What do you think?
Rate this book
Clean Slate Ranch #2
Roped In
At Clean Slate Ranch, the men are rugged, the trails are rocky and lassos aren’t only used for roping horses
For Colt Woods, Clean Slate Ranch is home. The dude ranch in Northern California helped him heal from a devastating breakup. So when his ex-Dom, the man who broke his heart, waltzes onto the ranch, Colt doesn’t know how to deal.
A research job at a nearby ghost town brings history PhD Avery Hendrix to Clean Slate. He’s not in town forever, but it doesn’t take long for him to feel the familiar draw to Colt. When they find out they’ll be sharing a cabin on the ranch, it’s all Avery can do to stop himself from bending Colt over a saddle right then and there.
In such close proximity, Colt’s and Avery’s old feelings come galloping back. Soon Colt is doing his master’s bidding again and loving every moment of it. And the pair may be in for the ride of their lives—if the dedicated professor and his rugged cowboy can learn to trust again.
This book is approximately 88,000 words
One-click with confidence. This title is part of the Carina Press Romance Promise : all the romance you’re looking for with an HEA/HFN. It’s a promise!
Carina Press acknowledges the editorial services of Alissa Davis
For Colt Woods, Clean Slate Ranch is home. The dude ranch in Northern California helped him heal from a devastating breakup. So when his ex-Dom, the man who broke his heart, waltzes onto the ranch, Colt doesn’t know how to deal.
A research job at a nearby ghost town brings history PhD Avery Hendrix to Clean Slate. He’s not in town forever, but it doesn’t take long for him to feel the familiar draw to Colt. When they find out they’ll be sharing a cabin on the ranch, it’s all Avery can do to stop himself from bending Colt over a saddle right then and there.
In such close proximity, Colt’s and Avery’s old feelings come galloping back. Soon Colt is doing his master’s bidding again and loving every moment of it. And the pair may be in for the ride of their lives—if the dedicated professor and his rugged cowboy can learn to trust again.
This book is approximately 88,000 words
One-click with confidence. This title is part of the Carina Press Romance Promise : all the romance you’re looking for with an HEA/HFN. It’s a promise!
Carina Press acknowledges the editorial services of Alissa Davis
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 21, 2018
126 people are currently reading
394 people want to read
About the author
A.M. Arthur
85 books1,226 followersNo stranger to the writing world, A.M. Arthur has been creating stories in her head since she was a child and scribbling them down nearly as long. She credits an early fascination with male friendships (bromance wasn't a thing yet) with her later discovery of and subsequent affair with m/m romance stories. When not writing, she can be found in her kitchen, pretending she's an amateur chef and trying to not poison herself or others with her cuisine experiments. You can contact her at AM_Arthur(at)yahoo(dot)com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews
May 25, 2018
2.5 Stars!
It just didn't work for me.
I often try really hard not to give such low ratings. It makes me feel bad. But I have to be honest right?
The problem for me started off quite early in the book. I just knew after how awkward and unrealistic it felt for me that I would continue to have an issue throughout the book. My issue? Their Sir/pet sexual relationship. I've read many books by now with this type of relationship dynamic and have enjoyed quite a bit of them. Here it didn't work for me at all. I didn't believe Avery fit the Dom role. I just couldn't get myself to accept him in that role so it all fell flat for me. The sex that is. It felt a bit clinical for my tastes. It felt too put together and this is how it all must go and didn't feel very spontaneous or sexy. I enjoyed their coming together when it wasn't a Sir/Pet scene. It felt more real.
There was a lot of back and forth between Colt and Avery which got a bit tiring especially with Avery being hesitant if he could trust Colt. I found this so confusing considering how much trust they had with their Sir/pet relationship. If I can't trust you outside of the bedroom no way would I trust you inside it.
I don't know if I was the only one who got completely lost some of the time with how the POV's switched up, but I had a hard time following who's POV I was reading. I hate that. It not only takes me out of the story but takes me away from the characters. I'm not sure if this will be how the final print will look though. So it's possible it has been cleaned up.
I actually really liked these characters and the ones in the book before. I like the set up and the other characters we got to know better this time around. It just happened that this formula didn't work for me. Other's have really enjoyed it. I will probably still continue with this series because I am intrigued by Miles and Reyes. I really hope they are next. But I'm also curious about Derrick too and if he and Robin will get a story together.
Happy reading dolls! xx
**I RECIEVED AN ARC FROM NETGALLEY AND THE PUBLISHER IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.**
It just didn't work for me.
I often try really hard not to give such low ratings. It makes me feel bad. But I have to be honest right?
The problem for me started off quite early in the book. I just knew after how awkward and unrealistic it felt for me that I would continue to have an issue throughout the book. My issue? Their Sir/pet sexual relationship. I've read many books by now with this type of relationship dynamic and have enjoyed quite a bit of them. Here it didn't work for me at all. I didn't believe Avery fit the Dom role. I just couldn't get myself to accept him in that role so it all fell flat for me. The sex that is. It felt a bit clinical for my tastes. It felt too put together and this is how it all must go and didn't feel very spontaneous or sexy. I enjoyed their coming together when it wasn't a Sir/Pet scene. It felt more real.
There was a lot of back and forth between Colt and Avery which got a bit tiring especially with Avery being hesitant if he could trust Colt. I found this so confusing considering how much trust they had with their Sir/pet relationship. If I can't trust you outside of the bedroom no way would I trust you inside it.
I don't know if I was the only one who got completely lost some of the time with how the POV's switched up, but I had a hard time following who's POV I was reading. I hate that. It not only takes me out of the story but takes me away from the characters. I'm not sure if this will be how the final print will look though. So it's possible it has been cleaned up.
I actually really liked these characters and the ones in the book before. I like the set up and the other characters we got to know better this time around. It just happened that this formula didn't work for me. Other's have really enjoyed it. I will probably still continue with this series because I am intrigued by Miles and Reyes. I really hope they are next. But I'm also curious about Derrick too and if he and Robin will get a story together.
Happy reading dolls! xx
**I RECIEVED AN ARC FROM NETGALLEY AND THE PUBLISHER IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.**
April 1, 2019
Audio - 5 stars!
Story - 2.5 stars because...BDSM :-/
Story - 2.5 stars because...BDSM :-/
August 27, 2019
The first book in this series, Wild Trail, was good but Roped In is even better; it's a great second chance romance. You can easily read Roped In as a standalone but Wild Trail did set the scene for the series and for the relationship between Colt and Avery so I highly recommend reading it.
Colt and Avery had a relationship several years ago but a few things broke them up. Now Avery has come to Clean Slate Ranch for a temporary job that Colt recommended him for. Once the two of them are near each other again, old feelings come back.
Avery never stopped loving Colt but he still doesn't know if they can be together again. Colt wants and needs Aver; he is determined to prove that he has changed and that the things that broke them up before are no longer an issue.
While some people may think that this story is a bit kinky to me it's very mild. Avery and Colt have a dom/sub relationship but there aren't any clubs or dungeons involved; it's just the two consenting adults doing what they want with each other.
Roped In really got all of my emotions involved – just the way I like it. Once I started reading this I couldn't put it down. I can't wait to read the next Clean Slate Ranch book.
Colt and Avery had a relationship several years ago but a few things broke them up. Now Avery has come to Clean Slate Ranch for a temporary job that Colt recommended him for. Once the two of them are near each other again, old feelings come back.
Avery never stopped loving Colt but he still doesn't know if they can be together again. Colt wants and needs Aver; he is determined to prove that he has changed and that the things that broke them up before are no longer an issue.
While some people may think that this story is a bit kinky to me it's very mild. Avery and Colt have a dom/sub relationship but there aren't any clubs or dungeons involved; it's just the two consenting adults doing what they want with each other.
Roped In really got all of my emotions involved – just the way I like it. Once I started reading this I couldn't put it down. I can't wait to read the next Clean Slate Ranch book.
March 30, 2018
I'm not sure what to say about this one because, for a lot of the book, it really wasn't working for me and I thought Avery was an absolutely selfish arse.
The last 20% went a long way to bringing the rating up though and I liked the stuff with Avery's mum and grandparents and the bits when Colt went back to the ranch he'd left aged 18 when his dad had turned his back on him for being gay.
Unfortunately, the major aspect of the narrative - a Sir/pet BDSM dynamic really really didn't work for me. Every time Colt referred to Avery as "his Sir" in third person it just made my hairs stand up like chalk on a blackboard.
As I had an ARC, the formatting wasn't finalised and at times it made it more difficult to work out who was speaking or being referred to and the time jumps into their past relationship had some really odd use of tense and grammar.
But, on a positive note, I love the setting this series is based in, the secondary characters, the family feeling of this group of men making themselves a home and I loved Colt, for his unashamedly open need to have Avery back in his life.
I am looking forward to more in the series and especially to hopefully finding out more about Reyes.
#ARC kindly provided by the publishers Carina Press in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
The last 20% went a long way to bringing the rating up though and I liked the stuff with Avery's mum and grandparents and the bits when Colt went back to the ranch he'd left aged 18 when his dad had turned his back on him for being gay.
Unfortunately, the major aspect of the narrative - a Sir/pet BDSM dynamic really really didn't work for me. Every time Colt referred to Avery as "his Sir" in third person it just made my hairs stand up like chalk on a blackboard.
As I had an ARC, the formatting wasn't finalised and at times it made it more difficult to work out who was speaking or being referred to and the time jumps into their past relationship had some really odd use of tense and grammar.
But, on a positive note, I love the setting this series is based in, the secondary characters, the family feeling of this group of men making themselves a home and I loved Colt, for his unashamedly open need to have Avery back in his life.
I am looking forward to more in the series and especially to hopefully finding out more about Reyes.
#ARC kindly provided by the publishers Carina Press in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
May 21, 2018
3.5 Stars
So, there were a few things I liked about this book, and a couple that either irritated, frustrated or annoyed me.
Let's start with the good.
I loved how Avery and Colt, who couldn't make their relationship work 5 years previously, took the time to actually work through their issues, and there was a whole lot of communication. A whole lot of talking through the things that didn't sit well with either and quite a bit of time spent voicing their needs. I loved that they were going to take life as it came, enjoying their reunion but also knowing that, to keep going, they'd need to come to grips with having a long distance relationship. 5 years prior, Colt couldn't deal with the separation and that is what led him to Clean Slate Ranch. But he's matured and grown emotionally in that time and is willing to try again.
Also, I adored how, other than with Colt, Avery was mostly not even interested in sex. When they first met he worked as a Dom for Hire, with no sexual interaction, and it never even occurred to him that he would be attracted to a client..and that all interactions were conducted behind closed doors. Considering his mom was a show-touring Domme in a dedicated D/s lifestyle with her husband...well, I found the dichotomy between the two interesting and the way Avery is portrayed as demi or sometimes asexual. (Also loved that he didn't feel the need to label himself though he appreciated that others did and understood how it helped define who they were not just to the outside world but to themselves.)
And the sex...well, sometimes the scenes were hot. But mostly I thought them kind of clinical and reading them made me feel removed from the whole story. The sex scenes where they were NOT in character were much more romantic and organic...and even though Avery was good at what he did and wanted to give Colt what he needed, I could totally feel the disconnect when he would wonder if Colt wanted Avery, or if Colt wanted Sir.
Which, yeah, that was annoying. I kept having to mentally change that "name" to "Master" or adding "his" in front (or substituting "Dom") because the way the sentences were structured it just sounded so weird. Whatever Sir wanted, he would do anything for Sir, how Sir taught him to act...just, ugh. Maybe that's me and my dislike for most things portrayed in High-Protocol BDSM style...but the scenes weren't even that intense or dramatic and other than the title (and presentation pose) very little was strictly formal. And for some reason, that disconnect I had as a reader also seemed to translate in how Colt's subspace was portrayed as well...as a reaction to the pain but without the mental or emotional involvement that typically comes with such a release.
And while the last installment was a bit OTT, this one lacked that touch of external drama. Sure, there were two nervous meet-the-parents scenes (with Colt's being the most worrisome given it had been 16 years since he'd run away and the family lived in a conservative part of Texas)...but other than surprising me (Colt's family) and confusing me (Avery's mom?) the cathartic release just didn't materialize. Kind of like the BDSM scenes.
For anyone wanting to give it a try, this book continues almost immediately after the end of the last one, but still makes the effort to explain a lot of what previously occurred. To me, that was overkill; to someone wanting to jump in without reading the first one, it would work well. There are a few characters that might not be as well-defined given how their appearance here builds on their appearances in the previous book...but it wouldn't affect the specifics of this story.
That said, I really REALLY hope that Miles & Reyes are next. I might sit through another one before theirs (maybe Derrick & Robin) but probably not more than that.
(OOh, one last thing: While I appreciated the eye-candy I'd find looking up the knots, ties and rope...I'm not sure distracting the reader from the book is a good idea. Maybe provide more description for the Shibari steps instead of the formal knot/hitch names?)
ARC provided via Netgalley and Carina Press in exchange for honest review.
So, there were a few things I liked about this book, and a couple that either irritated, frustrated or annoyed me.
Let's start with the good.
I loved how Avery and Colt, who couldn't make their relationship work 5 years previously, took the time to actually work through their issues, and there was a whole lot of communication. A whole lot of talking through the things that didn't sit well with either and quite a bit of time spent voicing their needs. I loved that they were going to take life as it came, enjoying their reunion but also knowing that, to keep going, they'd need to come to grips with having a long distance relationship. 5 years prior, Colt couldn't deal with the separation and that is what led him to Clean Slate Ranch. But he's matured and grown emotionally in that time and is willing to try again.
Also, I adored how, other than with Colt, Avery was mostly not even interested in sex. When they first met he worked as a Dom for Hire, with no sexual interaction, and it never even occurred to him that he would be attracted to a client..and that all interactions were conducted behind closed doors. Considering his mom was a show-touring Domme in a dedicated D/s lifestyle with her husband...well, I found the dichotomy between the two interesting and the way Avery is portrayed as demi or sometimes asexual. (Also loved that he didn't feel the need to label himself though he appreciated that others did and understood how it helped define who they were not just to the outside world but to themselves.)
And the sex...well, sometimes the scenes were hot. But mostly I thought them kind of clinical and reading them made me feel removed from the whole story. The sex scenes where they were NOT in character were much more romantic and organic...and even though Avery was good at what he did and wanted to give Colt what he needed, I could totally feel the disconnect when he would wonder if Colt wanted Avery, or if Colt wanted Sir.
Which, yeah, that was annoying. I kept having to mentally change that "name" to "Master" or adding "his" in front (or substituting "Dom") because the way the sentences were structured it just sounded so weird. Whatever Sir wanted, he would do anything for Sir, how Sir taught him to act...just, ugh. Maybe that's me and my dislike for most things portrayed in High-Protocol BDSM style...but the scenes weren't even that intense or dramatic and other than the title (and presentation pose) very little was strictly formal. And for some reason, that disconnect I had as a reader also seemed to translate in how Colt's subspace was portrayed as well...as a reaction to the pain but without the mental or emotional involvement that typically comes with such a release.
And while the last installment was a bit OTT, this one lacked that touch of external drama. Sure, there were two nervous meet-the-parents scenes (with Colt's being the most worrisome given it had been 16 years since he'd run away and the family lived in a conservative part of Texas)...but other than surprising me (Colt's family) and confusing me (Avery's mom?) the cathartic release just didn't materialize. Kind of like the BDSM scenes.
For anyone wanting to give it a try, this book continues almost immediately after the end of the last one, but still makes the effort to explain a lot of what previously occurred. To me, that was overkill; to someone wanting to jump in without reading the first one, it would work well. There are a few characters that might not be as well-defined given how their appearance here builds on their appearances in the previous book...but it wouldn't affect the specifics of this story.
That said, I really REALLY hope that Miles & Reyes are next. I might sit through another one before theirs (maybe Derrick & Robin) but probably not more than that.
(OOh, one last thing: While I appreciated the eye-candy I'd find looking up the knots, ties and rope...I'm not sure distracting the reader from the book is a good idea. Maybe provide more description for the Shibari steps instead of the formal knot/hitch names?)
ARC provided via Netgalley and Carina Press in exchange for honest review.
June 9, 2018
This was terrible. I disliked everything about it.
I had been looking forward to these two after their set up from book one. It was a huge let down. This was over the top nonsense imo. Their relationship was completely unbelievable. It was cheesy and the whole dom/pet thing was ridiculous. I couldn't understand anything they did or why they did it. They both over shared their relationship dynamics/problems with anyone in the vicinity.
Colt was ok but I couldn't stand Avery. I legit hate read this from 50% on. I should have just dnf'd it but it is a review books so I skimmed the last half.
**ARC provided by publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
I had been looking forward to these two after their set up from book one. It was a huge let down. This was over the top nonsense imo. Their relationship was completely unbelievable. It was cheesy and the whole dom/pet thing was ridiculous. I couldn't understand anything they did or why they did it. They both over shared their relationship dynamics/problems with anyone in the vicinity.
Colt was ok but I couldn't stand Avery. I legit hate read this from 50% on. I should have just dnf'd it but it is a review books so I skimmed the last half.
**ARC provided by publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
May 23, 2018
This was a nice follow on from book 1 and really continued on the same timeline. Avery and Colt were an interesting partnership- Avery as Sir / Dom really had some self doubt and random issues that didn’t match with his Alpha status ! I couldn’t quite buy the Dom element but that’s just me. Colt was the classic martyr and seemed to wallow in uncertainty. I liked Colt but heavens he had some issues. The meetings with both parents felt somewhat random and then rushed - funny how homophobic families suddenly changed their minds. Anyway there’s an element of sweetness to this book, as expected, and a few small hooks for Reyes to have the next book... hopefully it will be his and Miles.
May 7, 2018
Thanks to Netgalley and Carina Press for providing me with an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
I love Clean Slate Ranch - the ranch atmosphere, the west, the ghost town nearby, the cabins and horses and cowboys!
Unfortunately for me, this installment didn't live up to the first. It was still good, but the plot felt a little forced, Avery felt a little one note, and there was a lot of overly lovey dovey cliches that made it less believable. The first story had more of a narrative force driving the story, while this one really just seemed like a bunch of interactions between Avery and Colt and occasionally other characters but without an over-arching story or point to the novel. It also felt like a lot of stuff was repeated over and over, and probably could have been edited out. For example, Avery's wondering if Colt wanted HIM or just him as Sir was brought up time after time, and then a few more times just for good measure. It was distracting from the scenes and made it harder to keep an interest.
Also, I know that with an ARC, final formatting isn't always in place, but there were quite a few places where formatting and lack of proofreading left some glaring errors that pulled me out of the story in my head - the proofreading needed being mostly a lot of places where hyphens should have been used and weren't (example: on-the-go would be written as on-thego).
Overall, I really fell in love with Colt, and kinda want a Colt to myself (though I wouldn't be his sir... he'd be my sexy versatile cowboy!). I liked getting to see Mack and Wes again, and really can't wait to read Reyes' story. Hopefully he's up next.
I love Clean Slate Ranch - the ranch atmosphere, the west, the ghost town nearby, the cabins and horses and cowboys!
Unfortunately for me, this installment didn't live up to the first. It was still good, but the plot felt a little forced, Avery felt a little one note, and there was a lot of overly lovey dovey cliches that made it less believable. The first story had more of a narrative force driving the story, while this one really just seemed like a bunch of interactions between Avery and Colt and occasionally other characters but without an over-arching story or point to the novel. It also felt like a lot of stuff was repeated over and over, and probably could have been edited out. For example, Avery's wondering if Colt wanted HIM or just him as Sir was brought up time after time, and then a few more times just for good measure. It was distracting from the scenes and made it harder to keep an interest.
Also, I know that with an ARC, final formatting isn't always in place, but there were quite a few places where formatting and lack of proofreading left some glaring errors that pulled me out of the story in my head - the proofreading needed being mostly a lot of places where hyphens should have been used and weren't (example: on-the-go would be written as on-thego).
Overall, I really fell in love with Colt, and kinda want a Colt to myself (though I wouldn't be his sir... he'd be my sexy versatile cowboy!). I liked getting to see Mack and Wes again, and really can't wait to read Reyes' story. Hopefully he's up next.
May 26, 2018
*** Deep thoughts, renewed hope, and vivid BDSM sex scenes. I know what I was getting into, and the sex scenes were well done.
We wanted to know more about Colt, 32, blonde Texas cowboy,
and we learn about his time on L.A. Swat team plus his history
with long-brown-haired, 32, Avery. Avery, the PhD. Historian, and BDSM Therapist,
is at the ranch delving into the past of the ghost town.
Colt is on tentative ground with Mack after the reveal in Wild Trail.
We find out quite a bit more about Avery and Colt's old relationship, and now renewed feelings and second chance. We get flashbacks to our couple's start in L.A. We have Marvelous BDSM that is well done, with correctly conducted scenes, deep passion, and beautiful inner thoughts from the Dom/Avery and his sub, Colt. We see a true Dom who knows his limits, and his sub's limits. We see proper aftercare; water, lotion, showers, naps, too.
It's marvelous !
Time passes as we see Sophie and Conrad's wedding, seasons go by, and Avery and Colt progress to a heavy sexual relationship including the BDSM scenes, flogging, spanking, etc., and these sessions are therapy for Colt, which is how they met years ago. A tragedy with a previous bad Dom, sent Colt to Avery's therapy practice, as a Dominant Therapist, helped Colt. Those sessions did not contain sex, but their attraction came later, and now they have fallen back into love once again. They are meant to be together.
We see each man struggle with family acceptance and their own insecurities. Our epilogue is great. I'm now hoping for Miles story, Saddle UP, in Sept. 2018.
I highly recommend this for those who love BDSM, or who want to learn more.
As they say, safe, sane and consensual, is the way to go.
ENJOY !
====
We wanted to know more about Colt, 32, blonde Texas cowboy,
and we learn about his time on L.A. Swat team plus his history
with long-brown-haired, 32, Avery. Avery, the PhD. Historian, and BDSM Therapist,
is at the ranch delving into the past of the ghost town.
Colt is on tentative ground with Mack after the reveal in Wild Trail.
We find out quite a bit more about Avery and Colt's old relationship, and now renewed feelings and second chance. We get flashbacks to our couple's start in L.A. We have Marvelous BDSM that is well done, with correctly conducted scenes, deep passion, and beautiful inner thoughts from the Dom/Avery and his sub, Colt. We see a true Dom who knows his limits, and his sub's limits. We see proper aftercare; water, lotion, showers, naps, too.
It's marvelous !
Time passes as we see Sophie and Conrad's wedding, seasons go by, and Avery and Colt progress to a heavy sexual relationship including the BDSM scenes, flogging, spanking, etc., and these sessions are therapy for Colt, which is how they met years ago. A tragedy with a previous bad Dom, sent Colt to Avery's therapy practice, as a Dominant Therapist, helped Colt. Those sessions did not contain sex, but their attraction came later, and now they have fallen back into love once again. They are meant to be together.
We see each man struggle with family acceptance and their own insecurities. Our epilogue is great. I'm now hoping for Miles story, Saddle UP, in Sept. 2018.
I highly recommend this for those who love BDSM, or who want to learn more.
As they say, safe, sane and consensual, is the way to go.
ENJOY !
====
December 4, 2018
What a beautiful story of a D/s relationship. A second chance romance for these guys in their mid-thirties, and their history has so many levels, so many challenges. I adored how slow the pace is in this story, giving everyone time to process and develop trust - it was lovely.
Both Avery and Colt have things they need to address and rushing right in to a happily-ever-after is definitely not realistic. Thankfully A.M. Arthur doesn't do that to us which makes everything mean so much more.
(Also, I loved the ending - I was a bit surprised, but it was great.)
Some of the loveliest BDSM scenes I've read in ages, and the rope scenes? esp the details of the Shibari work is incredible, it's easy to imagine just how Colt looked tied up like that - beautiful.
Both Avery and Colt have things they need to address and rushing right in to a happily-ever-after is definitely not realistic. Thankfully A.M. Arthur doesn't do that to us which makes everything mean so much more.
(Also, I loved the ending - I was a bit surprised, but it was great.)
Some of the loveliest BDSM scenes I've read in ages, and the rope scenes? esp the details of the Shibari work is incredible, it's easy to imagine just how Colt looked tied up like that - beautiful.
August 18, 2019
I liked Colt, he seemed like a sweet enough guy he was a little more serious in this book because of the secret he kept from his friend Mack and the fall out from it. I really fell in love with him in the first book Wild Trail. because of his friendly and funny personality.
Avery now I just didn't seem to warm up to him, he just came off as cold and full of himself with all his historical knowledge and things always had to go his way in the relationship with Colt. 😳
There was a part in the book where Colt was trying to find a reason other than their relationship for Avery to move closer and when Avery found out what Colt was doing he just about went ballistic 🤯
That's when I knew there was no way I was going to be a Avery fan, plus there just wasn't a lot of excitement going on. You did have some mild/mod. bdsm going on but not a really wow factor going on in this book for me. I will continue to read the third book Saddle Upbecause I'm curious about Reyes and Miles!
Avery now I just didn't seem to warm up to him, he just came off as cold and full of himself with all his historical knowledge and things always had to go his way in the relationship with Colt. 😳
There was a part in the book where Colt was trying to find a reason other than their relationship for Avery to move closer and when Avery found out what Colt was doing he just about went ballistic 🤯
That's when I knew there was no way I was going to be a Avery fan, plus there just wasn't a lot of excitement going on. You did have some mild/mod. bdsm going on but not a really wow factor going on in this book for me. I will continue to read the third book Saddle Upbecause I'm curious about Reyes and Miles!
May 21, 2018
*ARC provided by author
This was a sexy second chance romance.
Avery and a Colt were in a relationship 5 years ago that started off as a strictly D/s business exchange, but as they got to know one another became more. They broke up when Avery got a job that took him away and Colt ended moving to the ranch.
Now, they’ve been reunited when work brings Avery to the ranch, and they realize they are still very much in love. I enjoyed seeing them get reacquainted both in and out of the bedroom. They were definitely stronger this time around.
My only issue was that Avery had trouble believing Colt wanted everything, both the D/s relationship they’ve fallen back into and Avery his best friend/lover. I felt like he took too long to address his fears, but once he did, things got better.
This was a sexy second chance romance.
Avery and a Colt were in a relationship 5 years ago that started off as a strictly D/s business exchange, but as they got to know one another became more. They broke up when Avery got a job that took him away and Colt ended moving to the ranch.
Now, they’ve been reunited when work brings Avery to the ranch, and they realize they are still very much in love. I enjoyed seeing them get reacquainted both in and out of the bedroom. They were definitely stronger this time around.
My only issue was that Avery had trouble believing Colt wanted everything, both the D/s relationship they’ve fallen back into and Avery his best friend/lover. I felt like he took too long to address his fears, but once he did, things got better.
April 24, 2023
While the first book in this series, Wild Trail, was about two men meeting and falling in love, this book revisits two old lovers who never quite got over each other. There’s a lot to love about these two reuniting, but it drags a little bit, and I got a little bored towards the end, waiting for them to work their arrangement out. Avery and Colt come together explosively as sexual partners, and they can be immediately recognized as "Dom" and "sub", giving high emotion to the eroticism of their "Sir/pet" scenes. In spite of that, some of the BDSM elements of the story didn't really seem to be something that the "Dom" really embraced, or he needed, something not yet spoken...something more from his "sub". There was no doubt that Avery loved Colt but he many times came across as not really caring to be anyone's "Dom". He's not the stereotypical “Dom” that usually appear in these types of stories. He’s quiet, introverted, and not overly masculine. This caused me to really like some parts but be confused by others. On the other hand, whenever he enters the room, his easy confidence commands respect. The author also made his character demisexual and possibly somewhat on the ace spectrum. This is discussed quiet openly between Avery & Colt and gave the reader not overly familiar with the sexualities, some insight. Overall, this story just needed a better plot "backbone" to make it as successful as the first book. While it’s a steamy, sexy read by an absolutely awesome M/M author, it isn't as "up there" as the previous one...still...a good series...and soon I will soon start book #3. Oh... and you just HAVE to love Avery's mother!
May 21, 2018
I am totally entranced with the Clean Slate Ranch series. The characters are bold, well written and multi-faceted. What I love most is how A. M. Arthur shows us all sides of them and helps us understand who they are are as well as what they want … out of life and out of love. Colt and Avery's story was both heart-warming and heart-breaking. But, as it closed, it was beautiful.
Colt can't help his feelings. His feelings of inadequacy in not telling his best friend the truth. His feelings of not belonging, again. His feelings of missing a family that wants nothing to do with him. His feelings of love that never died for Avery and not being able to do anything about it. Now, it's up to him to earn back his friendship with Mack, to earn the love of Avery and make amends with his family.
Avery has gone on with his life after the devastation Colt caused in it. He loves his work but, part of him was left behind when his heart was broken. His family lives the lifestyle – a part of him misses it yet another part of him can't bring himself to do it. But, that part comes alive again when he sees Colt for the first time. He doesn't know if he could trust him again. But, the heart wants what the heart wants and he gives in. Time will tell if Colt has changed, if he grew up and if he earned enough trust to try again. Avery can only hope.
As Colt and Avery learn to be with each other again. They tackle their pasts, together. Surprisingly, both families come to terms with who they are and what they want out of life. Yes, Colt had some mess ups but nothing that couldn't be overcome. They find a happy medium and a way to be together that satisfies both of them.
The Clean Slate Ranch is turning into an amazing series. I adore everything about it. From the Ghost Town to the Bay area … from Mack and Wes to Colt and Avery … different stories, different characters but both just as appealing and engrossing. I am loving the way A. M. Arthur is bringing everything together, giving us characters that we could love and cheer for.
December 21, 2020
5 stars for the narration (natch!) 3-3.5 for the story
This is a second-chance romance between a couple whose relationship began when one of them - LA SWAT officer Colt - signed up to a (non-sexual) D/s arrangement with historian Avery around five years before the story proper begins. Avery has never been particularly interested in sex, so is surprised to find he's attracted to Colt; they fall for each other and eventually embark on a physical relationship. (As a side note, I couldn't help but wonder how a college professor was able to operate as a professional Dom - Avery uses his own name so it's not exactly a secret. Don't teachers in the US have to be really careful about stuff like that?)
Anyway, five years after they broke up when Colt realised he wasn't prepared to do a long-distance relationship (he legged it while Avery was away which was pretty cowardly), they meet again when Avery is employed to do some research around the recently discovered ghost town near the Clean Slate Ranch. After much soul- searching and honest discussions - which I very much appreciated - they agree to try again as a couple, even though they both know that Avery will be leaving the ranch in a month.
That's the plot in a nutshell. It allows for plenty of sexytimes, although as I honestly don't get the pain-as-pleasure thing, I could happily have dispensed with quite a few of them - plus, they often felt like padding because the plot was so slight). The best part of the story was the willingness on the part of both men to be truthful and work through any issues.
The narration was, of course, excellent - Greg Boudreaux always gets the characterisations right and does a good job with the emotional side of the stories he narrates - but even a performer of his calibre can't really disguise the weakness of the story in this one.
This is a second-chance romance between a couple whose relationship began when one of them - LA SWAT officer Colt - signed up to a (non-sexual) D/s arrangement with historian Avery around five years before the story proper begins. Avery has never been particularly interested in sex, so is surprised to find he's attracted to Colt; they fall for each other and eventually embark on a physical relationship. (As a side note, I couldn't help but wonder how a college professor was able to operate as a professional Dom - Avery uses his own name so it's not exactly a secret. Don't teachers in the US have to be really careful about stuff like that?)
Anyway, five years after they broke up when Colt realised he wasn't prepared to do a long-distance relationship (he legged it while Avery was away which was pretty cowardly), they meet again when Avery is employed to do some research around the recently discovered ghost town near the Clean Slate Ranch. After much soul- searching and honest discussions - which I very much appreciated - they agree to try again as a couple, even though they both know that Avery will be leaving the ranch in a month.
That's the plot in a nutshell. It allows for plenty of sexytimes, although as I honestly don't get the pain-as-pleasure thing, I could happily have dispensed with quite a few of them - plus, they often felt like padding because the plot was so slight). The best part of the story was the willingness on the part of both men to be truthful and work through any issues.
The narration was, of course, excellent - Greg Boudreaux always gets the characterisations right and does a good job with the emotional side of the stories he narrates - but even a performer of his calibre can't really disguise the weakness of the story in this one.
March 26, 2018
~ Book provided by NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion
Roped In is the second installment in the Clean Slate Ranch series and I have to confess to not liking it as much as I liked Wild Trail, the previous book. The main reason for that is the BDSM theme. I'm just not into the whole Dom and Sub thing, or as it is here, the Sir and pet thing.
The other parts of the story I absolutely liked. How Colt had to deal with that big secret of him that's now out of the bag, and no, I'm not talking about him being gay. That we already knew. You know what secret I'm talking about, if you read book one. Which you absolutely don't need to have done, before reading Roped In, just saying. The whole dynamics between the different characters I also really liked.
This would have probably been a 4,5 star read, if not for the BDSM thing... which makes me sad, because I basically like everything A.M. Arthur writes.
If you like to read about BDSM and want to have a good angsty M/M read, this is probably a good book for you. Me not so much, but I'm definitely looking forward to Miles' and Reyes' story. These two appear broken and I'm really curious.
Rating: 3,5 stars
Roped In is the second installment in the Clean Slate Ranch series and I have to confess to not liking it as much as I liked Wild Trail, the previous book. The main reason for that is the BDSM theme. I'm just not into the whole Dom and Sub thing, or as it is here, the Sir and pet thing.
The other parts of the story I absolutely liked. How Colt had to deal with that big secret of him that's now out of the bag, and no, I'm not talking about him being gay. That we already knew. You know what secret I'm talking about, if you read book one. Which you absolutely don't need to have done, before reading Roped In, just saying. The whole dynamics between the different characters I also really liked.
This would have probably been a 4,5 star read, if not for the BDSM thing... which makes me sad, because I basically like everything A.M. Arthur writes.
If you like to read about BDSM and want to have a good angsty M/M read, this is probably a good book for you. Me not so much, but I'm definitely looking forward to Miles' and Reyes' story. These two appear broken and I'm really curious.
Rating: 3,5 stars
May 21, 2018
When I saw the title of this second Clean Slate Ranch story, I figured it referred to horses or something. Boy was I wrong, surprised but also pleased to find out it meant kink! This is one of the less angst filled, more drama free of all the author’s books I’ve read, I think. It stands alone quite well but hints of Avery and Colt’s past as a couple were in book one, along with the circumstances of Colt’s injury and estrangement from his best friend Mack. This story encompasses Colt’s attempts to resolve his issues but mostly focuses on rekindling the relationship with Avery, including the BDSM. A few flashbacks fill in the background for the couple, limited scenes that were placed well. Avery’s character was refreshingly atypical in regard to the BDSM, which he treated as a completely non-sexual activity before he met Colt, no clubs or public scenes plus he also seems to be demisexual. The BDSM play was hot and sexy, not super intense but passionate and just dirty enough!
There was repetition sometimes like Avery demanding complete honesty but not opening up over concerns that Colt wanted kink more than Avery. Calling Avery “Sir” in his own head all the time and Avery referring to himself in third person as “Sir” wasn’t a favorite. Not fond of the term “pet” either. Avery’s aunt/adoptive mother acting homophobic was kind of weird for being part of a D/s couple and I expected it to become a big deal but that kind of fizzled out. Colt’s visit with his family felt like it should have been a bigger deal and didn’t provide his parents and siblings much depth. I wish it had been fleshed out more and maybe happened earlier in the story. It was nice that it wasn’t a troubling event and it did add to developing Colt’s character. Seeing Mack and Colt finding their footing as friends again felt realistic and made me happy.
I really liked it overall and the pacing of progress between Colt and Avery, showing them spending time together outside of the ranch and bedroom as a couple. I enjoyed seeing Mack and Wes from book one and having new faces, like Miles and Derrick, as part of the storyline. I’m guessing Reyes story is next but I’m not positive. I’ll be reading it anyway! I always like, if not love Ms. Arthur’s books, always getting a quality story with an absorbing plot, populated with interesting people. I would recommend this, along with any other novel in any of the series.
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review for Jessie G Books Reviews blog*
There was repetition sometimes like Avery demanding complete honesty but not opening up over concerns that Colt wanted kink more than Avery. Calling Avery “Sir” in his own head all the time and Avery referring to himself in third person as “Sir” wasn’t a favorite. Not fond of the term “pet” either. Avery’s aunt/adoptive mother acting homophobic was kind of weird for being part of a D/s couple and I expected it to become a big deal but that kind of fizzled out. Colt’s visit with his family felt like it should have been a bigger deal and didn’t provide his parents and siblings much depth. I wish it had been fleshed out more and maybe happened earlier in the story. It was nice that it wasn’t a troubling event and it did add to developing Colt’s character. Seeing Mack and Colt finding their footing as friends again felt realistic and made me happy.
I really liked it overall and the pacing of progress between Colt and Avery, showing them spending time together outside of the ranch and bedroom as a couple. I enjoyed seeing Mack and Wes from book one and having new faces, like Miles and Derrick, as part of the storyline. I’m guessing Reyes story is next but I’m not positive. I’ll be reading it anyway! I always like, if not love Ms. Arthur’s books, always getting a quality story with an absorbing plot, populated with interesting people. I would recommend this, along with any other novel in any of the series.
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review for Jessie G Books Reviews blog*
May 14, 2018
3.5 stars rounded up on here since I loved the last quarter of the story so much!
This is the second story in the Clean Slate Ranch series and I gotta say, I really love this group of characters! We met Colt and Avery back in the first book of the series. Colt was on the same SWAT team as Mack, and now they work on the ranch alongside their other friend, Reyes. Those who read the first story know of their friendship and past and how they are linked.
Avery was called to the ranch to be a historical consultant and help with the renovation and preservation of the deserted town they discovered on the ranch property. He and Colt were together back when Colt was still with the SWAT team, but their relationship fell apart. When they reconnect on Clean Slate Ranch, the emotions are still are there, but that trust has been broken, and the two must work to get back on the same page together.
I really liked Colt and Avery, although I do wish that Avery hadn't been so conflicted over wanting Colt, and then being unsure if Colt wanted Avery or just the Dom he used to have. I'm glad we got the flashbacks we did to give a bit more substance to their relationship, but Avery just didn't seem like a...strong dom? If that makes sense. I really liked that the author touched on his sexuality a bit.
To me, this didn't feel as strong as the first book in the series, and I can't really give a reason as to why. I think I got a bit...bored in the middle, skimmed a bit, and then the last quarter of the story really got things back on track. I can't wait for the stories for the rest of the guys we've met here, I think Reyes and Miles are next, yay!
Also - as usual, the formatting on Carina Press ARCs is just horrible! It makes it VERY hard to read and understand when a new character is talking and a new paragraph should have started. They really need to address this! This did not affect my rating since I know it's the way they are sending the files out, but wow, it can be hard to read.
I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second story in the Clean Slate Ranch series and I gotta say, I really love this group of characters! We met Colt and Avery back in the first book of the series. Colt was on the same SWAT team as Mack, and now they work on the ranch alongside their other friend, Reyes. Those who read the first story know of their friendship and past and how they are linked.
Avery was called to the ranch to be a historical consultant and help with the renovation and preservation of the deserted town they discovered on the ranch property. He and Colt were together back when Colt was still with the SWAT team, but their relationship fell apart. When they reconnect on Clean Slate Ranch, the emotions are still are there, but that trust has been broken, and the two must work to get back on the same page together.
I really liked Colt and Avery, although I do wish that Avery hadn't been so conflicted over wanting Colt, and then being unsure if Colt wanted Avery or just the Dom he used to have. I'm glad we got the flashbacks we did to give a bit more substance to their relationship, but Avery just didn't seem like a...strong dom? If that makes sense. I really liked that the author touched on his sexuality a bit.
To me, this didn't feel as strong as the first book in the series, and I can't really give a reason as to why. I think I got a bit...bored in the middle, skimmed a bit, and then the last quarter of the story really got things back on track. I can't wait for the stories for the rest of the guys we've met here, I think Reyes and Miles are next, yay!
Also - as usual, the formatting on Carina Press ARCs is just horrible! It makes it VERY hard to read and understand when a new character is talking and a new paragraph should have started. They really need to address this! This did not affect my rating since I know it's the way they are sending the files out, but wow, it can be hard to read.
I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 10, 2018
4.5 stars Colt and Avery.
A story with complex personalities and events in it. The growing to each other parts were with a realistic intensity done.
Colt and Avery broke up five years ago. There were insurmountable issues. Colt instant moved away and now they are facing each other... at the Clean Slate Ranch.
Their issues are the same, so how can they ever overcome them.
Wonderful dynamic, the versatile between them was so warm and beautiful to watch. The further in the story the more I loved how they interact, and the more I understand the fast
re-use of their Sir and pet names.
The Dom/sub parts were absolute magnificent and variously put together. I loved it to see a different approach to a D/s relationship.
For myself I had some trouble with the long distance. But in this journey it felt acceptable to do.
My heart reached out to both men, both complex and with defined characteristics
Sometimes i was a bit more on the #Colt-team but I totally understood Avery's pov.
Colt and Avery both beautifully flawed... it felt all real and honest with the right amount of emotions.
Good solid written story with a moderate pace. It was an extended story, else I would have read it in one breath.
Kindly received an arc from the publisher.
It's an arc so I assume there will be some more editing, because the transitions between the paragraphs weren't always clear.
A story with complex personalities and events in it. The growing to each other parts were with a realistic intensity done.
Colt and Avery broke up five years ago. There were insurmountable issues. Colt instant moved away and now they are facing each other... at the Clean Slate Ranch.
Their issues are the same, so how can they ever overcome them.
Wonderful dynamic, the versatile between them was so warm and beautiful to watch. The further in the story the more I loved how they interact, and the more I understand the fast
re-use of their Sir and pet names.
The Dom/sub parts were absolute magnificent and variously put together. I loved it to see a different approach to a D/s relationship.
For myself I had some trouble with the long distance. But in this journey it felt acceptable to do.
My heart reached out to both men, both complex and with defined characteristics
Sometimes i was a bit more on the #Colt-team but I totally understood Avery's pov.
Colt and Avery both beautifully flawed... it felt all real and honest with the right amount of emotions.
Good solid written story with a moderate pace. It was an extended story, else I would have read it in one breath.
Kindly received an arc from the publisher.
It's an arc so I assume there will be some more editing, because the transitions between the paragraphs weren't always clear.
May 20, 2018
2.5 stars
I was a little on the fence about reading Roped In. I enjoyed the first book of the Clean Slate Ranch series, but didn’t love it. That reminder coupled with the second book’s blurb mentioning a D/s relationship had me wavering because it certainly isn’t my favorite dynamic. In the end, my curiosity over the ranch, the new ghost town, and this group of characters convinced me to give this series another chance. Unfortunately, even ignoring the fact that BDSM isn’t my trope of choice, Roped In didn’t work all that well for me.
Though this book is billed as a standalone, I think the existing secondary relationships and conflicts would make this a difficult book to jump into. I liked Colt as a secondary character in Wild Trail and his secret that came out at the end of it left me intrigued as to how he and Mack’s friendship would fare. Avery was more of a wild card, but the few glimpses I got of him were interesting, especially the idea of he and Colt’s past relationship. Going into Roped In, I had hopes for a lot of chemistry and emotion in this couple’s second change romance, but I found it lacking, instead the book primarily focused on the BDSM arrangements and how these fit with a long-term relationship. There was a lot of back and forth between the men, especially regarding Avery’s ability to trust Cole. Between the lack of a strong connection and the wishy-washy commitment, I simply wasn’t invested in the couple.
My interest in Roped In also wavered due to the writing and narrative style. The timeline and writing was much choppier than I’d expect from this author. I typically like alternating third person point-of-views, but Roped In flipped back and forth between Avery and Cole mid-chapter and I often lost track of who was narrating at the moment. Considering I read an ARC, there is a chance those jumps were cleaned up before publication, but seeing as to how much the style pulled me out of the book, it bears mention.
I’m certain plenty of readers will enjoy Roped In, but for me this one fell flat. I’m still really interested in Reyes and Miles, so I may venture back to Clean Slate Ranch yet, but I wouldn’t say I’m pulling at the bit (pun entirely intended ;) ).
*Received eARC via Netgalley. The author and publisher had no influence over this review*
I was a little on the fence about reading Roped In. I enjoyed the first book of the Clean Slate Ranch series, but didn’t love it. That reminder coupled with the second book’s blurb mentioning a D/s relationship had me wavering because it certainly isn’t my favorite dynamic. In the end, my curiosity over the ranch, the new ghost town, and this group of characters convinced me to give this series another chance. Unfortunately, even ignoring the fact that BDSM isn’t my trope of choice, Roped In didn’t work all that well for me.
Though this book is billed as a standalone, I think the existing secondary relationships and conflicts would make this a difficult book to jump into. I liked Colt as a secondary character in Wild Trail and his secret that came out at the end of it left me intrigued as to how he and Mack’s friendship would fare. Avery was more of a wild card, but the few glimpses I got of him were interesting, especially the idea of he and Colt’s past relationship. Going into Roped In, I had hopes for a lot of chemistry and emotion in this couple’s second change romance, but I found it lacking, instead the book primarily focused on the BDSM arrangements and how these fit with a long-term relationship. There was a lot of back and forth between the men, especially regarding Avery’s ability to trust Cole. Between the lack of a strong connection and the wishy-washy commitment, I simply wasn’t invested in the couple.
My interest in Roped In also wavered due to the writing and narrative style. The timeline and writing was much choppier than I’d expect from this author. I typically like alternating third person point-of-views, but Roped In flipped back and forth between Avery and Cole mid-chapter and I often lost track of who was narrating at the moment. Considering I read an ARC, there is a chance those jumps were cleaned up before publication, but seeing as to how much the style pulled me out of the book, it bears mention.
I’m certain plenty of readers will enjoy Roped In, but for me this one fell flat. I’m still really interested in Reyes and Miles, so I may venture back to Clean Slate Ranch yet, but I wouldn’t say I’m pulling at the bit (pun entirely intended ;) ).
*Received eARC via Netgalley. The author and publisher had no influence over this review*
May 21, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Roped In is the second book in A.M. Arthur’s Clean Slate Ranch series. We meet both men in the first book, Wild Trail, and many of the side characters cross over between books. While I think you could follow the story without having read the first book, there is a subplot about Colt’s relationship with his best friend that starts in Wild Trail, so I do think that this one is best read after the first.
I really enjoy the set up for this series and Arthur has done a nice job developing the setting with the ranch, the small town, and the ghost town restoration. I really like the side characters, as well as the bonds of friendship and family that these guys have all built. The relationship between Avery and Colt overlays well with this set up and I really liked revisiting these characters.
Arthur gives us a nice sense of Avery and Colt’s past relationship, as well as how things are developing this time around. We get a series of flash back scenes that cover their earlier relationship and we can see the guys meeting, as well as how their relationship changed from a platonic Dom/sub connection to a sexual and romantic partnership as well. I wish we could see more of what had happened to cause their break up (we are told but we don’t see those scenes), but overall I enjoyed the way that the backstory on their relationship is conveyed and it was nice to see that connection rekindled.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Roped In is the second book in A.M. Arthur’s Clean Slate Ranch series. We meet both men in the first book, Wild Trail, and many of the side characters cross over between books. While I think you could follow the story without having read the first book, there is a subplot about Colt’s relationship with his best friend that starts in Wild Trail, so I do think that this one is best read after the first.
I really enjoy the set up for this series and Arthur has done a nice job developing the setting with the ranch, the small town, and the ghost town restoration. I really like the side characters, as well as the bonds of friendship and family that these guys have all built. The relationship between Avery and Colt overlays well with this set up and I really liked revisiting these characters.
Arthur gives us a nice sense of Avery and Colt’s past relationship, as well as how things are developing this time around. We get a series of flash back scenes that cover their earlier relationship and we can see the guys meeting, as well as how their relationship changed from a platonic Dom/sub connection to a sexual and romantic partnership as well. I wish we could see more of what had happened to cause their break up (we are told but we don’t see those scenes), but overall I enjoyed the way that the backstory on their relationship is conveyed and it was nice to see that connection rekindled.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
May 21, 2018
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
I still love the Clean Slate Ranch but this second chance romance has enough break-up/make-up angst for a Taylor Swift song. In the past, Avery and Colt loved each other but they couldn’t work through their issues. Reunited on the ranch, they attempt to make their relationship work.
It’s probably realistic, but this story circles round and round the same issues over and over again. Their relationship is long distance and these two can’t agree on the distance, the sex or even the kink that brought them together in the first place. Because of the long distance issue, the second third of the book is a series of brief meet ups that involve a little bit of sex and kink - and a whole lot of arguing. The story is missing the escalating sexual tension and intimacy that a good romance needs.
My other problem is that I didn’t love Avery. His character didn’t always make sense to me. I still don’t understand why a man on the Ace scale of sexuality chose a side job as a professional Dom. He feels quite selfish at times. I don’t understand why he wouldn’t immediately look for jobs that would take him closer to Colt at the ranch and I grew frustrated with the compromises Colt was expected to make for Avery.
I really loved Colt in the first book and I’m glad he got his own story. I have huge sympathy for him and I kept feeling frustrated for him as both Avery and Mack kept making him jump through hoops to prove himself.
Despite not loving this story, I really enjoy the Clean Slate Ranch and the growing network of characters involved with the ranch. The best scenes in this book are quiet scenes of downtime on the ranch and the moments of closeness between the men who work the ranch. I hope I enjoy the next books more than this one.
I still love the Clean Slate Ranch but this second chance romance has enough break-up/make-up angst for a Taylor Swift song. In the past, Avery and Colt loved each other but they couldn’t work through their issues. Reunited on the ranch, they attempt to make their relationship work.
It’s probably realistic, but this story circles round and round the same issues over and over again. Their relationship is long distance and these two can’t agree on the distance, the sex or even the kink that brought them together in the first place. Because of the long distance issue, the second third of the book is a series of brief meet ups that involve a little bit of sex and kink - and a whole lot of arguing. The story is missing the escalating sexual tension and intimacy that a good romance needs.
My other problem is that I didn’t love Avery. His character didn’t always make sense to me. I still don’t understand why a man on the Ace scale of sexuality chose a side job as a professional Dom. He feels quite selfish at times. I don’t understand why he wouldn’t immediately look for jobs that would take him closer to Colt at the ranch and I grew frustrated with the compromises Colt was expected to make for Avery.
I really loved Colt in the first book and I’m glad he got his own story. I have huge sympathy for him and I kept feeling frustrated for him as both Avery and Mack kept making him jump through hoops to prove himself.
Despite not loving this story, I really enjoy the Clean Slate Ranch and the growing network of characters involved with the ranch. The best scenes in this book are quiet scenes of downtime on the ranch and the moments of closeness between the men who work the ranch. I hope I enjoy the next books more than this one.
June 30, 2018
*Received ARC from Netgalley*
This one took me a little while to get into. But once I did it worked for me. I loved seeing Colt & Avery find their way back to each other, though I wish it had been more balanced. It feels like everything is blamed on Colt and all the faults are laid at his feel, when Avery was just as responsible. It takes two. Everything is put on Colt, and Avery never has to compromise or adjust. The last misunderstanding really highlights this. Colt does something, Avery FLIPS out, is pretty insulting and dismissive and storms off but when it's resolved it's Colt apologizing. It's Colt making concessions. It's Colt adjusting his expectations. Avery doesn't do anything but be "magnanimously forgiving". It honestly ruined it for me a little bit. The entire book is Colt trying to prove himself to Avery...while Avery doesn't do half as much to prove himself to Colt. It's so frustrating. This isn't to say I hate Avery...I don't. I just wanted more balance. I loved seeing the ranch, and the characters that live there. I liked seeing Mack move towards forgiving Colt and realizing he was going through stuff as well. Intrigued by the hints of who is for Reyes, I think I'll love that book. I liked the scenes with their respective families. I appreciate that while Colt's were happy to see him they weren't magically accepting (they weren't jerks) and that while Avery's mom was a little standoffish she had her reasons and she comes around.
This one took me a little while to get into. But once I did it worked for me. I loved seeing Colt & Avery find their way back to each other, though I wish it had been more balanced. It feels like everything is blamed on Colt and all the faults are laid at his feel, when Avery was just as responsible. It takes two. Everything is put on Colt, and Avery never has to compromise or adjust. The last misunderstanding really highlights this. Colt does something, Avery FLIPS out, is pretty insulting and dismissive and storms off but when it's resolved it's Colt apologizing. It's Colt making concessions. It's Colt adjusting his expectations. Avery doesn't do anything but be "magnanimously forgiving". It honestly ruined it for me a little bit. The entire book is Colt trying to prove himself to Avery...while Avery doesn't do half as much to prove himself to Colt. It's so frustrating. This isn't to say I hate Avery...I don't. I just wanted more balance. I loved seeing the ranch, and the characters that live there. I liked seeing Mack move towards forgiving Colt and realizing he was going through stuff as well. Intrigued by the hints of who is for Reyes, I think I'll love that book. I liked the scenes with their respective families. I appreciate that while Colt's were happy to see him they weren't magically accepting (they weren't jerks) and that while Avery's mom was a little standoffish she had her reasons and she comes around.
May 12, 2018
✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ FOUR-STAR ✩ REVIEW ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩
> > Judging a Book by it's Cover < <
Two men, in varying degrees of undress, standing in a warm and comforting pose, out on the open ranchlands. The neutral colors and illustrated look give it a softer look.
I did not read the synopsis prior to selecting this title, having read the first book in the series and wanting to continue reading them...
.
> > Looking Deeper < <
POV ~> Third person, varied tense.
Colt has been struggling silently for years now, but taking a bullet for a man he thinks of as a brother amplifies those struggles. He feels alienated and is suffering from nightmares and anxiety. Seeing Avery again, his ex-boyfriend and former Dom that he's never stopped loving, only complicated Colt's subconscious thoughts and tangles the nightmares worse.
Avery's hired on to help accurately restore the Bentley Ghost Town. Bumping into Colt reignites a passion inside Avery that only Colt has ever managed to light. They both have baggage, issues, and passion. Complications are plenty. Do they have they resolve to work it out this time around?
Colt and Avery were taken to several locations during this story. They did not stay on the ranch the whole time. Their past history was provided nicely and there was nothing amiss. There was good cast interaction with the other ranch staff and friends, as well as various family types. Chemistry was never their problem but the compatibility had a few trust-issue speed bumps. Dialogue was strong and smart. Their interactions were good, although I often questioned why the Dom was so inwardly insecure sometimes when he should have spoken up more openly sometimes. The conclusion is solid and satisfying but the final question makes no sense from a logistic point... I know, it's FICTION and does not NEED to have all the answers, but still, that was just my personal hangup at the end.
Overall, I still loved the book and found it to be an emotional addition to the series. I look forward to the next in the series.
.
Rating: [R] ~ Score: 4.15 ~ Stars: 4
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the Author/Publisher with the hope that I would voluntarily leave unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
> > Judging a Book by it's Cover < <
Two men, in varying degrees of undress, standing in a warm and comforting pose, out on the open ranchlands. The neutral colors and illustrated look give it a softer look.
I did not read the synopsis prior to selecting this title, having read the first book in the series and wanting to continue reading them...
.
> > Looking Deeper < <
POV ~> Third person, varied tense.
Colt has been struggling silently for years now, but taking a bullet for a man he thinks of as a brother amplifies those struggles. He feels alienated and is suffering from nightmares and anxiety. Seeing Avery again, his ex-boyfriend and former Dom that he's never stopped loving, only complicated Colt's subconscious thoughts and tangles the nightmares worse.
Avery's hired on to help accurately restore the Bentley Ghost Town. Bumping into Colt reignites a passion inside Avery that only Colt has ever managed to light. They both have baggage, issues, and passion. Complications are plenty. Do they have they resolve to work it out this time around?
Colt and Avery were taken to several locations during this story. They did not stay on the ranch the whole time. Their past history was provided nicely and there was nothing amiss. There was good cast interaction with the other ranch staff and friends, as well as various family types. Chemistry was never their problem but the compatibility had a few trust-issue speed bumps. Dialogue was strong and smart. Their interactions were good, although I often questioned why the Dom was so inwardly insecure sometimes when he should have spoken up more openly sometimes. The conclusion is solid and satisfying but the final question makes no sense from a logistic point... I know, it's FICTION and does not NEED to have all the answers, but still, that was just my personal hangup at the end.
Overall, I still loved the book and found it to be an emotional addition to the series. I look forward to the next in the series.
.
Rating: [R] ~ Score: 4.15 ~ Stars: 4
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the Author/Publisher with the hope that I would voluntarily leave unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
September 2, 2021
2.5-3 stars
okay soo this book i have a love hate relationship with even though i just finished.
Avery... he was interesting i loved the shy nerdy professor, but i just couldn't get the feel of him being a true Dom to Colts sub. Also Avery was kind of hypocritical during the book, not talking or trusting Colt when that is what he ask from Colt... idk it just rubbed me the wrong way a few times.
I think that while i enjoyed watching them learn to love each other again and figure out if their relationship will work for the second time, i just felt like something was off or missing in their relationship.
Also Colt.. he is the free spirit that needs to not always run,
overall not my favorite but i read this so i could get to book 3 with miles and reyes!
okay soo this book i have a love hate relationship with even though i just finished.
Avery... he was interesting i loved the shy nerdy professor, but i just couldn't get the feel of him being a true Dom to Colts sub. Also Avery was kind of hypocritical during the book, not talking or trusting Colt when that is what he ask from Colt... idk it just rubbed me the wrong way a few times.
I think that while i enjoyed watching them learn to love each other again and figure out if their relationship will work for the second time, i just felt like something was off or missing in their relationship.
Also Colt.. he is the free spirit that needs to not always run,
overall not my favorite but i read this so i could get to book 3 with miles and reyes!
August 21, 2018
3 stars ⭐️
Good second book to the series, although this kind of kink is not usually my thing, I thought the book was hot. An unlikely dom and a more unlikely sub, make this an interesting story and a chance to read a little more about the couple in the previous book. Looking forward to the 3er book in the series.
Good second book to the series, although this kind of kink is not usually my thing, I thought the book was hot. An unlikely dom and a more unlikely sub, make this an interesting story and a chance to read a little more about the couple in the previous book. Looking forward to the 3er book in the series.
May 20, 2018
The second book in the Clean Slate Ranch serie.
Roped In.
the story about Colt and Avery.
I liked both characters and their journey from their break-up
to a second chance.
The story and plotline is solid and well written.
A.M.Arthur is a talented author and the Clean Slate Ranch a terrific serie.
Hope for more.
only minor point is that the backstory ,their past.for me just pops up now and
than.after three times,it bcomes annoying
butt overall a fun,sexy second chance romance
Arc was provided trough netgalley in exchange for a review
Roped In.
the story about Colt and Avery.
I liked both characters and their journey from their break-up
to a second chance.
The story and plotline is solid and well written.
A.M.Arthur is a talented author and the Clean Slate Ranch a terrific serie.
Hope for more.
only minor point is that the backstory ,their past.for me just pops up now and
than.after three times,it bcomes annoying
butt overall a fun,sexy second chance romance
Arc was provided trough netgalley in exchange for a review
April 23, 2018
**3.5 stars**
ARC provided by the publisher through Net Galley in exchange for an impartial review.
Colt Woods and Avery Hendrix were once in a D/s relationship and were in love. Colt was LAPD SWAT and Avery was working toward his PhD in American History while both teaching and consulting on his favorite topic: the Old West. Unfortunately, Colt not only refused to share a dark secret with his best friend, Mack, causing he and Avery to quarrel, but he also chose to resign his job and run away from his problems, leaving Avery behind.
Now, as Avery arrives at the Clean Slate Ranch to consult with Mack (Wild Trail) about the ghost town he found and plans to restore, Avery is shocked to come face-to-face with his past as he sees that Colt is working at the ranch with Mack. This book deals with their renewed relationship—inevitable once they begin to talk again. They address unresolved issues from the past; Colt’s unveiling of the truth to Mack, and the repercussions from that; their own past inability to overcome the separation required by their professions; and their families of origin. In addition, they build and fortify not only their D/s relationship, but also their love and commitment to one another.
Is it easy? No way. But the author takes us through what happened in the past and what is happening in the present and offers hope for the future. Overall, I enjoyed the story, though I must say that there were so many sex scenes they became repetitive and less interesting.
The one thing that really bothered me was the jump to use of present tense in flashback scenes. Since this is an ARC, the formatting wasn’t set up yet, so there were no marked scene breaks, making transition from one scene or location to another difficult to pick up on. And without those scene breaks, I’d suddenly come upon a passage where present tense was being used, disrupting the flow of my reading. I’d stop and then realize I was at a flashback scene where both the narrative and the dialogue used present tense. Honestly, I did not care for use of present tense in past scenes at all. In fact, I ended up skimming those segments, pulling key points and then moving along. If I was one of those reviewers who use gifs, I’d definitely insert one here that said “Nope!”
That was my major peeve, but overall, I enjoyed the story and I’d recommend it to those who enjoy cowboys, mild D/s and rope play, as well as to those who enjoy stories featuring smaller Doms—Colt is taller and more muscular than Avery. All in all, it was a nice story and sequel to Wild Trail.
ARC provided by the publisher through Net Galley in exchange for an impartial review.
Colt Woods and Avery Hendrix were once in a D/s relationship and were in love. Colt was LAPD SWAT and Avery was working toward his PhD in American History while both teaching and consulting on his favorite topic: the Old West. Unfortunately, Colt not only refused to share a dark secret with his best friend, Mack, causing he and Avery to quarrel, but he also chose to resign his job and run away from his problems, leaving Avery behind.
Now, as Avery arrives at the Clean Slate Ranch to consult with Mack (Wild Trail) about the ghost town he found and plans to restore, Avery is shocked to come face-to-face with his past as he sees that Colt is working at the ranch with Mack. This book deals with their renewed relationship—inevitable once they begin to talk again. They address unresolved issues from the past; Colt’s unveiling of the truth to Mack, and the repercussions from that; their own past inability to overcome the separation required by their professions; and their families of origin. In addition, they build and fortify not only their D/s relationship, but also their love and commitment to one another.
Is it easy? No way. But the author takes us through what happened in the past and what is happening in the present and offers hope for the future. Overall, I enjoyed the story, though I must say that there were so many sex scenes they became repetitive and less interesting.
The one thing that really bothered me was the jump to use of present tense in flashback scenes. Since this is an ARC, the formatting wasn’t set up yet, so there were no marked scene breaks, making transition from one scene or location to another difficult to pick up on. And without those scene breaks, I’d suddenly come upon a passage where present tense was being used, disrupting the flow of my reading. I’d stop and then realize I was at a flashback scene where both the narrative and the dialogue used present tense. Honestly, I did not care for use of present tense in past scenes at all. In fact, I ended up skimming those segments, pulling key points and then moving along. If I was one of those reviewers who use gifs, I’d definitely insert one here that said “Nope!”
That was my major peeve, but overall, I enjoyed the story and I’d recommend it to those who enjoy cowboys, mild D/s and rope play, as well as to those who enjoy stories featuring smaller Doms—Colt is taller and more muscular than Avery. All in all, it was a nice story and sequel to Wild Trail.
April 8, 2018
Title was provided via netgalley for an honest review.
BDSM titles always are a win or lose for me. It has to be done correctly in order for the rest of it to come together. Avery and Colt's back and forth between attraction and not is really annoying. I'm not sure if they were introduced in book 1 (I didn't know this was a series), but not having that founding relationship dynamic makes this probably more sour of a story. I'm not a fan of third person submission. It makes me cringe. There are just certain BDSM dynamics I can't swallow this is borderline one of them.
Additionally if the Dom of the story is going to be a Dom, he needs to really BE the DOM. I tend to see these roles as a source of guidance and strength. That's not to say a sub is weak or helpless, but there's a type of reassurance that Doms tend to provide that I didn't see. I guess it's a bit of a relationship and dynamic stereotype, but I think the fact that this starts with a pre-established relationship that is BDSM just URHG.
The rest of the story was ok, but it's hard to disassociate the characters from the story when BDSM is a crucial part of the character dynamic. 3 stars.
BDSM titles always are a win or lose for me. It has to be done correctly in order for the rest of it to come together. Avery and Colt's back and forth between attraction and not is really annoying. I'm not sure if they were introduced in book 1 (I didn't know this was a series), but not having that founding relationship dynamic makes this probably more sour of a story. I'm not a fan of third person submission. It makes me cringe. There are just certain BDSM dynamics I can't swallow this is borderline one of them.
Additionally if the Dom of the story is going to be a Dom, he needs to really BE the DOM. I tend to see these roles as a source of guidance and strength. That's not to say a sub is weak or helpless, but there's a type of reassurance that Doms tend to provide that I didn't see. I guess it's a bit of a relationship and dynamic stereotype, but I think the fact that this starts with a pre-established relationship that is BDSM just URHG.
The rest of the story was ok, but it's hard to disassociate the characters from the story when BDSM is a crucial part of the character dynamic. 3 stars.
April 16, 2019
Didn’t love either character. The flashbacks felt unnecessary and really clogged up the flow of the story. Just...bored.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews