Montana Sky

Montana #6

by R.J. Scott

When they spend time alone on a Montana mountainside will Tyler ever convince Martin that like sapphires, love is worth searching for?

Martin’s name was the very last on a kill list. The son of a murderer, he’s had no childhood; lost in a horrific holding pattern of death that turned his heart to stone. Thanks to the man who called him brave and spared his life, he no longer has to look over his shoulder, but he does have one question. Why did Justin let him live?

Tyler Colby has identified a major flaw in the seismic mapping system used to monitor earthquake activity. Sent to Crooked Tree by his employer, the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology, he is tasked with adding a new remote station to the network. The installation should be his entire focus, but the lure of sapphires and his attraction to a heartbroken young man called Martin is enough to make him want more.

Genres: Romance, M M Romance, LGBT, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary

268 pages, Paperback

First published April 24, 2019

About the author

RJ Scott writes heartwarming, passionate MM/gay romance stories where every man finds his happily ever after. When not writing, she enjoys reading books, watching movies, spending time with her family, following Formula 1 (Forza Ferrari!), and cheering on the Pittsburgh Penguins. Email her here: rj@rjscott.co.uk

Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release

Reviews

[Christelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not a standalone : this is part of the Montana series, set in the Crook Tree ranch, with a lot of the characters from this series present or mentioned and related to a past tragic event still impacting the characters.

When teenagers, Justin And Adam crossed the path of “pyschos” and were left for dead. Move forward a decade : they are both back and living on the ranch again, dealing with their ordeal each on their own way. For Justin, revenge had not been an empty word, but still, he spared Martin’s life, Martin being the son of one of his attackers.

Martin didn’t have it easy and is exhausted fighting all his demons and his past. Broken and needing to talk with Justin, he shows up on the Crooked Tree ranch where he’s being convinced to stay a few days, meanwhile helping with the ranch’s customers, more precisely Tyler, a seismologist scheduling a camping trip in the ranch mountains.
Martin and Tyler couldn’t be more different and yet there’s a real spark between them, a spark that Tyler is set to ignite during the alone-time spent in the wilderness with his silent companion

RJ Scott always delivers HEA and Martin sure deserved one and more : stopping carrying the sins of his father on his shoulders, getting rid of his induced self-loathing and having a shot at a better life. And Crooked Tree Ranch was the perfect place and Tyler the perfect support and lover for that.

My big niggle with this instalment was how much the relationship between Martin and Tyler was underplayed. I felt like all the details and conversations about seismology overtook the romance, setting it into the backburner and making it look like a convenient happenstance.
Am I fond of this series and of the many characters : yes. Do I enjoy this friendship and family dynamics and found solace in this series : yes. Did I root for Martin and his journey towards a better life : yes. Did I miss to see and feel the blooming of Martin and Tyler as a couple : yes.

That said, I cross my fingers this is not the last we hear from RJ Scott and this great series.

ARC of “Montana Sky” was generously provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've loved the hell out of this series but this book...wow! I don't know maybe it's just right book, right day but this one went beyond the rest...I'm going to take a bit and gather my thoughts and collect the tissues...a full review will follow once I'm got my thoughts organized.

I can’t say that I’ve read every book that R.J. Scott’s written but ...

I have tried and I promise I’ll keep working on it but in the meantime I can say that my list of favorite books by this author has just gotten an adjustment because ‘Montana Sky’ just blindsided me. I loved this book.

‘Montana Sky’ is the story that has brought much of this series full circle. Martin shows up at the Crooked Tree Ranch needing the answer to just one question from Justin and then he’s going to move on or at least that’s what his plan is, but it seems that Justin and Karma each have a different plan for him and suddenly Martin finds he’s unable to move on quite as quickly as he’d like. Especially when Karma’s plan turns out to be a sexy, adorable geologist who keeps crossing Martin’s path and making him want things he doesn’t think he deserves.

Whether it’s her ‘Texas’ series, Sanctuary series or one of many other series or standalone stories Ms. Scott has consistently created stories with characters that have entertained and delighted me, often times making me laugh and cry as they find their way into my heart and with this latest addition to her Montana series I have added Tyler and Martin to that growing list. While I wasn’t surprised that I enjoyed this story, I was totally blindsided by how much my heart broke for Martin…I cried more than a few tears for him…possibly more than any other character in this series and I have only two words to say to that…Justin, Adam. And then add Tyler who is without a doubt one of the sexiest, most adorable geeks to grace a story in a while to this mix and you’ve got a story that’s guaranteed to capture a reader’s heart.

‘Montana Sky’ is a story about second chances, starting over, finding forgiveness and a family and ultimately finding love. With Martin, Ms. Scott created a character who was broken and struggling to keep going but with Tyler she brought hope and healing back to Martin’s life and ultimately a love that he’d never felt he was deserving of. But what really worked for me in all of this was the fact that it wasn’t Tyler who fixed Martin…nope, aside from Martin himself if anyone deserved any credit for the healing that Martin was able to begin doing it was Justin and Adam, but Tyler did help Martin find the desire to try and that’s not a bad thing. There are many things in this world that a person needs to do for themselves but sometimes why a person starts doing something isn’t as important as the fact that they started. Martin came to Crooked Tree Ranch looking for closure on his past not realizing that by doing this, he would find the start of a future that he never knew was waiting for him.

For me ‘Montana Sky’ is one of those stories that just works and works well and while it was definitely a case of right day, right story, it was also a case of a really well written story and one that I very strongly recommend but with a strong caution to read this series in order to maximize both reader enjoyment and understanding of events and character connections.

*************************

An ARC of ‘Montana Sky’ was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Cadiva · Rating 5 out of 5]

When RJ said she was heading back to Crooked Tree Ranch I was both incredibly happy and also quite apprehensive about where she would be taking the reader.

I should have known there was no need to panic, this journey is possibly one of the most beautiful and poignant ones I've read and certainly, within a quite outstanding series, it encapsulates all that Crooked Tree has come to mean for so many people - love and a home.

I'm not going to go into too much detail, I think this book needs to be savoured like a fine whisky, let the story unfold as Tyler does the same to Martin, last seen under a different name and being given a chance of life by Julian.

It will pay you to read A Cowboy's Home first, even though this can work as a standalone, you will have much more depth to the narrative.

Rob's story in Second Chance Ranch remains my favourite in this wonderful series, but this one came very close to toppling it from the top of the tree.

#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review

[Jenny Wood · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was SOOO pumped when I heard about this one. I honestly thought this series was over after the last one..

In this one, we have Martin, who was previously known as Jamie Crane, the son of the terrorist/torturer of Justin and Adam. My heart broke for him in the little glimpses we got from him in previous books, especially Justin and Adam’s, and although I could probably guess the kind of person his father was, it didn’t hold a candle to the life that Martin had suffered at the hand of his father and his goons.

So, now that his father was dead and Martin was no longer having to hide from him, he wanted to go to Crooked Tree to ask Justin why he’d let him live. Now, if you haven’t read the others in this series, you should stop what you’re doing and go read them!! I was so insanely obsessed with Justin and Sam, but really all of their stories are amazing!

At the Crooked Tree, Justin wants to tell Martin the answer to his question, but he wants to talk to Adam first, who is away on his honeymoon…so he talks Martin into staying and helping out around the ranch. So, when seismatology expert, Tyler, comes to do some research, the group, aka, Justin, sends him to work with the guy. Mostly to keep him around, I’d wager. Justin knew that Martin needed the closure, and Adam really did too.
So, Martin stayed and helped, not really having a plan anyway, as to where he was going to end up or what he was going to end up doing.
I’ll admit that the earthquake stuff was interesting to learn about, but it was too much like homework for me to get sucked into it. I did skim a little bit, but I could imagine the way that Tyler had become so animated and passionate about what he was talking about. It wasn’t just a job, it was his life and it was neat to learn.

While the guys are off the range together, even though Martin is broody and hard to get to know… Tyler loved learning what he could about the man, and eventually, he’d gone and fell in love with him.

When you see Martin’s baggage and his internal turmoil, it’s easy to see why he refused so much almost the entire book, but, it somehow felt very realistic and relatable.

It made his final acceptance and letting his guard down that much more enjoyable. I just loved this story and I’m so glad to report that Martin got his HEA, even if it did take a long time to get there. I knew that he wasn’t going to be easy, but he was 100% worth it.

4 stars from me!

[Agla · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 rounded up. This one was better than the last one because the relationship development was WAY better and slower despite the short-ish time frame. Tyler is a chatterbox who is passionate about his work as a geologist and Martin is at a crossroads in life. He has been traumatized in several ways (that we had learned about, mostly, in previous books). I like how the trauma was shown and how it impacted the relationship but again it lacked a little something, mostly depth. The switch to "things are better" for Martin was too easy and fast. Again, that's a running theme in the series, the MCs are perfect for each other but the book lacked depth. For a final book in a series it was sad that we didn't really get a last scene showing all the couples. It made sense because this couple was on the margin of the rest of the group but still.

[Barb ~rede-2-read~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well, even though the blurb for book 5 stated it was the end of the series, the author apparently had one more character calling out for his story. This is Martin, aka Jamie Crane, son of the despicable domestic terrorist who held Justin and Adam captive in their youth and started the whole chain of events that led to this series.

At first, I was surprised there was another book and then I got interested in the plot when I started reading it and then I was totally sold by the end. I’m glad RJ Scott decided to pull Jamie/Martin out of the shadows and give him a story complete with HEA.

What a heartbreaking character! So much so, in fact, that the early part of the story is downright depressing. Martin’s story is not pretty and the effect of being raised by Daniel Crane is evident in his psyche. Feeling undeserving of love, when the chance comes along in the form of Tyler Colby, the geologist who’s going to install seismograph equipment on the outlying acres of Crooked Tree Ranch, Martin pushes him away. He doesn’t deserve to be loved and refuses to take it when offered. Thankfully, the love and acceptance of the “family” at the ranch and the open-mindedness and kind heart of Tyler erode Martin’s stubbornness to a point where he realizes he can allow some of the pain of his past to flow away.

Tyler is smart, focused, full of information about rocks and the geologic history of the area, and highly attracted to Martin. Martin is confused, self-deprecating, depressed, and carries around the guilt of not stopping his father. In fact, much of his guilt is that he survived and escaped from the man but didn’t do more to help Justin and Adam. He doesn’t see that leaving the door open for their escape was huge and brave. Martin also has hidden depths—including an eidetic memory with an affinity for math and numbers. All he needs is time and love to heal his old wounds and RJ Scott gives him those in abundance.

The story is the perfect mix of angst and hope, heartache and heartwarming opportunity. I liked it much more than the last two or three stories. I felt transported back to the beginning of the series when the stories held me entranced and the resulting romances and everlasting love felt stronger. If, like me, you are a sucker for a beautiful story of hope and redemption, complete with a romantic HEA epilogue, you should really enjoy this finale to the Montana series.

ARC provided by the publisher through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.

[LeeAnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What a horrific childhood Jamie , now known as Martin, had !
The blurb doesn't tell you all the emotions you will experience when reading this. As soon as I started to read , Martin just burrowed his way into my "Momma Bear" heart and I just really needed to hug and protect him , to tell him nothing had been his doing, that he had....well I will not go into great detail. Wouldn't want to ruin the discovery for any reader.
I will say this however, it was great to "see" Justin, Sam , Adam , Gabe and Nate in this story.
The scenery description is breathtaking and made me feel like I was sitting on a boulder, looking at the Montana sky.
As usual the love scenes make a fan necessary at times but so much love is present in those scenes.
Tyler is just what Martin needs to calm himself, give himself the ability to let guilt, he did not own, go and to understand and accept that he was more than worthy of love and a family.
One little thing.....Oreo. Love that name.
I will close this by simply saying this was a wonderful addition to the Crooked Tree Ranch series!
So much happening in this book emotionally. Its a bit draining, but in the best sense of the word.

I received an Advanced Readers Copy for my honest review of this book.

[Anabela.M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jamie/Martin's life is a never ending string of self incrimination, regrets and nightmares. He comes to Crooked Tree Ranch seeking some kind of validation, or maybe he needs Justin or someone else to tell him that there's also a good part within himself, a part that hasn't been tainted by his father. He's offered the possibility to stay and rest which soon turns into the chance for so much more,once he meets Tyler. Martin can't get enough of Tyler's smiles,can't resist the need for his kisses and touches, and can't stop himself from falling in love with the sweet, talkative man.
Montana Sky is Martin's heartbreaking, hard road towards putting his demons to rest and eventually accepting that he deserves to be loved.
Thank you, RJ Scott, for another beautiful, emotional book.

[Marthea · Rating 5 out of 5]

4+
Dotarłam do końca serii - niestety...

Martin, dawniej znany jako Jamie, to postać w sumie tragiczna. Był piątym i ostatnim do odstrzału na liście Justina tych, którzy skrzywdzili jego i Adama. Miał wtedy 14 lat... Ale został oszczędzony - Justin odpuścił. I gdy jego życie idzie w diabły (choć kiedy tak naprawdę było usłane różami 🙁), zmierza do Crooked Tree Ranch, żeby się z Justinem skonfrontować i dowiedzieć się, czemu zostawił go przy życiu. Bo tak naprawdę nie wierzy w to, że na to zasługiwał, choć odrobinę liczy, że Justin da mu jakiś powód, żeby spróbować czuć mniejszą nienawiść do samego siebie. Wychowany przez ojca psychopatę, survivalistę, który miał w planach osobiście wywołać chaos i anarchię w USA, od samego początku swojego życia miał tragicznie wręcz ciężko - doświadczył wszelkiej możliwej przemocy zarówno z jego strony, jak i jego trzech kumpli po fachu, którzy z nimi mieszkali oraz wychowania na "prawdziwego" i "twardego" mężczyznę, który nie bierze jeńców. Mówienie, że bycie gejem się nie mieści w tych standardach, chyba mija się z celem...

Tyler to pozytywny wariat, który nie znosi ciszy i któremu nie zamykają się usta. Zafiksowany na swojej pracy geolog, zajmujący się trzęsieniami ziemi. W CTR zjawia się, by ustawić odpowiednią stację monitorującą wstrząsy, która zostanie włączona do Regionalnej Sieci Sejsmicznej Montany. I na CTR spotyka Martina/Jamiego... i reszta jest chyba jasna, choć nie bezproblemowa.

Czas, w którym się poznają i "klikają" nie jest długi - ale nie przeszkadzało mi to, bo ma to jakieś ręce i nogi. Tak naprawdę jedyne, co mi trochę przeszkadzało to to, że w tym najkrótszym tekście w serii (a żadna z nich nie była szczególnie długa) było sporo na temat pracy Tylera i jego opowieści o geologii, trzęsieniach ziemi, pracy. W sumie mogłoby być tego trochę mniej 😉 Ale to moje czepianie się - choć pewnie inni przyczepili by się do większej ilości rzeczy 😜

I jeszcze jedno - pierwsze sześć książek RJS przeczytałam w grudniu i były to świąteczne historie, w których pewna rzecz rzucała się w oczy. I która została potwierdzona prze tę serię - autorka ma coś do całowania 😁 Nie do seksu, którego jest mało i którego opisy są krótkie, albo i bardzo krótkie - ale całowanie? Tiaaaaa... tego jest sporo. Jak ktoś to lubi, to jest w niebie 😁

Zdecydowanie ta seria do mnie przemawia, a właściwie przemawiała, bo na tym tomie się skończyła 🙁 Przewaga czytania serii skończonych już nad tymi, które są w trakcie pisania i czeka się na każdy kolejny tom, dla mnie jest wielka i właściwie bezcenna. Uwielbiam czytać od deski do deski, poznać wszystko tak szybko, jak to jest możliwe - czekanie zawsze mnie zabija, bez względu czy jest to następny tom serii, czy odcinek serialu (kiedy jeszcze włączałam tv), czy autobus, czy przyjście teściowej w święta - choć to ostatnie wywołuje zawsze u mnie jeszcze całą masę innych emocji, żadnej dobrej 😜 Zatem tak, bardzo doceniam to, że mogłam przeczytać w całości "Montanę" RJS i że ten ostatni tom, taki niespodziewany dla innych, dla mnie był od razu odpowiednim zamknięciem - bez czekania 😁 Choć to już koniec i wcale nie musi mi się to podobać...

I szczerze mówiąc, to nie jestem gotowa pożegnać się z kowbojami bądź przynajmniej z klimatami (tak jak tutaj). Zatem lecę szukać czegoś w podobnym klimacie, może nawet i tej samej autorki 😁

[Cee Brown · Rating 3 out of 5]

¸.•*´¨)
(¸.•´ ★A last trip to Crooked Tree Ranch.

He couldn't believe how far he'd come. From being a kid broken through violence and fire to finding this man with his sapphires and his rambling and his warm welcoming heart.

I was expecting more of the same. The Crooked Tree series was all about action and romance for me, finding family and maintaining relationships. This book went out on the limb, bringing together a seismologist by the name of Dr. Tyler Colby, who knew nothing about the meaning of silence. He was also highly attracted to the one person he should have left lone.

Jaime Crane, AKA, Martin Graves had come to Crooked Tree Ranch seeking answers. He had once had a tumultuous relationship with two of Crook Tree's residents. However, without answers, he didn't feel he could move on. But first he had to stay hidden and the best way that could happen was by helping the talking man. One week with Tyler was going to be a trial in patience and understanding.

This didn't feel like a RJ Scott book that I lapped up. It focused more on the job that Tyler set out to do and as interesting as it seems, it was not my cup of tea. I did enjoy the way the two men flirted around each other and the obvious attraction. Yes, Martin was broken, but with Tyler's help, he was able to open up and see that there could be a way he could live out in the open.

I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from Love Lane Books Limited.
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club

[JenMcJ · Rating 3 out of 5]

One of the great gifts of RJS is her ability to write emotionally tortured characters. You can feel for them and get on board for their soul to heal and find an HEA almost from page one. That the healing seems to happen very fast and implausibly is common but if you know that going in as a regular reader of her books, it's an acceptable trade off. But sometimes she misses the mark with the MC's she pairs up. This is one such case. Honestly, Tyler and Martin made no sense together. Not the kind of "this shouldn't work but it does" no sense. Actual, no sense. I didn't get them as love interests at all and a big part of that wasn't just that they were so different it was that Martin was so indifferent to Tyler and their "romance" was just awkward and stilted and lacked all chemistry. Sure Martin found Tyler hot but he didn't seem drawn to him in a realistic, last forever way.

Additionally, this book had some continuity issues that caught my attentions and distracted me.

[Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I really didn’t know what to expect.... I have loved this entire series, but this book just knocked me for a loop. Martin (Jamie) and Tyler are just wonderful. Take one “broken” man with a horrendous past and more guilty feelings than any one person should have to have and toss him in with a geology geek who is adorably sweet. Oh, the emotional feels!! The little peeks at a few of the previously highlighted characters were extremely well done and they all meshed seamlessly with the story. Well done Ms. Scott!!
***Recommended***

[Laurel Looney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh wow, Martin stole my heart from the beginning. Everyone will love Martin and Tyler and getting to spend a little time on Crooked Tree. This is definitely book that will pull at your heart strings and you may even shed a few tears. Definitely a one clicker. RJ Scott is simply amazing.

[Serena Yates · Rating 5 out of 5]

As remarkable as the previous book, this volume deals with some of the dark past that Justin and Adam came from. Its focus is on the mental and emotional damage of one of the “bad guys”, a man called Martin who is really as much a victim as any of the others. His arrival is greeted with very mixed feelings, but Crooked Tree Ranch is a place of healing, and all the men there are willing to help – no matter how gruff they may seem and how much of their own fear they have to deal with. Different from some of the previous installments, this story focuses on the psychological drama and fallout from the characters’ history, but that makes it no less suspenseful and engaging!


Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.

[Kathy Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the sixth book in the Montana series. It is a MM contemporary romance set on a Montana ranch. The characters in the book are wonderful. They have their quirks and that made me love them even more. The pace of this story is great. It was a wonderful story that was hard to put down.

[Jay · Rating 5 out of 5]

RJ Scott says she is returning to Crooked Tree Ranch and that she does! Montana Sky embodies all that the Montana series and Crooked Tree Ranch stand for: Family and home (often chosen), forgiveness, healing, acceptance, and above all love.

Martin Graves (Jamie Crane) has endured so much at the hands of blood family it is insane to think about it all. But he needs an answer; Why? Justin Allen, one of Martin’s past regrets, may tell him but first Martin must face his second regret, Adam Strachan. Something lies beneath Justin’s motives: “‘I’m saying Crooked Tree is a safe place for you to stop for a while and to take a breath,’” as hard as it is for both men to face. (At first, I was troubled by Justin’s brash treatment of Martin. However, I soon discovered that a sixth sense was guiding him allowing him to provide what Martin would accept at the time.)

Tyler Colby is a science geek with a pet project to enhance the Montana Regional Seismic Network by installing a permanent seismic station on Crooked Tree land. Tyler has an outgoing personality, a natural tendency to gab, and a love of nature and being outdoors under the sky… Well, let’s just say that Martin has met his match and his carefully erected walls are about to crumble.

It seems that the folks at Crooked Tree Ranch know exactly what they are doing by sending Martin off into the wilderness for days with Tyler as they install his seismic station. Tyler is one amazing person. By setting aside his own insecurities and letting Martin work though his internal turmoil, the past unfolds and forgotten tidbits with power are revealed.

‘Montana Sky’ embodies all that the Montana series and Crooked Tree Ranch stand for: Family and home (often chosen), forgiveness, healing, acceptance, and above all love.

Martin stole my heart from the very beginning. You long to hug the man, shoulder his pain and help him work past the atrocities that his blood family have inflicted. True to Crooked Tree Ranch’s influence, with a little tough love, one gabby science geek, and the resurrection of ghosts from the past, Martin has found home. But, will he embrace it?

LOL – The safe word “banana” has a special meaning for Martin and Tyler, which is perfect. Nope, not giving any more away you will just have to grab a copy of Montana Sky and discover its healing power for yourself.

Montana Sky is an emotional ride but one that encapsulates human decency and compassion. There is no glossing over the tough stuff, which doesn’t erase the past but allows it to be quieted to a dull thrum. The past makes all of the folks at Crooked Tree Ranch who they are, and we could all benefit by taking a lesson from this amazing family.

I highly recommend reading the Montana series in order since the installments build seamlessly upon one another. If you are eager to engross yourself in Montana Sky don’t be too eager! In my opinion The Rancher’s Son and A Cowboy’s Home should be read first to explain Justin and Adam’s past and define how Martin ties to them.

[DTM · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh Ms. Rj Scott...I was up until the wee hours of the morning reading Montana Sky (Montana #6/KU) and I LOVED it! 🥰 I was incredibly thrilled when you stated your were writing another story in this series and you did NOT disappoint. This very well could be my favorite of the series. Montana Sky is such a beautifully written, heart aching (past abuse), organic love story and I devoured every single word. I fell in love with the adorkable, nerdy Tyler, and I just wanted to surround Martin in bubble wrap and hold him!! I am a huge fan of this angsty series and this chosen family with their hard fought HEAs!! I would kindly request perhaps a novella down the road to get a glimpse of Crooked Tree Ranch in the future 😏...No pressure!! LOL I will say that in order to fully understand the depth of the relationships, at the very least A Cowboys Home (#3) should be read before reading this one, but I highly recommend reading the entire series of relatively short books, all of which are on KU.

[Natosha Wilson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have to be completely honest when I say that this was a good read about I have to also be completely honest when I say that I was lost. Now I was lost because I did not read the previous books in this series and I think that I would have enjoyed his book more if I had. I do believe that this is one of those books that needs to be stated that it is not a standalone because I felt I was missing some really valuable information where the main character was concerned. For this reason right here I was not able to get into this book maybe as much as I would have had it read the books before his one in the series.

Martin in my opinion is one of those people that is just plain lost. He does not know where he fits into what world and he does not have a lot of hope left for him. The only thing that is really on his radar is seeking answers from Justin, someone he knew in his past.

When he shows up in Montana in hopes to get those answers so then maybe he can find a way of moving forward, he never expected Justin to not only not answer his questions but to set him up at the Ranch to help in out as well. That is the last think that Martin expected and honestly the last thing he wanted as well. But if he is going to get those answers then he is going to have to stick around, for a while at least.

Tyler is at Crooked Tree Ranch to help place the next seismic tracker for an early warning system for earth quakes. He never expected to find himself attracted to a man named Martin. Martin is not much of a talker and he he seems very distant and lonely, maybe even sad. But Tyler is attracted to him.

Though Martin also feels attraction to Tyler as well, he knows that is the last thing he needs. So instead of getting close, he runs from each interaction instead. Well at least until he is unable to run anymore.

Can two men that are so different find a way to maybe make each other happy? Can Martin get over the things in his past and look to the future?

This was a good read but like I said I would suggest reading the other books first because I felt so lost where Martin was concerned. I hate feeling that way when I am reading and feeling like I spend more time trying to catch up or figure out what is going on then I am just enjoying the read. I love RJ Scott and I plan to read more books by RJ in the future.

Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review

[Roger - president of NBR United - · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well in the bible there is saying about the Sins of the father being weighed on the descendants to the seventh generation. I am not sure I believe that should always apply. Case in point Martin Graves who Changed his name from Jamie Crane to escape the legacy of his psychopathic father. He is haunted by what he was forced to do as a child by his father. he has to learn that he is a good man and worthy of being loved. Crooked tree ranch and Tyler give him a chance to do that.
Tyler is a scientist, sent to Crooked tree ranch to set up a remote station to monitor seismic activity in western Montana. Tyler is an open talkative man who falls in love with and helps Martin deal with the demons inside him. Their love and his sister coming to visit are the nails in the demon's coffin.

[Anita · Rating 5 out of 5]

RJ Scott writes this chapter at Crooked Tree perfectly. Questions are answered in a way Martin/Jamie never expected and he can now live life without looking over his shoulder. Tyler is at Crooked Tree setting up seismic mapping equipment never expecting to find love. This is so well written and not to be missed especially if you’ve followed all the men of Crooked Tree.

[Karen Rich · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great catch up to this series.
Finally Martin (Jamie) gets the answer to the question he has been looking for for so long and he finds love as well as acceptance.
This series is amazing and the author shows us that not all people will hold past errors against you.

[Jody Bland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow what a way to finish this series. Martin/Jamie's life left me in tears, but it just goes to show that love conquers. It was good that Martin, Justin and Adam finally gets some closure. Knocked it out of the park yet again RJ

[Tori Thompson]

Read and reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews! Check the blog at www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews.

[Carey · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hmmm...the geology was boring 😬 but the heroes were saved by the power of Cupid’s dick. Again.

Imma hafta gather my thoughts for this series...to be continued...

THE SERIES REVIEW:
Oh boy. This series. Is it Cowboys? Romantic suspense? First responders? Medical mystery? Killers? Nerdy scientists? Actors? Found family? THIS SERIES HAS IT ALL!!! (And not necessarily in a good way LOL)

Ok, let’s just get this out of the way...after book one, the ranch just becomes a backdrop. Most of the events happen there - but they could happen anywhere. And as the series goes on, characters you thought would be core to the story (stories) just disappear.

If slow burn is your jam, you’ll love these. Nothing seems to happen until 50-75% thru the books and then they race to their assorted HEA’s.

Also - all it takes is one kiss or one sexual encounter and suddenly the angels sing and the MC’s are IN. LOVE. ITS DESTINY.

And the ranch must have magic water flowing in the river because THE RANCH HEALS ALL ILLS. Well, except in one poor boy’s case but he has his magic man policeman so he’s all good.

These books aren’t horrible but they aren’t great either. Average at best. (Be prepared to overlook editing issues & some British-ism’s as the series goes on. Ex: in hospital vs in the hospital, etc).

[Love Bytes Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewed by Tori (Vicki)

I was surprised to see RJ Scott was taking us back to Crooked Tree Ranch, I apparently missed that on social media! I had thought we had seen the last of this series with the last book, so I was curious to see what this one would be about. Unfortunately I found that I don’t remember enough of the past books and the story to know who Martin was, so I was a little lost at times, and had a hard time getting into Martin as a character… But what I did get out of this was the story of Martin and Tyler falling in love while camping and working on a geology project in the wilds of Crooked Tree Ranch.

Martin has had a horrible childhood, surviving some bad shit that went down with his father, that relates to things that happened earlier in this series, involving Justin. Martin makes his way to Crooked Tree Ranch in Montana, hoping to talk to Justin and ask him why he didn’t kill him. Pretty much no one on the ranch is happy to see him, but reluctantly let him stay for a few days to sort himself out, and hopefully understand what happened. While he’s staying on the ranch and doing a bit of work, he is sent to deliver groceries to a new guest on the ranch.

Tyler has come to Crooked Tree to set up some equipment meant to monitor earthquakes in the area, staying at the ranch briefly before heading out several hours away. He has been promised help from the folks at the ranch, and is happy to see the help turns out to be Martin, the man who delivered his groceries. Who Tyler found attractive, even though he made a bit of a fool of himself when they met. The two head off into a remote area of the ranch to set up the equipment.

Now Martin has some serious issues, and doesn’t know how to deal with Tyler’s chattiness, friendliness, or compassion. This leads to some drama, and several scenes of Martin running away when he gets overwhelmed. Tyler has the patience of a saint, and keeps tracking him down, and trying again to get past the walls Martin keeps tossing up. Eventually Martin tells Tyler his story, and the two are able to connect emotionally and physically. That was when I started to get into the story, it took a little time for that to happen. I didn’t expect it to come immediately, but I was not remembering what we knew about Martin, or Jamie as he was known then, and I found myself anxious for him to tell Tyler so I would know as well. I had a hard time with Martin’s drama because I didn’t know what had happened to him, and I kinda wanted to shake him! Then when his story does come out, I felt bad about not having much sympathy for him… But I was eventually able to come to like Martin. Tyler as such a nerdy sweetheart, I liked him from the beginning, and once they sorted themselves out, I liked them as a couple. I did like this story once I was able to get into Martin’s head a little, and I loved how the two were able to eventually get their happy ever after. Martin deserved it after all that he has been through.

RJ Scott has written many books I have enjoyed over the years, and this was another solid book from her. Sure, I would have gotten more out of it if I remembered more of the past books, but that’s not her fault. She wrote a good book, with interesting characters, and a great setting. If you have read the other books in this series you obviously need to read this one. If you haven’t read them, I’d suggest you start with the first one. I may not remember a lot of the details, but I DO remember that I liked the books in this series, and this one made me want to go back and read them all again!

This book was provided for free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.

[Heather York · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I heard that RJ Scott was returning us to Crooked Tree Ranch and that Montana Sky would be the final book in the Montana series, I was both overjoyed and saddened. One never wants to see something you enjoy end but it also can't go on forever, though one can hope maybe the ranch will have another story to tell down the road😉😉.

Martin is a man who is lost but needs an answer and he can only find it at Crooked Tree Ranch. Tyler is a man trying to help detecting seismic activity and employed to set up a new station on Crooked Tree Ranch property. When their paths cross it seems not only is there attraction but they also are able to help the other. Now, Tyler does not hold the answer Martin is seeking but he does offer him a chance to stick around till the answer is given. I wanted to wrap Martin in a massive bear hug and tell him no matter what the answer is, he is a good man and was just as much a victim as Justin and Adam were. However, some times we can't be told, we have to experience the answers to full understand and even appreciate what our path holds. As for Tyler, perhaps he isn't seeking answers as Martin is but something is missing from his life and the ranch, more specifically Martin, might be just what he needs to find that missing link.

I won't say more about the plot of the story because as Martin and Tyler need to experience the ranch to understand what's missing, the reader needs to experience their journey to appreciate the joy of Montana Sky. I will say that if this really truly is the end of the series than it is the perfect way to bring it together. I'd say things are all "wrapped up" but with a series like Montana you can never really write "the end" so who knows, maybe the ranch will have another story to tell down the road. Either way, this won't be the last time I visit Crooked Tree Ranch.

I never lived or visited a ranch but I did grow up on a farm and the land really does have a way of not only healing but also giving one perspective on what truly is important in life and the author really has a grasp on helping the reader understand that. RJ Scott has a way that doesn't just tell us a story, she shows us so that you feel like you are riding, or in this case sitting in the tent next to the characters. You may not run into people like this every day but you want to, you want to know them. True storytelling at its finest. If you have yet to experience the difference between writer and storyteller then give Montana and RJ Scott a read because you will surely see the line between the two afterwards.

If you are already a fan and reader of Montana then what are you doing reading my review, you should be checking out Martin and Tyler's journey already. If this is an unfamiliar series for you, then now is the perfect time to start. For those who are just starting, this is a series that needs to read in order even though each entry has a different pairing for the central story, there is an ongoing connection that won't make sense if you start in the middle.

[Anne Barwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

As I discovered RJ Scott last year, and have been trying to stay up to date on her new releases, while catching up on her substantial backlist, I find myself often reading her series out of order. However, although I’ve started this series with book 6, that didn’t detract from my enjoyment of this story.

I loved meeting the guys of Crooked Tree Ranch, as well as Martin and Tyler, and loved the family feeling of the story, which is a reoccurring one in many of this author’s books, and one of the reasons I enjoy them. Despite just having glimpses of Justin, Sam, Adam and the others, this story made them feel very real, without their history bogging down Martin and Tyler’s story. As an aside, I thought Sam’s hesitation in trusting Martin felt very real, and I loved Justin and Adam and their determination to help Martin.

The descriptions of the ranch and its land were wonderfully visual, and I had a clear picture in my head as I was reading.

I really felt for Martin with his horrible upbringing and arsehole of a father. I admired him for his escape from that life, and I thought it was realistic that he struggles to put it behind him, and doubts he is a good person. Living in that environment with the message that he had murderous intent inside him constantly reiterated would have a long term effect on anyone. He’s messed up, but a decent guy who has been caught in a horrible situation. It says a lot about him that he found the courage to finally break free, and is trying to live a new life. It’s not surprising that he has bad moods, bad memories, and nightmares.

I loved Tyler. He’s nerdy about his passion for seismic mapping, and I loved him and Martin together. They complement each other well, with Martin taking refuge in silence, and Tyler needing to fill the silence. Loved their‘safe word’. Tyler’s narrative POV sounds just like him when he talks, which is wonderful.

A lot of this story is just the two of them, and yet it feels as though it’s so much more, with the richness of their relationship, and not just their mutual physical attraction, but also their connection on a mental level too as they find their common interests.

I loved the epilogue and ending, and found it very satisfying. I need to go back to read everyone else’s stories now.

I’d recommend Montana Sky to readers who enjoy reading about realistic characters who are struggling to put their past behind them, and stories with a fabulous sense of family.

[Susan65 · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Blogger Girls

I was super excited to be returning to Crooked Tree Ranch. It is one of my favorite series by RJ Scott and I still needed to understand Jason a little more. He had it rough and tough, but he is also rough and tough, so seeing a “softer” side to him was intriguing. This book is not about Justin, per se, but why he let Martin live is paramount to the entire storyline.

Martin is considered a bad guy, a liability, but Justin saw just enough to allow him to live. Now Martin, broken and disillusioned, wants to know why? He was a difficult character to read because he was just the most broken and lost character to come out of this series. He literally is a walking corpse, with no purpose, no reason to exist, and no hope to be anything more. Seriously, it was depressing, but with reason.

Enter Tyler, a nerdy scientist who comes to Crooked Tree Ranch to install seismic equipment. No plans other than do his job and save the world, but what he didn’t expect was his fierce attraction to the young man with the dead eyes. He tries to engage Martin, but Martin has tuned out everything at this point and makes Tyler work hard to get him back engaged with life…and the fun that comes with falling in love.

This is a great installment to the series, and though the subject matter was a bit rough at times, I ended the story feeling like a weight was lifted off my shoulders. Plus, I now feel as if I know, and respect, Justin, just a bit better. Read the series and you’ll fall in love with Crooked Tree Ranch and the entire family that resides herein, too.

Overall Impression: I really liked it

[Carra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Martin had been mentioned previously in this series as someone who played a pivotal role in both Justin’s and Adam’s stories. Back then, I had just a fleeting moment of wondering about him regarding that role, and after hearing his full story here I couldn’t help but feel for him and what he went through.

Martin and Tyler are opposites in regards to their personalities. Martin is shy and quiet, preferring solitude and calm and can come across as abrupt, gruff, and indifferent when faced with anything that disrupts his peace. Tyler on the other hand, if there’s quiet then he is compelled to chat animatedly—about almost anything under the sun—to fill that silence. Martin finds that an annoyance, though gradually that shifts to acceptance and eventually he finds it soothing.

Martin’s father and the circumstances in which he placed Martin really did a number on him, so my sympathy levels were high throughout this story. Tyler is a great match for him, and hurt/comfort is definitely a theme here. Though the time frame of the book is not long, it doesn’t really come across as insta-love, or at least it didn’t to me.

This story adds nicely to the Montana series, and helps bring a certain amount of closure to Justin and Adam as well. While I suppose you could read this on its own, I would strongly suggest reading the series in order—or at least The Rancher’s Son and A Cowboy’s Home—to truly appreciate this book. Montana Sky was a 4-star read for me, and is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.

[ButtonsMom2003 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sad to see this series end.

I've pretty much been hooked on RJ's books since I read my first one back in 2016. I started with her Bodyguards, Inc. series and then moved on to the Montana series. Montana Sky is the final book in the series and it does a great job of wrapping things up.

We get a glimpse of characters from earlier books and a great story about Martin (Jamie) and Tyler. This is a series that I think you really need to read in order; you need to at least read book 3, A Cowboy's Home, before you read Montana Sky as that is where Jamie is introduced and we learn that he now goes by the name Martin.

There is a lot of technical jargon in this story…Tyler is a scientist who studies earthquakes. He talks a lot about his work, especially to fill up the silence when Martin is silent. The technical stuff is fascinating but the love that develops between Martin and Tyler is what really kept me engrossed in this book.

Martin has seen horrific things in his life and he struggles with nightmares, self-loathing, and the feeling that he doesn't deserve happiness. I was nearly sobbing my eyes out in places as my heart was breaking for Martin. Tyler stuck with him though and didn't give up on them.

Montana Sky is a wonderful hurt/comfort story with a great epilogue.

***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com*** (posting on 4/29/19)