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Range #1
A Shared Range
After a year in medical school, Dakota Holden returned home to take care of the family business full time and help his father cope with multiple sclerosis. Devoted to his family, Dakota allows himself just one week of vacation a year, which he spends in some exotic location having all the fun he can stand. On his last vacation, a cruise, Dakota struck up a friendship with Phillip Reardon, and it fills an important role in Dakota’s life.
So when Phillip decides to take Dakota up on his invitation to visit the ranch, Dakota is happy to see him and meet his veterinarian friend, Wally Schumacher. Despite Wally’s inclination to help the wolves Dakota’s men shoot to protect the cattle, he and Dakota find they have a lot in common, including a fierce attraction. But they’ll have to decide if the Wyoming range is big enough for Dakota’s cattle, Wally’s wolves, and their love.
So when Phillip decides to take Dakota up on his invitation to visit the ranch, Dakota is happy to see him and meet his veterinarian friend, Wally Schumacher. Despite Wally’s inclination to help the wolves Dakota’s men shoot to protect the cattle, he and Dakota find they have a lot in common, including a fierce attraction. But they’ll have to decide if the Wyoming range is big enough for Dakota’s cattle, Wally’s wolves, and their love.
208 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2010
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 173 reviews
November 8, 2014
This is another great book by Andrew Grey. A sweet story with normal, everyday characters that are both driven by a need to do what is right. Except, what each believes to be right, puts them into opposition where the discussion 'farm animals versus wild wolves' is concerned
Dakota is easy to like. He is incredibly dedicated to his father, and making the the family farm a success. He hardly ever even takes a vacation. I loved his sense of loyalty and the care he takes with Wally, even though Wally has a very different point of view where the wolves that have been attacking the farm are concerned.
Wally was just adorable. His determination to save the wolves, his love for the wild animals was clear, but he also began to see how a cattle owner might look at them. His growing love for Dakota didn't stop him from fighting for the wolves, and I was very relieved to see that they were able to work it all out in the end.
I love how Andrew takes average people and shows how they can become extraordinary, given the right situation. His stories are never flashy, but always about the deeper human condition. I love that about them, and A Shared Range was no exception.
Dakota is easy to like. He is incredibly dedicated to his father, and making the the family farm a success. He hardly ever even takes a vacation. I loved his sense of loyalty and the care he takes with Wally, even though Wally has a very different point of view where the wolves that have been attacking the farm are concerned.
Wally was just adorable. His determination to save the wolves, his love for the wild animals was clear, but he also began to see how a cattle owner might look at them. His growing love for Dakota didn't stop him from fighting for the wolves, and I was very relieved to see that they were able to work it all out in the end.
I love how Andrew takes average people and shows how they can become extraordinary, given the right situation. His stories are never flashy, but always about the deeper human condition. I love that about them, and A Shared Range was no exception.
October 3, 2021
3.5 stars
November 19, 2016
A sweet story about cowboy Dakota and the veterinarian Wally in the typical Andrew Grey style, full of warmth and kindness.
Usually I don't like it much when the MCs fall in love within a few days, but today, with this book, it was perfect and exactly what I needed.
I really enjoyed it and I'll certainly read more of this series.
Usually I don't like it much when the MCs fall in love within a few days, but today, with this book, it was perfect and exactly what I needed.
I really enjoyed it and I'll certainly read more of this series.
May 10, 2011
Tooth-achingly sweet romance about a cute, idealistic, young veterinarian and a warm, repectable and sexy cowboy who find love and home with each other.
November 24, 2014
Loved it, a very good romance and thought out story with great characters.
May 9, 2020
Mi può la Dreamspinner Italia spiegarmi perchè mette in vendita bozze di traduzione al prezzo di un libro vero? Già come Laura di Berardino anche questa di Pavan è così. Ora di questa esiste una seconda edizione che il Kobo non mi ha fatto comprare. Però questa di solo Pavan, l'altra si spera riveduta e corretta ha anche un'altra traduttrice, assomiglia davvero a una bozza. Dei bordi non allineati non me ne frega niente ma in molti punti ci sono doppie parole con significato simile come se fosse stato indeciso quale scegliere prima del testo finale. Per non parlare di certi termini usati. Non so se sono datati o cosa ma il fatto che nessuno finori li abbia mai usati fa pensare. Almeno all'uscita della seconda edizione potevate togliere sta traduzione. Diamine costa €6,80 mica noccioline. E io mi sono stancata che mi venga rovinato Andrew Grey. Al prossimo commento su FB gli suggerisco di farsi ritradurre i libri tradotti in italiano se può. Perchè è scandaloso. Io supporto Andrew Grey.
A questo libro darò 5☆ ma sono per Andrew Grey.
La traduzione invece mi urta i nervi e prende 1☆. (Non influisce sul voto del libro) Quindi mi auguro che la nuova edizione sia davvero rivista e corretta.
Tra le parole fastidiose ci sono verga (che non usa nessuno), menarselo (che esistono sinonimi migliori), ometto (che va bene in descrizione ma in un discorso diretto non chiami qualcuno ometto dai su mica Dakota è un vecchio. Semmai piccolo), e piccolino (stessa cosa di ometto. Mica stai parlando con un bambino. La parola giusta è piccolo).
Quanto me prima di passare a Range#2 rileggerò Range#1 in inglese e poi continuerò con i libri originali.
Poi dicono supportiamo il mercato italiano. Provate a leggere un libro in italiano conoscendo altre lingue, e non mi accontento, e allora capirete ....
A questo libro darò 5☆ ma sono per Andrew Grey.
La traduzione invece mi urta i nervi e prende 1☆. (Non influisce sul voto del libro) Quindi mi auguro che la nuova edizione sia davvero rivista e corretta.
Tra le parole fastidiose ci sono verga (che non usa nessuno), menarselo (che esistono sinonimi migliori), ometto (che va bene in descrizione ma in un discorso diretto non chiami qualcuno ometto dai su mica Dakota è un vecchio. Semmai piccolo), e piccolino (stessa cosa di ometto. Mica stai parlando con un bambino. La parola giusta è piccolo).
Quanto me prima di passare a Range#2 rileggerò Range#1 in inglese e poi continuerò con i libri originali.
Poi dicono supportiamo il mercato italiano. Provate a leggere un libro in italiano conoscendo altre lingue, e non mi accontento, e allora capirete ....
October 15, 2010
4.5 I like to read Andrew's stories when I feel down and tired of humanity. The warmth, the kindness inherent in his stories always help me back to hopeful again.
A Shared Range, while it may look, on the surface, like another cowboy story, is so much more. We're brought into the gorgeous setting of Wyoming cattle country, nestled amidst the mountains, but we're reminded that this lovely scenery is also Matthew Shepherd country, with the implication that brutality and hate still live here as well. Andrew works in other current issues as well, with the controversy of reintroducing wolves into the National Parks system central to the story. These issues, real and relevant now, lend a depth and breadth to the story that I think Andrew has not shown us in previous tales.
Another of the issues facing our loyal and stoic Dakota hit much closer to home for me. Dakota's Dad has MS. So do I. While Jefferson's disease has progressed much faster than mine (which all has to do with how quickly the first intervention occurs) I still read the scenes with him with a little bit of a lead weight in my stomach. We fear this - all of us with this strange and unpredictable condition, that we will someday become a burden to our families. While it's quite clear that Dakota never, ever thinks of his father as a burden, I know, without being told, that his father sometimes feels differently.
Anyway... so this one felt closer to home and Andrew treats the situation with the compassion and understanding we've come to expect from him. The love story...oh, yes, there is one, did I forget to mention? lol The romance between Dakota and Wally is a lovely one - some readers may think that it happens quickly and easily, but most of their conflicts are external. When you meet your heart's desire, I think most people know. I enjoyed this less traditional handling of a romance and neither Dakota or Wally are hissy, suspicious people - much easier for reasonable, well-balanced people to come together than if there are huge internal issues lurking.
A lovely story, I smiled a lot, and felt better after reading. Thank you, Andrew.
A Shared Range, while it may look, on the surface, like another cowboy story, is so much more. We're brought into the gorgeous setting of Wyoming cattle country, nestled amidst the mountains, but we're reminded that this lovely scenery is also Matthew Shepherd country, with the implication that brutality and hate still live here as well. Andrew works in other current issues as well, with the controversy of reintroducing wolves into the National Parks system central to the story. These issues, real and relevant now, lend a depth and breadth to the story that I think Andrew has not shown us in previous tales.
Another of the issues facing our loyal and stoic Dakota hit much closer to home for me. Dakota's Dad has MS. So do I. While Jefferson's disease has progressed much faster than mine (which all has to do with how quickly the first intervention occurs) I still read the scenes with him with a little bit of a lead weight in my stomach. We fear this - all of us with this strange and unpredictable condition, that we will someday become a burden to our families. While it's quite clear that Dakota never, ever thinks of his father as a burden, I know, without being told, that his father sometimes feels differently.
Anyway... so this one felt closer to home and Andrew treats the situation with the compassion and understanding we've come to expect from him. The love story...oh, yes, there is one, did I forget to mention? lol The romance between Dakota and Wally is a lovely one - some readers may think that it happens quickly and easily, but most of their conflicts are external. When you meet your heart's desire, I think most people know. I enjoyed this less traditional handling of a romance and neither Dakota or Wally are hissy, suspicious people - much easier for reasonable, well-balanced people to come together than if there are huge internal issues lurking.
A lovely story, I smiled a lot, and felt better after reading. Thank you, Andrew.
September 27, 2010
***sigh*** Andrew never lets me down! I loved it very sweet left me with a smile! But what about poor Philip??
August 22, 2011
Ride-em Cowboy!
Fantastic story that I truly enjoyed as the authors smooth writing captured my heart with heartwarming characters that are not only hot and mouth drooling sexy but that have personalities full of love, respect, understanding, caring and thoughtful of all species that have you smiling and saying awe by the time the book is finished.
Dakota’s story of him coming out and admitting he was gay was very touching. After years of hiding his true self he finally accepts who he is even though he risks losing life long friends and even respect from his father. However, once he owned up to the truth of his feelings he found that the majority accepted him regardless of his sexual preference. All that matter is his happiness. I truly admired his relationship between his loving father and himself.
Dakota and Wally’s romance was so tender and sweet that I found myself falling in love with them too, they just made the perfect couple. The M/M erotic scenes were written with great taste and mouthwatering hot. The playfulness between them was very entertaining and I loved the fact that even though Wally was a smaller man, he could hold his own and was a force to be reckoned with when it came to fighting in self-defense – the old saying is true, Dynamite comes in small packages.
I liked Dakota’s friend Phillip and was just a little disappointed in the end because I wanted to know more about where he ended up and if he would ever find love. I was kind of hoping he would of stayed on at the ranch with Mario.
I fell in love with Wally when he saved the female wolf’s life but didn’t think I could fall for him more until the ending and even laughed out loud when Wally took in a Lion to take care of – he reminded me of myself bringing in animals of all sorts to take care of and my husband laughing and teasing me knowing I would get my way.
The happy ever after ending was perfect. I realized I was smiling throughout the whole book, such a great story and I look forward to reading more of this authors work.
Fantastic story that I truly enjoyed as the authors smooth writing captured my heart with heartwarming characters that are not only hot and mouth drooling sexy but that have personalities full of love, respect, understanding, caring and thoughtful of all species that have you smiling and saying awe by the time the book is finished.
Dakota’s story of him coming out and admitting he was gay was very touching. After years of hiding his true self he finally accepts who he is even though he risks losing life long friends and even respect from his father. However, once he owned up to the truth of his feelings he found that the majority accepted him regardless of his sexual preference. All that matter is his happiness. I truly admired his relationship between his loving father and himself.
Dakota and Wally’s romance was so tender and sweet that I found myself falling in love with them too, they just made the perfect couple. The M/M erotic scenes were written with great taste and mouthwatering hot. The playfulness between them was very entertaining and I loved the fact that even though Wally was a smaller man, he could hold his own and was a force to be reckoned with when it came to fighting in self-defense – the old saying is true, Dynamite comes in small packages.
I liked Dakota’s friend Phillip and was just a little disappointed in the end because I wanted to know more about where he ended up and if he would ever find love. I was kind of hoping he would of stayed on at the ranch with Mario.
I fell in love with Wally when he saved the female wolf’s life but didn’t think I could fall for him more until the ending and even laughed out loud when Wally took in a Lion to take care of – he reminded me of myself bringing in animals of all sorts to take care of and my husband laughing and teasing me knowing I would get my way.
The happy ever after ending was perfect. I realized I was smiling throughout the whole book, such a great story and I look forward to reading more of this authors work.
August 19, 2015
This is a lovely solid start to a great series (I've read them before) ... Dakota (slightly bodgy name) and Wally make a cute if clichéed couple and there are lots of ancillary characters to whet your appetite for the other books in the series ... The wolves, lions, tigers and bears (Oh. My!) make for an interesting twist to the typical cowboy drama ... if you like your man-lovin' to come with chaps and spurs then the cowboys in this series are rugged and sexy enough to satisfy ... if you don't mind the slightly effete plot-line then you are in for a fun read.
June 25, 2013
I am a fan of Andrew Grey but this wasn't my favorite of his. It had a very slow start and didn't pick up until the two characters finally meet. It is apparent that it's an early book of his as he tends to get into the romance much sooner now (not sex necessarily, but at least the two main characters meeting without chapters of pre-story). Still good and I look forward to the rest of this series.
April 9, 2017
3,5-4*
Review für „Geschichten aus der Ferne“ Miteinander (1) | Dunkle Wolken (2) | Unruhige Zeiten (3)
https://elmaliest.wordpress.com/2017/...
Review für „Geschichten aus der Ferne“ Miteinander (1) | Dunkle Wolken (2) | Unruhige Zeiten (3)
https://elmaliest.wordpress.com/2017/...
March 7, 2021
Not too bad but I think Dakota gave up his medical studies too quickly.
September 24, 2010
One look at the cover of this book was enough to make me want to know more about the story. And yes, a hot cowboy as the hero, taking care of his father, sealed the deal, I wanted to read this book. Yet, it took me a few weeks to actually pick it up and start reading it - I was waiting for the right mood to spend some time on the ranch. Once I did however I didn't want to leave again and when I finished the book I regretted that I had to say goodbye to Dakota and Wally. Despite their funny names, these men grew on me and I loved the way the author brought them together and made me believe their attraction and love.
One thing I really liked is that Mr Grey took the time to introduce his heroes, before letting them meet and get to know each other. First we learn a lot about Dakota and his relationship with his father, which is endearing. Only when we're already about 20% into the book Wally makes his appearance and he and Dakota meet shortly after. Dakota is a tall, muscular dark-haired cowboy and Wally is a much smaller, blond twink veterinarian. They're a dream couple even when Wally thinks he's no match for the handsome cowboy. But the attraction is mutual and instant. Yet they have to be careful to act on it because of the not so gay friendly attitude in 'cowboy-land'. And Dakota only comes out of the closet first during Wally's visit to the ranch. This coming out process is going naturally, maybe a bit too smoothly, considering the environment, with hardly any conflict except for one or two ranch hands and locals giving some trouble.
The no-conflict element characterizes this whole story actually. It's all minor and exterior friction which is solved quickly in this book and at times I find that very pleasant, especially after reading a highly angsty book. Dakota and Wally work on their relationship steadily and with the best intentions. Communication is not going smoothly all the time, but it does in general. Both are likable and great heroes and their chemistry is sizzling hot. The smexing is been foregone by tender moments in which they share some scorching kisses and just cuddle and sleep. The build-up is again done wonderfully.
Another aspect I enjoyed quite a bit about this book is the role of Dakota's father and other secondary characters. Especially the father is an important character and feels like a man of real flesh and blood. His medical condition, multiple sclerosis, is the reason for Dakota running the ranch instead of finishing his medical study, but he has no regrets about that at all. His relationship with his father is loving and caring, and when his father has good moments his fatherly advice is wise and helping Dakota figure some things out.
And then there's Wally's passion for animals and his need to protect and take care of all of them, including the wolves that are a threat to the ranch and therefore a regular target of some shooting cowboys. He and Dakota's opinions differ on this subject, but the way they deal with an injured wolf is subtle added evidence of their evolving feelings for each other. Wally's personality gets its color from his passion and his take on this subject, as much as it feeds Dakota's love for him.
As you can tell from the above I very much enjoyed reading A Shared Range. It's a sexy and compelling story about coming out of the closet. And although that last part was perhaps dealt with a bit too optimistically, given the environment these men live in, it's embedded nicely in a world of ranching which was presented vividly and appeared realistic apart from that element. It's not only easy to love both heroes but also to understand them thanks to the alternating point of view from both men. Their love story is well paced and engaging, has scorching hot and tender moments, and is entertaining until the end.
4.25 stars
http://erotromreader.blogspot.com/201...
One thing I really liked is that Mr Grey took the time to introduce his heroes, before letting them meet and get to know each other. First we learn a lot about Dakota and his relationship with his father, which is endearing. Only when we're already about 20% into the book Wally makes his appearance and he and Dakota meet shortly after. Dakota is a tall, muscular dark-haired cowboy and Wally is a much smaller, blond twink veterinarian. They're a dream couple even when Wally thinks he's no match for the handsome cowboy. But the attraction is mutual and instant. Yet they have to be careful to act on it because of the not so gay friendly attitude in 'cowboy-land'. And Dakota only comes out of the closet first during Wally's visit to the ranch. This coming out process is going naturally, maybe a bit too smoothly, considering the environment, with hardly any conflict except for one or two ranch hands and locals giving some trouble.
The no-conflict element characterizes this whole story actually. It's all minor and exterior friction which is solved quickly in this book and at times I find that very pleasant, especially after reading a highly angsty book. Dakota and Wally work on their relationship steadily and with the best intentions. Communication is not going smoothly all the time, but it does in general. Both are likable and great heroes and their chemistry is sizzling hot. The smexing is been foregone by tender moments in which they share some scorching kisses and just cuddle and sleep. The build-up is again done wonderfully.
Another aspect I enjoyed quite a bit about this book is the role of Dakota's father and other secondary characters. Especially the father is an important character and feels like a man of real flesh and blood. His medical condition, multiple sclerosis, is the reason for Dakota running the ranch instead of finishing his medical study, but he has no regrets about that at all. His relationship with his father is loving and caring, and when his father has good moments his fatherly advice is wise and helping Dakota figure some things out.
And then there's Wally's passion for animals and his need to protect and take care of all of them, including the wolves that are a threat to the ranch and therefore a regular target of some shooting cowboys. He and Dakota's opinions differ on this subject, but the way they deal with an injured wolf is subtle added evidence of their evolving feelings for each other. Wally's personality gets its color from his passion and his take on this subject, as much as it feeds Dakota's love for him.
As you can tell from the above I very much enjoyed reading A Shared Range. It's a sexy and compelling story about coming out of the closet. And although that last part was perhaps dealt with a bit too optimistically, given the environment these men live in, it's embedded nicely in a world of ranching which was presented vividly and appeared realistic apart from that element. It's not only easy to love both heroes but also to understand them thanks to the alternating point of view from both men. Their love story is well paced and engaging, has scorching hot and tender moments, and is entertaining until the end.
4.25 stars
http://erotromreader.blogspot.com/201...
October 28, 2010
Dakota Holden comes home for the summer after his first year of medical school looking forward to spending time with his father. But a fall from a horse brings to light the illness his father's been hiding from him and forces Dakota to give up school and take over the reins of the family business. While he doesn't regret it he does miss the freedom he had. Now living on a ranch in Wyoming he's hiding in the closet and taking a week off a year to sow his wild oats away from his father and their small town.
On his latest vacation he meets Phillip Reardon and the two have a week of fun together. Both know it's only a fling but over time they become long-distance friends over the phone. When Phillip decides to come for a visit he brings his friend Wally Schumacher and once again Dakota's life will be turned upside down. Wally's a veterinarian, an animal lover and the cutest thing Dakota's seen. Instantly attracted the two begin an affair that quickly turns to more. Will they be able to reconcile their different views and will Dakota's family, friends and neighbors accept not only the fact that Dakota is gay but also that he's with someone hellbent on protecting the wolves in the area that give the ranchers so much trouble?
What I liked...
Dakota and Wally are nice, likable guys and the interactions between them and the supporting characters are fun, interesting and at times very emotional. Phillip was first introduced in An Unexpected Vintage and I hope the author gives him his own story soon. As he remarks at one point... he's tired of always being the bridesmaid and never the bride. Hopefully soon he'll get his chance.
I also really enjoyed the descriptions of Dakota's ranch life and the surrounding countryside which included trips to Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Tetons. It was also interesting to read about the reintroduction of wolves and the debate over their effect on ranchers and their animals.
What I didn't like...
I did have a couple of issues with A Shared Range. The first one was the "insta-love" quickness of Dakota and Wally's relationship. Within just a few days of meeting they're to the point of Dakota asking Wally to move across country to live with him. This coming from a man who's been in the closet all his life and is just coming to terms with being out just feels too quick.
Which brings up my second issue. I felt Dakota's coming out was just too easy. He lives in a small ranching town in what he himself refers to as "Wyoming, Matthew Shepard country" yet when he comes out it's seemingly easily accepted. There are a few stares and some harsh words and even a couple of instances of physical violence but overall the issue felt too easily resolved, at least for me.
Overall...
Despite my issues with the story I really enjoyed A Shared Range. Andrew Grey always manages to give his characters lots of emotion and depth and even if the storyline felt a bit rushed at times I liked reading it. There's a sweet epilogue that had me both shaking my head and smiling at the same time.
Fans of the author as well as readers looking for a sexy, emotional, humorous "feel good" story will no doubt enjoy A Shared Range. Recommended.
On his latest vacation he meets Phillip Reardon and the two have a week of fun together. Both know it's only a fling but over time they become long-distance friends over the phone. When Phillip decides to come for a visit he brings his friend Wally Schumacher and once again Dakota's life will be turned upside down. Wally's a veterinarian, an animal lover and the cutest thing Dakota's seen. Instantly attracted the two begin an affair that quickly turns to more. Will they be able to reconcile their different views and will Dakota's family, friends and neighbors accept not only the fact that Dakota is gay but also that he's with someone hellbent on protecting the wolves in the area that give the ranchers so much trouble?
What I liked...
Dakota and Wally are nice, likable guys and the interactions between them and the supporting characters are fun, interesting and at times very emotional. Phillip was first introduced in An Unexpected Vintage and I hope the author gives him his own story soon. As he remarks at one point... he's tired of always being the bridesmaid and never the bride. Hopefully soon he'll get his chance.
I also really enjoyed the descriptions of Dakota's ranch life and the surrounding countryside which included trips to Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Tetons. It was also interesting to read about the reintroduction of wolves and the debate over their effect on ranchers and their animals.
What I didn't like...
I did have a couple of issues with A Shared Range. The first one was the "insta-love" quickness of Dakota and Wally's relationship. Within just a few days of meeting they're to the point of Dakota asking Wally to move across country to live with him. This coming from a man who's been in the closet all his life and is just coming to terms with being out just feels too quick.
Which brings up my second issue. I felt Dakota's coming out was just too easy. He lives in a small ranching town in what he himself refers to as "Wyoming, Matthew Shepard country" yet when he comes out it's seemingly easily accepted. There are a few stares and some harsh words and even a couple of instances of physical violence but overall the issue felt too easily resolved, at least for me.
Overall...
Despite my issues with the story I really enjoyed A Shared Range. Andrew Grey always manages to give his characters lots of emotion and depth and even if the storyline felt a bit rushed at times I liked reading it. There's a sweet epilogue that had me both shaking my head and smiling at the same time.
Fans of the author as well as readers looking for a sexy, emotional, humorous "feel good" story will no doubt enjoy A Shared Range. Recommended.
June 13, 2018
3 stars -- I read this book as a recommendation, and I was forewarned that the series gets better as it goes. I hope that's the case, as I've read four books now by Andrew Grey (one under pen name Dirk Greyson) and I've honestly had the same issue with all of them: the writing has no finesse, no hanging on to a particularly good or bad moment, and little continuity with character emotions. The characters often react one way to something and then before the paragraph has even finished, they've switched to feeling another way about it. It's hard to get a good feel for anything because things switch so fast. That being said, I liked the story told here. I just hope the next one is told better.
June 22, 2012
I wasn't sure if I should give 2 or 3 stars but I decided it's closer to 2.
Good points: the story was sweet, the analogy between wolves mating for life and the love the mc's found in each other was cute too.
Down side: this book was boring. It was too long. This story could have been told in 100+ words if the narrative had been a bit tighter and effective. There wasn't enough in the plot to hold my interest for 200 pages. I did read it through.
The lead characters were dull people. Kind and goodhearted for sure. But especially Dakota felt like a big dumb cowboy to me. A handsome, sexy cowboy, though. I do like me cowboys :P
The sex... there was no real spark for me in it. Sure enough it had all the material required for steamy sessions but - sigh - it brought nothing special to the story. I found it boring and corny as well.
Anyway... Philip was psychologically the most interesting person in the story even as the plot only scratched his surface. I know the second book will be about him and I have some hopes it'll be more entertaining than this first book in the series. I also liked Dakota's dad and felt sorry for his condition. Dakota's best feature in my eyes was the way he looked after his dad.
A shorter version of this book would have worked better.
Good points: the story was sweet, the analogy between wolves mating for life and the love the mc's found in each other was cute too.
Down side: this book was boring. It was too long. This story could have been told in 100+ words if the narrative had been a bit tighter and effective. There wasn't enough in the plot to hold my interest for 200 pages. I did read it through.
The lead characters were dull people. Kind and goodhearted for sure. But especially Dakota felt like a big dumb cowboy to me. A handsome, sexy cowboy, though. I do like me cowboys :P
The sex... there was no real spark for me in it. Sure enough it had all the material required for steamy sessions but - sigh - it brought nothing special to the story. I found it boring and corny as well.
Anyway... Philip was psychologically the most interesting person in the story even as the plot only scratched his surface. I know the second book will be about him and I have some hopes it'll be more entertaining than this first book in the series. I also liked Dakota's dad and felt sorry for his condition. Dakota's best feature in my eyes was the way he looked after his dad.
A shorter version of this book would have worked better.
October 13, 2012
A thoroughly enjoyable read from start to finish. It covers a lot of ground but what I most appreciate about Andrew's stories are his characters always face their challenges and they do what is right - but they don't come back later and whine about it. For me that is a powerful message - and one I grew up with in MN. Having lived on the West and East coast and having grown up in MN this type of mindset seems to me to be the strongest in the stalwart mid-westerners. When Dakota chooses to take are of his father yet he doesn't spend his time complaining or whining about it - simply understands that these are the last years and he is going to make them as great as possible. I like that Andrew's stories don't shy away from larger questions - here you have several such as being gay somewhere like Wyoming, how the reintroduction of wolves into the wild has far reaching consequences for ranchers, and what types of sacrifices you have to make to care for an ailing parent.
I was absorbed in the story and stayed up late to finish. I cannot wait to read the next one!
I was absorbed in the story and stayed up late to finish. I cannot wait to read the next one!
November 16, 2014
As I read this book, the only thought going through my head was "Why am I still reading this book?" I can't remember the last time a book bored me so much. The most interesting part of the book was the prologue that set up a potentially intriguing scenario and then the book just jumped ahead four years to bore me to death with a sickeningly sweet romance between two really lack luster characters who uttered lame dialog.
The characters fell in love within one week having done nothing but spend some time together. No meaningful conversations, no sharing of their past or their hopes or dreams. Just lots of boring nearly identical sex scenes. Nobody's reactions to the couple rang true.
I found myself annoyed that the author kept referring to the pair as the "big man" and the "little man" or sometimes the "smaller man". At least the "bigger man" only thought of him as a "spitfire" once, unlike his previous lover who was the "little spitfire". The characters were flat, lacked chemistry and bored me to tears.
The characters fell in love within one week having done nothing but spend some time together. No meaningful conversations, no sharing of their past or their hopes or dreams. Just lots of boring nearly identical sex scenes. Nobody's reactions to the couple rang true.
I found myself annoyed that the author kept referring to the pair as the "big man" and the "little man" or sometimes the "smaller man". At least the "bigger man" only thought of him as a "spitfire" once, unlike his previous lover who was the "little spitfire". The characters were flat, lacked chemistry and bored me to tears.
September 6, 2016
I'm not always a fan of this author, but this was actually pretty enjoyable. It wasn't too sweet, and even though the guys were in love in two weeks, it didn't really feel rushed. Enjoyable start to a series I'll likely read more of.
July 24, 2011
This book was the first Male Male Romance that I've read and let me tell YOU after that I am totally HOOKED on Male Male Romance!!! I love this Book!!
March 6, 2024
“‘We can kill them off, but we can’t change them’” (Grey). A Shared Range is a small-town, Hallmark-level gay love story. I haven’t read a book this fast in so long! I mean it as a compliment when I say this book could be a bestseller if someone slapped a trendy cover on it. I’ll admit that I jokingly started reading it at first when I randomly stumbled upon it while browsing the Libby app, and then I couldn’t stop reading.
I’ve always been fascinated by the cheesy, photoshopped-cover romance books but have never read more than a random page to see what raunchy sentence my eyes land in the store aisle. The plot is fast yet fun. If you’re a sucker for short and sweet, wholesome (and not so wholesome) love stories with a countryside sunset, I recommend this book.
I’ve always been fascinated by the cheesy, photoshopped-cover romance books but have never read more than a random page to see what raunchy sentence my eyes land in the store aisle. The plot is fast yet fun. If you’re a sucker for short and sweet, wholesome (and not so wholesome) love stories with a countryside sunset, I recommend this book.
June 27, 2018
Though the characters were engaging, I felt that the story suffered from a bit of insta-love. I feel that the issue was addressed as both MCs acknowledged that their relationship occurred quickly but I just didn't feel the heat between them.
January 21, 2019
eine wunderschoene Romance in einer wilden Umgebung,
super beschriebene Charaktere,
ein toller, emotional sehr ergreifender Roman,
freue mich auf Band 2
super beschriebene Charaktere,
ein toller, emotional sehr ergreifender Roman,
freue mich auf Band 2
March 16, 2017
Rating: 3.5 stars
I think this is the type of book I'd have given a 5 stars rating if I had read it when it came out in 2010. By now, I want more on my stories. Don't get me wrong, I like it, but present me got a bit annoyed by the insta-love and all the sex scenes.
I think this is the type of book I'd have given a 5 stars rating if I had read it when it came out in 2010. By now, I want more on my stories. Don't get me wrong, I like it, but present me got a bit annoyed by the insta-love and all the sex scenes.
August 16, 2013
Encore une fois Andrew Grey nous entraine dans les lointaines contrées de l’Amérique profonde, chez les cowboys mais même si l’histoire a quelques similitudes avec son autre série « Love Means » n’y voyez surtout pas un simple copié-collé, Andrew Grey a su se renouveler avec des personnages différents mais tout aussi attachants. J’aime les histoires de cet auteur, elles sont douces, tendres, les personnages ne sont jamais parfaits, la relation qui s’établit entre les héros est toujours progressive, avec des doutes et des heurts mais toute les relations n’en ont-elles pas ?
Dakota Holden a toujours souhaité être un médecin de campagne mais son père étant tombé malade et ne pouvant plus s’occuper du Ranch familial, Dakota abandonne ces études de médecine et reprend le flambeau. Le jeune homme ne ressent pas vraiment de regrets car il aime profondément son travail, mais il y a une chose qui le ronge et qu’il aurait souhaité avouer à son père : son homosexualité mais la maladie l’en a empêché alors il s’accorde une semaine de vacances tous les ans pour vivre sa sexualité sans entraves. C’est lors d’une croisière qu’il rencontre Phillip avec qui il va vivre une semaine débridée puis qui va doucement se transformer en ami car Dakota se sent seul et c’est Phillip qui en venant passer des vacances au Ranch va lui amener Wally.
Quel personnage délicieux que Wally, un petit bout d’homme très sensible, touchant avec son amour des animaux mais qui dissimule une force de caractère incroyable et qui se bat pour la cause qu’il défend y compris physiquement. À la différence de Dakota, il a toujours pu s’affirmer en tant que gay, grâce à sa famille et le fait qu’il vive en ville. C’est un point important que nous explique très intelligemment l’auteur, cette différence au niveau de l’acceptation de l’homosexualité suivant les endroits où vous vivez. Très délicatement Andrew Grey à travers son héros Dakota aborde la difficulté pour un homosexuel vivant dans un milieu rural de faire son come out. Dakota a caché ses préférences de peur de peiner son père mais aussi de perdre le respect de la petite communauté. C’est l’amour qu’il va trouver auprès de Wally qui va lui permettre de prendre ce risque et de découvrir que s’il perd certains de ces amis, les vrais restent et que découvrir le bonheur est plus important.
La romance entre Dakota et Wally est délicieuse, tendre et romantique, les scènes intimes sont superbes grâce à la sensibilité et l’écriture d’Andrew Grey, elles sont passionnées mais emplies de sentiments et non dépourvues d’humour. J’ai adoré le happy end et je crois que ce pauvre Dakota va en voir de toutes les couleurs avec Wally et son amour des animaux….
Dakota Holden a toujours souhaité être un médecin de campagne mais son père étant tombé malade et ne pouvant plus s’occuper du Ranch familial, Dakota abandonne ces études de médecine et reprend le flambeau. Le jeune homme ne ressent pas vraiment de regrets car il aime profondément son travail, mais il y a une chose qui le ronge et qu’il aurait souhaité avouer à son père : son homosexualité mais la maladie l’en a empêché alors il s’accorde une semaine de vacances tous les ans pour vivre sa sexualité sans entraves. C’est lors d’une croisière qu’il rencontre Phillip avec qui il va vivre une semaine débridée puis qui va doucement se transformer en ami car Dakota se sent seul et c’est Phillip qui en venant passer des vacances au Ranch va lui amener Wally.
Quel personnage délicieux que Wally, un petit bout d’homme très sensible, touchant avec son amour des animaux mais qui dissimule une force de caractère incroyable et qui se bat pour la cause qu’il défend y compris physiquement. À la différence de Dakota, il a toujours pu s’affirmer en tant que gay, grâce à sa famille et le fait qu’il vive en ville. C’est un point important que nous explique très intelligemment l’auteur, cette différence au niveau de l’acceptation de l’homosexualité suivant les endroits où vous vivez. Très délicatement Andrew Grey à travers son héros Dakota aborde la difficulté pour un homosexuel vivant dans un milieu rural de faire son come out. Dakota a caché ses préférences de peur de peiner son père mais aussi de perdre le respect de la petite communauté. C’est l’amour qu’il va trouver auprès de Wally qui va lui permettre de prendre ce risque et de découvrir que s’il perd certains de ces amis, les vrais restent et que découvrir le bonheur est plus important.
La romance entre Dakota et Wally est délicieuse, tendre et romantique, les scènes intimes sont superbes grâce à la sensibilité et l’écriture d’Andrew Grey, elles sont passionnées mais emplies de sentiments et non dépourvues d’humour. J’ai adoré le happy end et je crois que ce pauvre Dakota va en voir de toutes les couleurs avec Wally et son amour des animaux….
December 14, 2010
I love Andrew Grey books; they're sweet, fun, and always leave me smiling!
Dakota Holden is a young man in his twenties, when he visits his father, Jefferson, on summer break from medical school. He believes his biggest hardship for the summer will be finally telling his beloved father that he's gay, but finding out that his father has been diagnosed with an eventually fatal disease makes his sexuality seem rather unimportant. There is a ranch to run and someone needs to take care of Jefferson, thus, Dakota gives up his dream of becoming a doctor and takes up that responsibility. For four years he spends his time tending to Jefferson and taking care of the ranch, while only taking one week for himself per year. This year that week is spent on a cruise and on that cruise, he meets a man by the name of Phillip Reardon. The two men form a friendship despite the distance that separates them, since Phillip lives states away in Wisconsin. After a few months though, Phillip decides to visit, bringing with him a good friend of his, veterinarian Wally Schumacher.
Wally and Dakota are immediately drawn to one another and Wally easily fits in to life on the ranch. The one constant contention between them though, is the wolves in the area. Wally sees the wolves as a beautiful part of mother nature, while Dakota and the men on his ranch see them as a threat to their cattle. Then, there is also the fact that the ranch is located in a rural area of Wyoming, what was referred to in the book as Matthew Shepard country. I know that many of you know that that means, but for those that don't know, don't remember or don't live in the US, Matthew Shepard was a young man who in the late 90s was tortured and murdered in Wyoming by two other men, because he was gay. So, it's not really set in the most gay-friendly neighborhood. However, a few of the characters surprised me and the love that blossomed and grew between Wally and Dakota was beautiful and made for a very pleasant read.
I would like see this become a series, if possible. I think poor Phillip needs a love story of his own.
Dakota Holden is a young man in his twenties, when he visits his father, Jefferson, on summer break from medical school. He believes his biggest hardship for the summer will be finally telling his beloved father that he's gay, but finding out that his father has been diagnosed with an eventually fatal disease makes his sexuality seem rather unimportant. There is a ranch to run and someone needs to take care of Jefferson, thus, Dakota gives up his dream of becoming a doctor and takes up that responsibility. For four years he spends his time tending to Jefferson and taking care of the ranch, while only taking one week for himself per year. This year that week is spent on a cruise and on that cruise, he meets a man by the name of Phillip Reardon. The two men form a friendship despite the distance that separates them, since Phillip lives states away in Wisconsin. After a few months though, Phillip decides to visit, bringing with him a good friend of his, veterinarian Wally Schumacher.
Wally and Dakota are immediately drawn to one another and Wally easily fits in to life on the ranch. The one constant contention between them though, is the wolves in the area. Wally sees the wolves as a beautiful part of mother nature, while Dakota and the men on his ranch see them as a threat to their cattle. Then, there is also the fact that the ranch is located in a rural area of Wyoming, what was referred to in the book as Matthew Shepard country. I know that many of you know that that means, but for those that don't know, don't remember or don't live in the US, Matthew Shepard was a young man who in the late 90s was tortured and murdered in Wyoming by two other men, because he was gay. So, it's not really set in the most gay-friendly neighborhood. However, a few of the characters surprised me and the love that blossomed and grew between Wally and Dakota was beautiful and made for a very pleasant read.
I would like see this become a series, if possible. I think poor Phillip needs a love story of his own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2013
Save a horse, ride a cowboy!! Dakota Holden is a devoted family man and a promising MD. His father’s illness forces him to leave medical school and come home to not only take care of his ailing father, but his families beloved ranch as well. He hides his sexuality from everyone close to him, allowing himself an annual vacation to just be himself. It’s during his most recent vaca that he met Phillip. Fast friends and convenient lovers, Phillip decides to take Dakota up on an offer to visit him at the Ranch.
Wally Schumacher is a vibrant, openly gay, spitfire of a man. The recently graduated Vet, and Phillips best friend, decides to join him on his trip to the Ranch. He’s intensely attracted to Dakota pretty much from their first meeting, but Dakota is still hiding his sexuality, and therefore fights his mutual attraction to Wally.
As the story progresses so does the relationship between Dakota and Wally. Dakota's devotion to his father, friends and the ranch are evident. His internal struggle with his growing feelings for Wally, and how his father and friends will percieve him is conveyed so well by Grey, it's almost heartbreaking. Both men are driven by a need to do the right thing, but what happens when what one considers right, conflicts with the other man’s version? Is the open range enough space for Wally and Dakota to share a life, openly be together and still stay true to their individuality?
Shared Range is a love story at heart with lots of action and content to keep any reader interested. The backdrop of Wyoming is perfectly depicted by Grey, as well as the struggles each character goes through to get where they are by the end. The dangerously descriptive sex scenes were oh so juicey and Grey managed to make it not just about the sex, but about the love Dakota and Wally share as well.
I loved this book, I love this series, I love this author. I would recommend his books to everyone, especially if you like engaging storylines, realistic characters, and some hot as hell sex between two equally hot men!
Wally Schumacher is a vibrant, openly gay, spitfire of a man. The recently graduated Vet, and Phillips best friend, decides to join him on his trip to the Ranch. He’s intensely attracted to Dakota pretty much from their first meeting, but Dakota is still hiding his sexuality, and therefore fights his mutual attraction to Wally.
As the story progresses so does the relationship between Dakota and Wally. Dakota's devotion to his father, friends and the ranch are evident. His internal struggle with his growing feelings for Wally, and how his father and friends will percieve him is conveyed so well by Grey, it's almost heartbreaking. Both men are driven by a need to do the right thing, but what happens when what one considers right, conflicts with the other man’s version? Is the open range enough space for Wally and Dakota to share a life, openly be together and still stay true to their individuality?
Shared Range is a love story at heart with lots of action and content to keep any reader interested. The backdrop of Wyoming is perfectly depicted by Grey, as well as the struggles each character goes through to get where they are by the end. The dangerously descriptive sex scenes were oh so juicey and Grey managed to make it not just about the sex, but about the love Dakota and Wally share as well.
I loved this book, I love this series, I love this author. I would recommend his books to everyone, especially if you like engaging storylines, realistic characters, and some hot as hell sex between two equally hot men!
June 28, 2013
Andrew Grey keeps moving up to the top of my favorites list with his engaging character studies. I really enjoyed this story. I had actually started the series with #6, A Volatile Range and was so intrigued by the ranch owners I had to come back to the full series and get started with #1.
I really liked these characters, even with the quick falling-in-love time frame. There were still plenty of hurdles and lots of character action. No big murder or mayhem mysteries to detract from the story. Just a study of human emotions, including Dakota's emotional journey with his dying father.
I also loved the setting and the visits to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Wally's love of the animals, large and small, tame and wild, was engaging as well.
I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
I really liked these characters, even with the quick falling-in-love time frame. There were still plenty of hurdles and lots of character action. No big murder or mayhem mysteries to detract from the story. Just a study of human emotions, including Dakota's emotional journey with his dying father.
I also loved the setting and the visits to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Wally's love of the animals, large and small, tame and wild, was engaging as well.
I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
July 9, 2013
This one is somewhere between I liked it and I loved it. It took awhile (and several starting attempts) to warm up to the story. I'm glad I stuck it out. I find Dakota a little too good to be true, and since his POV is first, I just didn't feel compelled to keep reading. Seriously, Dakota is well adjusted and loving and giving and understanding and OMG, there is no such person. Yes, I read to be transported to another world and I sometimes have to accept the unbelievable, but this is a contemporary story. It should have some connection to reality. Finally, by page 38 we meet Wally. Wally is pretty well adjusted and super hero strength awesome, too. I like Wally, though.
So, we get some serious lust (bordering on insta-love) with 2 too impossibly perfect men. This story is all about the warm fuzzies. For the most part, I enjoyed the story and, since it's a library book, I'll read the next one in the series.
So, we get some serious lust (bordering on insta-love) with 2 too impossibly perfect men. This story is all about the warm fuzzies. For the most part, I enjoyed the story and, since it's a library book, I'll read the next one in the series.
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