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“Nothing is going to keep us apart.”
Dalton Powell has been living a lie. Terrified of coming out as bisexual, he’s given up on romance. Instead, he finds solace in hard work on his family’s struggling ranch. But his life is turned upside down as his past mistakes come back to haunt him—and steal his heart.
Thomas Reed never expected to come back to Hidden Creek. Old wounds are reopened as he returns to his family’s ranch and finds himself face to face with the last person he ever wanted to see again: Dalton. Despite his initial distrust, Thomas can’t deny the overpowering attraction between them.
Letting go of the past is hard when their families’ generations-long feud throws up obstacles at every turn. Forgiveness never comes easy, but they are determined to prove to their families that love really can overcome anything. But can they hold themselves together long enough to succeed?
Welcome to Hidden Creek, Texas, where the heart knows what it wants, and where true love lives happily ever after. Every Men of Hidden Creek novel can be read on its own, but keep an eye out for familiar faces around town! This book contains romantic horseback rides, a thrilling rodeo, and a kiss that could finally end a bitter feud.
278 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 12, 2019
118 people are currently reading
216 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
September 29, 2020
Is there anything better than cowboys in love?
Sigh.
This was an all-around feel-good read.
Lonely cowboy Dalton Powell desperately hides his bisexuality from his family. When the neighbor's openly gay son Thomas returns to Hidden Creek, the two men get acquainted and soon explore their attraction towards each other.
The only bad thing is, aside from Texas not being an LGBT friendly place, their families have a generation long feud going that is reaching Romeo and Juliet proportions by the time Dalton and Thomas are getting serious with each other.
And sadly, someone does not approve of their love.
To be honest, there wasn't really that much of a plot twist. Dalton and Thomas are pretty solid right from the start. Even Dalton whom I suspected to be a 'behind closed doors only' kind of guy quickly turned into a beacon of pride and equality.
I loved that about the story. It was a truly uplifting read in a world that seems to spiral downwards into conservative thinking in so many countries.
I wish more people in this world would read this and experience Dalton's and Thomas' feelings as they struggle through their fear of losing their family over their sexuality.
The world desperately needs these stories right now...
You need another incentive to read this? Oh, yeah, let's not forget Betsy!
5 stars and a favorite!
August 29, 2019
This wasn't exactly an enemies to lovers story. Rather it's a wonderful story of 2 men who fight to become the couple they are meant to be. There are heavy, bad feeling between the Reed & Powell families. They owned adjoining ranches & neither family was a good neighbor.
The Reed's had a bully son in Harry & the Powell's had a bully son in Dalton. I cringed when I read the scenes of high school bullying by Harry & Dalton. I particularly cringed of the scenes where Dalton bullied younger, gay Thomas. Oh, let's not forget Harry Reed bullied Dalton Powell.
Fast forward to now & it is time for the love story of Dalton Powell & Thomas Reed to begin. I don't do spoilers but from this point on the story focuses on the journey of Thomas & Dalton finding their way to acceptance & love for each other.
There's a not so mysterious villain trying to ruin the Powell family & through the villain's actions the conflicts between the 2 families are improved.
One final point. Dalton's struggle accepting his bisexuality was an important element to the story as his acceptance of it was necessary to open his heart and life to Thomas.
The Reed's had a bully son in Harry & the Powell's had a bully son in Dalton. I cringed when I read the scenes of high school bullying by Harry & Dalton. I particularly cringed of the scenes where Dalton bullied younger, gay Thomas. Oh, let's not forget Harry Reed bullied Dalton Powell.
Fast forward to now & it is time for the love story of Dalton Powell & Thomas Reed to begin. I don't do spoilers but from this point on the story focuses on the journey of Thomas & Dalton finding their way to acceptance & love for each other.
There's a not so mysterious villain trying to ruin the Powell family & through the villain's actions the conflicts between the 2 families are improved.
One final point. Dalton's struggle accepting his bisexuality was an important element to the story as his acceptance of it was necessary to open his heart and life to Thomas.
August 20, 2019
I’ve had books from the Men of Hidden Creek series on my tbr shelf for far too long, so I’m glad I jumped at the chance to review the audio version of Radiant. Performed by Nick J. Russo, he adds his trademark charm to the telling of this story, and I especially love the sexy southern drawl he uses for Dalton.
My first experience with the writing of Blake Roland, I enjoyed this super sweet, first time enemies-to-lovers romance. As a bisexual man, Dalton is frustrated that he hasn’t been able to explore his attraction to men. Afraid of his family’s reaction, not to mention the bullies who torment anybody who’s different, Dalton is in a tough place.
When Thomas moves back to Hidden Creek Dalton is intrigued by this out and proud gay man. Dalton tries to hide his attraction, because exploring that means he’s going to have to face his town and his family and come out. If that’s not enough, these two have to overcome a generations-old feud between their families before they can be together.
There are some fun and entertaining moments in Radiant. The scenes at the rodeo are wonderful, and there’s a creative little mystery as well. The romance is sweet, and the intimate scenes between Dalton and Timothy are smokin’ hot.
I’m looking forward to hearing Nick J. Russo perform Realize, next episode of Season 4 which is happily already available.
an audiobook copy of Radiant (Men of Hidden Creek - Season 4, #1) was provided for the purpose of my review
My first experience with the writing of Blake Roland, I enjoyed this super sweet, first time enemies-to-lovers romance. As a bisexual man, Dalton is frustrated that he hasn’t been able to explore his attraction to men. Afraid of his family’s reaction, not to mention the bullies who torment anybody who’s different, Dalton is in a tough place.
When Thomas moves back to Hidden Creek Dalton is intrigued by this out and proud gay man. Dalton tries to hide his attraction, because exploring that means he’s going to have to face his town and his family and come out. If that’s not enough, these two have to overcome a generations-old feud between their families before they can be together.
There are some fun and entertaining moments in Radiant. The scenes at the rodeo are wonderful, and there’s a creative little mystery as well. The romance is sweet, and the intimate scenes between Dalton and Timothy are smokin’ hot.
I’m looking forward to hearing Nick J. Russo perform Realize, next episode of Season 4 which is happily already available.
an audiobook copy of Radiant (Men of Hidden Creek - Season 4, #1) was provided for the purpose of my review
September 27, 2020
It's ...ok
Started off alright but by 50/60% felt overlong and that was when the plot was pushed in. Aside from cameos by characters I assume are in previous books there's few side-characters making the villian of the piece even more blatently obvious.
A few things didn't feel resolved; both ranches struggling and apparently both run with only two men - I know nothing of ranching but, really?
There's a few wrong/missing words, Dalton spends most of Thomas's pov being refered to as 'the cowboy' and Thomas's aunt gets the delightful 'the plump woman' which is a personal bugbear, with added fangs in this case.
Despite the rugged cowboy backdrop this felt more YA, at times teenage girl, with hallmark speeches on acceptance... thrown in. Far too much exposition and purple prose, the look of 'divine radience' in his eyes takes some beating!
Could do with a sharp edit, I skipped the overblown love scenes and was rolling my eyes too often to rate it any higher.
Started off alright but by 50/60% felt overlong and that was when the plot was pushed in. Aside from cameos by characters I assume are in previous books there's few side-characters making the villian of the piece even more blatently obvious.
A few things didn't feel resolved; both ranches struggling and apparently both run with only two men - I know nothing of ranching but, really?
There's a few wrong/missing words, Dalton spends most of Thomas's pov being refered to as 'the cowboy' and Thomas's aunt gets the delightful 'the plump woman' which is a personal bugbear, with added fangs in this case.
Despite the rugged cowboy backdrop this felt more YA, at times teenage girl, with hallmark speeches on acceptance... thrown in. Far too much exposition and purple prose, the look of 'divine radience' in his eyes takes some beating!
Could do with a sharp edit, I skipped the overblown love scenes and was rolling my eyes too often to rate it any higher.
October 7, 2020
Finding love between two feuding families !
Hidden Creek was worth leaving years ago, but now after three years of college, Thomas comes home to help the family ranch, with the practices he’s learned to help them run things better. His biggest issue is the bullies who were living here, which included Dalton back then.
A feud has been going on between their families forever, so things are tense.
Dalton and Thomas confront their issues, and Dalton apologizes to Thomas, but he’s reluctant to forgive him.
The area has changed in many ways, with gay friendly businesses, but bullies are still there.
Dalton is a true cowboy, a rodeo man and works their family ranch, but is “closeted” now. He saves Thomas from drowning.
Our men are attracted and hot for each other, and later become involved. The sexy times are first M/M sex for Dalton, and they sizzle. Plus, they ride, talk and move forward.
Bad seed, Harry, Thomas’s cousin, is despicable and proves it. His action brings the two families closer, and it changes everything.
This has serious issues, humor, super sex, and heartwarming feelings.
Enjoy !
======
Thanks you Martin for the rec !
======
Hidden Creek was worth leaving years ago, but now after three years of college, Thomas comes home to help the family ranch, with the practices he’s learned to help them run things better. His biggest issue is the bullies who were living here, which included Dalton back then.
A feud has been going on between their families forever, so things are tense.
Dalton and Thomas confront their issues, and Dalton apologizes to Thomas, but he’s reluctant to forgive him.
The area has changed in many ways, with gay friendly businesses, but bullies are still there.
Dalton is a true cowboy, a rodeo man and works their family ranch, but is “closeted” now. He saves Thomas from drowning.
Our men are attracted and hot for each other, and later become involved. The sexy times are first M/M sex for Dalton, and they sizzle. Plus, they ride, talk and move forward.
Bad seed, Harry, Thomas’s cousin, is despicable and proves it. His action brings the two families closer, and it changes everything.
This has serious issues, humor, super sex, and heartwarming feelings.
Enjoy !
======
Thanks you Martin for the rec !
======
August 6, 2019
* I was gifted a free ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review *
It was my first book by this author and I fell in love with their writing style!
This is the 4th book in the "Men of Hidden Creek" series but it can be read as a standalone (and I need to read others book, like right now!)
This is enemies-to-lovers, gay-for-You/out-for-You story featuring two super hot cowboys (even if one of them needs time to feel good in his own skin), two families that hate each other and one grandma that keeps looking for guys with nice butts.
This is a very enjoyable read with a perfect amount of drama, humor and sexy times. The chemistry between MCs is pretty awesome, all these beautiful, picturesque sun sets makes Texas look like a wonderful place to fall in love and who doesn't like hot cowboys?
It is a well-written, fast paced story with likable characters. There is more homophobic talk/actions than I'd expected but there's a very happy ending in the end so it's not so bad. There is a nice plot twist in the middle of the worst drama which makes it even more interesting.
It was my first book by this author and I fell in love with their writing style!
This is the 4th book in the "Men of Hidden Creek" series but it can be read as a standalone (and I need to read others book, like right now!)
This is enemies-to-lovers, gay-for-You/out-for-You story featuring two super hot cowboys (even if one of them needs time to feel good in his own skin), two families that hate each other and one grandma that keeps looking for guys with nice butts.
This is a very enjoyable read with a perfect amount of drama, humor and sexy times. The chemistry between MCs is pretty awesome, all these beautiful, picturesque sun sets makes Texas look like a wonderful place to fall in love and who doesn't like hot cowboys?
It is a well-written, fast paced story with likable characters. There is more homophobic talk/actions than I'd expected but there's a very happy ending in the end so it's not so bad. There is a nice plot twist in the middle of the worst drama which makes it even more interesting.
August 19, 2019
This felt so much like a modern day Hatfield and McCoy story. With a happy ending, of course. And a love story that changes everything.
Thomas didn't want to come back to this town or this ranch. After being bullied most of his life for being different and then gay, he was happy to be away. But college wasn't working out either. Three years and he couldn't figure out what he wanted to do and the debt was adding up. Unfortunately, his parents couldn't help anymore either with being close to bankruptcy. But Everytime he tries to bring up something to help make the ranch better, he's ignored. When Dalton saves his life from almost drowning, things start to change. Dalton apologizes and little by little they start becoming friends. But Thomas's cousin, Harry, and his friends, are determined to ruin the Dalton's family for good. Thomas just hopes after all that's happened, he can make it right and set things straight. And maybe, get the man he loves in his arms.
Once you've been bullied by someone, it's hard to forgive. I know we're supposed to be the bigger people and do so, but sometimes it's just too hard. And if Dalton hadn't saved Thomas's life and made the first move to apologize, Thomas may never have forgiven him. But Thomas started noticing things that were really going on. And what was really going on with Dalton. There was a secret there and Thomas was pretty sure he knew what it was. And he's determined to figure it out. And when he does, it's exactly what he hoped for. I'm so glad these two started a friendship. Letting bygones be bygones. Learning to let go of the hate and moving on. They set a huge example for others in their family and even some people in town.
I'm liking this season and series so far. I need to read the other three seasons to see what all I've missed.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
Thomas didn't want to come back to this town or this ranch. After being bullied most of his life for being different and then gay, he was happy to be away. But college wasn't working out either. Three years and he couldn't figure out what he wanted to do and the debt was adding up. Unfortunately, his parents couldn't help anymore either with being close to bankruptcy. But Everytime he tries to bring up something to help make the ranch better, he's ignored. When Dalton saves his life from almost drowning, things start to change. Dalton apologizes and little by little they start becoming friends. But Thomas's cousin, Harry, and his friends, are determined to ruin the Dalton's family for good. Thomas just hopes after all that's happened, he can make it right and set things straight. And maybe, get the man he loves in his arms.
Once you've been bullied by someone, it's hard to forgive. I know we're supposed to be the bigger people and do so, but sometimes it's just too hard. And if Dalton hadn't saved Thomas's life and made the first move to apologize, Thomas may never have forgiven him. But Thomas started noticing things that were really going on. And what was really going on with Dalton. There was a secret there and Thomas was pretty sure he knew what it was. And he's determined to figure it out. And when he does, it's exactly what he hoped for. I'm so glad these two started a friendship. Letting bygones be bygones. Learning to let go of the hate and moving on. They set a huge example for others in their family and even some people in town.
I'm liking this season and series so far. I need to read the other three seasons to see what all I've missed.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
February 10, 2020
A standard-quality gay cowboy romance. This is a low-heat story that focuses on character development rather than sex. The few sex scenes that there are would more rightly be called "making love" rather than the typical m/m sex scene of the genre.
Dalton and Thomas come from feuding ranching families, with Dalton's having bullied Thomas during high school. All of that changes when Dalton saves Thomas's life. They become friends and then, secretly (because Dalton is in the closet), boyfriends. There is a whodunit which jeopardizes their fledgling romance. There is an HEA.
There are relatively minor grammatical errors, though not more than is commonplace in romance fiction. The dialog is well-written. There is too much exposition, which really should have been condensed by about 20%.
Overall, this is a good-but-not-great story. Fans of gay cowboy romance are likely to enjoy this.
Dalton and Thomas come from feuding ranching families, with Dalton's having bullied Thomas during high school. All of that changes when Dalton saves Thomas's life. They become friends and then, secretly (because Dalton is in the closet), boyfriends. There is a whodunit which jeopardizes their fledgling romance. There is an HEA.
There are relatively minor grammatical errors, though not more than is commonplace in romance fiction. The dialog is well-written. There is too much exposition, which really should have been condensed by about 20%.
Overall, this is a good-but-not-great story. Fans of gay cowboy romance are likely to enjoy this.
August 13, 2019
This cowboys book was everything I wished for and more!
I expected a lovely new Hidden Creek book, and Thomas and Dalton's story is so much mure... you have enemies to lovers, former bully, out for you, family rivalry and, last but not least, hot cowboys sweating under the Texas sun.
We get a glimpse of life in Hidden Creek, and a couple of the former characters make an appearance, but this story is very much centered on the Reeds and Powells ranches. I loved this book to pieces, could not have wished for a better return to our favourite city for season four!
I expected a lovely new Hidden Creek book, and Thomas and Dalton's story is so much mure... you have enemies to lovers, former bully, out for you, family rivalry and, last but not least, hot cowboys sweating under the Texas sun.
We get a glimpse of life in Hidden Creek, and a couple of the former characters make an appearance, but this story is very much centered on the Reeds and Powells ranches. I loved this book to pieces, could not have wished for a better return to our favourite city for season four!
August 20, 2019
* AUDIOBOOK REVIEW *
I liked this story about enemies to lovers and I always like cowboys....
No unnecessary descriptions of surroundings
Good dialogues
Storyline progresses nicely to a happy ending
Characters is developed in to realistic personalities with flaws and all.
Good chemistry between Dalton and Thomas.
Narrator:
Clear pronunciation and read with feelings.
Not so happy with the parts where he raises his voice, that was a little too harsh on my ears but luckily it wasn’t often.
4 stars overall
I liked this story about enemies to lovers and I always like cowboys....
No unnecessary descriptions of surroundings
Good dialogues
Storyline progresses nicely to a happy ending
Characters is developed in to realistic personalities with flaws and all.
Good chemistry between Dalton and Thomas.
Narrator:
Clear pronunciation and read with feelings.
Not so happy with the parts where he raises his voice, that was a little too harsh on my ears but luckily it wasn’t often.
4 stars overall
September 6, 2019
very good . i cant wait for the rest of these
May 14, 2020
Enjoyable read
Welcome back to Hidden Creek. A great start to this series. Enemies to lovers, Dalton was also closeted and bisexual. Thomas returning home to Hidden Creek has him turning Dalton's world upside down. Loved it.
Welcome back to Hidden Creek. A great start to this series. Enemies to lovers, Dalton was also closeted and bisexual. Thomas returning home to Hidden Creek has him turning Dalton's world upside down. Loved it.
May 30, 2020
Beautiful love!! I wish I knew about this series before Season 4!.... I am way behind....
August 23, 2020
Enemies to lovers romance set on a Texian farm, with an excellent redemption arc too.
May 21, 2022
Enemies make the best boyfriends
I loved it. I loved watching the truth come out and these two get their HEA. This whole series is great
I loved it. I loved watching the truth come out and these two get their HEA. This whole series is great
August 26, 2019
Modern Day Hatfields and McCoys! 🔥Scorchin'🔥
Hats Off to Cowboy-n-Sunshine!
The book: Radiant: Men of Hidden Creek S.4 Bk.1 - by Blake Roland
• Pages • Contemporary • Standalone • Happily Ever After • #1 In A Series • Third-Person Narrative • Dual POV •
The romantic theme:
• Coming Out • Second Chances • Enemies To Lovers
The read:
• Easy Read • Good Pace • All the Feels • Believable World/ Characters • Sexy
SteaMMy Swordplay:
• 3 out of 5 ⚔ • The chemistry is so high when the MCs come together for the first time heat emanated from my Kindle. Phew!!!🔥
Story ingredients:
• Generational Family Feud • Bullying • Hot Cowboys •
MC#1 is...
• Dalton • Strong • Gentle • Hot • Generational Rancher • In the Closet
MC#2 is...
• Thomas • College Dropout • Hates being back home • Bullied as a Teen • Strong • Out and Proud •
This was my first read by Blake but they are now on my radar and I look forward to reading more by them.
Radiant was reminiscent of the Hatfields and McCoys and Lorna Doone in a lot of ways. These two feuding families, the Reeds and Powells have hated and despised each other past years and decades and gone into generations to the great grandfathers on each side.
Because of teenage peer pressure and being the victim of bullying himself, Dalton Powell forced a young Thomas Reed out of the closet. Years of struggling ensued for the Sweet boy until he was able to leave his homophobic small town for college.
Forced back home for a number of reasons Thomas discovers his hometown of Hidden Creek has changed somewhat. Included in that change is a gay bar where Thomas can go to meet others and feel safe. That is til he runs into Dalton standing outside the bar.
Thomas gives his childhood bully a piece of his mind, and hopes to not see the man again.
Fate or circumstance have other ideas when Dalton turns into Thomas' knight in shining armor, quite literally saving his life.
Slowly the two men become friends and love blooms, but they both fear it can't last because of their families.
I typically don't read westerns/ cowboys/ etc., but daaaaang if this wasn't a good book. I adored Dalton, and rooted for him all through the story.
"Who knew rodeo skills could be so kinky?"
4.5 buckin-bronco-stars✨✨✨✨•✨
Hats Off to Cowboy-n-Sunshine!
The book: Radiant: Men of Hidden Creek S.4 Bk.1 - by Blake Roland
• Pages • Contemporary • Standalone • Happily Ever After • #1 In A Series • Third-Person Narrative • Dual POV •
The romantic theme:
• Coming Out • Second Chances • Enemies To Lovers
The read:
• Easy Read • Good Pace • All the Feels • Believable World/ Characters • Sexy
SteaMMy Swordplay:
• 3 out of 5 ⚔ • The chemistry is so high when the MCs come together for the first time heat emanated from my Kindle. Phew!!!🔥
Story ingredients:
• Generational Family Feud • Bullying • Hot Cowboys •
MC#1 is...
• Dalton • Strong • Gentle • Hot • Generational Rancher • In the Closet
MC#2 is...
• Thomas • College Dropout • Hates being back home • Bullied as a Teen • Strong • Out and Proud •
This was my first read by Blake but they are now on my radar and I look forward to reading more by them.
Radiant was reminiscent of the Hatfields and McCoys and Lorna Doone in a lot of ways. These two feuding families, the Reeds and Powells have hated and despised each other past years and decades and gone into generations to the great grandfathers on each side.
Because of teenage peer pressure and being the victim of bullying himself, Dalton Powell forced a young Thomas Reed out of the closet. Years of struggling ensued for the Sweet boy until he was able to leave his homophobic small town for college.
Forced back home for a number of reasons Thomas discovers his hometown of Hidden Creek has changed somewhat. Included in that change is a gay bar where Thomas can go to meet others and feel safe. That is til he runs into Dalton standing outside the bar.
Thomas gives his childhood bully a piece of his mind, and hopes to not see the man again.
Fate or circumstance have other ideas when Dalton turns into Thomas' knight in shining armor, quite literally saving his life.
Slowly the two men become friends and love blooms, but they both fear it can't last because of their families.
I typically don't read westerns/ cowboys/ etc., but daaaaang if this wasn't a good book. I adored Dalton, and rooted for him all through the story.
"Who knew rodeo skills could be so kinky?"
4.5 buckin-bronco-stars✨✨✨✨•✨
August 16, 2019
I usually hate the idea of romanticizing bullying in any way, so I typically steer clear of this trope --> But I'm glad I read this one! I thought it was done quite well and the backstory and subsequent groveling was sufficient to offset some of the actions of the past.
Dalton was a scared kid when he outted Thomas in high school. Dalton had tortured himself for years with the memories of what he'd done...or what he hadn't done to stand up for Thomas, in this case. Complicating Dalton's guilt was the fact that these men were a part of a multigenerational rivalry between their families, with very little room for civil conversation, never mind forgiveness. But if anyone could find it in his heart to mend broken fences, it was Thomas. Beautiful, sweet Thomas, deserved his own lane on the 'high road' paved in gold, with all the forgiveness, understanding, and kindness he bestowed on Dalton and their families.
This was a great enemies-to-lovers, second chance story about redemption, acceptance, forgiveness, and grace. Set deep in the heart of Texas, the town of Hidden Creek was also a character in itself. The town was changing with the times, modernizing, and becoming more tolerant, but it was still experiencing its own growing pains, as well. I loved the little world that has been created in these books.
This was my first Hidden Creek book, as well as my first Blake Roland book, and I'm a convert! Blake's imagery of the pastures, rivers, and woods in this corner of the U.S. was gorgeous and had me longing to see these sunsets first hand. This was such a romantic story and I found it so easy and enjoyable to read. Plus...cowboys!! If this is the caliber of writing that I'll find in the rest of this series, I look forward to reading all the past and future seasons now. Consider me the newest virtual citizen of Hidden Creek!
*ARC provided for an honest and unbiased review.*
Dalton was a scared kid when he outted Thomas in high school. Dalton had tortured himself for years with the memories of what he'd done...or what he hadn't done to stand up for Thomas, in this case. Complicating Dalton's guilt was the fact that these men were a part of a multigenerational rivalry between their families, with very little room for civil conversation, never mind forgiveness. But if anyone could find it in his heart to mend broken fences, it was Thomas. Beautiful, sweet Thomas, deserved his own lane on the 'high road' paved in gold, with all the forgiveness, understanding, and kindness he bestowed on Dalton and their families.
This was a great enemies-to-lovers, second chance story about redemption, acceptance, forgiveness, and grace. Set deep in the heart of Texas, the town of Hidden Creek was also a character in itself. The town was changing with the times, modernizing, and becoming more tolerant, but it was still experiencing its own growing pains, as well. I loved the little world that has been created in these books.
This was my first Hidden Creek book, as well as my first Blake Roland book, and I'm a convert! Blake's imagery of the pastures, rivers, and woods in this corner of the U.S. was gorgeous and had me longing to see these sunsets first hand. This was such a romantic story and I found it so easy and enjoyable to read. Plus...cowboys!! If this is the caliber of writing that I'll find in the rest of this series, I look forward to reading all the past and future seasons now. Consider me the newest virtual citizen of Hidden Creek!
*ARC provided for an honest and unbiased review.*
August 28, 2019
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 4.5 stars
🔥🔥🔥🔥 Heat Level: 4
🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧 Narration: 5
This book is something special! Healing and Heartfelt!!
I loved this one. Dalton and Thomas have an unfortunate past and I really liked how Blake approached this. Bullying through silence can be just as bad as being the instigator. Dalton has regretted his treatment of Thomas for as long as he's known him and I felt for Dalton's secrets and heartbreak. Fear can cause people to do unwise things and I'm glad we got to see both Dalton and Thomas grow from their pasts, heal and become better and stronger for it.
I felt for Thomas and his conflicting feelings and struggles as he tries to re-adjust to his new life back in Hidden Creek. He feels like a failure but must brush himself off and face his past to move forward. I like his journey and strength and how he continued to stay out and round even when it was hard. It was great to see familiar faces in this story and how the town has changed and is growing with the times and support.
I felt this story had a little bit of an underlying Romeo and Juliet or really, Romeo & Romeo element to it, with the two waring and competing families, always trying to outdo each other and Dalton and Thomas coming together despite it all. I loved the Bi awakening Dalton was able to get through and the growth and healing both characters and their families when through was beautifully written. This was a truly special read.
I loved it and can't wait for more from Blake and more from Hidden Creek!!!
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚
🔥🔥🔥🔥 Heat Level: 4
🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧 Narration: 5
This book is something special! Healing and Heartfelt!!
I loved this one. Dalton and Thomas have an unfortunate past and I really liked how Blake approached this. Bullying through silence can be just as bad as being the instigator. Dalton has regretted his treatment of Thomas for as long as he's known him and I felt for Dalton's secrets and heartbreak. Fear can cause people to do unwise things and I'm glad we got to see both Dalton and Thomas grow from their pasts, heal and become better and stronger for it.
I felt for Thomas and his conflicting feelings and struggles as he tries to re-adjust to his new life back in Hidden Creek. He feels like a failure but must brush himself off and face his past to move forward. I like his journey and strength and how he continued to stay out and round even when it was hard. It was great to see familiar faces in this story and how the town has changed and is growing with the times and support.
I felt this story had a little bit of an underlying Romeo and Juliet or really, Romeo & Romeo element to it, with the two waring and competing families, always trying to outdo each other and Dalton and Thomas coming together despite it all. I loved the Bi awakening Dalton was able to get through and the growth and healing both characters and their families when through was beautifully written. This was a truly special read.
I loved it and can't wait for more from Blake and more from Hidden Creek!!!
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚
August 11, 2019
Love Hidden Creek and so glad to have the chance at some more stories from there.
Radiant sees old enemies Dalton and Thomas meet again when Thomas returns back to his family's ranch after a few years away at college. Their families have been enemies for years by having neighbouring ranches, working in the same business and having an old family feud. Dalton definitely did not help matters by just standing by whilst Thomas was bullied throughout his school years.
There's an instant spark between them and though both wish to deny it, events and meeting again shows them that is not the case. Dalton is a closeted bisexual which also puts up barriers to any future they could have.
There are a lot of heartwarming scenes between the two as fences are mended and the two work towards a friendship that was unexpected. Events and family conspire against them throughout though so they really have to work to make anything work. I like that as it shows how much they want to be together. The "bad guy"of the story is not all that surprising but is still upsetting simply because of the effect it has on both families.
Love Dalton and Thomas together, it has lots of good feels about it. One really touching moment was when the two together found a lost cow and a newly born calf.
Absolutely recommended and so looking forward to reading the rest of the series!
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Radiant sees old enemies Dalton and Thomas meet again when Thomas returns back to his family's ranch after a few years away at college. Their families have been enemies for years by having neighbouring ranches, working in the same business and having an old family feud. Dalton definitely did not help matters by just standing by whilst Thomas was bullied throughout his school years.
There's an instant spark between them and though both wish to deny it, events and meeting again shows them that is not the case. Dalton is a closeted bisexual which also puts up barriers to any future they could have.
There are a lot of heartwarming scenes between the two as fences are mended and the two work towards a friendship that was unexpected. Events and family conspire against them throughout though so they really have to work to make anything work. I like that as it shows how much they want to be together. The "bad guy"of the story is not all that surprising but is still upsetting simply because of the effect it has on both families.
Love Dalton and Thomas together, it has lots of good feels about it. One really touching moment was when the two together found a lost cow and a newly born calf.
Absolutely recommended and so looking forward to reading the rest of the series!
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
August 29, 2019
This is the first book in this new season of the Men of Hidden Creek and it can be read/listened to as a standalone.
This was an enemies-to-lovers, slow-burn, first-time romance, with a bit of a Romeo and Juliet vibe, since Thomas and Dalton's families were enemies as well. It was entertaining, although, it felt like it dragged a bit at some parts.
I liked Thomas and Dalton and even if it took forever and a day for Dalton to get his act together and come out as bisexual to his family and the rest of the town, I wasn't all that annoyed with him. It was kind of understandable, seeing how the other kids behaved with Thomas back when they were still in high school. Thomas and Dalton had a lot of chemistry, though, and it was nice seeing them together.
I hated Harry, Thomas's cousin, from the start, and I hated him even more after what he did to the family who had taken him in. I was glad that even if both Thomas and Dalton's families could be very headstrong, they were willing to make an effort for their kids.
Nick Russo did a fantastic job with all the voices as always, especially with Dalton, who ended up being my favorite of them all.
This was a pretty enjoyable audiobook and I have no trouble recommending it!
This was an enemies-to-lovers, slow-burn, first-time romance, with a bit of a Romeo and Juliet vibe, since Thomas and Dalton's families were enemies as well. It was entertaining, although, it felt like it dragged a bit at some parts.
I liked Thomas and Dalton and even if it took forever and a day for Dalton to get his act together and come out as bisexual to his family and the rest of the town, I wasn't all that annoyed with him. It was kind of understandable, seeing how the other kids behaved with Thomas back when they were still in high school. Thomas and Dalton had a lot of chemistry, though, and it was nice seeing them together.
I hated Harry, Thomas's cousin, from the start, and I hated him even more after what he did to the family who had taken him in. I was glad that even if both Thomas and Dalton's families could be very headstrong, they were willing to make an effort for their kids.
Nick Russo did a fantastic job with all the voices as always, especially with Dalton, who ended up being my favorite of them all.
This was a pretty enjoyable audiobook and I have no trouble recommending it!
August 18, 2019
This is my first Men of Hidden Creek book and can totally be read as a stand alone but given how much I enjoyed Radiant I can’t wait to get stuck into the previous seasons.
Radiant is a enemies to lovers with a hint of Romeo and Juliet thrown in. Dalton is a closeted bisexual who has been hiding is true self from everyone. Thomas was happy to say goodbye to Hidden Creek when he left for college, his high school time was pretty awful being bullied and outed against his will. Circumstances see to his return and he is not best pleased, especially when he runs into Dalton who stood by and did nothing to stop the bulling Thomas suffered in school.
Thomas and Dalton come from rival ranch families who have been feuding for years so when a situation occurs throwing them together and sparks start to fly, their story becomes their fight to be together. Events and people conspire to keep them apart but true love wins every time.
Radiant was a great story of second chances, forgiveness and self acceptance.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
Radiant is a enemies to lovers with a hint of Romeo and Juliet thrown in. Dalton is a closeted bisexual who has been hiding is true self from everyone. Thomas was happy to say goodbye to Hidden Creek when he left for college, his high school time was pretty awful being bullied and outed against his will. Circumstances see to his return and he is not best pleased, especially when he runs into Dalton who stood by and did nothing to stop the bulling Thomas suffered in school.
Thomas and Dalton come from rival ranch families who have been feuding for years so when a situation occurs throwing them together and sparks start to fly, their story becomes their fight to be together. Events and people conspire to keep them apart but true love wins every time.
Radiant was a great story of second chances, forgiveness and self acceptance.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
August 23, 2019
I'm new to the Hidden Creek and to this author, and I saw the first book in this season was being narrated by a favorite, so here I am! I had to hear what everyone has been talking about in the Hidden Creek world! I'm glad I did, because this was a great first start for me! The author did a great job describing Hidden Creek so I felt as if I knew all I needed to know, and I thought that the narrator Nick J Russo did a great job bringing the imagery of the author's words to life! I could almost feel as if I was there! I love a good enemies to lovers story, and this one had it all! Dalton and Thomas grew up as enemies as their families ranches bordered each other. Which caused so much family strife, hurt feelings and on both sides of the ranch, and trickery. I loved how Dalton and Thomas put aside their family's drama to find each other. I really enjoyed how the narrator put a lot of emotion into his narration, and I could really feel an emotional connection to the characters and what was happening in the story. I really loved the HEA (no spoilers here) and it was very much deserved by all! I think I'm a new Hidden Creek convert! I'm off to the next book!
August 20, 2019
We are back in Hidden Creek a gem of a Texan town that is so inclusive it makes you want to live there. This is the fourth season of this wonderful multi-author series.
This is a classic enemies to friends, to lovers story with two feuding families, Cowboys, rodeos and sunsets.
Dalton is a closeted bisexual man who has convinced himself, he will be alone forever as he doesn’t deserve to be happy, until he sees Thomas Reed again. Thomas is returning to Hidden creek to the ranch he so desperately tried to escape from, after his high school years were hell, the last thing he wants is to catch feelings for Dalton Powell.
This is a good book to return to the series with as it is mostly centred on the two ranches owned by the Reeds and the Powell’s, we do how ever still get some returning characters from previous series’s which adds to the small town feel of the stories. The characters have their faults but are very likeable making this an enjoyable read. I am looking forward to the next book to come in this series.
This is a classic enemies to friends, to lovers story with two feuding families, Cowboys, rodeos and sunsets.
Dalton is a closeted bisexual man who has convinced himself, he will be alone forever as he doesn’t deserve to be happy, until he sees Thomas Reed again. Thomas is returning to Hidden creek to the ranch he so desperately tried to escape from, after his high school years were hell, the last thing he wants is to catch feelings for Dalton Powell.
This is a good book to return to the series with as it is mostly centred on the two ranches owned by the Reeds and the Powell’s, we do how ever still get some returning characters from previous series’s which adds to the small town feel of the stories. The characters have their faults but are very likeable making this an enjoyable read. I am looking forward to the next book to come in this series.
August 14, 2019
Radiant by Blake Roland is part of the fourth season releases of the multi-author series Men of Hidden Creek. It is a contemporary m/m romance with emotion and I highly recommend you to read it.
Dalton has lived in the closet his whole life, even doing things in his youth that he regrets in the name of keeping people from speculating he was anything but straight. But when Thomas comes back to town he might just have a reason to face the truth and stop hiding... even if their families are in a long standing feud.
I love this enemies to lovers story. It is filled with drama/angst, but also with the sweet and sexy moments of two men falling in love. The characters are amazing and a great addition to the Hidden Creek universe.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation
Dalton has lived in the closet his whole life, even doing things in his youth that he regrets in the name of keeping people from speculating he was anything but straight. But when Thomas comes back to town he might just have a reason to face the truth and stop hiding... even if their families are in a long standing feud.
I love this enemies to lovers story. It is filled with drama/angst, but also with the sweet and sexy moments of two men falling in love. The characters are amazing and a great addition to the Hidden Creek universe.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation
August 16, 2019
When this book starts, you see Dalton, working on his family's ranch and keeping a large part of himself hidden from others. When Thomas moves home after college, years of feuding between families and pasts hurts come between the two men. I enjoyed how this book picks up in the present day instead of droning on about the two men's back story. I also liked how the two men, who have matured in the years since they'd seen each other, slowly develop a friendship despite their circumstances. There are a lot of obstacles in the way for both Dalton, who has to come to terms with and accepting his bisexuality, and Thomas, who has to move past hurts from years past. The relationship that develops between the two men is heartfelt and moving, and by the end, I loved how their relationship was solidly built. A good read!!
August 20, 2019
Another Hidden Creek hit!
I love the Hidden Creek books, and this one is the epitome of what I love about them:
Learning to accept yourself
Being brave and trusting others
Sweet moments building a relationship
Good people finding happiness
And a cameo from Kris at Phoenix (also others we know from elsewhere in HC).
Closeted, unhappy Dalton, with so much guilt from his high school years and so much anxiety about ever being himself. Thomas, reluctant to be back in Hidden Creek, still carrying some of the scars from his teenage years being bullied, and feeling helpless to change his family’s fortunes. Together, they are brave and beautiful. Add in a Romeo-and-Juliet quality family feud, fantastic villain in the shape of Thomas’s a$$hole cousin Harry, and a little bit of rodeo and we’re off to a great start for season 4!!
I love the Hidden Creek books, and this one is the epitome of what I love about them:
Learning to accept yourself
Being brave and trusting others
Sweet moments building a relationship
Good people finding happiness
And a cameo from Kris at Phoenix (also others we know from elsewhere in HC).
Closeted, unhappy Dalton, with so much guilt from his high school years and so much anxiety about ever being himself. Thomas, reluctant to be back in Hidden Creek, still carrying some of the scars from his teenage years being bullied, and feeling helpless to change his family’s fortunes. Together, they are brave and beautiful. Add in a Romeo-and-Juliet quality family feud, fantastic villain in the shape of Thomas’s a$$hole cousin Harry, and a little bit of rodeo and we’re off to a great start for season 4!!
August 15, 2019
Thomas comes home from college to find himself face to face with the high school bully responsible for outing him and making his life miserable… time has passed, but the wound hasn’t healed. Dalton is dealing with his own demons, and finding Thomas in front of him, looking amazing, was a bit of shock. However, when the opportunity to confront the past and make amends presents itself, he takes it, drawn to Thomas in a way he wasn’t expecting.
The first installment in the new Men of Hidden Creek series 4 is a great read; enemies to lovers/out for you tropes here are the perfect recipe for a steamy, sexy story, with just enough angst, sweetness and family conflict to drive a good story. This was my first Blake Roland book, but definitely not my last. Highly recommended.
The first installment in the new Men of Hidden Creek series 4 is a great read; enemies to lovers/out for you tropes here are the perfect recipe for a steamy, sexy story, with just enough angst, sweetness and family conflict to drive a good story. This was my first Blake Roland book, but definitely not my last. Highly recommended.
August 19, 2019
This is a great start to the new season of Hidden Creek stories. Two men, two families, homophobia, fear, and secrets. I loved the characters, especially Thomas. After being bullied by Dalton when they were in school, Thomas has now bulked up some and when he finds Dalton loitering outside the town's only gay bar, he decides to confront him. He is not going to let Dalton bully him or anyone else. Of course, it's a misunderstanding, but I loved how Thomas took a stand. Explanations and apologies follow. and the two men connect. Love will not be easy, however, since their families have been at war for years. It was a great read to see them fight for their love above all.
I received a complimentary ARC and have voluntarily left this honest review.
I received a complimentary ARC and have voluntarily left this honest review.
March 21, 2021
Dalton and Thomas came from feuding families. There was a lot of history between them, and Thomas would've been glad to never see Dalton again. When circumstances change, however, Dalton and Thomas find they have a lot more in common than they think and they really enjoy spending time together. These guys were really sweet together and were a little bit swoon-worthy. It was so nice to see Dalton open himself up and find his happiness, and it was great to see Thomas realize that being home wasn't as awful as he thought it would be. Thomas was such a patient and great character, and Dalton was a perfect match for him. This was a great addition to the Hidden Creek universe.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by LesCourt Author Services
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by LesCourt Author Services
August 16, 2019
Second chance to be who you want to be, to be a better man. I really enjoyed the ranch setting and the feel of the story. I like the gentle moments of how they start to accept their attraction and their acceptance of each other. The story-line is engaging and the story flowed well.
Thomas and Dalton are both good characters and you can feel their connection.
This was the first book in the new season four of the Men of Hidden Creek Series and it is a great start. Looking forward to more of this fun new series.
I was gifted this book from the LesCourt Author Services and i freely give my honest opinion and review.
Thomas and Dalton are both good characters and you can feel their connection.
This was the first book in the new season four of the Men of Hidden Creek Series and it is a great start. Looking forward to more of this fun new series.
I was gifted this book from the LesCourt Author Services and i freely give my honest opinion and review.
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