new series involves is best friend and his brothers. Considering they all bought a vineyard together. It would be nice to hear about the others as well.
Thank you for reading my review and if you have read the book and loved it as much as I did please leave a comment and let me know what you thought about the book.
Until Next Time: Happy Reading.
Merged review:
This is a copy of my review from my blog: www.donnasthoughtsonbooks.wordpress.com.
I hate that this series is over because I fell in love with the whole family, but I must say what an ending to this set. I cried and laughed, and my heart hurt in a lot of places.
Hayden never felt like he fit into his family. He was always called the "oops" kid. Even though his family was kidding when they called him that he felt unwanted. He never told anyone that and in feeling his way when he saw a chance to feel wanted he took it and cost him the love of his life. He was a mess for a long time after, then his brother died and it made him forget about his lost love, that was until she came back into the picture When he came back from France it looked like everything had changed. All of his sibling were paired off either married or engaged, and they were doing great being back home. It didn't look like they missed him or needed him there. He was offered a job opportunity back in France and from the looks of things he might take it. He tried to fight the feelings that were trying to come to the surface from being around her. He couldn't fight them.
Bex has always been alone, even growing up her parents pretty much ignored her. When she got with Hayden when they were in college she was very overwhelmed with his huge meddlesome family, but she stuck it out because she loved Hayden. When an accident happens that in her mind sets her free, she ran. Now, five years later she is offered a job with his family doing the job that she loves to do. Being around this family again and especially Hayden, she realizes that she has fallen in love with Hayden if she ever was out of love with him, and his family. She is tired of being lonely and wants to be a part of them. The only problem is that Hayden has moved on and doesn't want to get back together.
Hayden and Bex fell into a sex casual fling and that was fine for Hayden because he was too afraid to give her is heart again. But, for Bex it was not ok. She wanted all of him. Hayden and his best friend and his brothers were talking about starting their own vineyard. That has always been Hayden's dream but didn't think it would happen then. Cameron (Hayden's best friend) wants to do anything that will keep Hayden here. So they buy a vineyard and Hayden turns down the job in France.
Little did either of them know that Hayden's parents set up Bex coming home to try to get Hayden to stay. They figured they both still loved each other and that if he fell in love with her again that he would stay. After Hayden finds out what they done he blew up. But he had already told Bex that they were not going to work that he didn't love her anymore. She was planning on leaving so Hayden could be happy. His family loved Bex and hated for her to leave. After Hayden let some of his emotions out he left and went back to France to get his stuff. He had told his family when he got back to leave him alone. Give him some space.
What happened to Hayden and Bex?
What happened to Hayden and his family?
Did Hayden ever spill what was on his chest?
Those are some questions you will find the answers too after you read the book. I loved this family and I really hope that are in the next part of Ribbon Ridge series that is out. I am sure Hayden will be in it considering this new series involves is best friend and his brothers. Considering they all bought a vineyard together. It would be nice to hear about the others as well.
Thank you for reading my review and if you have read the book and loved it as much as I did please leave a comment and let me know what you thought about the book.
Until Next Time: Happy Reading.
I hate that this series is over because I fell in love with the whole family, but I must say what an ending to this set. I cried and laughed, and my heart hurt in a lot of places.
Hayden never felt like he fit into his family. He was always called the "oops" kid. Even though his family was kidding when they called him that he felt unwanted. He never told anyone that and in feeling his way when he saw a chance to feel wanted he took it and cost him the love of his life. He was a mess for a long time after, then his brother died and it made him forget about his lost love, that was until she came back into the picture When he came back from France it looked like everything had changed. All of his sibling were paired off either married or engaged, and they were doing great being back home. It didn't look like they missed him or needed him there. He was offered a job opportunity back in France and from the looks of things he might take it. He tried to fight the feelings that were trying to come to the surface from being around her. He couldn't fight them.
Bex has always been alone, even growing up her parents pretty much ignored her. When she got with Hayden when they were in college she was very overwhelmed with his huge meddlesome family, but she stuck it out because she loved Hayden. When an accident happens that in her mind sets her free, she ran. Now, five years later she is offered a job with his family doing the job that she loves to do. Being around this family again and especially Hayden, she realizes that she has fallen in love with Hayden if she ever was out of love with him, and his family. She is tired of being lonely and wants to be a part of them. The only problem is that Hayden has moved on and doesn't want to get back together.
Hayden and Bex fell into a sex casual fling and that was fine for Hayden because he was too afraid to give her is heart again. But, for Bex it was not ok. She wanted all of him. Hayden and his best friend and his brothers were talking about starting their own vineyard. That has always been Hayden's dream but didn't think it would happen then. Cameron (Hayden's best friend) wants to do anything that will keep Hayden here. So they buy a vineyard and Hayden turns down the job in France.
Little did either of them know that Hayden's parents set up Bex coming home to try to get Hayden to stay. They figured they both still loved each other and that if he fell in love with her again that he would stay. After Hayden finds out what they done he blew up. But he had already told Bex that they were not going to work that he didn't love her anymore. She was planning on leaving so Hayden could be happy. His family loved Bex and hated for her to leave. After Hayden let some of his emotions out he left and went back to France to get his stuff. He had told his family when he got back to leave him alone. Give him some space.
What happened to Hayden and Bex?
What happened to Hayden and his family?
Did Hayden ever spill what was on his chest?
Those are some questions you will find the answers too after you read the book. I loved this family and I really hope that are in the next part of Ribbon Ridge series that is out. I am sure Hayden will be in it considering this new series involves is best friend and his brothers. Considering they all bought a vineyard together. It would be nice to hear about the others as well.
Thank you for reading my review and if you have read the book and loved it as much as I did please leave a comment and let me know what you thought about the book.
Until Next Time: Happy Reading.
Merged review:
This is a copy of my review from my blog: www.donnasthoughtsonbooks.wordpress.com.
I hate that this series is over because I fell in love with the whole family, but I must say what an ending to this set. I cried and laughed, and my heart hurt in a lot of places.
Hayden never felt like he fit into his family. He was always called the "oops" kid. Even though his family was kidding when they called him that he felt unwanted. He never told anyone that and in feeling his way when he saw a chance to feel wanted he took it and cost him the love of his life. He was a mess for a long time after, then his brother died and it made him forget about his lost love, that was until she came back into the picture When he came back from France it looked like everything had changed. All of his sibling were paired off either married or engaged, and they were doing great being back home. It didn't look like they missed him or needed him there. He was offered a job opportunity back in France and from the looks of things he might take it. He tried to fight the feelings that were trying to come to the surface from being around her. He couldn't fight them.
Bex has always been alone, even growing up her parents pretty much ignored her. When she got with Hayden when they were in college she was very overwhelmed with his huge meddlesome family, but she stuck it out because she loved Hayden. When an accident happens that in her mind sets her free, she ran. Now, five years later she is offered a job with his family doing the job that she loves to do. Being around this family again and especially Hayden, she realizes that she has fallen in love with Hayden if she ever was out of love with him, and his family. She is tired of being lonely and wants to be a part of them. The only problem is that Hayden has moved on and doesn't want to get back together.
Hayden and Bex fell into a sex casual fling and that was fine for Hayden because he was too afraid to give her is heart again. But, for Bex it was not ok. She wanted all of him. Hayden and his best friend and his brothers were talking about starting their own vineyard. That has always been Hayden's dream but didn't think it would happen then. Cameron (Hayden's best friend) wants to do anything that will keep Hayden here. So they buy a vineyard and Hayden turns down the job in France.
Little did either of them know that Hayden's parents set up Bex coming home to try to get Hayden to stay. They figured they both still loved each other and that if he fell in love with her again that he would stay. After Hayden finds out what they done he blew up. But he had already told Bex that they were not going to work that he didn't love her anymore. She was planning on leaving so Hayden could be happy. His family loved Bex and hated for her to leave. After Hayden let some of his emotions out he left and went back to France to get his stuff. He had told his family when he got back to leave him alone. Give him some space.
What happened to Hayden and Bex?
What happened to Hayden and his family?
Did Hayden ever spill what was on his chest?
Those are some questions you will find the answers too after you read the book. I loved this family and I really hope that are in the next part of Ribbon Ridge series that is out. I am sure Hayden will be in it considering this new series involves is best friend and his brothers. Considering they all bought a vineyard together. It would be nice to hear about the others as well.
Thank you for reading my review and if you have read the book and loved it as much as I did please leave a comment and let me know what you thought about the book.
Until Next Time: Happy Reading.
May 5, 2016
Check out more of my reviews on at Home. Love. Books. - The best place to find your next book! http://www.homelovebooks.com
I really like this series, I will admit there is a HUGE cast of characters that can sometimes be overwhelming, but at the end of the day I really love every book I have read from this series. The series itself follows a rather large family, they are prominent in the area, well off, but still very humble. Except life isn't completely perfect for them, one of the family members killed himself and the series is basically how the family comes together after this tragedy. I was really looking forward to this book mostly because you never really get to know much about Hayden until this book, I mean we know he went off to France to pursue his dream of making wine, leaving the family business behind, but other than that, not much.
So when the book starts we meet Bex, who is back in town before Hayden is. Bex left town after her breakup with Hayden, they both seemed to want different things back then, she wanted to leave for a bigger city, and he wanted to stick it out with family obligations. And then tragedy struck, and their relationship just never recovered. But Bex is back now and not only that she is working for the family's brewery, which is basically her dream job, but she is beyond nervous about what's going to happen when she sees Hayden again. I think I identified a lot with Bex, I could certainly understand wanting to move to a big city, and I could understand how being with someone with such a close and large family could be overwhelming. I also think she was really young when Hayden and her broke up and they both had a lot of growing up to do. I do have to say I felt like she was pretty mature about the situation and she tried to do her best to make things easiest on everyone. She was just a super likable person who you couldn't help but pull for.
Now Hayden on the other hand had me lovin' him one minute and then wanting to shake him in the next. I think it was really great that he went to France to follow his dream, I think it gave the space to get perspective over the loss of his brother and what happened with the breakup, but more than that it gave himself time away from the family to really come into his own outside of them. So much of his identity was wrapped up in the family and what he thought they needed him to be that he never really came into his own until he left. But once he is back there were a couple of times where I felt like he really didn't handle things all that well, and sometimes when you are reading the book from his POV I couldn't help but occasionally be annoyed at how insecure he is in his head, or how he almost makes seemingly innocent statements into digs at him.
The one thing I will say is the pull between Bex and Hayden is palpable. I wanted them together right from the beginning of the book. Sure they have a lot of issues to work past, but you can tell that these two really care about each other. They had some seriously hot scenes between the sheets, but more than that dynamic to them. Personally I liked Bex a little more than I liked Hayden, but together they just worked. I love the way these books are written, it's just so easy for me to get wrapped up in the story and the family that I really want to go back and read all the book from the beginning.
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Bex bent over and pulled at the strap on her shoe. With a flick of her fingers she freed her poor right foot and exhaled with relief. Moving on to the left, she tugged the strap back. Only the little metal toggle wouldn’t come out of the hole. It was stuck. Crap.
She worked at it for a minute and, when too much blood had gathered in her tipsy head from being bent over, she sat back up with a huff. Standing in front of her was Hayden wearing a perplexed half-smile.
“Problem?”
She groaned. “Yes. My strap won’t come loose, and I’m dying to get this shoe off.” She brought her foot up to show him.
He leaned forward. “I see. Here, let me see if I can help.” He sat down in the chair Maggie had vacated. “Give me your foot.”
She envisioned handing him her severed foot like she would a hammer or a pen and promptly giggled.
His eyes narrowed briefly, and damn was it sexy. “What?”
“Nothing. Just buzz giggles.”
He smiled. “I remember those.”
That’s what they’d called them in college. The uncontrollable laughter at things that maybe weren’t that funny unless you were under the influence of alcohol.
She lifted her foot and wasn’t sure where to go with it. Putting it on his lap seemed too . . . intimate. But the table was too tall and there wasn’t another chair in close proximity.
He solved the problem by gently clutching it and setting it on his knee. Not quite his lap. This was okay. Safe.
Until he started in on the strap. His fingers grazed her flesh, sparking all sorts of inappropriate yearnings. She willed him to hurry up before she did something stupid. Like moan.
“Wow, this is really stuck.” He frowned at her. “Your foot’s kind of swollen.”
“Thanks, Captain Obvious. It’s hot, and I’ve been on my feet all day. I wonder why.”
“Well, I’m going to have to tighten it”—he did just that as he said the words, making her cry out—“to get it off.” The strap came free, and he tossed the shoe aside. “Better?”
His right hand was still on her foot, his thumb gently caressing her reddened flesh. Did he realize what he was doing? That he was stroking her? He couldn’t possibly know how it made her feel, how she wished he would slide his hand up to her ankle, keeping up the massage, and to all points north of that.
She tried not to sigh and completely failed. “Yes, thank you.”
Like his brothers, he’d ditched his coat. He’d also completely removed his tie, and his shirt was unbuttoned at the neck with the sleeves rolled up. Both places bared tanned flesh that contrasted sharply with the pure white of his crisp shirt. He wore a bracelet on his right wrist—brown leather with a slender silver rectangle.
God, he was sexy. Had he ever been this sexy?This review was originally posted on Home. Love. Books. - The best place to find your next book!
I really like this series, I will admit there is a HUGE cast of characters that can sometimes be overwhelming, but at the end of the day I really love every book I have read from this series. The series itself follows a rather large family, they are prominent in the area, well off, but still very humble. Except life isn't completely perfect for them, one of the family members killed himself and the series is basically how the family comes together after this tragedy. I was really looking forward to this book mostly because you never really get to know much about Hayden until this book, I mean we know he went off to France to pursue his dream of making wine, leaving the family business behind, but other than that, not much.
So when the book starts we meet Bex, who is back in town before Hayden is. Bex left town after her breakup with Hayden, they both seemed to want different things back then, she wanted to leave for a bigger city, and he wanted to stick it out with family obligations. And then tragedy struck, and their relationship just never recovered. But Bex is back now and not only that she is working for the family's brewery, which is basically her dream job, but she is beyond nervous about what's going to happen when she sees Hayden again. I think I identified a lot with Bex, I could certainly understand wanting to move to a big city, and I could understand how being with someone with such a close and large family could be overwhelming. I also think she was really young when Hayden and her broke up and they both had a lot of growing up to do. I do have to say I felt like she was pretty mature about the situation and she tried to do her best to make things easiest on everyone. She was just a super likable person who you couldn't help but pull for.
Now Hayden on the other hand had me lovin' him one minute and then wanting to shake him in the next. I think it was really great that he went to France to follow his dream, I think it gave the space to get perspective over the loss of his brother and what happened with the breakup, but more than that it gave himself time away from the family to really come into his own outside of them. So much of his identity was wrapped up in the family and what he thought they needed him to be that he never really came into his own until he left. But once he is back there were a couple of times where I felt like he really didn't handle things all that well, and sometimes when you are reading the book from his POV I couldn't help but occasionally be annoyed at how insecure he is in his head, or how he almost makes seemingly innocent statements into digs at him.
The one thing I will say is the pull between Bex and Hayden is palpable. I wanted them together right from the beginning of the book. Sure they have a lot of issues to work past, but you can tell that these two really care about each other. They had some seriously hot scenes between the sheets, but more than that dynamic to them. Personally I liked Bex a little more than I liked Hayden, but together they just worked. I love the way these books are written, it's just so easy for me to get wrapped up in the story and the family that I really want to go back and read all the book from the beginning.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Bex bent over and pulled at the strap on her shoe. With a flick of her fingers she freed her poor right foot and exhaled with relief. Moving on to the left, she tugged the strap back. Only the little metal toggle wouldn’t come out of the hole. It was stuck. Crap.
She worked at it for a minute and, when too much blood had gathered in her tipsy head from being bent over, she sat back up with a huff. Standing in front of her was Hayden wearing a perplexed half-smile.
“Problem?”
She groaned. “Yes. My strap won’t come loose, and I’m dying to get this shoe off.” She brought her foot up to show him.
He leaned forward. “I see. Here, let me see if I can help.” He sat down in the chair Maggie had vacated. “Give me your foot.”
She envisioned handing him her severed foot like she would a hammer or a pen and promptly giggled.
His eyes narrowed briefly, and damn was it sexy. “What?”
“Nothing. Just buzz giggles.”
He smiled. “I remember those.”
That’s what they’d called them in college. The uncontrollable laughter at things that maybe weren’t that funny unless you were under the influence of alcohol.
She lifted her foot and wasn’t sure where to go with it. Putting it on his lap seemed too . . . intimate. But the table was too tall and there wasn’t another chair in close proximity.
He solved the problem by gently clutching it and setting it on his knee. Not quite his lap. This was okay. Safe.
Until he started in on the strap. His fingers grazed her flesh, sparking all sorts of inappropriate yearnings. She willed him to hurry up before she did something stupid. Like moan.
“Wow, this is really stuck.” He frowned at her. “Your foot’s kind of swollen.”
“Thanks, Captain Obvious. It’s hot, and I’ve been on my feet all day. I wonder why.”
“Well, I’m going to have to tighten it”—he did just that as he said the words, making her cry out—“to get it off.” The strap came free, and he tossed the shoe aside. “Better?”
His right hand was still on her foot, his thumb gently caressing her reddened flesh. Did he realize what he was doing? That he was stroking her? He couldn’t possibly know how it made her feel, how she wished he would slide his hand up to her ankle, keeping up the massage, and to all points north of that.
She tried not to sigh and completely failed. “Yes, thank you.”
Like his brothers, he’d ditched his coat. He’d also completely removed his tie, and his shirt was unbuttoned at the neck with the sleeves rolled up. Both places bared tanned flesh that contrasted sharply with the pure white of his crisp shirt. He wore a bracelet on his right wrist—brown leather with a slender silver rectangle.
God, he was sexy. Had he ever been this sexy?This review was originally posted on Home. Love. Books. - The best place to find your next book!
May 27, 2017
While it saddens me that with the conclusion of You’re Still the One I’ve finished the Ribbon Ridge book series, or at least the books focused on the Archer family, I have to say this book was a great way to end a series I’ve really enjoyed. In fact if I could I’d give this book 8, 9, or 10 stars I would. Ironically I had my doubts that I was going to be able to get into the story of Hayden reconnecting with his lost love Bex. Real, is the one word I would use to describe this book? Real because all of the contrasting emotions and thoughts that Hayden and Bex experience while working towards their reconnection felt very real. I could imagine myself in the same situation dealing with the same conflicting emotions, the same doubts. Even though I knew there’d be a H.E.A. my heart still ached for the two of them for most of the story. That’s good writing. I think conscious of the fact that this was her final Archer family book the author Ms. Burke made an extra effort to involve everyone in their extended family in the story which I thought was a wonderful touch. She did her best in the epilogue to show us what the family's future looked like. I’m not going to give you a synopsis of what happened. If you want the play by play you’ll just have to read the book. But to fully appreciate it I would recommend you read the five previous books and the novella that starts the series off first. Goodbye Derek, Chloe, Sara, Dylan, Liam, Aubrey, Tori, Sean, Evan, Alaina, Maggie, Kyle, Rob and Emily, Hayden and Bex. It's been a truly wonderful visit with you in Ribbon Ridge.
October 17, 2019
Hayden Archer & Bex Holgrem's Story was Absolutely Wonderful end to the Series.
I have 1 full Brother & 1 1/2 Brother & 2 1/1 Sisters & I always felt like I was left out of everything in our lives growing up.
I never received anything my siblings did, that includes Love.
So I kinda understand what Hayden felt growing up with his sextuplet siblings since he was called the "Oops" kid.
My Mom never let me forget that she never wanted children.
Not because she was selfish but because she has Epilepsy where she has grand small seizures.
Not that's an excuse.
But to feel like no matter what you do to Please your parents that they are still selfish in their own way.
My brother got anything he wanted including a car when he was 15.
For me, I raised my 2 Sons with love, respect & values.
If I bought 1 a Vehicle, I bought the other one as well. I went to every Lacrosse Game they had regardless of where they played if it was 100 miles away I was there in the Pouring rain, Strong winds & snow.
And I did it with Love.
I wonder how Siblings think about other siblings whether they actually do things selfishly or out of habit?
Anyhow, the Story was Wonderful & written well. Between this Book & the 1st book I would have to say that these 2 were the best in the Series.
I have 1 full Brother & 1 1/2 Brother & 2 1/1 Sisters & I always felt like I was left out of everything in our lives growing up.
I never received anything my siblings did, that includes Love.
So I kinda understand what Hayden felt growing up with his sextuplet siblings since he was called the "Oops" kid.
My Mom never let me forget that she never wanted children.
Not because she was selfish but because she has Epilepsy where she has grand small seizures.
Not that's an excuse.
But to feel like no matter what you do to Please your parents that they are still selfish in their own way.
My brother got anything he wanted including a car when he was 15.
For me, I raised my 2 Sons with love, respect & values.
If I bought 1 a Vehicle, I bought the other one as well. I went to every Lacrosse Game they had regardless of where they played if it was 100 miles away I was there in the Pouring rain, Strong winds & snow.
And I did it with Love.
I wonder how Siblings think about other siblings whether they actually do things selfishly or out of habit?
Anyhow, the Story was Wonderful & written well. Between this Book & the 1st book I would have to say that these 2 were the best in the Series.
September 24, 2020
Hayden and Bex's story was a little bit disappointing as the conclusion to the series.
Hayden and Bex didn't really come clean to the whole family about their earlier break-up like the previous siblings did with their own issues. And the Archer manipulation in their reunion was barely addressed.
Basically Hayden finally had an outburst in front of his family and Bex was the only person who ever understood his perspective, etc etc.
Hayden and Bex didn't really come clean to the whole family about their earlier break-up like the previous siblings did with their own issues. And the Archer manipulation in their reunion was barely addressed.
Basically Hayden finally had an outburst in front of his family and Bex was the only person who ever understood his perspective, etc etc.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 22, 2025
The worst of the 6 books, the most selfish H initiating sex with the h and basically has what amounts to revenge sex with her don't forget his and Cameron's conversations about her then blames her when she falls back in love with him? I think she could have done better, even after the ending of the story. It feels to me like a very sad way to put an end to an overall decent series. And if DB writes another series with the westcotts I'll have to strongly consider whether I take that series up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2020
This is my favorite in the series. The youngest Archer has spent the last year finding himself as an intern at a winery in France. He returns home for his sister’s wedding and is blindsided by his ex working as the brewer at the new Archer brewery. Hayden has to work through his feelings as ‘the oops sibling’ and decide if he wants to take a permanent job in France. Good story.
February 19, 2017
A SOLID 3.5 STARS.
EVEN WITH THE HEA, I DIDN'T QUITE APPRECIATE THE ANGST IT MADE ME FEEL. THIS STORY LEFT ME FEELING A BIT GAPING. STORIES LIKE THIS MAKE ME WANT TO CURSE FATE, AND IT MAKES ME CYNICAL TO EVEN BELIEVE THERE IS A THING CALLED FATE WHEN HUMANS DICTATE THEIR OWN ACTIONS.
OUR HERO is back in Ribbon Ridge for a few weeks after his year in France. Second chance romance aren't really a hit with me because it always makes me feel like the closure isn't there, and after all there fighting...there is still mixed feelings. You know the saying, once broken, when fixed will never be the same again. I can't blame Hayden for being a bitter asshole about being dumped by Bex, heck I didn't even like what she did. BUT there were familial obligations keeping him back in RR that he came to despise what they did to him - disrupting his could be future with Bex. Because of his brother Alex, and his family I guess he couldn't have left with Bex when she did, and they broke up. 5 years, and after the suicide of Alex, he finally got himself back together but Bex breezes back in his life and he acts like a prissy lil bitch about that. THAT I WASN'T SO EAGER TO WATCH BECAUSE IT WAS CHILDISH. He wants her, still loves her but he acts like he doesn't care and breaks her heart when she finally confesses her love for good. But No, he had to make her grovel and knowing all the women he has fucked....ughh that's why i hate second chance romance. THEY ALWAYS USE THIS SAME FUCKING METHOD TO GET OVER THEIR HEARTBREAK.
OUR HEROINE isn't in my happy book either. She is too indecisive, and she broke our hero's heart and even though I'm just a voyeur to their story....the way she felt when she lost their baby in a miscarriage...made me feel like slapping her, YET I can understand why she felt relieved. As a adolescent on the way to growing up, she wanting to go places and just GROW but a baby would tie her down at RR. So she up and goes, fucking her way through her own heartache, and now she's back at RR, working for her ex's family brewery and here comes the drama. It was awkward at first, a little catching up, maybe some heart to heart talk that ends up with one of them being all prickly, and then they finally have tiptoe sex, one of them probably feels like 'Oh, it's just sex, I shouldn't think too much about it' and then somebody breaks the other's heart, there's that momentary pause where one of them gets a certain revelation that they are in love still and them BOOM, the HEA.
OVERALL was this predictable? If you mean a hissy fit hero and a heroine who you won't really like her decisions? Then YES, it was super predictable, especially the way they tried to HURT each other. LOL fucking GROW UP PEOPLE! I think I had enough of this kind of story.
EVEN WITH THE HEA, I DIDN'T QUITE APPRECIATE THE ANGST IT MADE ME FEEL. THIS STORY LEFT ME FEELING A BIT GAPING. STORIES LIKE THIS MAKE ME WANT TO CURSE FATE, AND IT MAKES ME CYNICAL TO EVEN BELIEVE THERE IS A THING CALLED FATE WHEN HUMANS DICTATE THEIR OWN ACTIONS.
OUR HERO is back in Ribbon Ridge for a few weeks after his year in France. Second chance romance aren't really a hit with me because it always makes me feel like the closure isn't there, and after all there fighting...there is still mixed feelings. You know the saying, once broken, when fixed will never be the same again. I can't blame Hayden for being a bitter asshole about being dumped by Bex, heck I didn't even like what she did. BUT there were familial obligations keeping him back in RR that he came to despise what they did to him - disrupting his could be future with Bex. Because of his brother Alex, and his family I guess he couldn't have left with Bex when she did, and they broke up. 5 years, and after the suicide of Alex, he finally got himself back together but Bex breezes back in his life and he acts like a prissy lil bitch about that. THAT I WASN'T SO EAGER TO WATCH BECAUSE IT WAS CHILDISH. He wants her, still loves her but he acts like he doesn't care and breaks her heart when she finally confesses her love for good. But No, he had to make her grovel and knowing all the women he has fucked....ughh that's why i hate second chance romance. THEY ALWAYS USE THIS SAME FUCKING METHOD TO GET OVER THEIR HEARTBREAK.
OUR HEROINE isn't in my happy book either. She is too indecisive, and she broke our hero's heart and even though I'm just a voyeur to their story....the way she felt when she lost their baby in a miscarriage...made me feel like slapping her, YET I can understand why she felt relieved. As a adolescent on the way to growing up, she wanting to go places and just GROW but a baby would tie her down at RR. So she up and goes, fucking her way through her own heartache, and now she's back at RR, working for her ex's family brewery and here comes the drama. It was awkward at first, a little catching up, maybe some heart to heart talk that ends up with one of them being all prickly, and then they finally have tiptoe sex, one of them probably feels like 'Oh, it's just sex, I shouldn't think too much about it' and then somebody breaks the other's heart, there's that momentary pause where one of them gets a certain revelation that they are in love still and them BOOM, the HEA.
OVERALL was this predictable? If you mean a hissy fit hero and a heroine who you won't really like her decisions? Then YES, it was super predictable, especially the way they tried to HURT each other. LOL fucking GROW UP PEOPLE! I think I had enough of this kind of story.
April 5, 2016
Bex Holmgren always knew she wanted more than what Ribbon Ridge could offer, and she made big plans to leave as soon as she was through with high school. She had always hoped that her boyfriend Hayden would want the same thing, and follow suit, but he shattered her dream by telling her he wanted his future to be in Ribbon Ridge. So, she made the heartbreaking decision to leave without him, and it crushed both of them, and she has regretted that decision everyday for the last five years. She tried to move on, and dated other men, but her lingering feelings for Hayden always kept her from opening her heart to someone else. She has made a great life for herself, and has a job she enjoys, but she knows that someday that isn't going to be enough, eventually she will need love to create the family she has always wanted. When she receives a unexpected call from Ribbon Ridge, along with a job offer she can't really refuse, she is left with a tough decision. Can she move back home and face the ones she left behind, to have the future she has always wanted or is the risk for another broken heart just to great?
Hayden Archer has spent the last five years trying to get over the loss of the love of his life, and for the most part he's moved on, by dating random girls here and there. But he made the decision early on that love was no longer in the cards for him, nor were serious relationships, so he keeps his entanglements with woman strictly to a casual basis. For the last year he has been living in France working alongside a winemaker, learning the craft, with the hope of someday owning his own winery. He misses his family, and knows they'd love nothing more than for him to return home, but the idea going back to a place where he is constantly feeling left out doesn't really appeal to him. Since losing his brother Alex, there was a shift in the family, and his spot as the family fixer kind of went by the wayside, and left him feeling like they no longer needed him, so he figured it was time to follow his dreams, and left them all behind. But now home is calling, and his presence at his sister's wedding is expected, so he decides to take a trip home and appease his parents. But before he leaves he is offered the chance of a lifetime in France, and when he arrives home his friends in Ribbon Ridge also make him an offer he can't really refuse so now he must decide if it's time to go home for good, or make a new life in France? Once he is home though things start to become a little clearer then they ever were before...
Once again Ms. Burke has provided readers with an exceptional read full of heart and promise, and a well deserved happily ever after that is certain to provide readers with a state of complete literary bliss! Hearing that this was the last installment in the Ribbon Ridge series was a sad moment for me, because I have loved meeting all of these wonderful characters created by Ms. Burke. However, learning that she will be branching out from this series and introducing us to the Westcott family definitely makes up for it. I look forward to this upcoming series, and getting a up close view of these new characters.
I highly recommend you add the Ribbon Ridge series to the top of your reading list, each story is well crafted, highly entertaining and filled with some very memorable characters that are sure to leave an indelible impression on your heart!
ARC requested through Edelweiss, and kindly provided by Avon Publishing in exchange for a honest and unbiased review.
Hayden Archer has spent the last five years trying to get over the loss of the love of his life, and for the most part he's moved on, by dating random girls here and there. But he made the decision early on that love was no longer in the cards for him, nor were serious relationships, so he keeps his entanglements with woman strictly to a casual basis. For the last year he has been living in France working alongside a winemaker, learning the craft, with the hope of someday owning his own winery. He misses his family, and knows they'd love nothing more than for him to return home, but the idea going back to a place where he is constantly feeling left out doesn't really appeal to him. Since losing his brother Alex, there was a shift in the family, and his spot as the family fixer kind of went by the wayside, and left him feeling like they no longer needed him, so he figured it was time to follow his dreams, and left them all behind. But now home is calling, and his presence at his sister's wedding is expected, so he decides to take a trip home and appease his parents. But before he leaves he is offered the chance of a lifetime in France, and when he arrives home his friends in Ribbon Ridge also make him an offer he can't really refuse so now he must decide if it's time to go home for good, or make a new life in France? Once he is home though things start to become a little clearer then they ever were before...
Once again Ms. Burke has provided readers with an exceptional read full of heart and promise, and a well deserved happily ever after that is certain to provide readers with a state of complete literary bliss! Hearing that this was the last installment in the Ribbon Ridge series was a sad moment for me, because I have loved meeting all of these wonderful characters created by Ms. Burke. However, learning that she will be branching out from this series and introducing us to the Westcott family definitely makes up for it. I look forward to this upcoming series, and getting a up close view of these new characters.
I highly recommend you add the Ribbon Ridge series to the top of your reading list, each story is well crafted, highly entertaining and filled with some very memorable characters that are sure to leave an indelible impression on your heart!
ARC requested through Edelweiss, and kindly provided by Avon Publishing in exchange for a honest and unbiased review.
February 1, 2025
Bex Holmgren always knew she wanted more than what Ribbon Ridge could offer, and she made big plans to leave as soon as she was through with high school. She had always hoped that her boyfriend Hayden would want the same thing, and follow suit, but he shattered her dream by telling her he wanted his future to be in Ribbon Ridge. So, she made the heartbreaking decision to leave without him, and it crushed both of them, and she has regretted that decision everyday for the last five years. She tried to move on, and dated other men, but her lingering feelings for Hayden always kept her from opening her heart to someone else. She has made a great life for herself, and has a job she enjoys, but she knows that someday that isn't going to be enough, eventually she will need love to create the family she has always wanted. When she receives a unexpected call from Ribbon Ridge, along with a job offer she can't really refuse, she is left with a tough decision. Can she move back home and face the ones she left behind, to have the future she has always wanted or is the risk for another broken heart just to great?
Hayden Archer has spent the last five years trying to get over the loss of the love of his life, and for the most part he's moved on, by dating random girls here and there. But he made the decision early on that love was no longer in the cards for him, nor were serious relationships, so he keeps his entanglements with woman strictly to a casual basis. For the last year he has been living in France working alongside a winemaker, learning the craft, with the hope of someday owning his own winery. He misses his family, and knows they'd love nothing more than for him to return home, but the idea going back to a place where he is constantly feeling left out doesn't really appeal to him. Since losing his brother Alex, there was a shift in the family, and his spot as the family fixer kind of went by the wayside, and left him feeling like they no longer needed him, so he figured it was time to follow his dreams, and left them all behind. But now home is calling, and his presence at his sister's wedding is expected, so he decides to take a trip home and appease his parents. But before he leaves he is offered the chance of a lifetime in France, and when he arrives home his friends in Ribbon Ridge also make him an offer he can't really refuse so now he must decide if it's time to go home for good, or make a new life in France? Once he is home though things start to become a little clearer then they ever were before...
Once again Ms. Burke has provided readers with an exceptional read full of heart and promise, and a well deserved happily ever after that is certain to provide readers with a state of complete literary bliss! Hearing that this was the last installment in the Ribbon Ridge series was a sad moment for me, because I have loved meeting all of these wonderful characters created by Ms. Burke. However, learning that she will be branching out from this series and introducing us to the Westcott family definitely makes up for it. I look forward to this upcoming series, and getting a up close view of these new characters.
I highly recommend you add the Ribbon Ridge series to the top of your reading list, each story is well crafted, highly entertaining and filled with some very memorable characters that are sure to leave an indelible impression on your heart!
I requested an advanced copy of this title and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
Hayden Archer has spent the last five years trying to get over the loss of the love of his life, and for the most part he's moved on, by dating random girls here and there. But he made the decision early on that love was no longer in the cards for him, nor were serious relationships, so he keeps his entanglements with woman strictly to a casual basis. For the last year he has been living in France working alongside a winemaker, learning the craft, with the hope of someday owning his own winery. He misses his family, and knows they'd love nothing more than for him to return home, but the idea going back to a place where he is constantly feeling left out doesn't really appeal to him. Since losing his brother Alex, there was a shift in the family, and his spot as the family fixer kind of went by the wayside, and left him feeling like they no longer needed him, so he figured it was time to follow his dreams, and left them all behind. But now home is calling, and his presence at his sister's wedding is expected, so he decides to take a trip home and appease his parents. But before he leaves he is offered the chance of a lifetime in France, and when he arrives home his friends in Ribbon Ridge also make him an offer he can't really refuse so now he must decide if it's time to go home for good, or make a new life in France? Once he is home though things start to become a little clearer then they ever were before...
Once again Ms. Burke has provided readers with an exceptional read full of heart and promise, and a well deserved happily ever after that is certain to provide readers with a state of complete literary bliss! Hearing that this was the last installment in the Ribbon Ridge series was a sad moment for me, because I have loved meeting all of these wonderful characters created by Ms. Burke. However, learning that she will be branching out from this series and introducing us to the Westcott family definitely makes up for it. I look forward to this upcoming series, and getting a up close view of these new characters.
I highly recommend you add the Ribbon Ridge series to the top of your reading list, each story is well crafted, highly entertaining and filled with some very memorable characters that are sure to leave an indelible impression on your heart!
I requested an advanced copy of this title and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
April 21, 2016
Wanting to surprise his family before his sister's wedding, Hayden is knocked for a loop himself when he learns that his ex is back in town and working for his family's business. He's never completely gotten over her, yet there's not a chance of the two of them getting back together. Not when she left town at a time when they needed each other the most.
Bex couldn't turn down the opportunity the Archers offered her with their family business. But being back in Ribbon Ridge, reminds her of all the reasons why she left in the first place. In fact, it seems she can't escape those memories when she finds herself living under the same roof as her ex. However, the more time she spends with Hayden, the more she realizes she wants another chance at forever with him.
Although I haven't read the other books of this series, this second chance romance story can be read as a stand-alone. The way the first chapter started with Hayden surprising his family and then learning about Bex's return to Ribbon Ridge set the fast-pace of this story for me, as it made me want to learn more about their past relationship and what happened to tear them apart.
I really liked both the main characters, as well as the secondary ones. The dialogue was compelling not only because the hero and heroine dance around the fact that they still have strong feelings for each other, but because Hayden's family are a bit full on, and I could understand why he felt like the odd man out. Yet, the way they conversed revealed how much they loved and needed him. He's the glue that brings the family together. The one that makes them complete. So, it was no wonder his parents decided on their scheme when it came to his love life.
As for Bex, I felt sorry for her. The Archers are an overwhelming bunch, and I could understand that she wasn't ready to be a part of such a wonderful family when she'd never experienced the kind of love they have for each other. Bex is strong, brave, and tenacious. At first, there's a lot of tension between Bex and Hayden due to the fact that she left him when they needed each other the most. Yet, they can't deny that they still have feelings for the other, which eventually leads to some nicely-detailed sex scenes that illustrate this couple's intense chemistry.
While Hayden, he has some major decisions to make, and it doesn't help that he's feeling pressured by his family and friends to do what they want, which is to move back to Ribbon Ridge. Yet, I liked that he didn't allow them to influence him. That he did what he felt was right, for him, for the first time in his life. That he didn't sacrifice what was important a second time around. Like he did when he chose his family over the woman that he loved years ago, which he realizes now was a mistake after finally reading the letter his brother wrote to him before he died.
Overall, Ms. Burke has penned an incredible novel in this sixth book of her Ribbon Ridge series, which now has me eager to read the previous stories. I really liked how this story ended with the new addition to the Archer family, Hayden making up with everyone after the big blow up where he'd told them how he really felt about his place in the family, and the words Hayden said to Bex about love, life and happy ever afters. I would recommend You're Still the One by Darcy Burke, especially if you enjoy second chance romances.
Bex couldn't turn down the opportunity the Archers offered her with their family business. But being back in Ribbon Ridge, reminds her of all the reasons why she left in the first place. In fact, it seems she can't escape those memories when she finds herself living under the same roof as her ex. However, the more time she spends with Hayden, the more she realizes she wants another chance at forever with him.
Although I haven't read the other books of this series, this second chance romance story can be read as a stand-alone. The way the first chapter started with Hayden surprising his family and then learning about Bex's return to Ribbon Ridge set the fast-pace of this story for me, as it made me want to learn more about their past relationship and what happened to tear them apart.
I really liked both the main characters, as well as the secondary ones. The dialogue was compelling not only because the hero and heroine dance around the fact that they still have strong feelings for each other, but because Hayden's family are a bit full on, and I could understand why he felt like the odd man out. Yet, the way they conversed revealed how much they loved and needed him. He's the glue that brings the family together. The one that makes them complete. So, it was no wonder his parents decided on their scheme when it came to his love life.
As for Bex, I felt sorry for her. The Archers are an overwhelming bunch, and I could understand that she wasn't ready to be a part of such a wonderful family when she'd never experienced the kind of love they have for each other. Bex is strong, brave, and tenacious. At first, there's a lot of tension between Bex and Hayden due to the fact that she left him when they needed each other the most. Yet, they can't deny that they still have feelings for the other, which eventually leads to some nicely-detailed sex scenes that illustrate this couple's intense chemistry.
While Hayden, he has some major decisions to make, and it doesn't help that he's feeling pressured by his family and friends to do what they want, which is to move back to Ribbon Ridge. Yet, I liked that he didn't allow them to influence him. That he did what he felt was right, for him, for the first time in his life. That he didn't sacrifice what was important a second time around. Like he did when he chose his family over the woman that he loved years ago, which he realizes now was a mistake after finally reading the letter his brother wrote to him before he died.
Overall, Ms. Burke has penned an incredible novel in this sixth book of her Ribbon Ridge series, which now has me eager to read the previous stories. I really liked how this story ended with the new addition to the Archer family, Hayden making up with everyone after the big blow up where he'd told them how he really felt about his place in the family, and the words Hayden said to Bex about love, life and happy ever afters. I would recommend You're Still the One by Darcy Burke, especially if you enjoy second chance romances.
February 19, 2025
Hold Me (previously published as You’re Still the One) is Hayden and Bex’s second chance romance. Hayden’s the last of the surviving siblings to find his HEA, and though it could be read on its own it really works best when the series books are read in order. (This is definitely a case of do as I say, not as I do, because I’ve read books 1, 2, 6, and 7. I know, I know—I’m working on it). There are so many people and significant others and backstories going on throughout the book (Hayden, the hero, is the seventh child with a set of sextuplets in front of him) that I really felt as if I needed a cheat sheet at times to remind me of who's who and with whom. It's not hard to follow the story, it's just a tad bit overwhelming to keep everyone straight.
Kind of like growing up in the Archer family clearly was, so in a way that works!
If you have read the rest of the series, you'll love this one--everyone's here, you'll see the end result of the project that they've been working on since book 2 (the death of a character after book 1 sets everything in motion), and of course there's the satisfying second chance romance here for the youngest—and last unattached--child. Definite catnip for series lovers, and a good read for everyone else.
Hayden and Bex were a major item five years ago, before the unthinkable happened and Bex took off, leaving Hayden in a bad place. Now they're both back in town and determined to put their past behind them. Except fate--and Hayden's entire meddling, busybody family has other ideas...which adds to the issue, because that same family is part of the reason they split the first time.
Can Bex learn to cope with having so many people involved in...well, everything...after the solitary life she has lived up until now? Can Hayden be a real part of his family and still stay true to himself?
A whole lot gets resolved by the end of this story. Bex and Hayden come to terms with their past and commit to their new future, Hayden finally finds his place both in his family and with his career, and the Archers finalize the project they've spent six books getting ready.
If you love second chance romances and stories with large, chaotic casts of characters, give this book (and series!) a try!
(CW: suicide of a character off page, applicable for series books 2 and up)
Rating: 4 stars / B+
Kind of like growing up in the Archer family clearly was, so in a way that works!
If you have read the rest of the series, you'll love this one--everyone's here, you'll see the end result of the project that they've been working on since book 2 (the death of a character after book 1 sets everything in motion), and of course there's the satisfying second chance romance here for the youngest—and last unattached--child. Definite catnip for series lovers, and a good read for everyone else.
Hayden and Bex were a major item five years ago, before the unthinkable happened and Bex took off, leaving Hayden in a bad place. Now they're both back in town and determined to put their past behind them. Except fate--and Hayden's entire meddling, busybody family has other ideas...which adds to the issue, because that same family is part of the reason they split the first time.
Can Bex learn to cope with having so many people involved in...well, everything...after the solitary life she has lived up until now? Can Hayden be a real part of his family and still stay true to himself?
A whole lot gets resolved by the end of this story. Bex and Hayden come to terms with their past and commit to their new future, Hayden finally finds his place both in his family and with his career, and the Archers finalize the project they've spent six books getting ready.
If you love second chance romances and stories with large, chaotic casts of characters, give this book (and series!) a try!
(CW: suicide of a character off page, applicable for series books 2 and up)
Rating: 4 stars / B+
April 11, 2016
What I've loved and hated about reading this series by Darcy Burke is how she's puts my emotions through the ringer. I've been happy, then sad, and even at times...pretty pissed off! Each book has done this to me. I'll love everyone in this book only to hate half of them in the next!
What a wonderful ride I've been on!
It killed me that this is the last Archer family book. I knew it was coming, there are only so many family members, but still I didn't want it to be over. I'm happy to say that the Archer's might have all gotten there HEA but some other members of Ribbon Ridge haven't.
I can't wait for their stories!
So on to You're Still the One! I have so many thoughts about this book. Before I get into them let me said that I really did love it. Some of what I'm going to say is going to make you think I lied about that, but I didn't. This book for me has been the biggest roller coaster ride.
It's now Hayden's time to find love and I couldn't wait for that to happen, man was I unhappy with who he was finding love with. In the beginning of this book I HATED Bex's. I just wanted to smash her face in.
I know!!! What the hell kind of reaction is that????
I don't know why she made me feel that way, but she did. It took me half the book to start coming around to her. Not to worry, the Archer's actions had me distracted so sometimes I forgot about her. Hayden's family also pissed me off and I'd really want to talk about why but don't want to run anything for you.
Because deep down I love this family I was able to understand and forgive...I'm lying, I didn't understand it really. Oh well!!! Still love them.
In the end I was totally happy with the story and everyone in it. I did finally warm up to Bex's...a little. Haha! I think you'll very much enjoy this story but it's not what I'd call a stand alone. You really have to go back to the first book in the series and start there. Not to worry, summer is coming and you'll need something to read around the pool, or at least I think it's coming!
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What a wonderful ride I've been on!
It killed me that this is the last Archer family book. I knew it was coming, there are only so many family members, but still I didn't want it to be over. I'm happy to say that the Archer's might have all gotten there HEA but some other members of Ribbon Ridge haven't.
I can't wait for their stories!
So on to You're Still the One! I have so many thoughts about this book. Before I get into them let me said that I really did love it. Some of what I'm going to say is going to make you think I lied about that, but I didn't. This book for me has been the biggest roller coaster ride.
It's now Hayden's time to find love and I couldn't wait for that to happen, man was I unhappy with who he was finding love with. In the beginning of this book I HATED Bex's. I just wanted to smash her face in.
I know!!! What the hell kind of reaction is that????
I don't know why she made me feel that way, but she did. It took me half the book to start coming around to her. Not to worry, the Archer's actions had me distracted so sometimes I forgot about her. Hayden's family also pissed me off and I'd really want to talk about why but don't want to run anything for you.
Because deep down I love this family I was able to understand and forgive...I'm lying, I didn't understand it really. Oh well!!! Still love them.
In the end I was totally happy with the story and everyone in it. I did finally warm up to Bex's...a little. Haha! I think you'll very much enjoy this story but it's not what I'd call a stand alone. You really have to go back to the first book in the series and start there. Not to worry, summer is coming and you'll need something to read around the pool, or at least I think it's coming!
Reviewed on Romancing the Readers:
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Romancing the Readers Facebook Page:
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April 11, 2016
Darcy Burke is one of my favorite authors, her historicals are fantastic and this contemporary series has been just as good! This family that she had created is so inviting! I want to know them, I want to hang out and come for Sunday dinner. They are all real people with real problems.
This installment of the series, sadly the last, is about Hayden Archer, "the spare" He was a lone birth after his brothers and sisters, all 6 of them, sextuplets, we're born. He was a surprise but loved by all, but he has never felt like he was "one of the gang."
Hayden has been away in France learning the wine business, one of his dreams come true. He is back in Ribbon Ridge just for the soft opening of his family's recent project. The Alex, a multi functional getaway spot that his brothers and sisters have been working on since his brother Alex passed away.
Hayden does not know that the family has hired a new brewer for their other enterprise, Archer Brewing. He also does not know that he knows the person they hired, intimately. He is shocked to see her the first night he is back. Bex, his ex. He thought they would marry and have a family by now but that hadn't quite worked out. All he wants to do is avoid her, but can he really do that if she is working for his father?
There were parts of this story that took my breath away, I cried, I laughed, I sighed. LOL So very well written that I wanted to just stay there for a while and soak up the lives of these people. I have followed this series from the beginning and I am sad to see the Archer's story end. But it was a wonderful series and I will absolutely read them all again.
Darcy Burke can write In a way that makes you feel like you've known the characters for years. And when you get to read another story, it's like coming home.
I highly recommend this series, and Her historical if you like that genre, you will love hers! I know I do!
I received an advanced copy of this title in exchange for my honest opinion and honestly, I loved it!
This installment of the series, sadly the last, is about Hayden Archer, "the spare" He was a lone birth after his brothers and sisters, all 6 of them, sextuplets, we're born. He was a surprise but loved by all, but he has never felt like he was "one of the gang."
Hayden has been away in France learning the wine business, one of his dreams come true. He is back in Ribbon Ridge just for the soft opening of his family's recent project. The Alex, a multi functional getaway spot that his brothers and sisters have been working on since his brother Alex passed away.
Hayden does not know that the family has hired a new brewer for their other enterprise, Archer Brewing. He also does not know that he knows the person they hired, intimately. He is shocked to see her the first night he is back. Bex, his ex. He thought they would marry and have a family by now but that hadn't quite worked out. All he wants to do is avoid her, but can he really do that if she is working for his father?
There were parts of this story that took my breath away, I cried, I laughed, I sighed. LOL So very well written that I wanted to just stay there for a while and soak up the lives of these people. I have followed this series from the beginning and I am sad to see the Archer's story end. But it was a wonderful series and I will absolutely read them all again.
Darcy Burke can write In a way that makes you feel like you've known the characters for years. And when you get to read another story, it's like coming home.
I highly recommend this series, and Her historical if you like that genre, you will love hers! I know I do!
I received an advanced copy of this title in exchange for my honest opinion and honestly, I loved it!
April 7, 2016
You're Still the One is the conclusion of the Ribbon Ridge series...which I haven't read the rest of (yet). I was okay as a standalone, though there's so many people and significant others and backstories going on throughout (Hayden, the hero, is the seventh child with a set of sextuplets in front of him) that I really felt as if I needed a cheat sheet throughout to remind me of who's who and with whom. It's not hard to follow the story, it's just a tad bit overwhelming.
Kind of like growing up in the Archer family was, so in a way that works!
If you have read the rest of the series, you'll love this one--everyone's here, you'll see the end result of the storyline that must have started with the first book (one of the sextuplets, who's always been in poor health, dies and sets a major family project into motion), plus there's a great second chance romance here for the youngest--and only still single--child. Definite catnip for series lovers, and a good read for the rest of us.
Plus, your TBR will suddenly increase by five... ;)
Hayden and Bex were a major item five years ago, before the unthinkable happened and Bex took off, leaving Hayden in a bad place. Now they're both back in town, and determined to put their past behind them. Except fate--and Hayden's entire meddling, busybody family has other ideas....
A whole lot gets resolved by the end of this story. Bex and Hayden come to terms with their past and commit to their new future, Hayden finally finds his place both in his family and with his career, and the Archers open the project they've spent six books getting ready.
If you love second chance romances and stories with large, chaotic casts of characters, give this book (and series!) a try!
Rating: 4 stars / B+
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
Kind of like growing up in the Archer family was, so in a way that works!
If you have read the rest of the series, you'll love this one--everyone's here, you'll see the end result of the storyline that must have started with the first book (one of the sextuplets, who's always been in poor health, dies and sets a major family project into motion), plus there's a great second chance romance here for the youngest--and only still single--child. Definite catnip for series lovers, and a good read for the rest of us.
Plus, your TBR will suddenly increase by five... ;)
Hayden and Bex were a major item five years ago, before the unthinkable happened and Bex took off, leaving Hayden in a bad place. Now they're both back in town, and determined to put their past behind them. Except fate--and Hayden's entire meddling, busybody family has other ideas....
A whole lot gets resolved by the end of this story. Bex and Hayden come to terms with their past and commit to their new future, Hayden finally finds his place both in his family and with his career, and the Archers open the project they've spent six books getting ready.
If you love second chance romances and stories with large, chaotic casts of characters, give this book (and series!) a try!
Rating: 4 stars / B+
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 8, 2016
I’ve read several second chance romances recently, and Darcy Burke brought the characters and story to life, keeping me involved in their story and worried that they just might pass up on this chance.
Bex and Hayden were an item in college, but years have passed after circumstances and youth broke them apart. Now Bex wants to be back among the Archers, and with Hayden away, the chance at her dream job with a family she adores is too good to pass up.
Away in France, Hayden returns to find that Bex is back in his family again, but he’s not so sure he can forgive her for leaving him. He’s also not sure he wants to stay in Ribbon Ridge, it’s awkward with Bex around, and he was sublimely happy in France, it was a good opportunity. Returning home, however, he finds he still is attracted to Bex, even if he’s doing everything in his power to not show it.
Bex thought she’d never lose the soft spot she had for Hayden, until he reappears and she realizes that she never did stop loving him, and perhaps she made the worst mistake of her life in leaving. Memories from both of them range from happy to bittersweet, and they show that their ties never were quite severed entirely.
These two still had to work out the old resentments and fears, and the emotional balance that Burke strikes in telling the story keeps readers wondering and hoping: you see how good they are for one another, how readily the Archers accept Bex back as a member of the large and crazy family, and just how good they are together. It just takes time for these two to work it all out for themselves, and a better paced HEA can’t be found anywhere. A wonderful addition to the series, one that is sure to make you want to start from the beginning.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Bex and Hayden were an item in college, but years have passed after circumstances and youth broke them apart. Now Bex wants to be back among the Archers, and with Hayden away, the chance at her dream job with a family she adores is too good to pass up.
Away in France, Hayden returns to find that Bex is back in his family again, but he’s not so sure he can forgive her for leaving him. He’s also not sure he wants to stay in Ribbon Ridge, it’s awkward with Bex around, and he was sublimely happy in France, it was a good opportunity. Returning home, however, he finds he still is attracted to Bex, even if he’s doing everything in his power to not show it.
Bex thought she’d never lose the soft spot she had for Hayden, until he reappears and she realizes that she never did stop loving him, and perhaps she made the worst mistake of her life in leaving. Memories from both of them range from happy to bittersweet, and they show that their ties never were quite severed entirely.
These two still had to work out the old resentments and fears, and the emotional balance that Burke strikes in telling the story keeps readers wondering and hoping: you see how good they are for one another, how readily the Archers accept Bex back as a member of the large and crazy family, and just how good they are together. It just takes time for these two to work it all out for themselves, and a better paced HEA can’t be found anywhere. A wonderful addition to the series, one that is sure to make you want to start from the beginning.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
February 14, 2025
Hold Me by Darcy Burke
Ribbon Ridge #7
Large family interconnected emotion-driven novels that tell the story of sextuplets plus one and this story is Hayden’s – the brother that was not one of the sextuplets and his second chance at love.
What I liked:
* That this book was easily read though I’d not read any of the previous books in the series
* Reading my first contemporary romance by this author after reading and enjoying her historical romances for many years
* Bex: brewer of beer, only child, dysfunctional family, overwhelmed by the Archer family, made a decision in the past that she now questions, willing to fight for what she wants
* Hayden: youngest child, not a sextuplet, responsible, helpful, there for his siblings, giving, unselfish, feels emotions strongly, feels he is not seen, has issues to work through
* Watching how the second chance romance between Bex & Hayden comes about, learning what broke them apart, and believing that they can be happy once they get things figured out
* The mature way that Bex and Hayden were able to communicate…most of the time
* The large family vibe and how it impacted the various family members
* Feeling that I got to know the family members and their partners fairly well even though I have not read their stories
* Knowing that there are three more books int the series that will star the three Westcott brothers
* All of it really except…
What I didn’t like:
* The pain that Bex & Hayden experienced and though perhaps necessary…it wasn’t easy
* That Hayden felt “different” from his siblings and how it impacted him…seemed almost whiney at times – wish he had talked to someone about his feelings
* The way Hayden’s parents tried to manipulate Hayden
Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Yes
Thank you to the author, Oliver Heber, and Booksprout for the ARC ~ This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
Ribbon Ridge #7
Large family interconnected emotion-driven novels that tell the story of sextuplets plus one and this story is Hayden’s – the brother that was not one of the sextuplets and his second chance at love.
What I liked:
* That this book was easily read though I’d not read any of the previous books in the series
* Reading my first contemporary romance by this author after reading and enjoying her historical romances for many years
* Bex: brewer of beer, only child, dysfunctional family, overwhelmed by the Archer family, made a decision in the past that she now questions, willing to fight for what she wants
* Hayden: youngest child, not a sextuplet, responsible, helpful, there for his siblings, giving, unselfish, feels emotions strongly, feels he is not seen, has issues to work through
* Watching how the second chance romance between Bex & Hayden comes about, learning what broke them apart, and believing that they can be happy once they get things figured out
* The mature way that Bex and Hayden were able to communicate…most of the time
* The large family vibe and how it impacted the various family members
* Feeling that I got to know the family members and their partners fairly well even though I have not read their stories
* Knowing that there are three more books int the series that will star the three Westcott brothers
* All of it really except…
What I didn’t like:
* The pain that Bex & Hayden experienced and though perhaps necessary…it wasn’t easy
* That Hayden felt “different” from his siblings and how it impacted him…seemed almost whiney at times – wish he had talked to someone about his feelings
* The way Hayden’s parents tried to manipulate Hayden
Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Yes
Thank you to the author, Oliver Heber, and Booksprout for the ARC ~ This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
April 6, 2016
It feels so good, as always, to be back in Ribbon Ridge! I can't get enough of this beloved fictional town, or it's very addictive inhabitants. The Archer's have a special place in this reader's heart, so I could barely contain myself as I dove into Hayden's story.
Unlike his siblings, Hayden was the final Archer child born into the family, thus, not belonging to the infamous grouping of his sextuplet older siblings. Because of this, he always felt like an outsider- like he didn't truly have a place within the inner workings of his family. One place he did find solace however, was in the arms of his lovely girlfriend, Bex. An accident tore them apart years before, and Hayden hasn't been the same since. Hayden returns to Ribbon Ridge (after spending time in France) to the news that Bex has also returned. .....Awkward, enticing, emotional... you pick the adjective, but they all hold true. There's definitely unfinished business left to be solved here, folks!
I loved the pairing of Hayden and Bex. They're sweet, they're sassy, they're feisty. Above all though, is the unmistakable fire each holds for the other. The tension created as they make their way through their feelings is something AWESOME, let me tell you! I also loved how Bex didn't let a past bad choice keep her from going after her future. That's the kind of girl I love!
I am beyond saddened to see this Ribbon Ridge series come to an end. The setting, the characters and the familial bond have all made their way deep into my heart, a place they will stay forever. Every now and then, a series comes along that you just know, without a doubt, will be unforgettable. Ribbon Ridge is that series to me. Thank you Darcy Burke, for sharing the lives of the Archer clan with us readers, and for bringing such amazing characters to life for us readers. You will forevermore be an author that I stalk. Haha! <3
Unlike his siblings, Hayden was the final Archer child born into the family, thus, not belonging to the infamous grouping of his sextuplet older siblings. Because of this, he always felt like an outsider- like he didn't truly have a place within the inner workings of his family. One place he did find solace however, was in the arms of his lovely girlfriend, Bex. An accident tore them apart years before, and Hayden hasn't been the same since. Hayden returns to Ribbon Ridge (after spending time in France) to the news that Bex has also returned. .....Awkward, enticing, emotional... you pick the adjective, but they all hold true. There's definitely unfinished business left to be solved here, folks!
I loved the pairing of Hayden and Bex. They're sweet, they're sassy, they're feisty. Above all though, is the unmistakable fire each holds for the other. The tension created as they make their way through their feelings is something AWESOME, let me tell you! I also loved how Bex didn't let a past bad choice keep her from going after her future. That's the kind of girl I love!
I am beyond saddened to see this Ribbon Ridge series come to an end. The setting, the characters and the familial bond have all made their way deep into my heart, a place they will stay forever. Every now and then, a series comes along that you just know, without a doubt, will be unforgettable. Ribbon Ridge is that series to me. Thank you Darcy Burke, for sharing the lives of the Archer clan with us readers, and for bringing such amazing characters to life for us readers. You will forevermore be an author that I stalk. Haha! <3
February 12, 2025
“Hold Me” is the latest book in the remarkable Ribbon Ridge series. This installment tells Hayden's story, the youngest sibling and notably not one of the sextuplets. Known for being the responsible one, Hayden has always felt somewhat disconnected from his siblings because of this distinction.
Hayden and his college sweetheart appeared to be a perfect match; everyone expected them to marry. However, their journey took an unexpected turn due to a tragic accident, family dynamics, insecurities, and conflicting dreams. Hayden's decision to go to France to work in a vineyard marked a pivotal change, having been offered a job there for two years, which he is seriously considering.
Five years later, Hayden still finds himself struggling to move on from Bex. When he returns home unexpectedly for a family wedding, he is astounded to discover that Bex is now working for his family in Ribbon Ridge. The question looms: can they maintain a friendship, or will the embers of past feelings reignite?
This narrative delves far beyond a mere second-chance romance. It addresses unresolved issues, intricate family dynamics, the impactful suicide of Alex, and other challenges that the couple must confront before determining what their future may hold.
Darcy Burke once again delivers an emotional and heartfelt tale, seamlessly weaving the threads of the Archer family together. Her skillful writing leaves a lasting impression, balancing sadness over the series' conclusion with anticipation for future stories centered on familiar friends. Her ability to craft such engaging and poignant narratives is truly exceptional, showcasing her remarkable writing skills. I look forward to reading more of this delightful series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Hayden and his college sweetheart appeared to be a perfect match; everyone expected them to marry. However, their journey took an unexpected turn due to a tragic accident, family dynamics, insecurities, and conflicting dreams. Hayden's decision to go to France to work in a vineyard marked a pivotal change, having been offered a job there for two years, which he is seriously considering.
Five years later, Hayden still finds himself struggling to move on from Bex. When he returns home unexpectedly for a family wedding, he is astounded to discover that Bex is now working for his family in Ribbon Ridge. The question looms: can they maintain a friendship, or will the embers of past feelings reignite?
This narrative delves far beyond a mere second-chance romance. It addresses unresolved issues, intricate family dynamics, the impactful suicide of Alex, and other challenges that the couple must confront before determining what their future may hold.
Darcy Burke once again delivers an emotional and heartfelt tale, seamlessly weaving the threads of the Archer family together. Her skillful writing leaves a lasting impression, balancing sadness over the series' conclusion with anticipation for future stories centered on familiar friends. Her ability to craft such engaging and poignant narratives is truly exceptional, showcasing her remarkable writing skills. I look forward to reading more of this delightful series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 25, 2016
Hayden has been the yes man of the family. Hayden, can you...? Yes. Hayden, I need...Yes. He has always done whatever he can to help out. Hoping for that feeling of belonging. Here he is returning for a wedding and he can't figure out if they even need him. What he didn't expect is the woman who ripped out his heart and drove over it to be here. Not just in town- no, she works for his family and is living at his family home.
Bex hasn't had an easy life either. She wasn't so sure this move was a good idea. It was an amazing experience professionally, but personally she wasn't exactly excited. Being back in Ribbon Ridge was an unexpected turn of events, five years earlier she couldn't wait to leave (to get away from this family). Now she's back and working for them.
She knew he would be home soon.
He had no idea she was there.
She didn't realize how hard it would be to see him.
He never thought he'd see her again.
She was sure she had been over him...
He made sure to do everything to get over her...
Yet, here they are living across the hall from each other. Feelings, memories, and longing swirl around them fighting to break free. Have they grown apart? Have they grown up? Is it enough?
I will admit that i haven't read any of the other books in the series. It isn't a problem. I was worried that i would be lost- nope. I will say that it ignites your curiosity about the other Archers and their significant others or SOs as they are referred to in the book. It was a sweet story about a couple who never got over their past and fell in love again (or were still in love?). Second Chance Romances always seem more sweet!
reviewed for Reviews from the Heart
Bex hasn't had an easy life either. She wasn't so sure this move was a good idea. It was an amazing experience professionally, but personally she wasn't exactly excited. Being back in Ribbon Ridge was an unexpected turn of events, five years earlier she couldn't wait to leave (to get away from this family). Now she's back and working for them.
She knew he would be home soon.
He had no idea she was there.
She didn't realize how hard it would be to see him.
He never thought he'd see her again.
She was sure she had been over him...
He made sure to do everything to get over her...
Yet, here they are living across the hall from each other. Feelings, memories, and longing swirl around them fighting to break free. Have they grown apart? Have they grown up? Is it enough?
I will admit that i haven't read any of the other books in the series. It isn't a problem. I was worried that i would be lost- nope. I will say that it ignites your curiosity about the other Archers and their significant others or SOs as they are referred to in the book. It was a sweet story about a couple who never got over their past and fell in love again (or were still in love?). Second Chance Romances always seem more sweet!
reviewed for Reviews from the Heart
April 13, 2016
Dynamic! The Ribbon Ridge series that Darcy Burke has shared with us has been been such a pleasure to read and experience! The Archer family has a little bit of everything ... sibling rivalry, love, laughter, tears, angst, guilt, you name it -- but in the end, it's all about being a family. I stumbled across this series with Book 4, and have dearly loved 4, 5 and this one is #6. I will one day find the time to go back and read 1, 2 & 3 because I love this family so much! Kudos to Darcy for wrapping a family around my heart and making me wish for the world for them all. I feel a great sadness that this is the wrap up of the Archer kids ... but look forward to catching future glimpses at them from afar with more books set in Ribbon Ridge.
Hayden Archer has spent the last year in France escaping from real life, and when he returns home, isn't sure where he fits in anymore. After a family tragedy, his parents and siblings have all had a lot of healing to do and each has gone about it a different way, but have all settled back home in Ribbon Ridge. When he arrives to find out his college girlfriend who broke his heart five years ago is now working for the family brewery, he's not happy. He finally got over pining for her and now she's back in his life again.
Bex Holmgren couldn't face staying in Ribbon Ridge with Hayden all those years ago. Turmoil over a loss they shared along with being overwhelmed by his large family drove her to need some space away. Running into Hayden now that he's home shows her that the love she thought she was over, is still there ... he's still the one ... but can he ever forgive her and trust her with his heart ever again?
Hayden Archer has spent the last year in France escaping from real life, and when he returns home, isn't sure where he fits in anymore. After a family tragedy, his parents and siblings have all had a lot of healing to do and each has gone about it a different way, but have all settled back home in Ribbon Ridge. When he arrives to find out his college girlfriend who broke his heart five years ago is now working for the family brewery, he's not happy. He finally got over pining for her and now she's back in his life again.
Bex Holmgren couldn't face staying in Ribbon Ridge with Hayden all those years ago. Turmoil over a loss they shared along with being overwhelmed by his large family drove her to need some space away. Running into Hayden now that he's home shows her that the love she thought she was over, is still there ... he's still the one ... but can he ever forgive her and trust her with his heart ever again?
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