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Farthingdale Ranch #3
The Ranch Hand and the Single Dad
"If Austin has forgotten what love is, maybe Clay can show him the way."
Happy-go-lucky Clay keeps busy with hookups at the local bar after working hard at the ranch. Those hookups used to be fun, but now they leave him empty.
Austin is reeling after a difficult divorce. His wife took everything, including full custody of his daughter, Bea, who is only nine.
Austin doesn’t know where his life is headed, but at least he’s got a roof over his head, and a new job as accountant at Farthingdale Ranch.
The job is exactly the kind of work he loves. The only problem is he’s distracted by Clay, who is gay. Austin is straight. There’s no way this can work.
A gay M/M cowboy romance with age gap, hurt/comfort, opposites attract, single dad, out for you, midnight rendezvous, friendship between men. A little sweet, a little steamy, with a guaranteed HEA.
Coming Soon - The newest book in the Farthingdale Ranch Series!
Happy-go-lucky Clay keeps busy with hookups at the local bar after working hard at the ranch. Those hookups used to be fun, but now they leave him empty.
Austin is reeling after a difficult divorce. His wife took everything, including full custody of his daughter, Bea, who is only nine.
Austin doesn’t know where his life is headed, but at least he’s got a roof over his head, and a new job as accountant at Farthingdale Ranch.
The job is exactly the kind of work he loves. The only problem is he’s distracted by Clay, who is gay. Austin is straight. There’s no way this can work.
A gay M/M cowboy romance with age gap, hurt/comfort, opposites attract, single dad, out for you, midnight rendezvous, friendship between men. A little sweet, a little steamy, with a guaranteed HEA.
Coming Soon - The newest book in the Farthingdale Ranch Series!
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 27, 2021
106 people are currently reading
232 people want to read
About the author
Jackie North
49 books381 followersJackie North has been writing stories since grade school and spent years absorbing the mainstream romances that she found at her local grocery store. She also wanted to put her English degree to good use and write romance novels, because for years she’s had a never-ending movie of made-up love stories in her head that simply wouldn’t leave her alone.
As fate would have it, she discovered m/m romance and decided that men falling in love with other men was exactly what she wanted to write books about.
She creates characters who are a bit flawed and broken, who find themselves on the edge of society, and maybe a few who are a little bit lost, but who all deserve a happily ever after. (And she makes sure they get it!)
She likes long walks on the beach, the smell of lavender and rainstorms, and enjoys sleeping in on snowy mornings. She is especially fond of pizza and beer and, when time allows, long road trips with soda fountain drinks and rock and roll music. In her heart, there is peace to be found everywhere, but since in the real world this isn’t always true, Jackie writes for love.
As fate would have it, she discovered m/m romance and decided that men falling in love with other men was exactly what she wanted to write books about.
She creates characters who are a bit flawed and broken, who find themselves on the edge of society, and maybe a few who are a little bit lost, but who all deserve a happily ever after. (And she makes sure they get it!)
She likes long walks on the beach, the smell of lavender and rainstorms, and enjoys sleeping in on snowy mornings. She is especially fond of pizza and beer and, when time allows, long road trips with soda fountain drinks and rock and roll music. In her heart, there is peace to be found everywhere, but since in the real world this isn’t always true, Jackie writes for love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
August 23, 2021
~3.5~
Clay and Austin are an unlikely couple. Clay embraces the sunshine. Austin hides in the shadows. Clay plays on the field. Austin stands on the sidelines.
Clay has always wanted to be a cowboy and loves living on the ranch. He's lonely, can't dance, and is afraid of snakes, but no one has to know.
Austin has been verbally and emotionally abused by his ex-wife for over a decade and has never made his own choices. His one triumph is his 9-year-old daughter Anne, but he has to leave her behind, along with his house and car and golf clubs (which he never wanted anyway).
When Austin meets Clay, he's lost. Clay likes Austin so, so much and flirts with him relentlessly, but Austin isn't gay (at least he doesn't think so).
The story is slow burn, and I mean molasses on a cold day kind of slow. Besides kissing, there's no steam until the 90 percent mark.
The men become friends, and Clay encourages and praises Austin every chance he gets. He likes Austin's ginger hair, his soft-spoken ways, and the way Austin wears his new, blue, snap-button shirt like he's proud to be a part of something.
Austin wants to be with Clay, but he's not sure he's enough. He's felt no desire for so long, he can't perform, and his ex still lives in his head.
Austin's sexuality is not fully explored. I felt like he just latched on to the first person who paid him any attention.
And flirty, sexual Clay basically puts his needs on hold to court Austin. He wants more. He NEEDS more. But he kind of settles for the first man who wants more than a quick fuck in an alley behind a bar.
The custody situation with Austin's daughter is also resolved too easily. I'm fairly certain it takes more than signing some papers to change a custody agreement, especially when child support is involved. Maybe I'm wrong, but the whole thing seemed anticlimactic.
I liked the first two books more, but I'll definitely continue with this series. Something about Jackie North's writing just does me in.
Clay and Austin are an unlikely couple. Clay embraces the sunshine. Austin hides in the shadows. Clay plays on the field. Austin stands on the sidelines.
Clay has always wanted to be a cowboy and loves living on the ranch. He's lonely, can't dance, and is afraid of snakes, but no one has to know.
Austin has been verbally and emotionally abused by his ex-wife for over a decade and has never made his own choices. His one triumph is his 9-year-old daughter Anne, but he has to leave her behind, along with his house and car and golf clubs (which he never wanted anyway).
When Austin meets Clay, he's lost. Clay likes Austin so, so much and flirts with him relentlessly, but Austin isn't gay (at least he doesn't think so).
The story is slow burn, and I mean molasses on a cold day kind of slow. Besides kissing, there's no steam until the 90 percent mark.
The men become friends, and Clay encourages and praises Austin every chance he gets. He likes Austin's ginger hair, his soft-spoken ways, and the way Austin wears his new, blue, snap-button shirt like he's proud to be a part of something.
Austin wants to be with Clay, but he's not sure he's enough. He's felt no desire for so long, he can't perform, and his ex still lives in his head.
Austin's sexuality is not fully explored. I felt like he just latched on to the first person who paid him any attention.
And flirty, sexual Clay basically puts his needs on hold to court Austin. He wants more. He NEEDS more. But he kind of settles for the first man who wants more than a quick fuck in an alley behind a bar.
The custody situation with Austin's daughter is also resolved too easily. I'm fairly certain it takes more than signing some papers to change a custody agreement, especially when child support is involved. Maybe I'm wrong, but the whole thing seemed anticlimactic.
I liked the first two books more, but I'll definitely continue with this series. Something about Jackie North's writing just does me in.
December 18, 2021
I loved this. I loved this so much.
One of my two big author discoveries this year has been Jackie North. I've only read a few books by her, but every time they have hit hard. She has a way with words, making them more, making them bigger. Her writing is beautiful and poetic and I just want to keep on reading them.
In this, third book in the series it is Clay's turn to find love. He's been one of my favorite characters from the very beginning, right up there with Jamie and I've been curious about who would be his match. I wasn't sure how I felt about Austin in the beginning, but he won me over after a while and I was just as invested in Clay and Austin getting their happy ever after as I was with Jamie and Leland in book one and Jasper and Ellis in book two. The friendship between Clay and Austin and how they were always there for each other, being steady for the other was beautiful.
If I had the energy I would totally binge read this series but these guys and this author has a way of draining my feelings for a while, in the best way possible.
One of my two big author discoveries this year has been Jackie North. I've only read a few books by her, but every time they have hit hard. She has a way with words, making them more, making them bigger. Her writing is beautiful and poetic and I just want to keep on reading them.
In this, third book in the series it is Clay's turn to find love. He's been one of my favorite characters from the very beginning, right up there with Jamie and I've been curious about who would be his match. I wasn't sure how I felt about Austin in the beginning, but he won me over after a while and I was just as invested in Clay and Austin getting their happy ever after as I was with Jamie and Leland in book one and Jasper and Ellis in book two. The friendship between Clay and Austin and how they were always there for each other, being steady for the other was beautiful.
If I had the energy I would totally binge read this series but these guys and this author has a way of draining my feelings for a while, in the best way possible.
Read
April 28, 2024DNF @ 16%
Though I love Jackie North's writing, I'm having a hard time getting into this story. Reading a few reviews, I know this is going to be a super slow burn, and I'm not sure I'm in the mood for that right now. I may revisit this in the future, but for now, I'm calling it quits.
Though I love Jackie North's writing, I'm having a hard time getting into this story. Reading a few reviews, I know this is going to be a super slow burn, and I'm not sure I'm in the mood for that right now. I may revisit this in the future, but for now, I'm calling it quits.
May 17, 2025
Reread May 15, 2025
We find a man who was mentally abused by his wife for 10 years, and now, away from her, he can relax and find himself. He makes some mistakes, but quickly turns himself around.
Austin's ex is hideous, mentally abusive, but he has his beloved daughter, 9, who is sweet.
Austin is tall, an Accountant with dark auburn hair,
green eyes, 30ish, and is divorced, but can't see his daughter much. At the ranch he begins his new life, and our city guy is out of his realm, but anxious to do what he loves, numbers and painting.
Clay, the younger, hot blonde with blue eyes,
is stocky and works as the horse handler, where he can be outside with the marvelous horses, and does many other chores on the beautiful ranch.
It's the city mouse meets country mouse, or the cowboy and the pencil pusher, and they find an attraction in each other's space.
Austin has been told demeaning things forever, and he's scarred with no self esteem, and every other area of life. He makes some errors with jumping to decisions, but quickly sees his problem.
Clay has been a quickie guy, and never felt a lasting pull of emotions before. He's willing to see where the friendship with Austin goes. Austin is new to having feeling for a man, specifically, Clay. GYF.
We see many ranch scenes, the black eye, dancing, scenery, a deadly snake, and Austin's painting. Their first kiss is earth-shaking and spectacular.
Austin is settling the accounts well, interacting with staff and looking forward to his time with Clay.
They are super slow with their sexy times, and Clay is patient, waiting for Austin to become accustomed to the new feelings.
Bea comes for a long weekend and it goes well, with fun, horses, and she is loving being a cowgirl.
Clay had really stepped up to welcome her, as did the whole batch of caring folks.
A surprise call changes everything for Austin, and he regrets his reaction, but soon smooths things out.
It's really the best news ever, and Leland thinks it's easy-peasy.
A heartwarming tale where a single dad gets to have what he needs, and he gets to make a beautiful life for his daughter, with Clay as his strong, solid partner.
Truly enjoyable.
=====
We find a man who was mentally abused by his wife for 10 years, and now, away from her, he can relax and find himself. He makes some mistakes, but quickly turns himself around.
Austin's ex is hideous, mentally abusive, but he has his beloved daughter, 9, who is sweet.
Austin is tall, an Accountant with dark auburn hair,
green eyes, 30ish, and is divorced, but can't see his daughter much. At the ranch he begins his new life, and our city guy is out of his realm, but anxious to do what he loves, numbers and painting.
Clay, the younger, hot blonde with blue eyes,
is stocky and works as the horse handler, where he can be outside with the marvelous horses, and does many other chores on the beautiful ranch.
It's the city mouse meets country mouse, or the cowboy and the pencil pusher, and they find an attraction in each other's space.
Austin has been told demeaning things forever, and he's scarred with no self esteem, and every other area of life. He makes some errors with jumping to decisions, but quickly sees his problem.
Clay has been a quickie guy, and never felt a lasting pull of emotions before. He's willing to see where the friendship with Austin goes. Austin is new to having feeling for a man, specifically, Clay. GYF.
We see many ranch scenes, the black eye, dancing, scenery, a deadly snake, and Austin's painting. Their first kiss is earth-shaking and spectacular.
Austin is settling the accounts well, interacting with staff and looking forward to his time with Clay.
They are super slow with their sexy times, and Clay is patient, waiting for Austin to become accustomed to the new feelings.
Bea comes for a long weekend and it goes well, with fun, horses, and she is loving being a cowgirl.
Clay had really stepped up to welcome her, as did the whole batch of caring folks.
A surprise call changes everything for Austin, and he regrets his reaction, but soon smooths things out.
It's really the best news ever, and Leland thinks it's easy-peasy.
A heartwarming tale where a single dad gets to have what he needs, and he gets to make a beautiful life for his daughter, with Clay as his strong, solid partner.
Truly enjoyable.
=====
August 2, 2021
Delivers Everything You Hoped For
Anyone who's read the first two books in what now appears to be a six-chapter series was waiting for this one: Clay, the blond bombshell on the cover, all-around good guy with a mysterious social life turns out to be gay as a goose in the first chapter--and cranky as a goose as well if he's pushed in the wrong direction.
In this case he screws up royally by attacking the owner of the Rusty Nail saloon, the obviously gay bar in the Wyoming wilderness and comes this close to getttng fired by his boss, Leland, the big, broad, beautiful man who kicked off the series by falling in love with a twinkish drifter named Jamie.
Clay's punishment, however, could not be more fortuitous because he is dispensed to Denver to pick up the ranch's new accountant, a newly divorced and totally oblivious late 20's meek geek named Austin who might be one of the more offbeat supposedly straight characters you will come across in any gay-for-you novel.
This book is brilliantly developed because author North dissects and exposes all the hidden issues of both Clay and Austin, and moves along a semi-slow relationship that catches both of them by surprise and turns out to be nothing like the reader may have expected.
I loved the first two books of this series and truly love this one as well. What makes it special as well is that author North keeps bringing in the MCs from the first two books and starts to develop the three characters on the ranch who will be the subjects of the next three books in the series. (My only complaint is that those books are not scheduled to be published until 2022).
Meanwhile, grab this one--it's perfect.
Anyone who's read the first two books in what now appears to be a six-chapter series was waiting for this one: Clay, the blond bombshell on the cover, all-around good guy with a mysterious social life turns out to be gay as a goose in the first chapter--and cranky as a goose as well if he's pushed in the wrong direction.
In this case he screws up royally by attacking the owner of the Rusty Nail saloon, the obviously gay bar in the Wyoming wilderness and comes this close to getttng fired by his boss, Leland, the big, broad, beautiful man who kicked off the series by falling in love with a twinkish drifter named Jamie.
Clay's punishment, however, could not be more fortuitous because he is dispensed to Denver to pick up the ranch's new accountant, a newly divorced and totally oblivious late 20's meek geek named Austin who might be one of the more offbeat supposedly straight characters you will come across in any gay-for-you novel.
This book is brilliantly developed because author North dissects and exposes all the hidden issues of both Clay and Austin, and moves along a semi-slow relationship that catches both of them by surprise and turns out to be nothing like the reader may have expected.
I loved the first two books of this series and truly love this one as well. What makes it special as well is that author North keeps bringing in the MCs from the first two books and starts to develop the three characters on the ranch who will be the subjects of the next three books in the series. (My only complaint is that those books are not scheduled to be published until 2022).
Meanwhile, grab this one--it's perfect.
October 18, 2024
The ratings for these books keep going down…
I mean, what sort of man talks like these that are in the book?? Seriously it’s like Mary Balogh’s characters from the 17 or 1800s talking! These are supposed to be cowboys!
Clay is a playboy who has all kinds of 1-night stands. Austin is a newly divorced single dad who might also be a demisexual based on his history with his awful ex wife. It was boring. I skipped a bunch. There was full on penetrative sex at like 90%, the first BJ at 70%. Not that I’m marking my reading experience by sex. But well, there’s nothing else really interesting going on so I guess I am…
Ugh.😣
I mean, what sort of man talks like these that are in the book?? Seriously it’s like Mary Balogh’s characters from the 17 or 1800s talking! These are supposed to be cowboys!
Clay is a playboy who has all kinds of 1-night stands. Austin is a newly divorced single dad who might also be a demisexual based on his history with his awful ex wife. It was boring. I skipped a bunch. There was full on penetrative sex at like 90%, the first BJ at 70%. Not that I’m marking my reading experience by sex. But well, there’s nothing else really interesting going on so I guess I am…
Ugh.😣
July 31, 2021
Dnf. Too much complaining about an ex you chose to stay with. It’s not her job no matter how crap of a person she was, to figure out your sexuality. You honestly are complaining cause she didn’t want your D in her face, and would only give you a hand job when she’s on her period. Really? Get over yourself.
July 30, 2021
The Ranch Hand and a Single Dad was focused on how Austin coped after his divorced and finding himself again after years of living under his wife's rules.
I was curious about Clay and how once Leland tried to fall for him but then Jamie came :)
Clay has no problem with his self esteem, but when it comes to relationship, that's another story.
It was a slow burn romance between Austin and Clay. I liked Austin's relationship with his daughter but questioned why did he stay in his toxic marriage for so long lol
I mean, why? 😁
Despite of Austin always thought about his ex wife all the time and wanted to stopped it but failed, to the level it was annoyed me so much, I liked that he can finally found himself again.
And Austin painting was another reason why I liked him. Artist support for another artist :)
Overall, if you like Jackie's writing, and a fan. Read this book.
Can't wait to read another three books in the series!
I was curious about Clay and how once Leland tried to fall for him but then Jamie came :)
Clay has no problem with his self esteem, but when it comes to relationship, that's another story.
It was a slow burn romance between Austin and Clay. I liked Austin's relationship with his daughter but questioned why did he stay in his toxic marriage for so long lol
I mean, why? 😁
Despite of Austin always thought about his ex wife all the time and wanted to stopped it but failed, to the level it was annoyed me so much, I liked that he can finally found himself again.
And Austin painting was another reason why I liked him. Artist support for another artist :)
Overall, if you like Jackie's writing, and a fan. Read this book.
Can't wait to read another three books in the series!
August 3, 2021
I liked how this started out, and by that I mean I liked Clay. Once Austin got introduced, I felt my interest waning.
For all that Austin moans about Mona and how horrible of a wife and mother she was, I can't help but feel that you letting your wife treat your daughter like some kind of paper doll doesn't make you #1 Dad. And the evil ex thing is never a trope I like. Having her accept her new guy's desire not to have "someone else's leftovers" is just a bit much.
I'm not sure if this was meant to be a GFY type thing, bi-awakening, Austin realizing he is gay, or maybe on the ace spectrum (though that would have been a nice angle)... but I feel like their feelings for each other came about all too quickly... just a few weeks.
I must wonder if Jackie North forgot how old Leland is. In the first book, Leland constantly goes on about how old he is. In this book, Clay mentions how old Leland is a few times. Yet considering in the first book, Leland is nearing 30, I just don't understand why he is constantly referred to as old. Austin would be older than him.
I did notice quite a lot of editing issues with this book. There were quite a few sentences missing words. And a couple times one thing would happen in one chapter and then the next chapter would contradict that... like Clay having his first shower in the cabin after having had shower sex in the previous chapter in the same cabin.
And who is on the cover? Based on the hat, I would say it was supposed to be Clay, but Clay is blond and thick, with a big ass and thighs, and a rounded belly. This guy looks cut. And he doesn't have freckles or red hair, so not Austin. Always a bit of a pet peeve with the cover model doesn't match the MC(s).
I'm kind of on the fence with as to whether I will continue with this. I haven't enjoyed the 2nd and 3rd books near as much as the first and am feeling less forgiving with the somewhat sloppy editing. I am interested in Brody, so I figure I'll give his book and this series one more shot.
For all that Austin moans about Mona and how horrible of a wife and mother she was, I can't help but feel that you letting your wife treat your daughter like some kind of paper doll doesn't make you #1 Dad. And the evil ex thing is never a trope I like. Having her accept her new guy's desire not to have "someone else's leftovers" is just a bit much.
I'm not sure if this was meant to be a GFY type thing, bi-awakening, Austin realizing he is gay, or maybe on the ace spectrum (though that would have been a nice angle)... but I feel like their feelings for each other came about all too quickly... just a few weeks.
I must wonder if Jackie North forgot how old Leland is. In the first book, Leland constantly goes on about how old he is. In this book, Clay mentions how old Leland is a few times. Yet considering in the first book, Leland is nearing 30, I just don't understand why he is constantly referred to as old. Austin would be older than him.
I did notice quite a lot of editing issues with this book. There were quite a few sentences missing words. And a couple times one thing would happen in one chapter and then the next chapter would contradict that... like Clay having his first shower in the cabin after having had shower sex in the previous chapter in the same cabin.
And who is on the cover? Based on the hat, I would say it was supposed to be Clay, but Clay is blond and thick, with a big ass and thighs, and a rounded belly. This guy looks cut. And he doesn't have freckles or red hair, so not Austin. Always a bit of a pet peeve with the cover model doesn't match the MC(s).
I'm kind of on the fence with as to whether I will continue with this. I haven't enjoyed the 2nd and 3rd books near as much as the first and am feeling less forgiving with the somewhat sloppy editing. I am interested in Brody, so I figure I'll give his book and this series one more shot.
April 14, 2023
I'm conflicted. I absolutely loved these two men and their love story, but I had a few problems with the story, namely the ex-wife Mona. This book is still definitely my favorite of the series so far, and I would recommend it if you want to read about gay cowboys, and like seeing characters interact with children. Bea's portrayal felt real for a 9 year old and I loved how she fit into the story once she was at the ranch. Clay has been my favorite side character for the last two books so I'm so happy to have gotten to read his love story! I need more Clay in the next books <3
March 16, 2025
Narrative wise, it was good. I just didn't feel a connection to Clay and Austin the way I'd connected with Leland and Jamie or with Jasper and Ellis. But the book itself was fine
January 18, 2022
RTC but I quite enjoyed this one. It was really sweet and it had a lot of moments that made me swoon so much. I just don’t really like when an ex takes a big part of a story and that was the case here and slowburns are not my favourites and this book is really slowburn, a little too much for me.
August 20, 2021
Austin is a prime example of what happens to a person when you are emotionally abused by a partner. His b*tch of an ex broke him until he is almost completely lacking confidence. How that woman managed to get custody and win the divorce, I don't know. It filled me with such fury that it distracted me from the story. Probably why I need happy endings and don't mind sugar coating reality. The unfairness of reality f*cking sucks. I don't need books to be real because reality is often crushingly unfair. Cue in Austin's ex getting custody of a daughter she doesn't even WANT or LOVE but is just window dressing for her perfect life. Ugh! Rant over.
Austin is a sweet, loving man. Meeting Clay is an awakening in more ways than one. Clay is an open, warm, and supportive man. Together, they both grow. Austin gains confidence and Clay finds out he's more than his body. Both find the love they've never had and always wanted. Clay is surprisingly vulnerable and emotionally needy. It's quite sweet. I enjoyed the slow burn of their relationship. Austin's ED slowing the sexual side of their relationship and allowing their intimacy to grow without the pressure of sex. It's a really good story. Only reason it was less enjoyable for me was the stress the ex gave me. Nothing to do with the writing or the author or the story. Just me personally. Maybe the next read through will be less stressful, lol.
Austin is a sweet, loving man. Meeting Clay is an awakening in more ways than one. Clay is an open, warm, and supportive man. Together, they both grow. Austin gains confidence and Clay finds out he's more than his body. Both find the love they've never had and always wanted. Clay is surprisingly vulnerable and emotionally needy. It's quite sweet. I enjoyed the slow burn of their relationship. Austin's ED slowing the sexual side of their relationship and allowing their intimacy to grow without the pressure of sex. It's a really good story. Only reason it was less enjoyable for me was the stress the ex gave me. Nothing to do with the writing or the author or the story. Just me personally. Maybe the next read through will be less stressful, lol.
August 9, 2021
Austin, newly divorced and having been married for 10 years to what seemed a manipulative b****, was seeking a new life and found it when Leland, the ranch manager at Farthingdale Ranch, hired him as an accountant. Austin met Clay, a mostly happy-go-lucky ranch hand who liked to see the best in everything, and his world, though complicated became a little brighter. I thought this was a sweet love story Between Austin and Clay and then Bea. Definitely recommend reading.
July 17, 2023
THE RANCH HAND AND THE SINGLE DAD is the third book in the Farthingdale Ranch series, and I would recommend you read them as a series simply because of how wonderful these stories are.
Austin has been put through the wringer by his delight of an ex-wife, and he has to cope with not having full custody of his daughter. He is unsure of who he is or what he wants, but he finds peace at Farthingdale Ranch due to his friendship with Clay.
Clay thinks that one-night stands are all he needs and doesn't always say what he wants. With the help and encouragement of Austin, Clay realises that life could be so much more than just a hookup.
This was a brilliant low-angst read with a slow-burn romance that filled me to the brim with warm fuzzies. I loved seeing the previous couples and seeing how their romances were going whilst still enjoying the spotlight on the main pair. And, of course, using recycled wisdom is some of the best advice you can give or receive!
A fantastic addition to the series, I would still recommend you read this as a series to ensure you don't miss out on any of the previous couples. For now, though, I can highly recommend Austin and Clay's story.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jul 27, 2021
Austin has been put through the wringer by his delight of an ex-wife, and he has to cope with not having full custody of his daughter. He is unsure of who he is or what he wants, but he finds peace at Farthingdale Ranch due to his friendship with Clay.
Clay thinks that one-night stands are all he needs and doesn't always say what he wants. With the help and encouragement of Austin, Clay realises that life could be so much more than just a hookup.
This was a brilliant low-angst read with a slow-burn romance that filled me to the brim with warm fuzzies. I loved seeing the previous couples and seeing how their romances were going whilst still enjoying the spotlight on the main pair. And, of course, using recycled wisdom is some of the best advice you can give or receive!
A fantastic addition to the series, I would still recommend you read this as a series to ensure you don't miss out on any of the previous couples. For now, though, I can highly recommend Austin and Clay's story.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jul 27, 2021
July 27, 2021
What an incredible story for Clay and Austin. I loved how the story just built and spread out to give us so much information and how their friendship turned into something profound. Austin's little girl Bea stole my heart.
So many feels in this story and you can feel all the emotions with every character.
I did receive an Arc for a review.
So many feels in this story and you can feel all the emotions with every character.
I did receive an Arc for a review.
October 19, 2021
How does Jackie North captivate me every single time? In The Ranch Hand and the Single Dad, it’s with two guys who are opposite as possible. Clay, Farthingdale Ranch’s outgoing flirt, likes nothing more than a one and done, except maybe for his love of the ranch itself. While Austin, the ranch’s new accountant, has never ridden a horse nor visited a ranch. He prefers numbers to human interactions, and has only been intimate with his just-divorced wife. So why does he enjoy Clay’s company so much?
In high school Austin was almost taken hostage by the town beauty, who saw him as a ticket to her preferred lifestyle. Awed that she would notice him, he ignored her insistence on getting her way, married her and a baby soon followed. Then he was too busy loving his daughter, while trying to please his wife, to consider leaving – until she cheated. This guy’s straight in every area of life.
Both Clay and Austin are totally clueless. Though Clay may be a college graduate, he’s been looking for love in hook ups. And Austin never once imagined he might be bi. In fact, after his ex’s treatment, he’s now impotent. What a shock to discover he loves the ranch, the fresh air, and the attentions of a certain cowboy. But, “Austin had just gotten a divorce. He was not in the market for sure, and in no way was he interested in getting it on with a guy who had a hard-on for getting it on at a moment’s notice.” Clay’s got it bad for Austin and I was left wondering, can a lust-driven young man dial his libido back to zero, waiting to see what materializes?
Besides, there’s Austin’s bond with his daughter, which is heart-breaking. His wife has demanded custody, and it’s difficult to contemplate a way to keep connected. Each moment with nine-year-old Bea seeped me in the refreshing wisdom and resilience of youth.
Ms. North creates fascinating characters who must grow and stretch, challenging their self-images to find happiness, which seeds my love for her books. Plus, there’s her signature gift for depicting scenery, until it’s almost an individual moving within the plotline. “Though (with) skies scudding low, soapy grey clouds, it certainly was thinking about raining.”
Not to mention a host of fully formed side characters who create the kind of supportive community we all wish we had. Yes, these are people from prior episodes, but their distinctive personalities work well in this standalone, while the novel serves to update readers of prior installments.
I count on Ms. North’s simple yet elegant language, a joy for any type of reader. She even taught me a new word: “harum-sacrum,” meaning “reckless.”
Add it all together and ‘The Ranch Hand and the Single Dad‘ warmed me to the core. I savored the phrasing, the men’s journey and Ms. North’s neatly hidden deep sentiments. “Raise yourself up by taking the other fellow down a peg or two at any opportunity. He didn’t want to be like that. Not here.” No, Ms. North would never take her characters down a peg. Instead, she consistently lifts me with simple hope in the goodness of mankind.
In high school Austin was almost taken hostage by the town beauty, who saw him as a ticket to her preferred lifestyle. Awed that she would notice him, he ignored her insistence on getting her way, married her and a baby soon followed. Then he was too busy loving his daughter, while trying to please his wife, to consider leaving – until she cheated. This guy’s straight in every area of life.
Both Clay and Austin are totally clueless. Though Clay may be a college graduate, he’s been looking for love in hook ups. And Austin never once imagined he might be bi. In fact, after his ex’s treatment, he’s now impotent. What a shock to discover he loves the ranch, the fresh air, and the attentions of a certain cowboy. But, “Austin had just gotten a divorce. He was not in the market for sure, and in no way was he interested in getting it on with a guy who had a hard-on for getting it on at a moment’s notice.” Clay’s got it bad for Austin and I was left wondering, can a lust-driven young man dial his libido back to zero, waiting to see what materializes?
Besides, there’s Austin’s bond with his daughter, which is heart-breaking. His wife has demanded custody, and it’s difficult to contemplate a way to keep connected. Each moment with nine-year-old Bea seeped me in the refreshing wisdom and resilience of youth.
Ms. North creates fascinating characters who must grow and stretch, challenging their self-images to find happiness, which seeds my love for her books. Plus, there’s her signature gift for depicting scenery, until it’s almost an individual moving within the plotline. “Though (with) skies scudding low, soapy grey clouds, it certainly was thinking about raining.”
Not to mention a host of fully formed side characters who create the kind of supportive community we all wish we had. Yes, these are people from prior episodes, but their distinctive personalities work well in this standalone, while the novel serves to update readers of prior installments.
I count on Ms. North’s simple yet elegant language, a joy for any type of reader. She even taught me a new word: “harum-sacrum,” meaning “reckless.”
Add it all together and ‘The Ranch Hand and the Single Dad‘ warmed me to the core. I savored the phrasing, the men’s journey and Ms. North’s neatly hidden deep sentiments. “Raise yourself up by taking the other fellow down a peg or two at any opportunity. He didn’t want to be like that. Not here.” No, Ms. North would never take her characters down a peg. Instead, she consistently lifts me with simple hope in the goodness of mankind.
August 26, 2021
I see single dad and I jumped right in, I didn’t even notice that it was the continuation of a series, but that’s okay.. it didn’t take me out of the story and I didn’t feel as though I missed anything because of it, though maybe a smidge because now I wanna go back and reread everyone else’s stories!
In this one though, we meet Austin, who is going through a thing with his ex, whom he shares a daughter with and though I didn’t like her much at all, she’s manipulative and bossy, I have to say I also just didn’t like them together. I thought she was overbearing and too much and I wished he would’ve figured things out for himself without blaming her so much. I understand the coming out process though and there is no right or wrong way to do it, and everyone is different, so I enjoyed watching him come into his own, especially with the help of his friend Clay. I could’ve done without the ex though….
Clay… is something else… my heart broke a little bit for him because although he claims to be a hit it and quit it kinda guy, he wants the happily ever after so bad, he can taste it. I like his character a lot, he’s described as happy-go-lucky and he pretty much is. He doesn’t let much get to him and this ranch that he works at …. I want to wish it real so I can visit or ya know, move in….
I liked watching these two dance around each other and their attraction, especially once Austin realizes his feelings are more than he thought they could be, starting as friends and letting things develop as they did. It was real and though sometimes exhastuing, it felt genuine and not forced or fabricated. Despite the ex, it’s pretty low angst, I also loved the daughter, Bea, who seemed to be a pawn to the mother and I didn’t like that that never gets resolved. She just….gets to stay with her? After all the ways we see Mona (of course, her name is Mona) shows how crap of a mother she can be? Be prepared for that because I hate when people get away with being bad people and I didn’t feel that part got resolved in the way that left me satisfied, but again, life isn’t always happily ever afters and I’m hoping that she eventually gets better?.... fingers crossed….
Overall though, this is a slow burning, low angst, super cute story that was easy to get lost in and once I picked it up, I didn’t put it down until I was finished. I’m interested to see how everyone got to here, so I’m going to go back and read the first two but am looking forward to seeing what comes next!
4 stars from me!
In this one though, we meet Austin, who is going through a thing with his ex, whom he shares a daughter with and though I didn’t like her much at all, she’s manipulative and bossy, I have to say I also just didn’t like them together. I thought she was overbearing and too much and I wished he would’ve figured things out for himself without blaming her so much. I understand the coming out process though and there is no right or wrong way to do it, and everyone is different, so I enjoyed watching him come into his own, especially with the help of his friend Clay. I could’ve done without the ex though….
Clay… is something else… my heart broke a little bit for him because although he claims to be a hit it and quit it kinda guy, he wants the happily ever after so bad, he can taste it. I like his character a lot, he’s described as happy-go-lucky and he pretty much is. He doesn’t let much get to him and this ranch that he works at …. I want to wish it real so I can visit or ya know, move in….
I liked watching these two dance around each other and their attraction, especially once Austin realizes his feelings are more than he thought they could be, starting as friends and letting things develop as they did. It was real and though sometimes exhastuing, it felt genuine and not forced or fabricated. Despite the ex, it’s pretty low angst, I also loved the daughter, Bea, who seemed to be a pawn to the mother and I didn’t like that that never gets resolved. She just….gets to stay with her? After all the ways we see Mona (of course, her name is Mona) shows how crap of a mother she can be? Be prepared for that because I hate when people get away with being bad people and I didn’t feel that part got resolved in the way that left me satisfied, but again, life isn’t always happily ever afters and I’m hoping that she eventually gets better?.... fingers crossed….
Overall though, this is a slow burning, low angst, super cute story that was easy to get lost in and once I picked it up, I didn’t put it down until I was finished. I’m interested to see how everyone got to here, so I’m going to go back and read the first two but am looking forward to seeing what comes next!
4 stars from me!
July 27, 2021
I want to live at this ranch!
Yet again, Jackie North delivers a beautiful romance set in the splendor of rural Wyoming. Her characters are deep, complex, and complete while the scenery is beautifully detailed, the story slow and engaging, and the HEA is soft and not overdone.
Just-divorced Austin leaves his old life, and finds his new job as an accountant at the ranch. Clay is sent to pick him up from Denver. These two guys can’t be more different from one another, but Clay is somehow able to reach a part of Austin that went into hibernation during his failed marriage; Austin is able to inspire a greater sense of self-worth in Clay. Though they do run into a few hurdles, have a couple of misunderstandings, and have to grow some as individuals, the instant friendship between the two grows into something much more.
Through her amazing attention to detail and the easy flow of the book, the characters’ story keeps your attention. The slow burn and the emotional awakening of the characters are touching.
It’s, simply, another wonderful installment in the series!
Yet again, Jackie North delivers a beautiful romance set in the splendor of rural Wyoming. Her characters are deep, complex, and complete while the scenery is beautifully detailed, the story slow and engaging, and the HEA is soft and not overdone.
Just-divorced Austin leaves his old life, and finds his new job as an accountant at the ranch. Clay is sent to pick him up from Denver. These two guys can’t be more different from one another, but Clay is somehow able to reach a part of Austin that went into hibernation during his failed marriage; Austin is able to inspire a greater sense of self-worth in Clay. Though they do run into a few hurdles, have a couple of misunderstandings, and have to grow some as individuals, the instant friendship between the two grows into something much more.
Through her amazing attention to detail and the easy flow of the book, the characters’ story keeps your attention. The slow burn and the emotional awakening of the characters are touching.
It’s, simply, another wonderful installment in the series!
August 8, 2021
The Ranch Hand and the Single Dad is book 3 in the Farthingdale Ranch series. This is Clay, who we met in the earlier books, and Austin’s story. This is an incredible addition to a highly addictive series. Jackie North flexes her writing muscles in this series, and the result is a complex world, an engaging story, and characters I dare you not to fall in love with.
Like the earlier titles in this series, the Ranch Hand and the Single Dad is a mixture of daily life, intense emotion with a touch of drama, humour and lightheartedness, and above all, romance. This is a heady mix that keeps you turning the pages. The Ranch Hand is never heavy, yes it gets a bit emotional at times, but it never feels like you're wading through angst. Periods of intense emotion and/or drama are resolved quickly and are often followed by humour or a lighthearted glimpse of daily life on a working guest ranch. I was absorbed in this story from the first page, and in addition to the author's writing style, it is her world-building and even more her characterisation that really suck you into the story, refusing to let go until the very last page (and maybe not even then).
Jackie North has this fantastic ability to describe the environment around her characters so that it feels like you are there. I've never been to Wyoming, but from the descriptions alone, it feels like I have. I can feel the grass under my feet, shiver from the cold winds coming from Iron Mountain, hear the clanging of Jasper's forge. The author's vivid descriptions place you in the scene so that it feels like you are witnessing the story first-hand. However, it is never overdone so that you feel like you are bogged down in minutiae. It is just enough detail so that your imagination can take care of the rest.
Although the world-building is superb, the characters rightly steal the show, and they turn this book into something truly memorable. The entire cast is extraordinary, and one of the things I love about this series is that you never lose touch with the previous couples. Because they are all there on the ranch, they are constantly coming into the story, and I love seeing how they are moving forward in their lives. However, the Ranch Hand is Clay and Austin's story, and Ms North has once again developed characters that are way too easy to become invested in. Both Clay and Austin are, in very different ways, damaged and broken: both are searching for acceptance, love, and home.
Clay, the happy-go-lucky playboy of the ranch is desperately lonely. He searches for love everywhere he goes and in all the wrong places. His search leads him to bar alley hookups that will never go anywhere and only leave him feeling empty. As a result of his many failed searches for love, he feels unworthy and sullied by his previous behaviour when he has the opportunity for true love. Clay needs to learn that to gain acceptance from a partner, he first has to accept himself.
Austin is an accountant that is hired to try and get the ranch's finances back on track. Austin is badly traumatised by his marriage to a truly evil woman, so much so that he suffers from psychologically induced erectile dysfunction. Austin believes he is straight. However, as the story unfolds, we see that from an early age, Austin was manipulated, intimidated and abused by a woman with so many personality malfunctions that extreme narcissism seems to be only a minor fault in comparison! He has no idea who he really is. Due to his youthful naivete, Austin doesn't realise just how toxic his marriage is until it is way too late.
Austin's escape to the Ranch is a way for him to begin to discover just who he is and who he is attracted to. His relationship with Clay develops both quickly and slowly. Like Clay, he believes that his ED means that he isn't worthy of a relationship, that it's not fair to burden Clay with his disability. Together both men need to learn that love is worth anything, and with the help of Austin's little girl, all three of them have a chance of being a real family.
Primarily due to Austin's ED, this addition to the Farthingdale Ranch series is a little less sexually steamy than the previous two books. However, the story is no less sexually charged, emotionally intense. In fact, it sometimes seems even more sensual without the graphic sexual activity. The Ranch Hand may be lightish on actual sex, but the romance and passion are undoubtedly at the forefront.
I absolutely adored this addition to the Farthingdale Ranch family. Although it's going to be a pretty special couple that can replace Jasper and Ellis (The Blacksmith and the Ex Con) as my number one couple, Austin and Clay were an exceptional pair, and they well and truly earned their happily ever after.
I can't wait to see what Jackie North has in store for us in the next book, The Wrangler and the Orphan. If my hunch is correct, this one is going to be an amazing read too.
If you are looking for a romantic, sensual and emotional read that is never heavy; storytelling that lets you feel like you are in the middle of the action watching it happen; humour and cute glimpses of daily life on a guest ranch; and characters so alive that they leap of the page; then you certainly can't go past Jackie North's The Ranch Hand and the Single Dad.
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March 29, 2022
so sweet
Loved getting to read clays book. He is so adorable my sweet with his easy going nature and smile and dimples. Only thing I didn’t like was how right out of the gate they took what was previously depicted as the ranch congenial guy who smiles and helps all and made him out to be slutty with his need to be screwed out in back alleys in bars. Sometimes with more than one person a night. If that your prerogative more power to you but it just seemed like quite the departure form his character. Loved Austin. He was so horribly treated in his previous marriage and got the bad end of the deal in the divorce. He got nothing and then had to pay alimony and they got shared custody but she fought to his allowance of visitations and calls. This bothered me because he could have easily fought that more if she wasn’t holding up her end of the agreement. But she was all about herself and how she got out on top. Which she made clear by cheating on him after years of degradation and emotionally belittling him. Then giving up bea cause her new fiancé didn’t want a ready made family but his own. And basically made Austin pay for her. So crazy. Loved how Leland seemed more chill about the fraternization. Lol. Loved bea with Austin and clay.
Loved getting to read clays book. He is so adorable my sweet with his easy going nature and smile and dimples. Only thing I didn’t like was how right out of the gate they took what was previously depicted as the ranch congenial guy who smiles and helps all and made him out to be slutty with his need to be screwed out in back alleys in bars. Sometimes with more than one person a night. If that your prerogative more power to you but it just seemed like quite the departure form his character. Loved Austin. He was so horribly treated in his previous marriage and got the bad end of the deal in the divorce. He got nothing and then had to pay alimony and they got shared custody but she fought to his allowance of visitations and calls. This bothered me because he could have easily fought that more if she wasn’t holding up her end of the agreement. But she was all about herself and how she got out on top. Which she made clear by cheating on him after years of degradation and emotionally belittling him. Then giving up bea cause her new fiancé didn’t want a ready made family but his own. And basically made Austin pay for her. So crazy. Loved how Leland seemed more chill about the fraternization. Lol. Loved bea with Austin and clay.
August 21, 2021
I’m enjoying this series, and its strong found family vibe. I loved Clay and Austin’s story which is a wonderful feel good opposites attract/slow burn romance. I also loved seeing MCs from previous books from different perspectives, and how their friendships and family is growing as new men join the ranch. I’m hanging out for new stories in this series and hoping for a HEA for the characters who haven’t had theirs yet.
Both Austin and Clay are both layered characters who have self-esteem issues. I was cheering for Austin to find someone as soon as he split up with his ex wife who is a self centred horrible social climbing individual. She’s really done a number on him that is difficult to shake. I loved the scenes with him and his daughter, and with Bea and Clay too. They’re very sweet, and it’s obvious right from the start that Austin is a great dad and he, Bea, and Clay have the potential to become a family. I love the way the emotional scenes are written, especially when Clay and Austin kiss. I also love how Austin comes into himself as he embraces his true self, and spends time with Clay who loves him for exactly who he is. Although these guys come from different backgrounds and life experiences, they have similar issues they need to work through. The slow burn is realistic, and sweet. I enjoyed their growing friendships and them finding out more about each other.
I love Leland and how he steps in to return the favour Clay did for him when Jamie came to the ranch. It’s perfect karma, and also highlights their friendship. I thought Bea was well written too, and how she fits into the story. I love single dad stories, especially when their family is completed with a HEA.
I’d recommend reading the bonus scene as it’s very sweet and shows how far both of them have come.
Both Austin and Clay are both layered characters who have self-esteem issues. I was cheering for Austin to find someone as soon as he split up with his ex wife who is a self centred horrible social climbing individual. She’s really done a number on him that is difficult to shake. I loved the scenes with him and his daughter, and with Bea and Clay too. They’re very sweet, and it’s obvious right from the start that Austin is a great dad and he, Bea, and Clay have the potential to become a family. I love the way the emotional scenes are written, especially when Clay and Austin kiss. I also love how Austin comes into himself as he embraces his true self, and spends time with Clay who loves him for exactly who he is. Although these guys come from different backgrounds and life experiences, they have similar issues they need to work through. The slow burn is realistic, and sweet. I enjoyed their growing friendships and them finding out more about each other.
I love Leland and how he steps in to return the favour Clay did for him when Jamie came to the ranch. It’s perfect karma, and also highlights their friendship. I thought Bea was well written too, and how she fits into the story. I love single dad stories, especially when their family is completed with a HEA.
I’d recommend reading the bonus scene as it’s very sweet and shows how far both of them have come.
March 30, 2022
Numbers and Order!
They needed an Accountant at the Ranch. Newly divorced and missing his Daughter Austin tries to settle into his new life. Meeting Clay a bright and bubbly Cowboy that works on the Ranch and makes friends with the shy Austin. Life moves along, when Austin gets a chance to have his Daughter Bea come visit. Bea takes to the Ranch like a duck to water. While Bea makes friends, Clay and Austin fall in love. Its beautiful. Austin had been undermined by his Ex, which made him loose his confidence in life. Clay restored it.
They needed an Accountant at the Ranch. Newly divorced and missing his Daughter Austin tries to settle into his new life. Meeting Clay a bright and bubbly Cowboy that works on the Ranch and makes friends with the shy Austin. Life moves along, when Austin gets a chance to have his Daughter Bea come visit. Bea takes to the Ranch like a duck to water. While Bea makes friends, Clay and Austin fall in love. Its beautiful. Austin had been undermined by his Ex, which made him loose his confidence in life. Clay restored it.
September 16, 2021
3.5 stars
Now I like this series.
It’s fun.
Not too heavy.
Cowboys.
My only quibble is the same one I had with the first installment one character was occasionally female, not a delicious twink. I’m talking about a stereotypical female. This was not a issue in the middle book. Just saying.
Now I like this series.
It’s fun.
Not too heavy.
Cowboys.
My only quibble is the same one I had with the first installment one character was occasionally female, not a delicious twink. I’m talking about a stereotypical female. This was not a issue in the middle book. Just saying.
August 11, 2021
This was a nice story. I felt bad for Austin and how he never really got the chance to have his own existence or find out who he was. Moving to the ranch gives him that chance and after all the heartache his ex gave him, ends up being able to have his daughter who just really lights up his life. Clay was really just looking for someone to care for him and while he kinda latched onto Austin quickly, they both were able to gain a meaningful friendship long before anything else happened. I love the guys on this ranch and look forward to more of their stories.
I received a copy of this book and am giving an honest review
I received a copy of this book and am giving an honest review
August 3, 2021
PEACEFUL*BEAUTIFUL*FUN
This is the 3rd Book in this INCREDIBLE Series. JACKIE NORTH has created a great place that some can only dream about. Wide open beautiful spaces. Horses, Cowboys, Wide Open Spaces, Blue Skies and Stars that fill the skies. Clay our handsome blonde hair, blue eyed, dimpled Cowboy is ready to settle down. Austin is a city slicker. Newly divorced from his abusive wife, not having access to his young daughter, he is completely lost. He sends a resume to Farthingdale Ranch. They need an Accountant and he has to begin a different life. Yes, unfortunately men are abused. Whether mentally, emotionally or physically it happens, by women. Jackie North has brought this to light in this story. I applaud her for this. This is a great story of how these things are hidden and can be recovered from. Austin was not physically harmed. He was however mentally and emotionally scared at his wife's treatment. Clay shows that through understanding, patience these wounds can heal. This is such a BEAUTIFUL Book about perspective and positive change. Bea who is Austin's daughter is the beneficiary of these changes. This is a FANTASTIC Cowboy Romance. I loved every single minute of this Book and the subject. Thank You Jackie North for sharing this exquisite beautiful journey. This has a wonderful EPILOGUE and access to a Bonus Scene. I HIGHLY, HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND THE FARTHINGDALE RANCH SERIES!!!!!!!!!!
This is the 3rd Book in this INCREDIBLE Series. JACKIE NORTH has created a great place that some can only dream about. Wide open beautiful spaces. Horses, Cowboys, Wide Open Spaces, Blue Skies and Stars that fill the skies. Clay our handsome blonde hair, blue eyed, dimpled Cowboy is ready to settle down. Austin is a city slicker. Newly divorced from his abusive wife, not having access to his young daughter, he is completely lost. He sends a resume to Farthingdale Ranch. They need an Accountant and he has to begin a different life. Yes, unfortunately men are abused. Whether mentally, emotionally or physically it happens, by women. Jackie North has brought this to light in this story. I applaud her for this. This is a great story of how these things are hidden and can be recovered from. Austin was not physically harmed. He was however mentally and emotionally scared at his wife's treatment. Clay shows that through understanding, patience these wounds can heal. This is such a BEAUTIFUL Book about perspective and positive change. Bea who is Austin's daughter is the beneficiary of these changes. This is a FANTASTIC Cowboy Romance. I loved every single minute of this Book and the subject. Thank You Jackie North for sharing this exquisite beautiful journey. This has a wonderful EPILOGUE and access to a Bonus Scene. I HIGHLY, HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND THE FARTHINGDALE RANCH SERIES!!!!!!!!!!
July 24, 2021
Found families and cowboys working on ranches: it doesn’t get much better than this! Farthingdale Ranch is run like a family, even if some of the guys on the ranch don’t realize it. Cody thinks he’s happy with his string of fast hookups and zero entanglements. He does have a reputation to maintain after all. But quiet and almost painfully shy Austin shakes up that careful no strings attitude. There is something about the man that has Cody wanting to get to know him and help him bloom on the ranch, not just scratch a quick itch. Austin is completely gutted and left with only a couple of suitcases to his name after his loveless marriage ended. The only thing of worth from his time with Mona is his 9 year old daughter Bea, and his ex seems determined to keep her from him too. Austin has no self confidence, having had it slowly stripped away by the woman he thought he loved. Now he has taken a job as an accountant at a ranch in the middle of nowhere trying to start his life over. The ranch is in desperate need of an accountant and he is in desperate need of a new home. Cody is the first person he meets and he starts to open up to the cowboy as he shows him around. I loved how these two get to know each other and Cody starts making it his mission to bring Austin back to life. Because that is what he is doing: resurrecting Austin and helping him find what he wants out of life. And Cody is realizing that maybe what he was missing this whole time was a connection. Mona is an absolute witch and Bea is totally adorable. Watching Cody and Austin connect and fall in love was a beautiful dance that I am probably going to read over and over! This author really has a way of making me fall in love with the characters and get quickly invested in their happily ever afters!
July 27, 2021
Another lovely visit to Farthingdale Ranch.
This time it's Clay and Austin's story but with the added sweetness of daughter Bea, Austin's "lil' honeybee". With the inclusion of nine-year-old Bea this needed to have a slow burn theme. Reading the first chapter might not give that impression; kinda of a different start for Ms. North, but it set the pace for the search Clay is doing; "He just wanted to be loved." Clay was just looking in all the wrong places, such as the Rusty Nail alley. Now comes Austin on the scene. He's recently divorced from Mona the witch and thank god he now sees her in the rear view of his life. Only he must share custody of Bea and that breaks his heart. From their first meet in front of the Motel 6 attraction is felt but neither is sure of how to tread. What was nice is the interspersing of the other ranch characters into the story. From Leland, Brody, Levi, Owen, Jasper, and Maddie all add to the flavor of this story. And I do suggest that any reader click on the bonus story of Clay and Austin offered at the ending of their story. It's just the icing on the cake of their special story. This is my ARC review of the this story the author offered me for my honest review.
This time it's Clay and Austin's story but with the added sweetness of daughter Bea, Austin's "lil' honeybee". With the inclusion of nine-year-old Bea this needed to have a slow burn theme. Reading the first chapter might not give that impression; kinda of a different start for Ms. North, but it set the pace for the search Clay is doing; "He just wanted to be loved." Clay was just looking in all the wrong places, such as the Rusty Nail alley. Now comes Austin on the scene. He's recently divorced from Mona the witch and thank god he now sees her in the rear view of his life. Only he must share custody of Bea and that breaks his heart. From their first meet in front of the Motel 6 attraction is felt but neither is sure of how to tread. What was nice is the interspersing of the other ranch characters into the story. From Leland, Brody, Levi, Owen, Jasper, and Maddie all add to the flavor of this story. And I do suggest that any reader click on the bonus story of Clay and Austin offered at the ending of their story. It's just the icing on the cake of their special story. This is my ARC review of the this story the author offered me for my honest review.
January 4, 2022
Well, this was lovely. It’s been an exhausting week. Every time I got into the book, work was either calling me away or sleep was. However, being able to lose myself in a truly good book is what makes me happy, and this was a really good book. It’s as if the author writes in a different style at times to align with that of the characters. I’m honestly in awe of that skill. The tempo and tone changed so fluidly every time the POV shifted from Clay to Austin. Like it didn’t miss a beat, but it was also so consistent to the characters and their cadence.
I cannot wait to get into the next book! I plan on reading it all weekend.
I cannot wait to get into the next book! I plan on reading it all weekend.
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