What do you think?
Rate this book
Mustang Ridge #1
Summer at Mustang Ridge
A single visit to Mustang Ridge can change a person’s life in the most unexpected ways....
Recovering from a difficult divorce and having problems with her daughter, Shelby accepts a summer job cooking at a family-run dude ranch. She hopes the animals will be just what her daughter, Lizzie, needs. Little does she know that ranch life will work some healing magic on her too.
When Shelby meets the head wrangler, Foster, she is put off by his brusque nature, but Lizzie takes an instant liking to the cowboy and his horses. While both Foster and Shelby have been scarred by love, it’s not long before Shelby is drawn to the rugged cowboy and his thoughtful ways.
But with summer nights in short supply and Foster wary of falling for a city girl, a simple summer romance soon grows complicated. As the days dwindle, Shelby will have to decide not only what is best for her daughter, but also where her future—and her happiness—will be found.
Recovering from a difficult divorce and having problems with her daughter, Shelby accepts a summer job cooking at a family-run dude ranch. She hopes the animals will be just what her daughter, Lizzie, needs. Little does she know that ranch life will work some healing magic on her too.
When Shelby meets the head wrangler, Foster, she is put off by his brusque nature, but Lizzie takes an instant liking to the cowboy and his horses. While both Foster and Shelby have been scarred by love, it’s not long before Shelby is drawn to the rugged cowboy and his thoughtful ways.
But with summer nights in short supply and Foster wary of falling for a city girl, a simple summer romance soon grows complicated. As the days dwindle, Shelby will have to decide not only what is best for her daughter, but also where her future—and her happiness—will be found.
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published May 7, 2013
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
June 3, 2013
There are a lot of books about city girls coming to the ranch and falling for a cowboy, so this has some familiar echoes but this feels a little slower paced and more thoughtful than most of those books.
Let me make one thing clear, k? Slower paced is not an insult. It works. This is a saddle ride through the country, not a car chase. We admire the view as we go through the book; we don't rush from trauma to drama. The writing and view is pretty enough that we don't get bored. The little touches of humor are sweet rather than snarky, yet they work. Her voice is perfect for the occasionally vivid word pictures---it's never over-the-top and always a pleasure to spend time reading.
The hero and heroine might be familiar types, but they are most definitely not stereotypes and, even better, they are good, decent people. The heroine loses her temper now and then, but she has good reasons. the hero is a little relationship shy but he also has good reasons--and even better, manages to figure out on his own when he's being a turkey. they are both grown-ups in this book and that's refreshing.
The daughter seems less three dimensional to me. We know she has to have some kind of recovery or change--we know that going into the story, because it is that sort of story. But it feels realistic, even if it's sort of fast.
My only quibbles? Too many references to twinkies. Grandma's obsession with Herman started to creep me out a bit (although I did like his secret!) The hero does the "you aren't like other women" thing, a common romance move that hadn't bothered me until recently . . . but is now suddenly getting on my nerves in books. (I read some article about that trend and now I see that damn trope everywhere.)
Even that particular schtick is okay though because
1. he had a reason for saying it.
2. no one in the book is like the romance-standard of the shallow women--we don't have a scowling snarling bad guy to dislike. Even the most unpleasant character is a hoot and I want to see more of her, though I bet everyone else on the ranch would be glad if she'd drive away again.
This book won't set your world on fire, but it's a wonderful summer escape and I want to visit the ranch again.
When I was a kid, I spent a lot of time around horses at summer camp. I didn't see the appeal. As I read this book--the descriptions of riding, of caring for the horses, of life making camp with horses, even of the horsey personalities.--I wanted to go back in time and try again.
I realize now I'd rather have spent time at Hayworth's fictional Mustang Ranch than the real deal. As an escape it's a lot cheaper and there are fewer horseflies.
Disclosure thing: I got a gratis copy from the author to review.
Let me make one thing clear, k? Slower paced is not an insult. It works. This is a saddle ride through the country, not a car chase. We admire the view as we go through the book; we don't rush from trauma to drama. The writing and view is pretty enough that we don't get bored. The little touches of humor are sweet rather than snarky, yet they work. Her voice is perfect for the occasionally vivid word pictures---it's never over-the-top and always a pleasure to spend time reading.
The hero and heroine might be familiar types, but they are most definitely not stereotypes and, even better, they are good, decent people. The heroine loses her temper now and then, but she has good reasons. the hero is a little relationship shy but he also has good reasons--and even better, manages to figure out on his own when he's being a turkey. they are both grown-ups in this book and that's refreshing.
The daughter seems less three dimensional to me. We know she has to have some kind of recovery or change--we know that going into the story, because it is that sort of story. But it feels realistic, even if it's sort of fast.
My only quibbles? Too many references to twinkies. Grandma's obsession with Herman started to creep me out a bit (although I did like his secret!) The hero does the "you aren't like other women" thing, a common romance move that hadn't bothered me until recently . . . but is now suddenly getting on my nerves in books. (I read some article about that trend and now I see that damn trope everywhere.)
Even that particular schtick is okay though because
1. he had a reason for saying it.
2. no one in the book is like the romance-standard of the shallow women--we don't have a scowling snarling bad guy to dislike. Even the most unpleasant character is a hoot and I want to see more of her, though I bet everyone else on the ranch would be glad if she'd drive away again.
This book won't set your world on fire, but it's a wonderful summer escape and I want to visit the ranch again.
When I was a kid, I spent a lot of time around horses at summer camp. I didn't see the appeal. As I read this book--the descriptions of riding, of caring for the horses, of life making camp with horses, even of the horsey personalities.--I wanted to go back in time and try again.
I realize now I'd rather have spent time at Hayworth's fictional Mustang Ranch than the real deal. As an escape it's a lot cheaper and there are fewer horseflies.
Disclosure thing: I got a gratis copy from the author to review.
January 15, 2013
What I was expecting... a sweet love story set at a ranch. What I wasn't expecting...an intensely powerful portrayal of a mother's love and devotion for her daughter. Shelby's daughter is suffering from selective mutism, and the mom decides that a summer out west is just the thing to bring her daugher out of her silent shell. The scenes where Lizzie is interacting with the horses, and working up her courage to participate on the ranch, were so moving and emotional. I cried three times reading this...really cried. I also enjoyed the romance portion of the story, and the western setting is very authentic in Hayworth's talented hands. But the part of this book that packs an emotional wallop is the daughter's journey. I wasn't expecting that in a western romance, but I got it anyway. :^)
This has a superb HEA.
Grade: B+
Release date: June 4th, Signet
This has a superb HEA.
Grade: B+
Release date: June 4th, Signet
July 9, 2013
Yee Haw ... let's ride cowboy!
I really wasn't sure about this book because its outside the genres I typically like reading, but figured hey since Jesse Hayworth (aka Jessica Andersen, whom I love) wrote it I would give it a try. And I am SO GLAD I did. This book was fantastic.
Yes its a romance, but its more than that - This book had so many elements of what I like to call "real life". It's not just about a girl who goes to a dude ranch and falls in love - this girl has problems - real life problems that she is trying to deal with - real mom problems (and as a mom I know I would do anything for my kids just like Shelby does in this book for Lizzie).
Shelby takes a sabbatical from work to spend the summer working at a dude ranch to help with her daughter Lizzie's therapy. She gets so much more than she hopes out of this summer at the ranch - I laughed with her, cried with her, and found joy in the little things with her.
I can't wait to read more about Mustang Ridge (and hopefully Double Bar-H)! You knocked it out of the park Ms. Hayworth! Way to go!
I really wasn't sure about this book because its outside the genres I typically like reading, but figured hey since Jesse Hayworth (aka Jessica Andersen, whom I love) wrote it I would give it a try. And I am SO GLAD I did. This book was fantastic.
Yes its a romance, but its more than that - This book had so many elements of what I like to call "real life". It's not just about a girl who goes to a dude ranch and falls in love - this girl has problems - real life problems that she is trying to deal with - real mom problems (and as a mom I know I would do anything for my kids just like Shelby does in this book for Lizzie).
Shelby takes a sabbatical from work to spend the summer working at a dude ranch to help with her daughter Lizzie's therapy. She gets so much more than she hopes out of this summer at the ranch - I laughed with her, cried with her, and found joy in the little things with her.
I can't wait to read more about Mustang Ridge (and hopefully Double Bar-H)! You knocked it out of the park Ms. Hayworth! Way to go!
June 6, 2013
I seldom write reviews, but when I do, it’s because the book has earned that extra time from me and SUMMER AT MUSTANG RIDGE is worth it. This is a beautiful love story not just between Shelby and Foster, but between mother and daughter. I laughed, I sympathized, I cried – yes, even though I knew a HEA was coming, Jesse Hayworth managed to pull me so deep into the story that I cried when it seemed all was over for Shelby and Forest. Yet it was so much more. I smiled over the friendship and sisterhood between Shelby and Krista with their midnight sundaes. Laughed at Gran and her obsession with ‘Herman’ and sympathized with the crazy family dynamics. SUMMER AT MUSTANG RIDGE will touch your heart, break it a little and then put it back together in the end.
A must read for any romance lover. Looking forward to WINTER AT MUSTANG RIDGE!
A must read for any romance lover. Looking forward to WINTER AT MUSTANG RIDGE!
June 20, 2013
This was great! Exactly what I was looking for. I haven't read many western/cowboy books, I got some laughs, some tears, and felt well invested in the characters. This was the first book I have read by this author and I will definitely look for more. It was well written, I felt like I was on that ranch. Though there was one slip up.. one moment the hero has hair on his chest the next he's hairless... perhaps he waxed before the date?? haha.. either way it was still a fun quick read! I would recommend it.
July 19, 2020
Auf Deutsch "Himmel über Wyoming" gelesen.
December 2, 2020
Good book, I look forward to reading the other books in this series.
March 13, 2013
Also posted at my site, the TBR Mountain Range - come for a visit and a chat :)
A sweet western contemporary romance filled with animals and people to love, as well as a new series continuation to anticipate.
Shelby takes a leave of absence from her real job in advertising in Boston to spend her summer at a dude ranch in Wyoming as a sous chef. Shelby and her daughter need a change, after the traditional therapies for Lizzie's Selective Mutism haven't succeeded. Maybe a change of scenery will be good for both of them if Shelby can relax enough in the new environment to give up her "mama bear" urges in order to benefit her child.
As the trail boss at Mustang Ridge ranch, Foster is in charge of not just the animals, but making sure the guests have a good time while being safe. He's not much of a people person and stays clear of them as much as possible, until he meets Shelby and her daughter. Somehow the two of them have wormed their way into his heart. Can he keep his promises to himself without hurting Shelby and Lizzie along the way?
SUMMER AT MUSTANG RIDGE is a sweet romance with a more closed door approach to the sensuality between two people falling in love. There's plenty of heat implied between this couple but the results are assumed rather than explicitly detailed. Although I normally read more sensual books, the less explicit approach seemed to suit this story well. The romance between this couple is slowly nurtured, both of them described as private individuals regarding their personal lives and I think a more sensual approach would have seemed out of place.
There aren't any clues to be solved, or an action-filled subplot—this book focuses on the people and the developing relationships, sometimes skimming past details I would have liked to know, but that was a minor hiccup. Although a sweet romance, I didn't find it unrealistically sappy—something that would bother me. This book was believable with enough true-to-life realism while retaining an innocence. I found this novel to sometimes be more sophisticated in its characterization than I expected, which added to my enjoyment. In other words, it's a sweet story that strays towards woman's fiction in some ways while still holding true to romance readers' expectations.
Besides Shelby and Foster, Lizzie often stole the show and I couldn't help but root for her to become who she was meant to be. Lizzie's part in the story was very poignant, adding to the heartrending moments in the way that only children can do.
SUMMER AT MUSTANG RIDGE is an enjoyable book, providing interesting characters and a sweet love story with just enough unexpected special touches to keep the reader turning the pages. I hadn't realized how much I had begun to care for the characters and the outcome of their happiness until the unexpected black moment occurred and made me doubt that they would find what they deserved. It's a tear-worthy moment but have no fear, this book will make you smile in the end. For those of you who prefer a mostly upbeat novel, then you'll really enjoy this one because even though it has some heartfelt drama, it accentuates the positive.
SUMMER AT MUSTANG RIDGE is exactly what sweet romance lovers crave, creating anticipation for what promises to be an enjoyable western contemporary series. A tender love story told in a unique voice, sure to please any romance lover.
Review and Book courtesy of Romance Junkies.
A sweet western contemporary romance filled with animals and people to love, as well as a new series continuation to anticipate.
Shelby takes a leave of absence from her real job in advertising in Boston to spend her summer at a dude ranch in Wyoming as a sous chef. Shelby and her daughter need a change, after the traditional therapies for Lizzie's Selective Mutism haven't succeeded. Maybe a change of scenery will be good for both of them if Shelby can relax enough in the new environment to give up her "mama bear" urges in order to benefit her child.
As the trail boss at Mustang Ridge ranch, Foster is in charge of not just the animals, but making sure the guests have a good time while being safe. He's not much of a people person and stays clear of them as much as possible, until he meets Shelby and her daughter. Somehow the two of them have wormed their way into his heart. Can he keep his promises to himself without hurting Shelby and Lizzie along the way?
SUMMER AT MUSTANG RIDGE is a sweet romance with a more closed door approach to the sensuality between two people falling in love. There's plenty of heat implied between this couple but the results are assumed rather than explicitly detailed. Although I normally read more sensual books, the less explicit approach seemed to suit this story well. The romance between this couple is slowly nurtured, both of them described as private individuals regarding their personal lives and I think a more sensual approach would have seemed out of place.
There aren't any clues to be solved, or an action-filled subplot—this book focuses on the people and the developing relationships, sometimes skimming past details I would have liked to know, but that was a minor hiccup. Although a sweet romance, I didn't find it unrealistically sappy—something that would bother me. This book was believable with enough true-to-life realism while retaining an innocence. I found this novel to sometimes be more sophisticated in its characterization than I expected, which added to my enjoyment. In other words, it's a sweet story that strays towards woman's fiction in some ways while still holding true to romance readers' expectations.
Besides Shelby and Foster, Lizzie often stole the show and I couldn't help but root for her to become who she was meant to be. Lizzie's part in the story was very poignant, adding to the heartrending moments in the way that only children can do.
SUMMER AT MUSTANG RIDGE is an enjoyable book, providing interesting characters and a sweet love story with just enough unexpected special touches to keep the reader turning the pages. I hadn't realized how much I had begun to care for the characters and the outcome of their happiness until the unexpected black moment occurred and made me doubt that they would find what they deserved. It's a tear-worthy moment but have no fear, this book will make you smile in the end. For those of you who prefer a mostly upbeat novel, then you'll really enjoy this one because even though it has some heartfelt drama, it accentuates the positive.
SUMMER AT MUSTANG RIDGE is exactly what sweet romance lovers crave, creating anticipation for what promises to be an enjoyable western contemporary series. A tender love story told in a unique voice, sure to please any romance lover.
Review and Book courtesy of Romance Junkies.
April 15, 2013
Summer at Mustang Ridge
by Jesse Hayworth (Goodreads Author)
From goodreads.com:
"A single visit to Mustang Ridge can change a person’s life in the most unexpected ways....
Recovering from a difficult divorce and having problems with her daughter, Shelby accepts a summer job cooking at a family-run dude ranch. She hopes the animals will be just what her daughter, Lizzie, needs. Little does she know that ranch life will work some healing magic on her too.
When Shelby meets the head wrangler, Foster, she is put off by his brusque nature, but Lizzie takes an instant liking to the cowboy and his horses. While both Foster and Shelby have been scarred by love, it’s not long before Shelby is drawn to the rugged cowboy and his thoughtful ways.
But with summer nights in short supply and Foster wary of falling for a city girl, a simple summer romance soon grows complicated. As the days dwindle, Shelby will have to decide not only what is best for her daughter, but also where her future—and her happiness—will be found."
My review:
Summer at Mustang Ridge
By Jesse Hayworth
I won a signed copy of Summer at Mustang Ridge in a contest. I really liked this book because of the characters, the area and the child.
Shelby has taken a job as an assistant cook at Mustang Ridge dude ranch for the summer in Wyoming in hopes it will help her 9 year-old daughter, who has selective autism (SM), a condition where she does not speak. Lizzie is capable of speaking but does not.
A good love story that involves family,friendship, caring, horse therapy, sunsets and food. At the end of the book there is Gran's recipe for chili and sounds really good because there are no beans in the chili.
Jesse Hayworth lives on the East Coast but her descriptions in the book sounds like she is in Wyoming and on the ranch. The characters sound real and are like a next door neighbor in a small town.
There is one love making scene. No bad language. Some emotional moments.
Jesse Hayworth may be reached at:
www.jessehayworth.com
facebook.com/authorjessehayworth
twitter.com/jessehayworth
Main characters:
Shelby- from Boston
Lizzie- daughter of Shelby
Krista Skye- granddaughter
Gran Skye- grandmother (chief cook)
Foster- head wrangler at the ranch
Ty - cowboy at the ranch
Stacie- cowboy at the ranch
Herman- need to read to see who Herman is
I will give Summer at Mustang Ridge a 4 star because it held my attention and it was a good book.
Leona Olson
www.mnleona.blogspot.com
March 3, 2013
This is a free book from Goodreads First Reads. I really enjoyed this book. I read it in two days. The characters were believable. I've never heard of this disorder and that was informative. I look forward to reading the next book in this series and hope these characters make an appearance so we can keep up with them.
July 21, 2013
I so loved this book!! Great storyline, wonderful characters and sweet romance. Foster is a tough looking cowboy but a sweetheart underneath and Shelby is a tough mama bear trying to help her child. Falling in love was never the plan but....
Highly highly recommended.
Highly highly recommended.
August 12, 2013
cute western/ranch romance - I needed it
April 13, 2018
4.5 stars
Synopsis: Shelby takes a hiatus from her advertising job to accept a cook job at a ranch far, far away from Boston. She takes the job in the hopes that her daughter, who suffers from selective mutism, will get better. Lizzie is crazy about horses, and the hopes are that experiencing horses will help her come out of her head.
Foster is the head wrangler at the ranch. He takes out trail rides, looks after horses, etc, etc. The ranch used to be a working ranch, but has now mostly become a family run dude ranch. Foster was burned in the past, but he is attracted to Shelby, and interested in trying to help her daughter. They both know that this is only a short time thing, as Foster has plans for his life that do not include a woman, and Shelby has to return home after the summer is finished.
What I liked: It is a very rare thing that I read a book and think that I would like one of those for me, as myself. I might identify with the h, or be the h for the duration of the book, and think that the H is perfect for her, but there is only one other H that I can recall thinking that I needed one of those. Foster was amazing. He was kind and interested in helping Lizzie, and he liked Shelby the way that she was. He was hard working and knowledgeable. Shelby was no slouch; she had to be really match up to Foster, and she did. Shelby loved her daughter, and would do anything to try and help her. She was kind and considerate of others, and didn't bemoan things that had happened to her.
The writing was really good, leading me to believe that the author knows her stuff about horses and ranches in general. The story was well told. It felt as though the characters were real people, and actually did exist somewhere in the world.
What I didn't like: why not 5 stars? Well, I felt that Foster held on to his feelings about the past, and let it colour everything that he did, and every interaction he had with everyone. Shelby seemed to be a little over-protective of her daughter, although being a single parent in charge of all of her child's welfare could have been a factor in that.
Overall impression: very excited to read a well written book with characters who deserved their happy ever after. They worked toward it and nothing felt pat or easy.
Synopsis: Shelby takes a hiatus from her advertising job to accept a cook job at a ranch far, far away from Boston. She takes the job in the hopes that her daughter, who suffers from selective mutism, will get better. Lizzie is crazy about horses, and the hopes are that experiencing horses will help her come out of her head.
Foster is the head wrangler at the ranch. He takes out trail rides, looks after horses, etc, etc. The ranch used to be a working ranch, but has now mostly become a family run dude ranch. Foster was burned in the past, but he is attracted to Shelby, and interested in trying to help her daughter. They both know that this is only a short time thing, as Foster has plans for his life that do not include a woman, and Shelby has to return home after the summer is finished.
What I liked: It is a very rare thing that I read a book and think that I would like one of those for me, as myself. I might identify with the h, or be the h for the duration of the book, and think that the H is perfect for her, but there is only one other H that I can recall thinking that I needed one of those. Foster was amazing. He was kind and interested in helping Lizzie, and he liked Shelby the way that she was. He was hard working and knowledgeable. Shelby was no slouch; she had to be really match up to Foster, and she did. Shelby loved her daughter, and would do anything to try and help her. She was kind and considerate of others, and didn't bemoan things that had happened to her.
The writing was really good, leading me to believe that the author knows her stuff about horses and ranches in general. The story was well told. It felt as though the characters were real people, and actually did exist somewhere in the world.
What I didn't like: why not 5 stars? Well, I felt that Foster held on to his feelings about the past, and let it colour everything that he did, and every interaction he had with everyone. Shelby seemed to be a little over-protective of her daughter, although being a single parent in charge of all of her child's welfare could have been a factor in that.
Overall impression: very excited to read a well written book with characters who deserved their happy ever after. They worked toward it and nothing felt pat or easy.
May 3, 2021
Shelby brings her daughter Lizzie to the Mustang Ridge ranch in Wyoming in hopes that being around the horses can help her regain her speech. Lizzie suffers from selective mutism and has been unable to speak for the past two years. It was thought that learning to ride and care for the horses could help her. Shelby came to assist in the kitchen and Lizzie's riding lessons are part of the deal. Shelby is from Boston and is rude and flies off the handle, especially with Foster, the head wrangler.
She meets Foster when Lizzie disappears on her and she knows she's with the horses. She's in the barn with Foster and the horses. Lizzie hangs back from people and the staff is aware of this but work with her and get her used to the horses and how to care for them and she comes out of her shell. It takes a couple of months but she is riding on a horse and getting the horse to follow her commands. Her little face is beaming.
Shelby is upset when Foster doesn't tell her about his divorce. Why is she so upset? It is not her business. When their romance is ended by her, she tells Lizzie they are leaving for Boston and Lizzie freaks out and hollers at her mother. Shelby loves Foster and he finally tells her he loves her and asks her to marry him and gives her a ring. He includes Lizzie too and gives her a necklace with a charm identical to the heirloom ring he gave her mother.
Sweet story of how the love of a little girl for a particular horse helped her regain her voice. She told her mother that the foal Lucky needed her and she needed to stay with him.
She meets Foster when Lizzie disappears on her and she knows she's with the horses. She's in the barn with Foster and the horses. Lizzie hangs back from people and the staff is aware of this but work with her and get her used to the horses and how to care for them and she comes out of her shell. It takes a couple of months but she is riding on a horse and getting the horse to follow her commands. Her little face is beaming.
Shelby is upset when Foster doesn't tell her about his divorce. Why is she so upset? It is not her business. When their romance is ended by her, she tells Lizzie they are leaving for Boston and Lizzie freaks out and hollers at her mother. Shelby loves Foster and he finally tells her he loves her and asks her to marry him and gives her a ring. He includes Lizzie too and gives her a necklace with a charm identical to the heirloom ring he gave her mother.
Sweet story of how the love of a little girl for a particular horse helped her regain her voice. She told her mother that the foal Lucky needed her and she needed to stay with him.
December 18, 2023
I bought Summer at Mustang Ridge by Jesse Hayworth at a "library book sale" in August 2022. It took me a little over a year to be interested enough in the story to actually read the book. I would start the book, read for a little while, and then put it down for another book.
The premise is good. A single mother from New York City gets a "summer job" as assistant cook at a dude ranch in the "west". She has a daughter who has selective mutism, and she is hoping that the environment will help her daughter recover her confidence and voice, as well as learning how to ride a horse western style.
Perhaps I am just too mature to enjoy this type of romance. Assistant cook and Stable and Trail Ride Manager meet, romantic/ sexual sparks fly. Both individuals have "baggage" that keeps them from fully committing to even exploring a serious dating arrangement. Both let the "little stuff" keep them them apart.
The premise is good. A single mother from New York City gets a "summer job" as assistant cook at a dude ranch in the "west". She has a daughter who has selective mutism, and she is hoping that the environment will help her daughter recover her confidence and voice, as well as learning how to ride a horse western style.
Perhaps I am just too mature to enjoy this type of romance. Assistant cook and Stable and Trail Ride Manager meet, romantic/ sexual sparks fly. Both individuals have "baggage" that keeps them from fully committing to even exploring a serious dating arrangement. Both let the "little stuff" keep them them apart.
June 29, 2020
“Summer at Mustang Ranch
She thought going to help cook on the dude ranch would be best for her and her daughter,whom for no known reason,can’t speak.Things start slowly,then hurry to romance,a trail ride and new born foals.Its the old “ It’s just a fling” that starts,and doesn’t want to end.
This book took a little longer to read but it was really worth it,and I’m sure you’ll like it too.
She thought going to help cook on the dude ranch would be best for her and her daughter,whom for no known reason,can’t speak.Things start slowly,then hurry to romance,a trail ride and new born foals.Its the old “ It’s just a fling” that starts,and doesn’t want to end.
This book took a little longer to read but it was really worth it,and I’m sure you’ll like it too.
July 19, 2020
Summer at Mustang Ridge is the 1st book in a series by Jesse Hayworth. I stumbled on it via Bookbub as I have never read anything by this author. It started off slow and I almost stopped before I was 60 pages in. What ignited my interest was when details of the medical condition that Shelby’s daughter, Lizzie, was disclosed. From that point, I began to care about the characters. Be patient with the book as you will discover a gem. I am looking forward to returning to Mustang Ridge.
January 19, 2021
Loved the book about a mother coming to a ranch to help her daughter with her Selective Mutism (I had never heard of this condition before and this book educated me as well as entertained me. Shelby as the mother is beautifully portrayed as Mama Bear who will go through anything to help her child with her problem and help her to find her voice
April 23, 2020
Summer at Mustang Ridge was heartwarming. Shelby and Lizzie definitely needed a change. I’m glad that they took the opportunity and took chances. I liked Foster and the Sky family. I also liked how the relationship between Shelby and Foster developed.
June 28, 2020
This is a well written story.
I like the characters in this story, and I like the "message" of the story. I don't like explicit sex, and although this doesn't have a lot of it, it was more descriptive than I like. This only three stars.
I like the characters in this story, and I like the "message" of the story. I don't like explicit sex, and although this doesn't have a lot of it, it was more descriptive than I like. This only three stars.
July 21, 2023
A beautiful love story set in Wyoming at Mustang Ridge Dude Ranch. The main characters are Shelby, from Boston a city girl, and Foster, a real cowboy the attraction is there and will lead to an all-out romance. A nice well written little story.
April 23, 2025
Cheap.
March 19, 2013
Summer at Mustang Ridge by Jesse Hayworth is the first book in her Mustang Ridge series. There actually is a novella released last month that opened this series. The Mustang Ridge series is Contemporary Romance, and I totally fell in love with the characters at Mustang Ridge.
Summer at Mustang Ridge heroes are Shelby and Foster. We meet Shelby immediately as she is driving with her daughter heading for Mustang Ridge Ranch for the summer. She is going to work as a chef; but mostly Shelby is using this trip in hope that the animals on the ranch will be just the thing to help her daughter, Lizzie, overcome her issues of not communicating.
Foster is the head man with the horses, not to mention a hunk. But Foster is not interested in any kind of releationship, even with the ladies fawning over him. When he meets Shelby, especially after seeing Lizzie with her, he feels some attraction. In a short period, both Shelby and Foster will become an item, but both having had bad experiences previously, agree this is just a summer fling.
Though the romance is a big part of this story, and it is a very nice romance, with two couples you love, and want them to end up together; but there are other stories that make this book a step above most romance books. There is no mystery or suspense here; just simply a book that is a joy to read. Lizzie’s problem, which everyone at Mustang Ridge, tries to help, is a major part of the story. Then we meet some of the characters at Mustang Ridge that I totally adored. Hayworth does a wonderful job creating realistic and great characters. I loved Gran, who does all the cooking and Shelby works with her. The granddaughter, Krista, who helps run the ranch, was another wonderful character. Then we had a couple of ranch hands, such as Stace, who worked with Foster to help Lizzie.
Shelby was a wonderful heroine, working hard and almost becoming a member of the family, as well as her love for her daughter, and her reactions for each step she takes. She finds herself falling for Foster, even though they promised no strings attached. I loved Foster, as he was a great hero, who showed so much compassion for Lizzie, and was so hot with Shelby. It was great to see their relationship grow, and sad when the obstacles were in the way.
I will not give any spoilers, just say that this was a wonderful book to read. I did not want this to end. I am happy that Jesse Hayworth will continue this series with some of the characters we have met and learned to love at Mustang Ridge. If you are looking for a fun, and wonderful romance, look no further then Summer at Mustang Ridge.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
Summer at Mustang Ridge heroes are Shelby and Foster. We meet Shelby immediately as she is driving with her daughter heading for Mustang Ridge Ranch for the summer. She is going to work as a chef; but mostly Shelby is using this trip in hope that the animals on the ranch will be just the thing to help her daughter, Lizzie, overcome her issues of not communicating.
Foster is the head man with the horses, not to mention a hunk. But Foster is not interested in any kind of releationship, even with the ladies fawning over him. When he meets Shelby, especially after seeing Lizzie with her, he feels some attraction. In a short period, both Shelby and Foster will become an item, but both having had bad experiences previously, agree this is just a summer fling.
Though the romance is a big part of this story, and it is a very nice romance, with two couples you love, and want them to end up together; but there are other stories that make this book a step above most romance books. There is no mystery or suspense here; just simply a book that is a joy to read. Lizzie’s problem, which everyone at Mustang Ridge, tries to help, is a major part of the story. Then we meet some of the characters at Mustang Ridge that I totally adored. Hayworth does a wonderful job creating realistic and great characters. I loved Gran, who does all the cooking and Shelby works with her. The granddaughter, Krista, who helps run the ranch, was another wonderful character. Then we had a couple of ranch hands, such as Stace, who worked with Foster to help Lizzie.
Shelby was a wonderful heroine, working hard and almost becoming a member of the family, as well as her love for her daughter, and her reactions for each step she takes. She finds herself falling for Foster, even though they promised no strings attached. I loved Foster, as he was a great hero, who showed so much compassion for Lizzie, and was so hot with Shelby. It was great to see their relationship grow, and sad when the obstacles were in the way.
I will not give any spoilers, just say that this was a wonderful book to read. I did not want this to end. I am happy that Jesse Hayworth will continue this series with some of the characters we have met and learned to love at Mustang Ridge. If you are looking for a fun, and wonderful romance, look no further then Summer at Mustang Ridge.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
December 5, 2013
REVIEW
Shelby: Heroine and new assistant cook at Mustang Ridge.
Foster: Trail boss at Mustang Ridge.
Lizzie: Shelby's 9-year-old daughter.
Vader: Foster's dog.
Krista Skye: One of the owners of Mustang Ridge.
Barbara Skye: Krista's grandmother. Head cook at Mustang Ridge.
Rose Skye: Krista's mother.
Shelby decided to take some time off from her high stress job in advertising. She works in Boston, MA., and is taking the summer to be a cook at the Mustang Dude Ranch in Wyoming. She's looking for some way to help her daughter, Lizzie, 9 years old, overcome Selective Mutism.
One thing she wasn't trying to do was fall in love.
The head ranch hand, Foster is working to make enough money to get his family's ranch back. He had lost the ranch in a bad divorce from his ex wife. Even though he's quite a hunk of cowboy, he's far from interested in any kind of relationship.
Foster and Shelby slowly develop an attraction for each other. Their attraction grew as they took romantic horse-back rides late at night, picnics by the light of the moon and oh, so very passionate kisses. This little no commitment,summertime love wasn't supposed to go anywhere but Shelby wants more than just a fling. She wants Foster. Foster has cold feet.
I would tell anyone to definitely read this fun loving story where the characters romance will will be heart warming. Don't wait too long to get your copy of SUMMER AT MUSTANG RIDGE because the season is about to change into WINTER AT MUSTANG RANCH.
I was given a complimentary copy of SUMMER AT MUSTANG RIDGE by Jesse Hayworth from Manic Reviews for my uncompensated view.
I would give this book 5 SPURS.
Shelby: Heroine and new assistant cook at Mustang Ridge.
Foster: Trail boss at Mustang Ridge.
Lizzie: Shelby's 9-year-old daughter.
Vader: Foster's dog.
Krista Skye: One of the owners of Mustang Ridge.
Barbara Skye: Krista's grandmother. Head cook at Mustang Ridge.
Rose Skye: Krista's mother.
Shelby decided to take some time off from her high stress job in advertising. She works in Boston, MA., and is taking the summer to be a cook at the Mustang Dude Ranch in Wyoming. She's looking for some way to help her daughter, Lizzie, 9 years old, overcome Selective Mutism.
One thing she wasn't trying to do was fall in love.
The head ranch hand, Foster is working to make enough money to get his family's ranch back. He had lost the ranch in a bad divorce from his ex wife. Even though he's quite a hunk of cowboy, he's far from interested in any kind of relationship.
Foster and Shelby slowly develop an attraction for each other. Their attraction grew as they took romantic horse-back rides late at night, picnics by the light of the moon and oh, so very passionate kisses. This little no commitment,summertime love wasn't supposed to go anywhere but Shelby wants more than just a fling. She wants Foster. Foster has cold feet.
I would tell anyone to definitely read this fun loving story where the characters romance will will be heart warming. Don't wait too long to get your copy of SUMMER AT MUSTANG RIDGE because the season is about to change into WINTER AT MUSTANG RANCH.
I was given a complimentary copy of SUMMER AT MUSTANG RIDGE by Jesse Hayworth from Manic Reviews for my uncompensated view.
I would give this book 5 SPURS.
February 27, 2013
Mustang Ridge Ranch is a dude ranch in Wyoming which Shelby is hoping is the perfect place for both daughter Lizzie and her this summer. Shelby is the new assistant cook that will help Gran in the kitchen, as the current assistant is on bed rest. Lizzie's therapist, Gertie helped get Shelby the job in hopes that Lizzie's fascination with horses will get her to talk again.
Lizzie has selective mutism and has not spoken in two years, most children outgrow it eventually however it has taken Lizzie more time than most. Stace, one of the ranch workers is training to become a therapist and has agreed to teach Lizzie to ride a horse in hopes this will help.
The Skye family has own Mustang Ridge Ranch for over two hundred years, they recently had to turn it into a dude ranch to save it and other than Arthur, the grandfather, most are happy with the decision. Krista runs the family operation while her parents are away seeing the country in their motor home.
Foster is the trail boss and all around handy man, he lost his family ranch in a divorce and has been saving ever since to buy it back. He keeps to himself mostly, however both Shelby and Lizzie seem to intrigue him and much to the surprise of others he seems to be opening up more.
The summer progresses and the attraction that Shelby and Foster feel towards each other heats up and things fall into place, however as Lizzie has setbacks and Foster has commitment issues the tenuous relationship seems to falter.
Complete review at: Ramblings from a Chaotic Mind
Copy from publisher for an honest review
Lizzie has selective mutism and has not spoken in two years, most children outgrow it eventually however it has taken Lizzie more time than most. Stace, one of the ranch workers is training to become a therapist and has agreed to teach Lizzie to ride a horse in hopes this will help.
The Skye family has own Mustang Ridge Ranch for over two hundred years, they recently had to turn it into a dude ranch to save it and other than Arthur, the grandfather, most are happy with the decision. Krista runs the family operation while her parents are away seeing the country in their motor home.
Foster is the trail boss and all around handy man, he lost his family ranch in a divorce and has been saving ever since to buy it back. He keeps to himself mostly, however both Shelby and Lizzie seem to intrigue him and much to the surprise of others he seems to be opening up more.
The summer progresses and the attraction that Shelby and Foster feel towards each other heats up and things fall into place, however as Lizzie has setbacks and Foster has commitment issues the tenuous relationship seems to falter.
Complete review at: Ramblings from a Chaotic Mind
Copy from publisher for an honest review
October 11, 2014
Singles week at a Wyoming dude ranch sounds like fun for the happy-go-lucky visitors, but for Shelby and her daughter Lizzie from Boston, Mustang Ridge ranch is a place to work for the summer. Temporary cook is something Shelby can cope with, but pushy dudes, a horse-hungry little girl and quietly competent wranglers add up to a complicated few months.
The ranch staff concur that if the dudes see the family-friendly version of cattle ranching, that's what it takes to bring in cash. Young Lizzie has difficulty communicating, and Foster, the head wrangler, offers Shelby a quiet horse to ride, and over a bonfire she gets to know the guests and staff. With a newborn foal to watch and feed, Lizzie starts to improve. Shelby feels a growing attraction to Foster, but doesn't think of romance. They'll only be staying here for the summer....
The author knows horses, and I liked the attention to detail and the modern touches. These wranglers microchip the cattle, use the internet and adhere to health codes with the chuck wagon. The scenery is beautiful in the images Jesse Hayworth paints, the horses are so real you can stroke them and the ranch folks are kind and down-home practical. I enjoyed the story and gentle romance, but there was no real element of conflict which may make it too quiet for some readers. For anyone thinking of visiting a dude ranch this is a great advertisement.
The ranch staff concur that if the dudes see the family-friendly version of cattle ranching, that's what it takes to bring in cash. Young Lizzie has difficulty communicating, and Foster, the head wrangler, offers Shelby a quiet horse to ride, and over a bonfire she gets to know the guests and staff. With a newborn foal to watch and feed, Lizzie starts to improve. Shelby feels a growing attraction to Foster, but doesn't think of romance. They'll only be staying here for the summer....
The author knows horses, and I liked the attention to detail and the modern touches. These wranglers microchip the cattle, use the internet and adhere to health codes with the chuck wagon. The scenery is beautiful in the images Jesse Hayworth paints, the horses are so real you can stroke them and the ranch folks are kind and down-home practical. I enjoyed the story and gentle romance, but there was no real element of conflict which may make it too quiet for some readers. For anyone thinking of visiting a dude ranch this is a great advertisement.
October 24, 2013
Loved Summer at Mustang Ridge! You'll really enjoy it if you're a romantic and like realistic drama.
Shelby wants to help her daughter (Lizzie) recover from an emotional condition,(Selective Mutism) and with the help of her therapist, she finds a summer job as assistant chef at a family ranch, along with therapy with horses for her girl.
Not only does Lizzie find the help she needs, but so does Shelby who's having a hard time dealing with it all since her divorce, but also Foster, the swoon-worthy cowboy Hero who also has a troubled past and doesn't know how to deal with these new emotions that stir his heart as he meets Shelby at the ranch. He is loved by all. What a guy.
The story plays very realistically and has it's funny moments. It even made me cry with the more emotional ones. The Skye Family are also very entertaining and grow on you. Made me wish the place was real to pop in and visit them. It's a story about Family, Love and second chances! 5♥
Can't wait for the next book in the series. Definitely a new favorite author for me!
Shelby wants to help her daughter (Lizzie) recover from an emotional condition,(Selective Mutism) and with the help of her therapist, she finds a summer job as assistant chef at a family ranch, along with therapy with horses for her girl.
Not only does Lizzie find the help she needs, but so does Shelby who's having a hard time dealing with it all since her divorce, but also Foster, the swoon-worthy cowboy Hero who also has a troubled past and doesn't know how to deal with these new emotions that stir his heart as he meets Shelby at the ranch. He is loved by all. What a guy.
The story plays very realistically and has it's funny moments. It even made me cry with the more emotional ones. The Skye Family are also very entertaining and grow on you. Made me wish the place was real to pop in and visit them. It's a story about Family, Love and second chances! 5♥
Can't wait for the next book in the series. Definitely a new favorite author for me!
December 21, 2013
Wow....this has to be one of the best books I've read all year. I couldn't put it down but didn't want to finish because it was so good. I've got Winter at Mustang Ridge all ready to start this week. If you love a good contemporary western it's the perfect read. And even if you don't, the dynamics between the characters, how they find their way, solve their problems, come together is fabulously told. It could take place anywhere, anytime and would still be a wonderful story. If you haven't read Jesse Hayworth you don't know what you are missing.
November 15, 2015
This story started out sweet, but then a little before halfway, it deteriorated into nothing but one make-out session between Shelby and Foster, after another, and another, and another, ad nauseam!
I started skimming then, and came across their sex scene, and the book got even worse then! When they weren't making-out, they were thinking about it! The daughter Lizzie's problem was forgotten, and there was no longer a story or anything interesting enough to hold me.
Glad I borrowed it from the library instead of getting it as a Kindle download.
I started skimming then, and came across their sex scene, and the book got even worse then! When they weren't making-out, they were thinking about it! The daughter Lizzie's problem was forgotten, and there was no longer a story or anything interesting enough to hold me.
Glad I borrowed it from the library instead of getting it as a Kindle download.
March 2, 2013
So grateful I won this book on Goodreads! It is a wonderful story, a romance at the Mustang Ridge Dude Ranch. I thoroughly enjoyed the various relationships throughout the novel; whether that was Shelby and her daughter; Shelby and Foster; Shelby and Gran in the kitchen; Lizzie, Foster and the horses. Oh and not to forget Herman!!! Great story, could hardly put the book down and did not want it to end! Now I can hardly wait for the next "Winter at Mustang Ridge".
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews