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I didn’t mean to fall in love with my best friend’s wife.
We were just kids when it happened.
Now, a decade and a half later she and I have bonded over tragedy—she lost the love of her life and I lost my best friend. I always knew Dolly was gonna break my heart—but the truth is, she never even got the chance.
The second she saw my best friend Dean, I was history.
The three of us were inseparable, always on some adventure together while I suffered in silence and loved her in secret.

After losing Dean, I tried to pull away from her but she needed me and maybe I needed her just as bad.
I’ve convinced myself that the only reason she’s started to look at me differently is because I’m her last remaining tie to him .
I’ve also convinced myself that I can resist the temptation when we end up stranded in a cabin in the mountains with only one bed. But the way she looks at me—the way her body responds to my touch, my resolve that’s already hanging by a thread snaps and I completely lose myself in her. I allow myself to give in, to live out this fantasy even though I know that my future at my family’s ranch is going to completely uproot my life in a few months and take me away from here. I never stopped loving her, but she deserves more than someone stuck in the past and I won’t survive losing her twice
So like a coward, I run—not knowing the secret she’s carrying. Somewhere along the lines of our tangled journey, through heartbreak and friendship, we realized that maybe the path that brought us together, is the same one that will tear us apart.
Get ready to fall in love with Ranger and Dolly as they navigate life, love, heartbreak and some seriously sizzling hot heat. This small town, friends to lovers romance has all the emotions, angst and hottest scenes you love from Alexis Winter.

256 pages, Paperback

Published April 26, 2023

693 people are currently reading
386 people want to read

About the author

Alexis Winter

123 books2,163 followers
Alexis Winter is a contemporary romance author who loves to share her steamy stories with the world. She specializes in sexy billionaires, cocky alphas, brooding bad boys and the women they love. 

If you love to curl up with a good romance book you will certainly enjoy her work. Whether it's a story about an innocent young woman learning about the world or a sassy and fierce heroine who knows what she wants you're sure to enjoy the happily ever afters she provides.
 
When Alexis isn't writing away furiously, you can find her exploring the Rocky Mountains, traveling, enjoying a glass of wine or petting a cat.
 
You can find her books on Amazon.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
Profile Image for Cheryl T.
224 reviews
April 27, 2023
A lot of emotions in this one for sure!

Dolly and Ranger are best friends. Have been since they were teens. Problem is, they’ve also been in love with each other since the day they met, but Dolly dated and married Ranger’s best friend Dean. Then Dean up and died and now Ranger feels guilty about being in love with Dolly. And Dolly feels guilty about trying to make Ranger jealous by going out with Dean in the first place. And it’s just one big guilt fest up in this book y’all.

Ranger was a bit of a dick at the beginning of this story. He was hot and cold with Dolly, flirting with her like crazy but then telling her to stop flirting with him. He acted so overprotective, but was also actively trying to stay away from her. It was so back and forth, I was all “dude, make a decision already.”

But guilt can eat away at you and make you do dumb shit. So Ranger finally decides to ignore that guilt and these two have got a good thing going on. THE STEAM?!! Holy guacamole people. Ranger is one dirty talker.

But then that guilt came creepin’ back and Ranger is back to dick mode. Literally every character tells him to get his head out of his ass, and he really needs to. I felt bad for Dolly.

But then, did I? Because then Dolly goes and writes him that letter. A letter?!!! And let’s just leave it on his porch for anyone to find?! Really? Man up, lady. He deserves to be told how you feel in person. That’s like sending a text to your mom when you get engaged. These things should be done face to face.

And these two have been through a lot. I understand that. I read all about it. I cried along with them. Losing a husband and a best friend at such a young age has to be so difficult and traumatic. I only read this as a work of fiction and I was so saddened by it. Ranger and Dolly 100% deserved their happy ending. I just wanted them to have less guilt and more happy.


199 reviews4 followers
April 19, 2023
Second chances present themselves. A Hot read along with emotions galore fill your heart and mind and keep the reader flipping pages.
This is one story you won't soon forget.
Ms Winter scores big, yet again!!
Profile Image for ☆☆Hannah☆☆.
3,182 reviews46 followers
May 3, 2023
This was a good read. Ranger has been in love with Dolly since they met. However, she ended up with his best friend. Years later they have an opportunity to be together. Of course, there are some complications. Luckily, in the end everything works out and they get their happy ending.
Profile Image for Mackenzie Langford.
224 reviews7 followers
March 22, 2024
This was a simple and easy read and spicy but I think I prefer the second book with Trent and Amelia to the first and third. But will def be going back to read this authors other books. I related to Dolly the most out of the other FMCs and ranger is obviously a heartthrob. I can see myself re reading these in years to come.
Profile Image for Maddie (Bookaholic_Dreamer).
966 reviews82 followers
April 22, 2023
Alexis Winter is back with another story from Slade Brothers Second Generation series.
That Touch follows the story of Ranger Spade and Dahlia ‘Dolly’ Roxanne in this Friends to Lovers, Second Chance Romance.

That Touch was strong from the emotional journey delivered, but that was to be expected when you took into account the narrative.
Good Friends Ranger and Dolly definitely didn’t have it easy, despite the moments shared between the two where they were able to be care-free and enjoy each other’s company making it seem that way.
There was a lot of emotional warfare in the steps they took, their stubbornness getting in the way. Resulting in a rocky journey for the two.
Particularly when it came to navigating through this Second Chance Romance, given their past seemed to have a hold of them not allowing either to fully move forward in building a relationship together. Although more so for Ranger, but given his reasoning which is learnt along the way it was understandable so.
However that didn’t stop you from wanting to shake him to make him see sense, Dolly too at times.

The story led you deep in the feels seeing the hardships faced within the venturing of the journey. Making it even more gripping in wanting to see just how Ranger and Dolly would handle it, especially when it came to the hurdles that popped out unexpectedly. Leading to even more emotional turmoil than ever before.

Ranger and Dolly shared quite a fair amount of sexy banter, given their flirty behaviour towards one another, which always seemed to come out whenever they were in each other’s presence. Showcasing the strong chemistry they shared, with how easy it was for them.
It made for some great, fun entertainment, seeing their reactions upon how far either would take it before one of them would step back.

My only criticism was it didn’t really seem like their issues were fully resolved by the end when it came to Ranger and Dolly finally moving forward in their relationship IMO.
This was because IMO there just didn’t seem to be enough communication between the two, especially considering how the problems they had (that were years in the making) was able to be fixed within the snap of the fingers.
It just didn’t sit right with me, having wished to see their relationship flourish more from the communication perspective.

Despite my criticism, Alexis Winter still came through in the end with yet another light-hearted, cute and sweet Contemporary Romance that had us on an emotional ride throughout.
Ranger and Dolly’s story That Touch was a fun and enjoyable read, with having me looking forward for more books to come from Slade Brothers Second Generation series.




*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
866 reviews10 followers
May 15, 2023
That Touch of Love

Sometimes, life is complicated when it should be simple. When beautifully curvy 5’2’ Dahlia with dark curls and dark eyes and her parents moved to Virginia Dale, a smaller, rural community near Grand Lake, the high school co-ed had never expected that within minutes of arriving at a party she would meet two handsome, older students—best friends—Ranger Slade and his best friend Dean who would shape her future, bringing both laughter and tears.

And, if life were simple, Ranger, who technically met Dolly first, would have claimed her as his girlfriend and they would have become another happily-ever-after tale of love and happiness. But life chooses the long road, the more complicated road, to happiness.

So, meeting Dolly first doesn’t guarantee Ranger the prize of Dolly’s love—not when his best friend Dean acts first securing the newcomer’s attention and agreement to attend the prom with him. And now, over a decade after that first meeting, the lives of Dolly, Dean and Ranger are still twined together, but now, more filled with sorrows than happiness as the promises of their young, teenage attractions have been filled with the unexpected shadows and sorrows that come when the good die young.

No one tells the tale of that look, touch and feeling of love as well as Alexis Winter. And, no family demonstrates the positive impact of that look, touch and feeling of love more than the Slade family of Colorado. Now, the next generation is stepping up, influenced by the strong men and loving women of their family and ready to take the reins of operating the brewery and ranch, carrying the family name into the next generation. Now, the 3rd generation family brewery has spread from being a regional distillery to a national entity, offering its original whiskey, and now, offering beers and seltzers. And with the younger generation at the helm, other changes are coming as the next generation of Slade men begin the challenge of replicating the Colorado ranching operations of the family at a second site in Texas.

It is not necessary to have read any of the previous novels involving the Slade family—but after reading one Slade’s tale of life’s challenges and love’s rewards, why not read the others? And, as Winters again invites her reading audience into the world of the Slade family of Grand Lake and the smaller community of Virginia Dale, Colorado she teases the reader’s heart and imagination offering a bevy of handsome and beautiful family members in possession of fortunes and definitely in need of a wives or husbands.

I purchased a copy of this romance with Kindle and am already anticipating the next tale of the Slade family. I hope there will be future tales of love featuring the Slade cousins.
Profile Image for Jela  Heneghan.
363 reviews20 followers
Read
May 2, 2023
Steamy and emotional, That Touch is another fantastic book in the Slade family’s series of books. It’s part of the second-generation series, but even if you haven’t read any others I think you’ll still enjoy Ranger and Dolly’s story. These two met as teenagers, but one little case of cold feet put Dolly with Ranger’s best friend, Dean, instead of him. Fast forward some years, and Dolly is now a widow and Ranger is her rather irritable friend. Things eventually shift between them, but it’s like it’s never the right time for these two. Will Ranger and Dolly ever be able to truly find their way to each other, or will it always be a case of bad timing and poor communication?

Well, just like that, I’ve found my new favorite Slade in Ranger. He’s one spicy, masculine rancher, but then he’s got these other layers that so worked for him. I loved being able to see how deep seeded his insecurities were as far as Dolly was concerned, and it all made him that much more loveable. His uncertainty and undue guilt broke my heart a little, but it made me that much more invested in the storyline between him and Dolly. And she was every bit the sweet, albeit a little lost seeming, heroine that sincerely made me root for these two to have their HEA.

Also, did these two have some miscommunication along the way that made me want to yell at them? They sure did. Did that make their journey that much better? 100%. I think this is what made me enjoy the book so much. I love that they didn’t have an easy time of things. That they didn’t just quickly get over things that realistically could never have been gotten over that easily. It made the plotline feel weightier, and I didn’t want to put this book down until I found out how their story ended.

This is yet another must read from Winter. It’s well written with a great romantic plot, and I couldn’t get enough of it. I adored how Ranger and Dolly’s tale played out, and I’m looking forward to what’s next for the Slades.
Profile Image for Vicky Johnson.
420 reviews
October 28, 2025
This was a little better than the first 2 but the men in these books need to treat their women better

Dahlia was married to Rangers best friend but he always loved her. She actually only agreed to the date with his friend hoping it would make Ranger ask her too. Childish but they were like 16 I think. She did grow to love her husband but they had issues. They kept saying 'well with the way he was brought up' or 'with the childhood he had' but never actually said what happened. Her husband died 7 years ago

By 13% I was already over the miscommunication or no communication at all.

Ranger was a man whore. He slept with every woman he came across cos he couldn't have Dolly. Grow up dude! She has been on a few dates and I think she did sleep with a guy but I cant remember.

There's some flirting and some back and forth and trying to make each other jealous. Its so childish, just talk to each other

Anyway she's had enough and she goes to her parents cabin but he follows her cos there is a storm and he is worries about her. They have sex obviously and at least there first time was nice unlike Tyler. He still hasn't told her might have to leave

Whenever she tries to talk to him he just has sex with her. She tells him she loves him and he tells her he is leaving. She asks him if he just used her for sex and he says no but at this point I thought that too. She writes him a letter and tells him she is pregs. His ex shows up as she is dropping off the letter and lets herself in with her own key and says she is going to give him the send off he deserves. Dolly just walks away

Then it skips 3 months and he is miserable. Hates it where he is and misses Dolly but wont go home. He was an ass!

His sister shows up and gives him a letter from the ex and it takes some time but when he opens it, it is the letter from Dolly that the ex stole the night she drops it off. He reads it a goes straight home. He tells her he wants to be with her and he loves her and she jumps into his arms and its its so nice. Not!! He only went back cos she was pregs, she should have told him to get lost!

They get married and have the baby and then its over no epilogue

These books are frustrating. Every one has got better slightly but I just don't like the men in them. All of the books have a scene where he f**ks her without foreplay and says 'sorry this might hurt' that's not romantic

Why did the daddy stuff just come out at 40% then not happen again until right at the end. Seemed weird to me!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Jenn .
752 reviews15 followers
April 30, 2023
I have got to say that I am really enjoying this second generation Slade Brothers series from Alexis Winter. The original series was captivating and hot, but this next gen seems to have taken that bar and jumped it like they were pole vaulting.

That Touch is the third book in the second generation series and this time Ranger and Dolly are finally putting all that longing and tension to bed- literally. BUT with all the complicated history between them and Rangers will of steel, finally getting these two together is a slower burn despite all the crackling tension between them.

Ranger and Dolly were kind of adorable together- you know when Ranger wasn't being a grouch because he inconveniently had been in love with his best friends widow since he met her. When things are good between them the friendship and love they have for each other shines through in their easy banter- and it had me grinning right along with them. The way that Alexis layered and wove their story together made it so that I couldn't help but want these two together- and how one moment really shifted the path these two should have been on for years. Both Ranger and Dolly had moments of guilt when it came to pursuing more because of Dean, but I think Ranger held to it much more tightly and I didn't love how dismissive he would get around Dolly when he was in the throws of his crisis of mind.

When it comes to needing to grovel, Dolly let Ranger off pretty easy IMO. Sure considering the circumstances I can understand forgiving him a little easier but I still think she let him off pretty quickly.

I love that in the midst of this all- Milly also got a HEA, though I'm kinda sad that her's was a background story rather than getting a full dedicated book. I can't wait for more Slades and seeing how intense Alexis can make the next one!
Profile Image for Susan McWhinney.
623 reviews9 followers
April 30, 2023
Wowsers, what a read. Alexis Winter has excelled with That Touch. A slow slow burn 2nd chance romance that has all the feels. Ranger first met Dahlia when she was singing karaoke. He fell instantly in love. She was drunk, he decided to wait till she was sober to make his first move.....only problem was he was too late. his BFF Dean made a move the very next day and Ranger forever regretted his decision to wait. Dahlia and Dean marry, but tragedy falls upon them when Dean is involved in a fatal single car accident. 7 years pass and Dahlia, still friends with Ranger wants to make a move and tell him he was always the first one she fell in love with. They both end up giving into their feelings and have a few very hot nights between the sheets. they declare their love for each other. BUT Ranger cannot commit to Dahlia as he knows he may have to head to Texas to run the new ranch his family are going to start up. Also, Ranger cannot get over the guilt he feels towards Dean, that he still loves and wants Dahlia, and this is what eventually drives him away to Texas. The twists to this story are brilliant and when Dahlia realises she is pregnant and leaves a letter for Ranger at his home, she expects him to contact her.....He doesn't because he never receives the letter. Why? Who steals Dahlia's letter so that Ranger never receives it? Just another added twist to this amazing story. How do they make it back to each other?
Another must read from Alexis Winter with a guaranteed HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
713 reviews16 followers
May 1, 2023
Dolly lives in Virginia Dale, she went to high school there. Dolly was at a party drinking and singing karaoke very loudly. Ranger was at the party and he noticed Dolly and he wanted to ask her out so badly but he didn’t want to do it while she was drunk. The next day at school Dolly is standing around at school when Ranger came up to her, she was hoping he would ask her out. Ranger was nervous and he went into the bathroom to calm down so he could ask Dolly out but when Ranger came out of the bathroom his best friend Dean was asking Dolly out. Ranger backed off. Dolly and Dean got married and they got pregnant. Dean and Dolly were having some issues, Dean was drinking a lot. Dolly lost the baby and then she lost Dean in a car accident. Ranger was there for Dolly in her time of need. Ranger wonders if she thinks of him as a link to Dean. Dolly wonders if Ranger is always pushing her away because of the link to Dean. It’s been seven years since Dean died and Ranger and Dolly are still friends. Ranger still wants Dolly like he always did since meeting her but he is dealing with guilt over Dean. Dolly has been dating for the past two years but she always wanted Ranger from the moment she met him. Will Ranger and Dolly get out of the way for their romance to start? Will Ranger and Dolly finally get to be together? Will Ranger and Dolly get to have a family like they both want? Will Ranger and Dolly find love and happiness together?
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book via Booksprout.
Profile Image for Kris.
283 reviews3 followers
May 1, 2023
Alexis Winter has added another awesome book to the story of the Slade Family! Wonderfully written from the hero and heroines point of views, you can easily follow along and can’t help but root for the couple as well as grab the tissues as they try to figure it all out. I recommend this book if you’re interested in hot males that are alphas in the bedroom and adore the ones they love and love their family with all their heart.

This is Ranger and Dahlia’s story...a meet cute, not getting the girl, getting a happy life for one of them and hardships that sometimes come with life, and then figuring out what comes next. I like that this story is almost a second chance but not exactly, has lots of emotions, drama, and even some laughter. Getting to hear about Ranger’s cousins and getting updates on their life progression is what helps get the reader invested in the series and is a pleasant bonus follow up to the “That Feeling” and “That Look”.

While I know the series is based on the second generation of the Slade Brothers, I feel Milly’s story being told as a side piece to Ranger and Dahlia’s is not fair to her, especially since I believe she is the only female amongst all those male cousins. Maybe someday down the road we will get to know more of Milly’s story.

It would be best to read the books in order, starting with the Slade Brothers five books that tell the story of how the parents of this new generation of Slade Brothers met and married.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Korkoi.
7,086 reviews31 followers
April 27, 2023
A Love Long Time Coming -
Ranger had been in love with Dolly from the moment he met her, but just as he was gathering up the courage to ask her out, his best friend stepped in and asked her. Unfortunately, what Ranger didn’t know at the time, was that Dolly was also attracted to him then and only agreed to go out with his best friend, Dean, as she thought he wasn’t interested in her. They continued to maintain a platonic friendship, even years after Dean’s death, that is until the moment they could no longer hold back.

As they spent more intimate moments together, Dolly fell in love with Ranger, but his insecurities and guilt kept plaguing him, which caused him to pull back and walk away. However, what he didn’t know was the chaos he left behind and only came to his senses months later, after he received the unexpected news. As luck would have it, Dolly was happy forgive him, once the discovered the reason for his delay.

This was a wonderful story set in a small town, with loyal and protective family and friends, that will grab your attention from the very beginning and keep you totally engrossed until you reach the end. The main characters went on an emotional rollercoaster, before they were able to get their happily ever after, but it was one heck of a ride. I can assure you that it is a definite must read book, so grab a copy now and enjoy.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,263 reviews
April 27, 2023
Another book in Alexis Winter's lovely stories about the powerful Slade family.
Ranger Slade worked for the family business, he wasn't interested in the brewing side, running and expanding the family ranch was his life.
Ranger had been in love with boutique owner Dolly since high school but he dallied too long and his best friend Dean won the prize. The three of them had always been best friends but Ranger had to keep his feelings to himself.
Dolly married Dean but sadly he died in an accident leaving both Ranger and Dolly distraught.
Seven years passed and Ranger's feelings for Dolly never wavered but the guilt at the thought of loving his dead best friend's wife stopped him from moving forward with a relationship with Dolly even though he knew that her feelings for him were the same, but was he just a link to Dean ? was he just second best ?
As this story unfolds it becomes clear that Dolly and Ranger are madly in love but instead of getting closer he was mean to her and pushed her away. As with a lot of stories a bit of communication would have saved a lot of heartache.
This is a lovely, emotional story my only small niggle was that in my opinion I think all the dirty talk didn't really match the characters, having said that there is a lovely, emotional HEA.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Kristina Maysonet.
1,754 reviews35 followers
May 1, 2023
I was so excited that Alexis’ next book was going back to Slade Second Gen. As much as I love the Chicago Billionaires, this small town series taking us back to the Slade Family seriously has my heart. We are back with the third book and this one is Ranger’s book and after seeing some previous chemistry with Dolly we get to see how their story plays out. Dolly was married to Ranger’s best friend but he passed away 6 years ago. I appreciated that there was a good amount of time since then.

Dolly and Ranger both have feelings for each other, and their chemistry is intense but they both have reasons for staying away. There was a lot of push and pull with them and it totally made sense for this to be a bit of a slow burn and it made me enjoy it even more. There is a lot to unravel with Dolly and Ranger’s story and there are secrets that need to be revealed. It makes the story come around full circle. These two definitely shined brighter together and were clearly meant to be. Obstacles still get in the way and Ranger may still have some insecurities. Is Dolly able to convince him that she wants him for him? This was an emotional read that has moments that will just break your heart. Ranger’s guilt and insecurities are very much an important part of this story and may have caused some irrational behavior. Their reunion was just beautiful though!
Profile Image for Narci.
375 reviews
August 8, 2024
True Love Prevails...Ranger danger and dahlia Roxanne are two souls who missed their first chance at true happiness because of insecurities that plague all of us when we are so young. Their story is sweet, heart breaking and inspirational… to almost quote Ranger – never lose hope because - we never know when we’ll be offered a second chance at forever. I loved the dynamics of the Slade family, their work ethics, how close they all are, how they help each other and how passionately they all love. Ranger is such a typical moody guy with an amazing heart and soul, he’s just a bit jaded and hard on himself; he also frustrated me a times with his antics. I loved Dolly with her sweet nature, loving personality, strength and sassiness. Ranger and Dolly had such great banter and instant chemistry from the very beginning. I loved reading about the others Slade boys and Decker, as well as Molly. This story touches on loss, conflicts between the heart and friendships and also illnesses. Guilt, depression and heartache can affect our lives in ways we never expect, and this story is no different. Instead of choosing the simple easy road Rangers insecurity, as well as Dahlia’s take them on a long complicated one that could cost them all. I loved the story! These books area amazing!
Profile Image for Candy Cariveau.
187 reviews2 followers
April 21, 2023
This book is everything I never knew I needed. I think im addicted to cowboys now. Next level hotness and steamminess. Are you kidding me with that cover! I'm at a disadvantage as this is book 3 in a series and it's the first I've read. It can be read as a standalone as I undestood everything without reading the previous books but I felt like I probably would've appreciated the other characters more if I'd read the other books and I'm sure there were spoilers for other books but it's okay because now I need to read the others. I love the strong brother and family relationships. The heroine is awesome. She is so strong, powerful, confident and funny despite the tragedies she's experienced. This book definately had some lol parts which I love when a book makes me laugh especially when it's also very emotional. He is so wonderful too. Stupid hot-hard working, funny and loyal. The fact that he's been all in in-love with her for so long-my heart just melts for him.

Highly recommend this book and look forward to reading the entire series!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Emily Johnston (Booked.Up.With.Emily).
1,599 reviews117 followers
April 21, 2023
Ranger and Dotty have known each other since high school. Since Ranger saw Dotty at a party and wanted to ask her out. Once he finally got the courage to the next day, his best friend had already asked her out and the rest is history.

Now here we are, many years later, and Dotty is widowed. Ranger's best friend and Dotty's husband passed away 7 years prior. Ranger is still in love with Dotty, but doesn't want to make a move on his best friends wife and take over the life that he was supposed to have.

Dotty has been more and more attracted to Ranger as the years go on, but Ranger seems to push her away, and she doesn't know why.

Will these two ever be able to get over their past and be together? Or will the past forever haunt them and cause a roadblock to their happily ever afters?

This is a great second chance romance book for all you lovers! Dotty and Ranger's love for each other really stole the show. And my heart absolutely broke when one of them is being extra stubborn and pushing the other away! I just wanted to grab them and shake some sense into them.

Such a good read with great side characters!
Profile Image for thebeespot72.
1,737 reviews187 followers
April 24, 2023
Ha, How You Like That?

Do you hear that? That’s me knocking both characters’ heads together due to so many misunderstandings, unspoken feelings, and secrets they’ve kept. “That Touch” by Alexis Winter put me through many emotions. It is Book 3 of The Slade Brothers Second Generation but can be read as a standalone. “That Touch” went from spicy to on fire based on my spice meter, and Ranger (MMC) did too.

Dolly(FMC) lost her husband, her high school sweetheart, Dean, seven years ago in a car accident. Though they had been married briefly, their marriage had been troubled. But after seven years, Dolly is ready to move on - to find love again. But the only person she is interested in is the one she believes doesn’t have feelings for her - Dean’s best friend from high school and her best friend now.

Ranger is so frustrating but makes your heart melt, has a filthy mouth, is swoon-worthy, and is hot. Readers will go on the tumultuous ride of their friendship and their true backstory to the love that they experience for each other.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,376 reviews11 followers
May 8, 2023
This is the 3rd book in the Slade Brother's second generation series. I am enjoying reading about the off spring of the original brothers and its nice to catch up with what the older characters are up to within each of these books.

Ranger has been in love with Dolly since he met her at 17, Dolly has been in love with him too, but after a missed opportunity Dolly ends up with Rangers best friend.
Years after Dolly's husband dies, she is trying to move on with her life and loves that Ranger is still a part of it. But he has been distant with her lately and her hopes of finally being with him don't look likely to come true.
Ranger feels guilty for wanting his best friends wife and wonders if being with her and giving her something his best friend couldn't is the right thing to do. He thinks letting her move on without him will be the best for her, but that only makes them both unhappy. Will they finally confess their true feelings to each other and get their HEA in the end.

I enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,553 reviews10 followers
May 11, 2023
Wonderful story.
Loved Ranger & Dolly's story it was sweet, sassy, funny, banter, steamy but also quite emotional at times. They were both still hurting from her husband Dean's death & with him being Ranger's best friend he had trouble admitting his feelings to Dolly who he'd loved for years but never told her. The 3 of them had been friends since school & everybody in the Slade family knew Ranger had always loved Dolly & could see they both loved each other but he was too stubborn to admit it to her. He was struggling with his guilt of loving his dead best friend's wife believing he was only getting his happiness at the loss of his his best friend. The Slade family were expanding so Ranger was moving to set it up & hoping for a fresh start possibly causing him to lose his chance of happiness.
I wanted to just shake them both & tell them to give each other the chance to explain how they felt about each other & when they started feeling it.

I love the Slade family & can't wait for Dexter's story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for LeMiliere.
2,896 reviews20 followers
May 1, 2023
In That Touch by Alexis Winter, it's the turn of Ranger and Dahlia (Dolly) to take their chance at finding something together. It's a poignant, emotional and touching story that is heart-breaking at times so be sure to keep your tissues handy.

Ranger has loved Dolly since they were in high school but she fell for his best friend Dean before he ever got the chance to tell her. She and Dean married and he seemed content to live his life alone. But then disaster struck and Dean was killed and now Dolly must try to make s new start.

Ranger is torn he's always loved Dolly, but, he never wanted anything to happen to Dean, he's sure she never knew about his feelings but he can't help wanting more. After Dean's death, they begin to grow closer but is she getting close because he was Dean's friend or because she wants to be with him? Will their budding relationship work or will the past get in the way? The characters are both torn, full of guilt and regret… but their chemistry is palpable and steamy.
Profile Image for Maz.
1,687 reviews29 followers
May 4, 2023
This was a Small Town, Second Chance, Friends To Lovers, Best Friend's Widow and Close Proximity Trope.

My heart has just been put through a roller-coaster ride of emotions.
This was such a heart felt, gut wrenching love story.
I had to read this in one sitting. It was just that captivating.
Ranger and Dolly met at High school. They had instant attraction, but Ranger took too long to make a move and his best friend Dean asked her out. So instead he just enjoyed being their best friend.
Now it's been 7 yrs since his best friend has past away.
Both Dolly and Ranger are fighting their feelings for each other until they crumble and enjoy it. Then Ranger gets too into his head and all the guilt and doubts causes him to be horrible and push Dolly away. Poor Dolly my heart really hurt for her. I actually cried.
This book was so emotionally charged, fantastic family and friends, drama, grief, doubts love and steam.
Will Ranger finally see what he has done?
Can Dolly forgive him and finally get her 1st love?
Give it a read, if you love small town, emotional and Steamy Romance.
904 reviews4 followers
May 8, 2023
Touching Story between Ranger & Dolly

Ranger Slade, a cowboy who’s man enough to step away when his best friend falls in love with Dolly at the same time as him. Still being best friends while they are married, Ranger suppresses his feelings for her for years. Even when Dean, his BFF dies & Dolly is a young widow, he cannot get passed the line of stepping forward to tell Dolly his true feelings for her. Dolly has finally moved on from her grieving & seeks out her best friend Ranger. They begin with having the tough conversations about their feelings & open up. The journey takes them to their HEA, making peace with Dean in order to start making new memories with each other as a married couple & not feeling guilty about their hidden love for each other.

I like how everyone knows Dolly & Ranger have an attraction towards each other but he doesn’t cross that line to see where their feelings will take them. Good thing Dolly doesn’t give up on him when he has conflicted feelings about what to do.

I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
771 reviews
May 10, 2023
Ranger Slade is finally here.
Loved Ranger and Dolly's steamy romance.
I cried with and for Dolly in places.It was heartbreaking.Ranger have been in love with Dolly since the moment he met her,his best friend Dean asked her out before him.They got married.Then Dean died in a car crash which left them both devastated.
Ranger wants to tell Dolly how he feels,but the guilt won't let him admit to his feelings,he thinks it will be betraying Dean's memory.
They both are in love with each other,they finally give into their chemistry and admit their feelings.Then some things get in the way of their happily ever after.
They eventually get to their happily ever after with lots of tears,angst,humour,steamy moments,family love and support.
I have loved all the books in this series,this is my favourite one so far and cannot wait for the next one.I hope there are lots more.
Thank you for another great read Alexis.
I recieved an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Frances Hernandez.
744 reviews5 followers
April 20, 2023
I received this ebook ARC, from the author, on the condition that I write an honest review.
Every book that Alexis Winter writes about the Slade family, just keeps getting better. The situation between Ranger and Dahlia is a little sad, but love did conquer all.
Ranger is the typical hard headed Slade. He has been in love with Dahlia, from the first day that he met her, and Dahlia has felt the same way. Unfortunately life has it’s own way of letting the couple finally obtain their true happiness.
The marriage that Dahlia had with Ranger’s best friend ends in tragedy. Ranger is drawn to Dahlia, but guilt holds him back. With all the Slade family members pushing him to pursue Dahlia, Ranger finally begins a relationship with her. A situation occurs that helps him get away from his feelings for Dahlia, until the truth is finally revealed, and he returns to Dahlia. The couple reunite, and establish a permanent relationship, with a blessing on the way. The couple finally obtain their HEA.
Profile Image for Rebecca Unsworth.
162 reviews2 followers
April 27, 2023
That Touch is the 3rd book in the Slade Brothers Second Generation series. It is a second chance friends to lovers romance. This story features Ranger and Dolly. They have been friends since high school. They first meet at a party where they both were smitten with each other, but before Ranger got the chance to ask Dolly out his best friend did it first. They became a trio until Dolly's husband dies. Ranger is still in love with Dolly but feels guilty about it so pushes Dolly away. Unbeknown to him Dolly feels the same way about him. Can these two make it through everything and get their happily ever after?

I loved this story, I've been waiting for these two since reading book 2 That Look. I loved the flirting between these two which also shows how strong the chemistry is between them. I love the Slade series and can't get enough of these books.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Rosemary.
1,612 reviews6 followers
May 1, 2023
For Ranger Slade, one look at Dolly and he knew that she was "the one" for him. The huge issue is that his best friend Dean also thought that she "was the one" and asked her out first. Dolly saw Ranger and immediately had a crush but when he didn't seem interested, she thought that going out with Dean would make him jealous. Unfortunately, Dean and Dolly didn't get their lasting love (you will need to read the story to find out what happened) but just because Dean isn't in the picture doesn't mean it's smooth sailing for Dolly and Ranger to get their chance for an HEA. Very sweet and well-written love story that shows what happens when two people finally get their chance but their heart and their head (at least Ranger's head) gets into the way of their chance at happiness. Don't miss this story!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,244 reviews9 followers
May 2, 2023
4.5 Stars!

I’ve been anxiously awaiting this book ever since I found out that it would be Ranger’s story! There was steam, heartbreak, tragedy, and thankfully, a happily ever after.

The past is an anchor weighing down Ranger. His head and his heart are on two opposing sides, but his guilt is tangible. My heart broke for him and the fact that he’s loved and suffered in silence, and then felt guilty about!

I loved Dolly! I could feel her frustration with the status of her friendship/relationship with Ranger and her desire for more. She’s suffered through so much that I truly wanted her to find her happiness.

There were so many emotional moments in this book. The last paragraph of the story was the perfect end! Words to live by!

I’m hoping that Decker and Juniper get their own chance at a HEA!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,223 reviews5 followers
May 3, 2023
Fabulous story! Ranger is in charge of the ranch while his brothers run the whiskey business. He has lived in his hometown all his life. Dolly also has lived her whole life here. Dolly married Ranger’s best friend so they all became very close, hung out together. When her husband died they had more difficulty getting together. Without knowing it, they both felt guilty that he died and they survived. Also, they each struggled because of their secret love for the other. But they also had secrets they never had talked about. It’s an emotional roller coaster ride with twists and turns, backwards then forwards, stops and starts. Will they survive? Will they be able to move forward? Can they still be part of each other’s life? Can they create a new path- one filled with love, forever love? It I s a powerful story, very beautiful, emotional read! Loved it!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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