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Back in the Saddle
When David Garcia's family suffers a loss, he comes back to New Mexico to help, leaving his life in Austin behind. He knows he has to make the best of it, so he uses his skills as a teacher to set up a daycare business on his parents' ranch and start helping out local friends and family who need a babysitter now and then. It's the perfect job for someone who also needs to run the small family ranch and make money to keep it afloat.
When rodeo cowboy Wiley Marquart decides to start a family, he sure doesn't expect the barrel racer he made a deal with to up and leave him high and dry in New Mexico with both of his girls and nothing but a check once a month. He loves his kids, but starting a ranch from the ground up is tough, and he needs someone to watch the girls when he has to work the back forty or deliver a trained horse. So when he meets David, the relief if immediate. And it doesn't hurt that after a false start or two, he likes the guy.
Between navigating family pitfalls, work disasters, and two ranches, David and Wiley start to forge a friendship, and then a lot more. But can they find a way to mesh their lives without dropping any of the balls they're juggling, or are they destined for disaster?
When rodeo cowboy Wiley Marquart decides to start a family, he sure doesn't expect the barrel racer he made a deal with to up and leave him high and dry in New Mexico with both of his girls and nothing but a check once a month. He loves his kids, but starting a ranch from the ground up is tough, and he needs someone to watch the girls when he has to work the back forty or deliver a trained horse. So when he meets David, the relief if immediate. And it doesn't hurt that after a false start or two, he likes the guy.
Between navigating family pitfalls, work disasters, and two ranches, David and Wiley start to forge a friendship, and then a lot more. But can they find a way to mesh their lives without dropping any of the balls they're juggling, or are they destined for disaster?
258 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 14, 2023
111 people are currently reading
92 people want to read
About the author
B.A. Tortuga
382 books632 followersTexan to the bone and an unrepentant Daddy's Girl, BA Tortuga spends her days with her hounds and her beloved wife, texting her grandbabies, and eating Mexican food. When she's not doing that, she's writing. She spends her days off watching rodeo, knitting, and surfing Pinterest in the name of research. Following their own personal joys, BA and Julia heard the call of the high desert and they now live in the New Mexico mountains. BA's personal saviors include her wife, her best friends, and coffee. Lots of coffee. Really good coffee.
Having written everything from fist-fighting rednecks to cowboy daddies to werewolves, BA does her damnedest to tell the stories of her heart, which is committed to giving everyone their happily ever after. With books ranging from hard-hitting BDSM, to fiery passions, to the most traditional of love stories, BA refuses to be pigeon-holed by anyone but the voices in her head.
Having written everything from fist-fighting rednecks to cowboy daddies to werewolves, BA does her damnedest to tell the stories of her heart, which is committed to giving everyone their happily ever after. With books ranging from hard-hitting BDSM, to fiery passions, to the most traditional of love stories, BA refuses to be pigeon-holed by anyone but the voices in her head.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
October 2, 2023
DNF @47% ...
A new author for me ...
some of the most gawdawful writing I've ever had the misfortune of partaking of. 😣 Obviously another writer with many friends based on all the 4 and 5 star ratings. Either they're lying or didn't actually attempt to read this ridiculousness. The two main characters are calling each other "honey"/"hon"/"babe" pretty much two minutes after they first meet and NO child on the planet talks like these kids ("ouch cweam" for "ice cream"!?!?! 😫). That's just the tip of this train wreck. Apparently anyone can spit out a "cozy" novel. Think I'll throw one together this weekend. I have a couple friends that will give me 5 star ratings just because my name's on it! Knocking out 50 of these per year might bring a little bit of side income. 🙄
A new author for me ...
some of the most gawdawful writing I've ever had the misfortune of partaking of. 😣 Obviously another writer with many friends based on all the 4 and 5 star ratings. Either they're lying or didn't actually attempt to read this ridiculousness. The two main characters are calling each other "honey"/"hon"/"babe" pretty much two minutes after they first meet and NO child on the planet talks like these kids ("ouch cweam" for "ice cream"!?!?! 😫). That's just the tip of this train wreck. Apparently anyone can spit out a "cozy" novel. Think I'll throw one together this weekend. I have a couple friends that will give me 5 star ratings just because my name's on it! Knocking out 50 of these per year might bring a little bit of side income. 🙄
October 2, 2023
DNF at 47%. Horrible writing. Too much “baby talk” and too many “pet names.” Just didn’t work for me. 1 star.
February 14, 2023
I completely adore this series of books by BA Tortuga. Single dads, cowboys, romance ... what more could I want?
David is back unexpectedly in New Mexico after his brother died serving overseas and his dad had a heart attack. On top of helping out on the ranch, he ends up, by accident, starting up a daycare. That's how he comes to help Wiley and his twin daughters when the man is overwhelmed by single parenthood, after having expected his ex to be around to co-parent.
I enjoyed that this relationship goes from friends to lovers as, what they both need first and foremost is that outlet that isn't ranch life or children. Just a friend, a beer and some pizza with the chance to chat the night away. When it does develop to more, it feels so natural between them and like they've been with each other forever. It also helps smooth the way for Sierra and Libby, as it's not a huge chance and they already love spending time with David when he looks after them. There is a fair amount of family drama going on with David's parents, his sister in law and her two children, and then Wiley dealing with the twins' mother. If anything it helps to bring them closer as they help to support each other. An injury piles more pressure on everyone but , in true cowboy style, they get on with it, everyone pitching in to help.
I love all of the characters involved in the story, the children especially grabbing at your heart. David and Wiley are such a great pair, two men who understand the hard work that each man is putting into life and what they have also left behind. Another wonderful read in the series.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
David is back unexpectedly in New Mexico after his brother died serving overseas and his dad had a heart attack. On top of helping out on the ranch, he ends up, by accident, starting up a daycare. That's how he comes to help Wiley and his twin daughters when the man is overwhelmed by single parenthood, after having expected his ex to be around to co-parent.
I enjoyed that this relationship goes from friends to lovers as, what they both need first and foremost is that outlet that isn't ranch life or children. Just a friend, a beer and some pizza with the chance to chat the night away. When it does develop to more, it feels so natural between them and like they've been with each other forever. It also helps smooth the way for Sierra and Libby, as it's not a huge chance and they already love spending time with David when he looks after them. There is a fair amount of family drama going on with David's parents, his sister in law and her two children, and then Wiley dealing with the twins' mother. If anything it helps to bring them closer as they help to support each other. An injury piles more pressure on everyone but , in true cowboy style, they get on with it, everyone pitching in to help.
I love all of the characters involved in the story, the children especially grabbing at your heart. David and Wiley are such a great pair, two men who understand the hard work that each man is putting into life and what they have also left behind. Another wonderful read in the series.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
February 13, 2023
Back in the Saddle is well written, funny, sweet, deals well with some difficult issues, the characters are amazing, there are a lot of cute animals and kids, I love all of the interesting family dynamics and the storyline is great. David and Wiley are both doing the best that they can in difficult circumstances and I love how their relationship evolves. David never expected to return to his family's ranch but when he drops everything to help his parents and the rest of his family he makes the best of things. Wiley needs help with his twin daughters and David is happy to do whatever he can to help them.
They are exactly what the other needs and I love how supportive and caring they are with each other as well as all of the people in their lives. Even though they have to deal with a lot they also are all in and I love the beautiful family that they become. The secondary characters add so much to this story and I can't wait to see what the author has in store for us next.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
They are exactly what the other needs and I love how supportive and caring they are with each other as well as all of the people in their lives. Even though they have to deal with a lot they also are all in and I love the beautiful family that they become. The secondary characters add so much to this story and I can't wait to see what the author has in store for us next.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
February 16, 2023
Family for two
Raising one is hard by yourself, adding in a twin makes it doubly so, especially for an ex rodeo rancher who thought he'd have help. Assistance comes in the form of David Garfia, single gay man who runs a daycare conveniently located just beside his. A rough beginning smooths and these two just nicely complement each other. I kept waiting for the "other shoe to drop" but it never quite did, or at least not with a loud bang.
KU, contemporary, book in a series, standalone, cowboys, teacher, family man, low angst, low heat
Raising one is hard by yourself, adding in a twin makes it doubly so, especially for an ex rodeo rancher who thought he'd have help. Assistance comes in the form of David Garfia, single gay man who runs a daycare conveniently located just beside his. A rough beginning smooths and these two just nicely complement each other. I kept waiting for the "other shoe to drop" but it never quite did, or at least not with a loud bang.
KU, contemporary, book in a series, standalone, cowboys, teacher, family man, low angst, low heat
February 13, 2023
This book was a breath of fresh air after my insta-lust, monster/dark romance binges of the last few weeks.
It tells the story of David, a special education teacher, who moves back to the family ranch to help his parents after his brother is killed in action and his dad has a heart attack, but his heart isn't really in ranching. He ends up looking after his niece and nephew and a friend's son, and this soon grows into establishing a daycare center at the ranch.
Wiley Marquart is the neighbour next door, an ex-rodeo cowboy and single dad to two adorable twin daughters, who is in desperate need of a babysitter for his girls so he can do what he loves: ranching. He finds out through the mom grapevine that David has a daycare, and soon the girls go there every day.
Wiley and David strike up a friendship, and soon David is smitten. But while David has been out and proud since his early teens, Wiley's sexuality is a bit more private, and all the talk of Wiley's missing-in-action wife confuses the hell out of him, especially because there is a definite spark between the two men.
This is a lovely, sweet, friends-to-lovers, small-town, low-angst story about two men becoming more than friends and slowly learning how to blend their families together to create a future they both so desperately crave.
I loved the slow pace of the novel as it gave the author enough time to show how David and Wiley become friends and then, ultimately, more than friends. I also loved that Wiley's ex-wife was never portrayed as a bad mother or
The children in the story were adorable and made me fall in love with the whole family!
This is a sweet story with a little something for everyone, from anxiety to fun-loving goats, horses, and a mini-yak! Ms. Tortuga knows her way with storytelling.
This is my first BA Tortuga book, but it will definitely not be my last!
It tells the story of David, a special education teacher, who moves back to the family ranch to help his parents after his brother is killed in action and his dad has a heart attack, but his heart isn't really in ranching. He ends up looking after his niece and nephew and a friend's son, and this soon grows into establishing a daycare center at the ranch.
Wiley Marquart is the neighbour next door, an ex-rodeo cowboy and single dad to two adorable twin daughters, who is in desperate need of a babysitter for his girls so he can do what he loves: ranching. He finds out through the mom grapevine that David has a daycare, and soon the girls go there every day.
Wiley and David strike up a friendship, and soon David is smitten. But while David has been out and proud since his early teens, Wiley's sexuality is a bit more private, and all the talk of Wiley's missing-in-action wife confuses the hell out of him, especially because there is a definite spark between the two men.
This is a lovely, sweet, friends-to-lovers, small-town, low-angst story about two men becoming more than friends and slowly learning how to blend their families together to create a future they both so desperately crave.
I loved the slow pace of the novel as it gave the author enough time to show how David and Wiley become friends and then, ultimately, more than friends. I also loved that Wiley's ex-wife was never portrayed as a bad mother or
The children in the story were adorable and made me fall in love with the whole family!
This is a sweet story with a little something for everyone, from anxiety to fun-loving goats, horses, and a mini-yak! Ms. Tortuga knows her way with storytelling.
This is my first BA Tortuga book, but it will definitely not be my last!
February 15, 2023
This is another low-angst, feel-good book in the BA's Cozy Cowboys series. In this book, David, a teacher, returns to his parents' ranch after his brother is killed in action. His brother has left a young widow and two young children. To make ends meet, he opens a day care to watch his own niece and nephew plus other children. Wiley owns the neighboring ranch. When his ex-wife leaves him to raise 3 year-old twin girls alone plus run a ranch, Wiley knows he needs help. When David is recommended to him and they meet, there is a growing attraction. However, David has been told that Wiley is married with a traveling wife, so he considers Wiley off-limits. As friends, they notice they have a lot in common and they are very comfortable with each other. Can communications clear up, so they can explore their future? This book has family in grief, lives centered around the kids, good times spent together, passion, and a forever type of love.
October 13, 2023
What is it about cowboys?
What is it about cowboys that so intrigues me? David and Wiley are no different. They really interested me and I got fully sucked into their story.
What is it about cowboys that so intrigues me? David and Wiley are no different. They really interested me and I got fully sucked into their story.
February 25, 2023
Rating 4 stars
I just love stories with cute kids and this didn't disappoint.
This was typical a BA Tortuga story but it kept me entertained throughout.
I just love stories with cute kids and this didn't disappoint.
This was typical a BA Tortuga story but it kept me entertained throughout.
September 3, 2025
RECENSIONE A CURA DI ELVINO 1831
Questo è il primo libro che leggo dell’autrice texana e se proprio devo trovare un aggettivo per definire la storia che vi viene narrata userei delicatezza, perché nonostante i protagonisti vivano situazioni toste e destabilizzanti la narrazione portata avanti dall’autrice non assume mai connotazioni tragiche o senza via d’uscita ma anzi viene sempre posto l’accento sul fatto che ad ogni problema impegnandosi si possa trovare la soluzione.
David Garcia torna ad Arroyo Verde in Nuovo Messico per aiutare la sua famiglia dopo che suo fratello minore Andy era stato ucciso durante una missione e suo padre saputo del fatto aveva avuto un infarto, da cui faticava a riprendersi, dovendo di conseguenza lasciare da parte le mansioni che svolgeva all’interno del loro ranch, così aveva lasciato il suo lavoro di insegnante focalizzato sull’assistenza ai bambini autistici, il suo appartamento ad Austin e un fidanzato con cui aveva una relazione ad intermittenza ed era tornato proprio nel posto in cui aveva giurato di non tornare più, per occuparsi della loro fattoria, per dare una mano a sua cognata Bailey con i suoi figli Hannah e il piccolo Andy e già che c’era dare avvio a un’attività di baby sitter.
Continua sul nostro blog!
Questo è il primo libro che leggo dell’autrice texana e se proprio devo trovare un aggettivo per definire la storia che vi viene narrata userei delicatezza, perché nonostante i protagonisti vivano situazioni toste e destabilizzanti la narrazione portata avanti dall’autrice non assume mai connotazioni tragiche o senza via d’uscita ma anzi viene sempre posto l’accento sul fatto che ad ogni problema impegnandosi si possa trovare la soluzione.
David Garcia torna ad Arroyo Verde in Nuovo Messico per aiutare la sua famiglia dopo che suo fratello minore Andy era stato ucciso durante una missione e suo padre saputo del fatto aveva avuto un infarto, da cui faticava a riprendersi, dovendo di conseguenza lasciare da parte le mansioni che svolgeva all’interno del loro ranch, così aveva lasciato il suo lavoro di insegnante focalizzato sull’assistenza ai bambini autistici, il suo appartamento ad Austin e un fidanzato con cui aveva una relazione ad intermittenza ed era tornato proprio nel posto in cui aveva giurato di non tornare più, per occuparsi della loro fattoria, per dare una mano a sua cognata Bailey con i suoi figli Hannah e il piccolo Andy e già che c’era dare avvio a un’attività di baby sitter.
Continua sul nostro blog!
February 15, 2023
Overall I did like this book. It's a very sweet low angst romance about family and what it means to create a home. David and Wiley were simply meant for one another, and I really enjoyed how organically they went from friends to something more. They were there for each other and what could be better than that?
Unfortunately I didn't like the writing style. I couldn't really immerse myself in the story and the pacing felt a bit off to me. At times it was hard to tell how much time had passed between different interactions or points in the story, which made the narrative not flow as smoothly as it could've. Maybe it's the way the story was structured or maybe it's the overabundance of New Mexican idioms but this element of the novel wasn't it for me. I did like the kids though.
Unfortunately I didn't like the writing style. I couldn't really immerse myself in the story and the pacing felt a bit off to me. At times it was hard to tell how much time had passed between different interactions or points in the story, which made the narrative not flow as smoothly as it could've. Maybe it's the way the story was structured or maybe it's the overabundance of New Mexican idioms but this element of the novel wasn't it for me. I did like the kids though.
February 27, 2024
What a WONDERFUL Western Romance!! BA TORTUGA is a FANTASTIC writer. Family is always first in this Book. David leaves his life in Austin. His Mama and Daddy need him, home is where his heart is. Wiley is a rodeo cowboy with young twins and an ex-wife that left. These two men are living in uneasy times. They pull together to make a better life for everyone. This is beautifully written, and a story that touched my heart. It's about tough times and those who always Cowboy Up. I. Loved. This. Book!!!! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!!!!!!!!!
February 16, 2023
2.5/3 stars
B.A. Tortuga is a prolific author of contemporary m/m romance, but I’ve never read anything of hers before, so when Back in the Saddle came up for review, I decided it was time to give her a try. I mean, hot cowboys, single dads… what’s not to love? Unfortunately, quite a bit.
The plot, such as it is, is a simple one. Teacher David Garcia leaves his life in Austin to go home to the family ranch in New Mexico after his brother Andy is killed in the line of duty and his father has a heart attack. He loves his job teaching at a school for kids on the autistic spectrum and his life there, but doesn’t think twice about heading home – temporarily, he thinks - to help out.
Former rodeo rider Wiley Marquart is left – almost literally – holding the baby when his ex-wife dumps their three-year-old twin girls on him without notice and heads off on the road with her country-singer girlfriend. He adores Liberty and Sierra, but being abruptly left with sole custody isn’t what he and Ash agreed; they were friends who acted as each other’s beards on the conservative rodeo circuit, and as they both wanted kids and Wiley wanted to settle down on a ranch, they decided to get married and co-parent. But now Ash has upended his life – how is he supposed to do everything that needs doing around the ranch while being good father to two kids under five?
As luck would have it, Wiley’s nearest neighbour has started up a daycare facility from his parents’ ranch, and he comes highly recommended, so Wiley decides to give it a try the next time he needs to be kid-free to run some errands. The girls take to David right away and Wiley is not long behind; friendship and mutual attraction blossom, David is the bestest most dedicated childcarer to ever childcare (he’s practically perfect in every way!) Wiley and his girls are soon spending more time at the Garcia place than their own and… it’s a romance, you know where it’s going.
The story is pleasant enough but it doesn’t bring anything new to the table. Wiley and David are bland and barely two-dimensional, and everybody is so very earnest – every scene is described down to the last detail, whether it’s making breakfast or making the bed; the dialogue feels completely unnatural and everything is explained in great detail, and the repetition of phrases like “You rock!” whenever someone does something good and “Yum” whenever food is discussed stick out like sore thumbs. I don’t know anyone – let alone two grown men – who would say “Yum” about food unless they were taking the piss. And as for the “yummy” when one of them is looking at the cock he’s about to suck for the first time… I just about stopped myself from snorting tea out of my nose.
And then there is the kids’ dialogue. This is a lesson in how not to write three-year-olds talking, from the “pweeeeease” to the “mitter” (mister), using “her” instead of “she” (“her coming? “Her said…”) to ridiculous phrasing like “You am happy”, “Mitter luffs you!” Ugh. They sound like no three-year-old I’ve ever encountered.
The one or two potentially interesting things about the plot are never developed. David’s grief over his brother’s death is not explored and nor is his sense that his parents would have preferred Andy over him, because Andy was the (straight) one with kids who was always intended to inherit the ranch and keep it in the family. David’s parents clearly love him and they’re close, but when they decide, pretty much on the spur of the moment, to buy an RV and go travelling because they want to escape the painful memories (about Andy) associated with the house, ON THE VERY DAY THAT DAVID HAS AN ACCIDENT AND BREAKS HIS ARM, I was appalled at their selfishness. They just bugger off, leaving him to run his daycare business and the ranch on his own when he’s injured and on pain medication! WTF?? What sort of caring person does that? Okay, so Wiley is on hand to help out, but he’s working his own place as well, and basically ends up doing the work of two, and I couldn’t believe they didn’t even consider delaying their departure, or at least offer to wait until David was feeling better. And then, towards the end, they declare they’re giving up the ranch for good and leaving it to David with the proviso that they can stay there when they need to, and not once do they ever ask David what he wants. Again – WTF? Lucky for them David has fallen for Wiley and they’ve decided they want to make a home and family there, but they didn’t know that was on the cards when they made their plans.
Back in the Saddle was disappointing to say the least. There’s no romantic chemistry between David and Wiley, all the characters are unmemorable, the kids are unbelievably twee and the whole thing is dull and overwritten. I don’t think I’ll be rushing to read anything else by this author.
B.A. Tortuga is a prolific author of contemporary m/m romance, but I’ve never read anything of hers before, so when Back in the Saddle came up for review, I decided it was time to give her a try. I mean, hot cowboys, single dads… what’s not to love? Unfortunately, quite a bit.
The plot, such as it is, is a simple one. Teacher David Garcia leaves his life in Austin to go home to the family ranch in New Mexico after his brother Andy is killed in the line of duty and his father has a heart attack. He loves his job teaching at a school for kids on the autistic spectrum and his life there, but doesn’t think twice about heading home – temporarily, he thinks - to help out.
Former rodeo rider Wiley Marquart is left – almost literally – holding the baby when his ex-wife dumps their three-year-old twin girls on him without notice and heads off on the road with her country-singer girlfriend. He adores Liberty and Sierra, but being abruptly left with sole custody isn’t what he and Ash agreed; they were friends who acted as each other’s beards on the conservative rodeo circuit, and as they both wanted kids and Wiley wanted to settle down on a ranch, they decided to get married and co-parent. But now Ash has upended his life – how is he supposed to do everything that needs doing around the ranch while being good father to two kids under five?
As luck would have it, Wiley’s nearest neighbour has started up a daycare facility from his parents’ ranch, and he comes highly recommended, so Wiley decides to give it a try the next time he needs to be kid-free to run some errands. The girls take to David right away and Wiley is not long behind; friendship and mutual attraction blossom, David is the bestest most dedicated childcarer to ever childcare (he’s practically perfect in every way!) Wiley and his girls are soon spending more time at the Garcia place than their own and… it’s a romance, you know where it’s going.
The story is pleasant enough but it doesn’t bring anything new to the table. Wiley and David are bland and barely two-dimensional, and everybody is so very earnest – every scene is described down to the last detail, whether it’s making breakfast or making the bed; the dialogue feels completely unnatural and everything is explained in great detail, and the repetition of phrases like “You rock!” whenever someone does something good and “Yum” whenever food is discussed stick out like sore thumbs. I don’t know anyone – let alone two grown men – who would say “Yum” about food unless they were taking the piss. And as for the “yummy” when one of them is looking at the cock he’s about to suck for the first time… I just about stopped myself from snorting tea out of my nose.
And then there is the kids’ dialogue. This is a lesson in how not to write three-year-olds talking, from the “pweeeeease” to the “mitter” (mister), using “her” instead of “she” (“her coming? “Her said…”) to ridiculous phrasing like “You am happy”, “Mitter luffs you!” Ugh. They sound like no three-year-old I’ve ever encountered.
The one or two potentially interesting things about the plot are never developed. David’s grief over his brother’s death is not explored and nor is his sense that his parents would have preferred Andy over him, because Andy was the (straight) one with kids who was always intended to inherit the ranch and keep it in the family. David’s parents clearly love him and they’re close, but when they decide, pretty much on the spur of the moment, to buy an RV and go travelling because they want to escape the painful memories (about Andy) associated with the house, ON THE VERY DAY THAT DAVID HAS AN ACCIDENT AND BREAKS HIS ARM, I was appalled at their selfishness. They just bugger off, leaving him to run his daycare business and the ranch on his own when he’s injured and on pain medication! WTF?? What sort of caring person does that? Okay, so Wiley is on hand to help out, but he’s working his own place as well, and basically ends up doing the work of two, and I couldn’t believe they didn’t even consider delaying their departure, or at least offer to wait until David was feeling better. And then, towards the end, they declare they’re giving up the ranch for good and leaving it to David with the proviso that they can stay there when they need to, and not once do they ever ask David what he wants. Again – WTF? Lucky for them David has fallen for Wiley and they’ve decided they want to make a home and family there, but they didn’t know that was on the cards when they made their plans.
Back in the Saddle was disappointing to say the least. There’s no romantic chemistry between David and Wiley, all the characters are unmemorable, the kids are unbelievably twee and the whole thing is dull and overwritten. I don’t think I’ll be rushing to read anything else by this author.
August 30, 2025
Un ranch per ricominciare di B.A. Tortuga parte davvero bene: cowboy, famiglie incasinate, bambini in cerca di stabilità e due protagonisti che sembrano destinati a costruirsi una nuova vita insieme. Insomma, gli ingredienti c’erano tutti. Per metà libro ero quasi pronta a dichiararmi fan. Poi…
Parliamo di David e Wiley. Il primo è tornato a casa da Austin per aiutare la famiglia dopo la morte del fratello e l'infarto del padre. Ha abbandonato il lavoro come insegnate e il suo appartamento per ristabilirsi al ranch di famiglia, aiutando con il lavoro e con i nipoti. L'idea di aprire un asilo "in ranch" non ci mette molto a prendere piede. Wiley è il vicino di ranch, padre single di due adorabili gemelle e decisamente in difficoltà con la gestione degli animali e delle bambine. Il primo è dichiarato dai tempo del liceo, il secondo non ha mai fatto i volantini, anche se non nega sé stesso.
I due si avvicinano proprio grazie all'asilo, dove Wiley porta le figlie. Diventano amici, si confrontano sui problemi, si sostengono e alla fine, ovviamente si innamorano, non così lentamente quanto possono credere. Il problema non è tanto la trama – lineare – quanto il fatto che a un certo punto sembra che la storia si perda a rincorrere dettagli inutili. Ogni colazione, ogni spuntino, ogni “Tu sei fantastico!” viene riportato con una devozione da stenografo, al punto che ti chiedi se l’autrice avesse paura di tagliare anche una virgola. Il risultato? Ritmo da lumaca e un senso crescente di déjà-vu.
E non posso tacere sull’uso (o abuso) dei dialoghi. Un costante "tesoro", "amore", "dolcezza"... L'ho trovato un po' eccessivo. Poi ci sono i bambini: teneri, sì, ma posso dire che non mi sono sembrati verosimili? Nel senso, è vero che ogni bambino è a sé, però, io bambini così non li ho mai visti. O eccessivamente bambini o con una maturità emotiva quasi impossibile. Ciliegina sulla torta: i genitori di David. Non solo il figlio sta vivendo a sua volta un lutto, non solo si rompe un braccio, ma loro cosa fanno? Saltano su un camper e via, arrivederci e grazie. Se fosse stata una sitcom li avrei applauditi per il tempismo comico, ma in un romance che vuole parlare di famiglia e legami… beh, diciamo che ti lascia perpless* davanti alla pagina.
In sintesi: Un ranch per ricominciare poteva essere una coccola romantica con quel pizzico di profondità in più. Invece si perde tra ripetizioni, scene superflue e dialoghi che a volte rasentano il ridicolo. Non è una brutta lettura, ma lascia addosso quella sensazione da “peccato, con due forbici ben affilate sarebbe stato molto meglio”.
Parliamo di David e Wiley. Il primo è tornato a casa da Austin per aiutare la famiglia dopo la morte del fratello e l'infarto del padre. Ha abbandonato il lavoro come insegnate e il suo appartamento per ristabilirsi al ranch di famiglia, aiutando con il lavoro e con i nipoti. L'idea di aprire un asilo "in ranch" non ci mette molto a prendere piede. Wiley è il vicino di ranch, padre single di due adorabili gemelle e decisamente in difficoltà con la gestione degli animali e delle bambine. Il primo è dichiarato dai tempo del liceo, il secondo non ha mai fatto i volantini, anche se non nega sé stesso.
I due si avvicinano proprio grazie all'asilo, dove Wiley porta le figlie. Diventano amici, si confrontano sui problemi, si sostengono e alla fine, ovviamente si innamorano, non così lentamente quanto possono credere. Il problema non è tanto la trama – lineare – quanto il fatto che a un certo punto sembra che la storia si perda a rincorrere dettagli inutili. Ogni colazione, ogni spuntino, ogni “Tu sei fantastico!” viene riportato con una devozione da stenografo, al punto che ti chiedi se l’autrice avesse paura di tagliare anche una virgola. Il risultato? Ritmo da lumaca e un senso crescente di déjà-vu.
E non posso tacere sull’uso (o abuso) dei dialoghi. Un costante "tesoro", "amore", "dolcezza"... L'ho trovato un po' eccessivo. Poi ci sono i bambini: teneri, sì, ma posso dire che non mi sono sembrati verosimili? Nel senso, è vero che ogni bambino è a sé, però, io bambini così non li ho mai visti. O eccessivamente bambini o con una maturità emotiva quasi impossibile. Ciliegina sulla torta: i genitori di David. Non solo il figlio sta vivendo a sua volta un lutto, non solo si rompe un braccio, ma loro cosa fanno? Saltano su un camper e via, arrivederci e grazie. Se fosse stata una sitcom li avrei applauditi per il tempismo comico, ma in un romance che vuole parlare di famiglia e legami… beh, diciamo che ti lascia perpless* davanti alla pagina.
In sintesi: Un ranch per ricominciare poteva essere una coccola romantica con quel pizzico di profondità in più. Invece si perde tra ripetizioni, scene superflue e dialoghi che a volte rasentano il ridicolo. Non è una brutta lettura, ma lascia addosso quella sensazione da “peccato, con due forbici ben affilate sarebbe stato molto meglio”.
September 7, 2025
La gente deve smetterla di definire "cozy romance" romanzi che non si possono neanche definire tali. È un insulto per la letteratura fiction.
Ennesimo libro che leggo di questa autrice, ennesima delusione. Stesso modus operandi degli altri volumi letti: un incipit, due protagonisti e delle situazioni a caso che gli si scaraventano addosso, senza un filo logico o una trama portante.
Tematiche a caso che non vengono trattate neanche per sbaglio. Come il fratello morto di David. Immaginavo sarebbe stato uno dei temi portanti. Quando mai! David torna nella città Natale per dare una mano ai genitori con la perdita, e okay. Ma lui? Cioè, era affezionato a questo fratello? Lo detestava? È felice che sia morto? Boh. Di tanto in tanto ci viene detto che sta male, ma non viene mostrato mai. Anzi, noi lettori assistiamo a un David costantemente sorridente ed entusiasta della vita. Tanto che s'innamora in quattro e quattr'otto di un uomo con due figlie piccole e avvia un'attività di babysitter da un giorno all'altro. Così, tanto perché può.
Io boh. Senza parole.
Una lettura lenta, noiosissima e a tratti cringe. Di sicuro lo sono le scene spicy, che sembrano scritte da qualcuno costretto a fare un riassunto di un film porno. So che l'autrice è una donna lesbica, e si sente per come descrive gli amplessi tra uomini. Ma allora perché non scrive romance saffici? Non capisco.
Oltretutto, ho scoperto che l'autrice vanta un catalogo di oltre 300 libri scritti. E, onestamente, mi fido ben poco delle autrici - o degli autori - le cui opere superano gli anni di vita passati su questa terra. Di sicuro ce ne sarà qualcuno valido, per carità, ma mi pare palese che qui si valorizza più la quantità che la qualità. Qualità che rasenta lo zero, giusto per dire.
Credo che con questo volume segnerò la sconfitta: questa autrice non fa per me. Finisce dritta nella lista nera di coloro che non leggerò mai più.
Ennesimo libro che leggo di questa autrice, ennesima delusione. Stesso modus operandi degli altri volumi letti: un incipit, due protagonisti e delle situazioni a caso che gli si scaraventano addosso, senza un filo logico o una trama portante.
Tematiche a caso che non vengono trattate neanche per sbaglio. Come il fratello morto di David. Immaginavo sarebbe stato uno dei temi portanti. Quando mai! David torna nella città Natale per dare una mano ai genitori con la perdita, e okay. Ma lui? Cioè, era affezionato a questo fratello? Lo detestava? È felice che sia morto? Boh. Di tanto in tanto ci viene detto che sta male, ma non viene mostrato mai. Anzi, noi lettori assistiamo a un David costantemente sorridente ed entusiasta della vita. Tanto che s'innamora in quattro e quattr'otto di un uomo con due figlie piccole e avvia un'attività di babysitter da un giorno all'altro. Così, tanto perché può.
Io boh. Senza parole.
Una lettura lenta, noiosissima e a tratti cringe. Di sicuro lo sono le scene spicy, che sembrano scritte da qualcuno costretto a fare un riassunto di un film porno. So che l'autrice è una donna lesbica, e si sente per come descrive gli amplessi tra uomini. Ma allora perché non scrive romance saffici? Non capisco.
Oltretutto, ho scoperto che l'autrice vanta un catalogo di oltre 300 libri scritti. E, onestamente, mi fido ben poco delle autrici - o degli autori - le cui opere superano gli anni di vita passati su questa terra. Di sicuro ce ne sarà qualcuno valido, per carità, ma mi pare palese che qui si valorizza più la quantità che la qualità. Qualità che rasenta lo zero, giusto per dire.
Credo che con questo volume segnerò la sconfitta: questa autrice non fa per me. Finisce dritta nella lista nera di coloro che non leggerò mai più.
September 1, 2025
David torna al ranch di famiglia in New Mexico alla morte del fratello per aiutare i genitori, soprattutto perché il padre, alla notizia della perdita del figlio minore, ha un infarto e deve ridurre drasticamente la mole di lavoro. David, quindi, lascia Austin e il suo lavoro di insegnante di bambini “difficili” e ricomincia una nuova vita. Decide di aprire un’attività di babysitteraggio per poter continuare a fare ciò che ama, nonostante il lavoro del ranch sia molto molto impegnativo. Conosce Wiley – separato dalla moglie – quando quest’ultimo gli porta le due figlie gemelle di tre anni al day-care e tra i due nasce subito una simpatia che, ben presto, si trasformerà in qualcosa di più. Ho trovato il libro un po’ noioso, pieno di descrizioni minuziose, di come preparano il cibo, di quando lo consumano, di quando si vestono, di quando trascorrono le serate davanti alla tv. Ci sono anche diversi momenti intimi che mi sono parsi molto raccontati e poco vissuti. Uno degli argomenti di cui avrei voluto leggere riguardava le conseguenze dal punto di vista emotivo per la morte del fratello di David, invece, il suo dolore non viene mai esplorato. Non mi sono piaciuti neppure i genitori di David che lo abbandonano a se stesso in un momento particolarmente difficile, dimostrando un grande egoismo. Nel complesso il libro non mi ha entusiasmato, ho fatto fatica a seguirne lo svolgimento, non capendo a volte chi fosse che stava parlando/pensando. Questa è solo la mia opinione e vi invito alla lettura per farvene una tutta vostra.
February 14, 2023
I absolutely loved it!
David and Wiley were such great characters. I say it every time but my two favourite things about this writer's books is the way the characters are portrayed so humanly (ie imperfect but trying) and the way family is portrayed (whether that be found or blood). You could feel David's pain and stress from having his world implode and shift so quickly and it was so nice to see him slowly get to a point where he went from being dutiful, to thinking he might be able to manage, to finding a way to have a home where he was that he loved and didn't want to leave. There were definitely some speed bumps along the way and he didn't always manage to handle things perfectly but that's what life often is, trying to do your best with really difficult circumstances. Wiley was such a sweetheart. I felt so bad for him at how everything had come apart in a way he never expected and loved that no matter how much anger and frustration he felt he always put what was best for the girls first. The way he tried to make things work with Ashley and the kids really spoke to me - it would have been so easy for him to cut her out (and it's not like she wouldn't have brought it on herself) but he pushed himself to try to make sure his girls got to have a relationship with their mother even if it was imperfect. I loved the slow slide into a relationship between these guys. It was so sweet to watch them learn each other and realise they both thought something was there. It made their relationship so much deeper and really made you want them to find a way for them to make everything work (which they do and in the best way).
David and Wiley were such great characters. I say it every time but my two favourite things about this writer's books is the way the characters are portrayed so humanly (ie imperfect but trying) and the way family is portrayed (whether that be found or blood). You could feel David's pain and stress from having his world implode and shift so quickly and it was so nice to see him slowly get to a point where he went from being dutiful, to thinking he might be able to manage, to finding a way to have a home where he was that he loved and didn't want to leave. There were definitely some speed bumps along the way and he didn't always manage to handle things perfectly but that's what life often is, trying to do your best with really difficult circumstances. Wiley was such a sweetheart. I felt so bad for him at how everything had come apart in a way he never expected and loved that no matter how much anger and frustration he felt he always put what was best for the girls first. The way he tried to make things work with Ashley and the kids really spoke to me - it would have been so easy for him to cut her out (and it's not like she wouldn't have brought it on herself) but he pushed himself to try to make sure his girls got to have a relationship with their mother even if it was imperfect. I loved the slow slide into a relationship between these guys. It was so sweet to watch them learn each other and realise they both thought something was there. It made their relationship so much deeper and really made you want them to find a way for them to make everything work (which they do and in the best way).
February 16, 2023
I love this author’s cozy cowboy books. I feel like I’ve been wrapped in a warm handmade blanket afterwards with lots of family around and all the feels. Her stories always brighten my day.
Both David and Wiley are good guys in a situation out of their depth. I liked how they both have skills the other needs, and that leads to an easy friendship and more. The scenes with them, their families, and the kids feel natural, and are sweet and heartwarming. Love the banter and how they slip into using endearments. The day-to-day-realism is one of the things I enjoy about these books, and that David and Wiley, like all her MCs, talk to each other rather than let personal problems stew for too long.
Wiley’s children’s relationship with David is sweet, and I’m not surprised they take their father’s romance with David in their stride. His babysitting/cowboy daycare service takes off for good reason.
I love the family and community rallying round to help each other, and how supportive and encouraging they are of David and Wiley’s relationship. I also liked that, although Wiley’s ex-wife isn’t around much, she isn’t painted as a bad guy. I liked how that situation was resolved by the end of the book.
The HEA is perfect with loads of warm fuzzy feelings all round.
Both David and Wiley are good guys in a situation out of their depth. I liked how they both have skills the other needs, and that leads to an easy friendship and more. The scenes with them, their families, and the kids feel natural, and are sweet and heartwarming. Love the banter and how they slip into using endearments. The day-to-day-realism is one of the things I enjoy about these books, and that David and Wiley, like all her MCs, talk to each other rather than let personal problems stew for too long.
Wiley’s children’s relationship with David is sweet, and I’m not surprised they take their father’s romance with David in their stride. His babysitting/cowboy daycare service takes off for good reason.
I love the family and community rallying round to help each other, and how supportive and encouraging they are of David and Wiley’s relationship. I also liked that, although Wiley’s ex-wife isn’t around much, she isn’t painted as a bad guy. I liked how that situation was resolved by the end of the book.
The HEA is perfect with loads of warm fuzzy feelings all round.
September 2, 2023
3.5 - rounded down
Like all of Tortuga’s cowboy stories, this was just insanely adorable and sweet. That said… Maybe I’ve just exhausted this genre, but I feel like the storytelling was a little weaker in this one. For its very cookie-cutter and predictable plot, it’s told in an underdeveloped and meandering way. I disappointingly skimmed a lot of the mundane day-to-day interactions, which is surprising because those are usually my favorite moments in stories like these. I feel like they rarely developed the relationship meaningfully and just served to buy time, as if the mere fact that they spend time together means they are falling in love. There are so many unresolved feelings about the brother’s death amongst the family and how poorly certain members reacted to it (ahem the parents). The kids are cute but the baby-talk dialogue is grating. And I might as well say it right now but David’s parents here were straight up selfish assholes. They knew David was suffering himself and EXPECTED him to bear all the shit they dumped on his lap. It was just convenient that Wiley was there to help. That definitely helped with their guilt lol. Not sure if I wanna continue my cowboy streak but I’m just CRAVING another great one
Like all of Tortuga’s cowboy stories, this was just insanely adorable and sweet. That said… Maybe I’ve just exhausted this genre, but I feel like the storytelling was a little weaker in this one. For its very cookie-cutter and predictable plot, it’s told in an underdeveloped and meandering way. I disappointingly skimmed a lot of the mundane day-to-day interactions, which is surprising because those are usually my favorite moments in stories like these. I feel like they rarely developed the relationship meaningfully and just served to buy time, as if the mere fact that they spend time together means they are falling in love. There are so many unresolved feelings about the brother’s death amongst the family and how poorly certain members reacted to it (ahem the parents). The kids are cute but the baby-talk dialogue is grating. And I might as well say it right now but David’s parents here were straight up selfish assholes. They knew David was suffering himself and EXPECTED him to bear all the shit they dumped on his lap. It was just convenient that Wiley was there to help. That definitely helped with their guilt lol. Not sure if I wanna continue my cowboy streak but I’m just CRAVING another great one
October 10, 2025
✔ Letto!
All’inizio pensavo: “Ecco, questa sarà la mia comfort read da sogno: cowboy, bambini adorabili, un ranch da salvare e un amore che nasce piano piano.” E in effetti… all’inizio era proprio così. David torna a casa in New Mexico per aiutare la famiglia e si ritrova a fare da maestro, babysitter e salvatore del ranch — praticamente un supereroe con gli stivali.
Poi però la storia ha iniziato a deragliare un po’. I genitori in lutto si trasformano improvvisamente in… boh, coinquilini disinteressati? E i bambini… non sapevo se dovevo immaginarmeli con il biberon o con un caffè in mano a discutere di tasse, tanta era la loro maturità altalenante.
E i soprannomi. Mio Dio, i soprannomi. Se avessi bevuto un bicchierino ogni volta che qualcuno diceva “tesoro”, avrei finito il libro… e anche la bottiglia.
Nonostante tutto, David e Wiley sono una coppia che funziona. I loro ranch vicini, la determinazione, l’aiuto reciproco: è tutto molto tenero e genuino. Se si riesce a sorvolare su qualche incoerenza, resta una storia dolce, un po’ pasticciata ma con un cuore sincero.
Per me è ⭐⭐️⭐️✨ (3,5 su 5)
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All’inizio pensavo: “Ecco, questa sarà la mia comfort read da sogno: cowboy, bambini adorabili, un ranch da salvare e un amore che nasce piano piano.” E in effetti… all’inizio era proprio così. David torna a casa in New Mexico per aiutare la famiglia e si ritrova a fare da maestro, babysitter e salvatore del ranch — praticamente un supereroe con gli stivali.
Poi però la storia ha iniziato a deragliare un po’. I genitori in lutto si trasformano improvvisamente in… boh, coinquilini disinteressati? E i bambini… non sapevo se dovevo immaginarmeli con il biberon o con un caffè in mano a discutere di tasse, tanta era la loro maturità altalenante.
E i soprannomi. Mio Dio, i soprannomi. Se avessi bevuto un bicchierino ogni volta che qualcuno diceva “tesoro”, avrei finito il libro… e anche la bottiglia.
Nonostante tutto, David e Wiley sono una coppia che funziona. I loro ranch vicini, la determinazione, l’aiuto reciproco: è tutto molto tenero e genuino. Se si riesce a sorvolare su qualche incoerenza, resta una storia dolce, un po’ pasticciata ma con un cuore sincero.
Per me è ⭐⭐️⭐️✨ (3,5 su 5)
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February 23, 2023
David leaves his life in Austin to come back home to New Mexico, starting a daycare for local ranchers as well as helping with the family ranch. Wiley finds himself single and struggling to work his ranch, so finding David’s daycare is a Godsend. A mutual attraction happens when David and Wiley meet, and they start a friendship that slowly grows into something more. David and Wiley have their work cut out for themselves between their families, ranching, and issues cropping up, but they have what it takes to make it all work.
I enjoyed this book. I love cowboy stories, and throwing in cute kids in the mix along with a budding relationship just made me so happy. The MC’s were both genuine in their struggles and they just seemed to work really well together to support each other. Their relationship seemed to grow very naturally and was very believable. They had a lot to overcome, but I am glad they got their HEA. I recommend this book.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I enjoyed this book. I love cowboy stories, and throwing in cute kids in the mix along with a budding relationship just made me so happy. The MC’s were both genuine in their struggles and they just seemed to work really well together to support each other. Their relationship seemed to grow very naturally and was very believable. They had a lot to overcome, but I am glad they got their HEA. I recommend this book.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 14, 2023
From an unexpected meeting David and Wiley merge to form a wondeful life for each other and their mutual love of caring for children. David returned to NM after his brother Andy's unexpected death in the miltary to help his ailing father and overworked mother run their ranch. David came equiped with a Masters in early childhood education and starting a daycare is the blessing that Wiley sorely needed, being a single father of precocious twin girls, Sierra and Liberty. He had his capable hands full with raising them by himself after their mom Ashley deserted them for rodeo life. The interweaving of these two cowboys lives & their chemistry (along with the accepting population of Arroyo Verde) is a beautiful story spun as only Ms. Tortuga can write. Throw in Lily, Yakkity, goats, chickens, and, of course, horses and here's a story that is a joy to read. This is my voluntary ARC review.
February 11, 2023
David Garcia moves from Austin back to his family's ranch after his brother is killed in action and his father has a heart attack as a result. David wasn't sure how much help he could be as he wasn't a rancher; he was a teacher. He started looking after his niece and nephew because his sister-in-law has to work.
Wiley Marquart bought a ranch and moved in with his twin girls so he and his Ex could co-parent. One day his Ex decides to take off with her lover and go back to the rodeo. This left Wiley with no way to run the ranch and look after the girls. His mother gives him the name of a guy who does babysitting and he just happens to be located on n the ranch next door.
This is a sweet story with a little something for everyone, from anxiety to fun loving goats, horses and a mini-yak! Ms. Tortuga knows her way with storytelling.
Wiley Marquart bought a ranch and moved in with his twin girls so he and his Ex could co-parent. One day his Ex decides to take off with her lover and go back to the rodeo. This left Wiley with no way to run the ranch and look after the girls. His mother gives him the name of a guy who does babysitting and he just happens to be located on n the ranch next door.
This is a sweet story with a little something for everyone, from anxiety to fun loving goats, horses and a mini-yak! Ms. Tortuga knows her way with storytelling.
February 16, 2023
5 stars
Low angst, sweet and hot cowboy romance with adorable kiddos FTW!
How can you not fall in love with a confident, ranch raised out n proud special needs teacher who starts a ranch daycare while taking care of his parents after tragedy? I’m with Wiley on this; David is just too perfect to pass up.
Wiley has twin girls from his short lived marriage appeasement of the rodeo sponsors and needs help since his ex is on the road and he has a ranch to run. Nothing is more important than his girls but he has to be able to work. David is the answer to his prayers… in more ways than one.
I’m never disappointed in this author’s books and Back in the Saddle is no exception. The relationship builds organically and seeing their love grow around the kids and animals is so much fun. With family and exes throwing curve balls at them, David and Wiley have to figure out just what they’re doing and will it be for the long haul.
Low angst, sweet and hot cowboy romance with adorable kiddos FTW!
How can you not fall in love with a confident, ranch raised out n proud special needs teacher who starts a ranch daycare while taking care of his parents after tragedy? I’m with Wiley on this; David is just too perfect to pass up.
Wiley has twin girls from his short lived marriage appeasement of the rodeo sponsors and needs help since his ex is on the road and he has a ranch to run. Nothing is more important than his girls but he has to be able to work. David is the answer to his prayers… in more ways than one.
I’m never disappointed in this author’s books and Back in the Saddle is no exception. The relationship builds organically and seeing their love grow around the kids and animals is so much fun. With family and exes throwing curve balls at them, David and Wiley have to figure out just what they’re doing and will it be for the long haul.
February 15, 2023
David and Wiley both have a lot to deal with, and being able to help each other deepens into friendship which then evolves into something more, a process which makes for a satisfying read. There’s something about the way this author blends ranch life, cowboy culture, and single parenthood, with all the attendant mess and chaos and heart, that can be both appealing and overwhelming: fun to read about, but wow is it easy to feel for these people with so much on their respective plates. There are plenty of secondary characters who add depth and emotion and color to the story, as well as a truly solid connection between the protagonists– there’s sweetness and humor and a lot to like here, so I’d give this one 4.5 stars out of 5.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
February 18, 2023
Sometimes, you 'can' go home again! David, returns to New Mexico with his besty Lily, ready to make the best of his new world. His brother, Andy had been killed and his Dad suffered a heart attack, so David returns home to help out. He's had a time getting used to ranch work again and he missed teaching. Wiley, was a bit overwhelmed caring for Liberty and Sierra after his ex-wife, Ashley dropped the kids off abandoning them with no notice. David and Wiley, each had challenges to their new life challenges. While working through that, they get to know each other. They are both fun in their life approaches, the kids, the family and friends make up for a delightful story. There is a bit of miscommunication in relationship status, but hopefully that will clear up. Great flow. Good cover art! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 14, 2023
The tragedy that brings him home will also bring him forever
I loved this book! While David and Wiley meet under less than ideal circumstances, their relationship quickly grows to something amazing! David has come home to help with the family ranch after the death of his brother and his father’s heart attack. Wiley is trying to raise his twin girls and run his own ranch. They meet when Wiley needs someone to watch the girls and David takes the job. While their journey is a bit bumpy dealing with an ex, lots of kids, and an injury, David and Wiley’s chemistry, in addition to some crazy animals and some sassy little girls makes this a happily ever after that is well worth reading!
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
I loved this book! While David and Wiley meet under less than ideal circumstances, their relationship quickly grows to something amazing! David has come home to help with the family ranch after the death of his brother and his father’s heart attack. Wiley is trying to raise his twin girls and run his own ranch. They meet when Wiley needs someone to watch the girls and David takes the job. While their journey is a bit bumpy dealing with an ex, lots of kids, and an injury, David and Wiley’s chemistry, in addition to some crazy animals and some sassy little girls makes this a happily ever after that is well worth reading!
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
March 12, 2023
I have come to look forward to stories from BA Tortgua. I know I am going to get a low angst story about good people who love their community and their partners. This story has David giving up his teaching career and life in Austin to take over the family ranch. His parents are reeling from not only the death of his brother but significant health problems for his father. When he discovers the community needs a daycare he puts his experience to use and opens one. That is where he meets Wiley, a single father of twins and the rancher next door. Then they fall in love over pancakes and finger paint. No drama, no vindictive exes, just two men finding each other and building the family that they need. Simple and perfect!
July 9, 2023
Here is another huge success for Tortuga! I love each one better than the last, and this is no exception. Along with fine character development and delineation, the sex scenes are perfectly tailored to match the personalities of each couple.
Another fine aspect of Tortuga's books is how well written and proof read they are. In this instance, I would wish only that Loc 2715 read "Then there were the twins, whom he loved as fiercely as if they were his" rather than "who he loved."
Even so, this is another resounding success, a fine addition to the genre to treasure and enjoy, over and over!
Another fine aspect of Tortuga's books is how well written and proof read they are. In this instance, I would wish only that Loc 2715 read "Then there were the twins, whom he loved as fiercely as if they were his" rather than "who he loved."
Even so, this is another resounding success, a fine addition to the genre to treasure and enjoy, over and over!
October 28, 2025
🌟Pro: Il punto di partenza era super promettente: due uomini adulti, entrambi alle prese con perdite, responsabilità e con un ranch da salvare. C’è una base molto umana, fatta di fatica e di affetto sincero per la famiglia, che mi ha colpito all’inizio.
-Le gemelline di Wiley sono un piccolo raggio di sole nel libro. Ogni scena con loro porta calore, e anche David con i bambini ha un’energia tenera e genuina che funziona benissimo. È forse la parte più riuscita: quel senso di “casa” che nasce piano.
🌟Contro: il romanzo procede in modo piuttosto piatto. Ci sono i soliti problemi da ranch, qualche dramma familiare e la tensione tra i due protagonisti, ma tutto resta un po’ in superficie. Non succede mai niente di davvero sorprendente o emotivamente esplosivo, e questo rende la lettura lenta, quasi monotona in certi punti.
-David e Wiley sono due persone interessanti sulla carta, ma insieme non scatta quella scintilla che ti fa dire “ok, adesso sì che ci siamo”. Tutto sembra più un affetto tranquillo che una passione che cresce. Avrei voluto sentire più tensione, più vulnerabilità, più tutto.
-A volte i dialoghi sembrano scritti più per far avanzare la trama che per mostrare le emozioni dei personaggi. Il risultato è che alcune conversazioni importanti, soprattutto tra David e Wiley, perdono impatto.
-Ci sono momenti carini, ma sono spesso seguiti da pagine lente, quasi “riempitive”. E questo fa sì che, invece di emozionarti, finisci per distaccarti.
-Le gemelline di Wiley sono un piccolo raggio di sole nel libro. Ogni scena con loro porta calore, e anche David con i bambini ha un’energia tenera e genuina che funziona benissimo. È forse la parte più riuscita: quel senso di “casa” che nasce piano.
🌟Contro: il romanzo procede in modo piuttosto piatto. Ci sono i soliti problemi da ranch, qualche dramma familiare e la tensione tra i due protagonisti, ma tutto resta un po’ in superficie. Non succede mai niente di davvero sorprendente o emotivamente esplosivo, e questo rende la lettura lenta, quasi monotona in certi punti.
-David e Wiley sono due persone interessanti sulla carta, ma insieme non scatta quella scintilla che ti fa dire “ok, adesso sì che ci siamo”. Tutto sembra più un affetto tranquillo che una passione che cresce. Avrei voluto sentire più tensione, più vulnerabilità, più tutto.
-A volte i dialoghi sembrano scritti più per far avanzare la trama che per mostrare le emozioni dei personaggi. Il risultato è che alcune conversazioni importanti, soprattutto tra David e Wiley, perdono impatto.
-Ci sono momenti carini, ma sono spesso seguiti da pagine lente, quasi “riempitive”. E questo fa sì che, invece di emozionarti, finisci per distaccarti.
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