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Tucker Springs #6
After the Fall
The trails around Tucker Springs, Colorado, are perfect for horseback riding, and Nathan finally has the horse he’s been saving to buy for years. So it just figures that the first day he takes Tsarina out for a ride, some guy on a motorcycle spooks her and she throws him, leaving him with two broken limbs and no chance of enjoying the trails for the rest of the summer.
Mechanic and nomadic motorcycle enthusiast Ryan feels awful that his wrong turn resulted in injury and inconvenience. To atone, he offers to exercise Tsarina for Nathan, with one caveat: Nathan will have to teach him how to ride.
Lessons turn to friendship and then to mutual attraction, but Nathan is determined that attraction is where it ends. He’s been hurt before, and he knows Ryan will never settle down. He might just be too skittish to give them a chance—unless Ryan can convince him to get back in the saddle.
Mechanic and nomadic motorcycle enthusiast Ryan feels awful that his wrong turn resulted in injury and inconvenience. To atone, he offers to exercise Tsarina for Nathan, with one caveat: Nathan will have to teach him how to ride.
Lessons turn to friendship and then to mutual attraction, but Nathan is determined that attraction is where it ends. He’s been hurt before, and he knows Ryan will never settle down. He might just be too skittish to give them a chance—unless Ryan can convince him to get back in the saddle.
202 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 5, 2013
29 people are currently reading
654 people want to read
About the author
L.A. Witt
227 books2,744 followersL.A. Witt and her husband have been exiled from Spain and sent to live in Maine because rhymes are fun. She now divides her time between writing, assuring people she is aware that Maine is cold, wondering where to put her next tattoo, and trying to reason with a surly Maine coon. Rumor has it her arch nemesis, Lauren Gallagher, is also somewhere in the wilds of New England, which is why L.A. is also spending a portion of her time training a team of spec ops lobsters.
Authors Ann Gallagher and Lori A. Witt have been asked to assist in lobster training, but they "have books to write" and "need to focus on our careers" and "don't you think this rivalry has gotten a little out of hand?" They're probably just helping Lauren raise her army of squirrels trained to ride moose into battle.
Visit her website at http://www.gallagherwitt.com/.
Authors Ann Gallagher and Lori A. Witt have been asked to assist in lobster training, but they "have books to write" and "need to focus on our careers" and "don't you think this rivalry has gotten a little out of hand?" They're probably just helping Lauren raise her army of squirrels trained to ride moose into battle.
Visit her website at http://www.gallagherwitt.com/.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
October 8, 2013
3.5*
I have only read one other story in the Tucker Springs collection but that wasn't a problem at all, this was definitely able to be read as a standalone.
Now, I don't ride and know next to nothing about horses, but from the first page of this story I could feel Nathan's love and excitement for his horse.
Since it is told from Nathan's pov I felt excited along with him, finally after all his hard work and saving he has his beloved Tsarina and is on his first ride on the trail...then his world comes crashing down. Literally.
“Ten years of dreaming. Three years of saving. Almost a full year of searching for the perfect horse. Six and a half hours squirming behind my desk.
And now this.”
I guess sometimes things are just meant to be and Ryan was meant to be introduced into Nathan's life, although I'm sure a less painful method would have been preferred.
These two strike up a friendship, they feel comfortable with each other and the normally very independent Nathan has no problems relying on Ryan, at least for a while.
I loved how they slowly move from strangers to friends to lovers.
It felt natural and not rushed to move it along.
Ryan is a wanderer, he doesn't stay anywhere for long and Nathan is still trying to get over his last two disastrous relationships.
Nathan uses the knowledge that Ryan doesn't like to be tied down to try and keep his feeling under control and not fall for the sexy and sweet Ryan.
Well as always, these things don't always work out as planned.
This is actually a very low on angst and conflict kind of story. No big drama, no hateful families, no stalkers or meddlers.
It's more of a naturally developing friendship that turns into love when no one was looking for it, and exactly the kind of book I like to read.
I have only read one other story in the Tucker Springs collection but that wasn't a problem at all, this was definitely able to be read as a standalone.
Now, I don't ride and know next to nothing about horses, but from the first page of this story I could feel Nathan's love and excitement for his horse.
Since it is told from Nathan's pov I felt excited along with him, finally after all his hard work and saving he has his beloved Tsarina and is on his first ride on the trail...then his world comes crashing down. Literally.
“Ten years of dreaming. Three years of saving. Almost a full year of searching for the perfect horse. Six and a half hours squirming behind my desk.
And now this.”
I guess sometimes things are just meant to be and Ryan was meant to be introduced into Nathan's life, although I'm sure a less painful method would have been preferred.
These two strike up a friendship, they feel comfortable with each other and the normally very independent Nathan has no problems relying on Ryan, at least for a while.
I loved how they slowly move from strangers to friends to lovers.
It felt natural and not rushed to move it along.
Ryan is a wanderer, he doesn't stay anywhere for long and Nathan is still trying to get over his last two disastrous relationships.
Nathan uses the knowledge that Ryan doesn't like to be tied down to try and keep his feeling under control and not fall for the sexy and sweet Ryan.
Well as always, these things don't always work out as planned.
This is actually a very low on angst and conflict kind of story. No big drama, no hateful families, no stalkers or meddlers.
It's more of a naturally developing friendship that turns into love when no one was looking for it, and exactly the kind of book I like to read.
November 1, 2013
Another great story from Tucker Springs.
Nathan's dream has finally come true: he is now the proud owner of a shiny new horse, Tsarina. Then, after his first day taking her out on the trails, he is left with a broken leg (Ryan's fault) and a broken hand (Nathan's fault) and a horse with no one to ride her for the entire summer...until Ryan, a lonely, wanderer who never stays in one place for long, offers him a deal.
You may remember Nathan since he's been around from the very beginning as Mike's receptionist at his acupuncture clinic. I was really worried that I wouldn't like Nathan, but he has changed a lot from the manwhore we all knew from previous books. No, there is no whoring in this book; it's just a very slow burning, sweet story...but not the kind of sweet that will rot your teeth.
I was really loving the first half of the story: all the horse stuff and sexual tension was really working for me. Then, after they started having sex, very hot sex I must add, the story became all about the sex and miscommunications, and less about the horse and them getting to know each other. I mean, neither man went into this wanting a long term relationship, so when things start to feel more important than either of them ever expected, what do you think they do? I don't think I need to spell it out for you.
Another big issue I had with the story was why was Nathan so scared to have sex with Ryan? It was touched on briefly but it seemed to run much deeper than what had been told. I feel that if his issues would have been further explored, it could of added much more depth to the story. Instead, it left me with the feeling that Nathan's fears were borderline ridiculous and just there as a plot device to hinder the growth of his and Ryan's relationship. Ah, but it all wraps up nicely in the end.
I'm probably stretching by giving this 4 stars, but I really did enjoy it and couldn't put the book down. It's one of those stories I would've read all in one sitting if I wouldn't've had to sleep and work. It's just still missing a little something...
This book is part of a series, but I still feel that they can be read in any order. Yes, there are brief appearances from previous MCs, but their stories don't have any big importance to this plot. I'm really hoping Brad and Jeff get their story told soon; even though I'm not a fan of reading about established couples, I still want their HEA.
Reviewed for The Blog of Sid Love
October 8, 2013
Okay, so something people should know, I have only read books 3, 4 & 5 in this series before this one. Books 1 & 2 I have not read. So I read these books not knowing the original story. That being said, the series is decent. I adored book 4. Seriously, it's my favourite in the series. And this one, book 6, is good. I mean, there's nothing really wrong with the story and I did enjoy it. But my rating is a weak(ish) four stars because I did find myself enjoying the book.
Nathan and Ryan started off perfectly for me. And for most of the book, despite insecurity, I was really loving them as a couple. Friends to lovers is a personal favourite trope of mine. Normally you can't beat that for me. Heck, I read a lot of books with this trope. But after a while I started to think something was going really wrong. I was sort of right. There was a break-up and everything. I wasn't too impressed with that. But for that period of the book, I was just waiting for something good to happen. Then it ended too soon after everything.
I know most people won't have an issue with some of the things. But when a couple gets back together, I like it to be fleshed out at the end. Personally, I enjoy seeing them reconnect and get stronger and stronger. Also, I would have liked to get inside Ryan's head for a while. Yes, this book is told from Nathan's 1st person POV. And I live 1st person. But in this case, the author could have added even a couple of pages from Ryan.
I loved the connection between the men, though. And it was nice to see them start out as friends. Even if they had a bit of a bumpy beginning. It's not all about horses either, so don't let that deter you from reading the book. It's a really solid book that just could have used another chapter or two towards the end. Nathan and Ryan were cute together, and I don't regret reading this book.
Nathan and Ryan started off perfectly for me. And for most of the book, despite insecurity, I was really loving them as a couple. Friends to lovers is a personal favourite trope of mine. Normally you can't beat that for me. Heck, I read a lot of books with this trope. But after a while I started to think something was going really wrong. I was sort of right. There was a break-up and everything. I wasn't too impressed with that. But for that period of the book, I was just waiting for something good to happen. Then it ended too soon after everything.
I know most people won't have an issue with some of the things. But when a couple gets back together, I like it to be fleshed out at the end. Personally, I enjoy seeing them reconnect and get stronger and stronger. Also, I would have liked to get inside Ryan's head for a while. Yes, this book is told from Nathan's 1st person POV. And I live 1st person. But in this case, the author could have added even a couple of pages from Ryan.
I loved the connection between the men, though. And it was nice to see them start out as friends. Even if they had a bit of a bumpy beginning. It's not all about horses either, so don't let that deter you from reading the book. It's a really solid book that just could have used another chapter or two towards the end. Nathan and Ryan were cute together, and I don't regret reading this book.
October 19, 2013
4.0 Stars
I'm a fan of the Tucker Springs series. I'm in love with the place and the people. Book 6 is Nathan's story (it's about time!) and I couldn't wait to read about his peppy and sometimes snarky ass. I've been interested in his character from book 1.
I really liked this book. The slow burn/friends-to-lovers story was heartwarming. I loved both Nathan and Ryan and enjoyed watching their relationship develop. Their story was a little angsty and a lot romantic. Yum!
Bottom line: Yet another reason why I'm an L.A. Witt fan!
I'm a fan of the Tucker Springs series. I'm in love with the place and the people. Book 6 is Nathan's story (it's about time!) and I couldn't wait to read about his peppy and sometimes snarky ass. I've been interested in his character from book 1.
I really liked this book. The slow burn/friends-to-lovers story was heartwarming. I loved both Nathan and Ryan and enjoyed watching their relationship develop. Their story was a little angsty and a lot romantic. Yum!
Bottom line: Yet another reason why I'm an L.A. Witt fan!
November 30, 2013
This installment of Tucker Springs was a bit of a disappointment for me. I didn't get emotionally invested in the romance and I found both Nathan and Ryan boring.
There was a good start and a slow build where the two become friends before any romantic involvement. Ryan is a drifter and Nathan has been burned one too many times so neither is looking for a relationship. For me, it felt like I was being told how good they were together, but I never actually saw it. The story is told from Nathan's POV, and I kept reading how hot Ryan is on a horse, and in his leather, and when he's driving. I read that they had great conversation, but didn't get much of it in the book. There were also a few issues that were touched on that were never fully explored on both sides. Things picked up and came to a head, but were wrapped up fairly quickly in the last few chapters.
L.A. Witt has a good writing style and I have enjoyed a number of her books, but I just did not connect with this one.
There was a good start and a slow build where the two become friends before any romantic involvement. Ryan is a drifter and Nathan has been burned one too many times so neither is looking for a relationship. For me, it felt like I was being told how good they were together, but I never actually saw it. The story is told from Nathan's POV, and I kept reading how hot Ryan is on a horse, and in his leather, and when he's driving. I read that they had great conversation, but didn't get much of it in the book. There were also a few issues that were touched on that were never fully explored on both sides. Things picked up and came to a head, but were wrapped up fairly quickly in the last few chapters.
L.A. Witt has a good writing style and I have enjoyed a number of her books, but I just did not connect with this one.
September 10, 2020
L. A. Witt has written some books that I thought were wonderful. At the Corner of Rock Bottom and Nowhere and The Master will Appear are incredible books. They really spoke to me. This book was just kind of Meh. In fact I was planning to read the next book in the Tucker Springs series, but I’ve decided to skip it. I don’t want to read about Brad and his boyfriend fighting.
November 11, 2020
Cute and sweet read!!
October 6, 2013
This was a sweet, low angst love story that had a very slow start but pulled out all the stops and ended on a beautiful, romantic note and left me very happy and satisfied.
I have not read all of the Tucker Springs series yet, so I know for a fact that you do not need to have read all of them to understand this book. There are a few characters in this book from the other books in the series, but they are merely mentioned and very minor. The blurb is perfectly accurate so you know exactly what you are getting yourself into.
As long as you prepare for a slow start and sex at the 60% point, I do believe M/M romance fans will enjoy this book, so I can certainly recommend this one.
I have not read all of the Tucker Springs series yet, so I know for a fact that you do not need to have read all of them to understand this book. There are a few characters in this book from the other books in the series, but they are merely mentioned and very minor. The blurb is perfectly accurate so you know exactly what you are getting yourself into.
As long as you prepare for a slow start and sex at the 60% point, I do believe M/M romance fans will enjoy this book, so I can certainly recommend this one.
October 13, 2013
Finally we're getting Nathan's (Mike's receptionist) story. He's such a sweetheart, I loved him in the previous books.
Nathan has finally managed to buy the horse of his dreams, the beautiful Trakehner Tsarina. But on their very first ride a biker scares Tsarina into bolting and leaving Nathan with a broken leg, a broken hand, and a ruined summer.
Ryan is a nomad, a loner. He's content with working odd jobs before moving on to the next town. Feeling guilty for causing the accident, Ryan offers to keep Tsarina exercised until Nathan heals. A friendship develops between the guys, and soon they find themselves wishing for more...
Nathan and Ryan are cute together. The building up is very believable and I enjoyed seeing them deal with their own issues separately and together. Finally their connection develops beautifully...
Mike, Jason, Seth and Owen are showing up again and we get to know Jeff and Brad. I guess their story is the next one. :)
Altogether After the Fall is a great follow up to the Tucker Springs series and I can't wait for the next installment. :)
November 5, 2013
I love the Tucker Springs series, I think there's only one I haven't read and for some reason that particular novel doesn't appeal in the slightest. (No doubt I will read it eventually as I love the series).
So....all the novels are stand-alone and can be read in any order. The really nice touch here though is that characters from previous novels, written by differing authors, make guest appearances in other novels, so we never lose touch. Nathan, one of the two main characters in "After the Fall" has appeared in previous novels, being the receptionist at Michael's acupuncture clinic (I wondered when we'd hear Nathan's story).
Ryan is hot, unwilling to be tied to any place and an all-round nice guy. His trail motor bike riding lands Nathan in hospital with multiple fractures and a horse that needs exercising....and so the story begins.
Bit of angst mainly because of Nathan's stupidity, but overall a really sweet love story.
So....all the novels are stand-alone and can be read in any order. The really nice touch here though is that characters from previous novels, written by differing authors, make guest appearances in other novels, so we never lose touch. Nathan, one of the two main characters in "After the Fall" has appeared in previous novels, being the receptionist at Michael's acupuncture clinic (I wondered when we'd hear Nathan's story).
Ryan is hot, unwilling to be tied to any place and an all-round nice guy. His trail motor bike riding lands Nathan in hospital with multiple fractures and a horse that needs exercising....and so the story begins.
Bit of angst mainly because of Nathan's stupidity, but overall a really sweet love story.
November 21, 2019
Ok
3.25 ⭐️
Not my favourite of the series
I liked Nathan in the other books, but he was harder to like in this one for some reason. I liked Ryan, he was nice and when needed he stood up for himself.
I did like that Once Nathan admitted to himself that he had made a mistake he went all out to fix it.
3.25 ⭐️
Not my favourite of the series
I liked Nathan in the other books, but he was harder to like in this one for some reason. I liked Ryan, he was nice and when needed he stood up for himself.
I did like that Once Nathan admitted to himself that he had made a mistake he went all out to fix it.
January 21, 2018
3.5 Stars
LA Witt is a fine writer and this is a well written book in a very good series. Witt does an especially good job with how Nathan fools himself and protects himself.
However, I am disappointed in this book overall as I was so looking forward to Nathan's book from reading the other books in the series. He seems really diminished somehow here and less himself than in other books. So, the love story loses its shine as well for me though it is enjoyable.
LA Witt is a fine writer and this is a well written book in a very good series. Witt does an especially good job with how Nathan fools himself and protects himself.
However, I am disappointed in this book overall as I was so looking forward to Nathan's book from reading the other books in the series. He seems really diminished somehow here and less himself than in other books. So, the love story loses its shine as well for me though it is enjoyable.
October 3, 2013
The latest installment in the Tucker Springs series didn't disappoint, even though I wished it had been longer.
This is Nathan's book. You'll remember Nathan from previous books in the series, working as a receptionist for Mike (from book 1) in the acupuncture clinic.
Nathan has just bought himself a horse. A young Trakehner mare (if you're not familiar with the breed, google it and weep with envy - it's one of the most prestigious breeds available) named Tsarina (yes, there's a reason for the name. See my previous statement).
On their first field trip, while galloping up a steep incline (at this point, I was weeping with envy myself, OMG), a motor bike driven by Ryan comes out of nowhere, spooks the mare and causes a fall that ends with a broken leg (Nathan), a lovely shiner (Ryan, after being punched by Nathan) and a broken wrist (Nathan, after punching Ryan). Thankfully, the horse escapes uninjured.
Now Nathan has a cast on his leg, a cast on his arm and gets to bury his dreams of riding his horse all summer. He's understandably angry, but also realizes that it was simply an accident.
From there (we're only at about 20% here), the story takes off with Ryan offering to ride Tsarina while Nathan can't, and the men forming a comfortable relationship, getting to know each other, and slowly but surely starting a little romance.
I liked how the author gave both men certain relationship hang-ups, and how they used communication to address and resolve them. There is a typical romance cliche included, but while I rolled my eyes for a moment, it didn't detract from the overall story.
As usual, Ms. Witt's writing is superb. Much of it is infused with her special brand of humor and snark, as well as emotionally charged. On a few occasions, Nathan sounded a wee bit too girly for me, but those were few and far between. The sexual situations were well done. Explicit but never clinical, and emotional and romantic, despite a couple of casts getting in the way.
A solid romance, two guys who were believable and realistic and a gorgeous horse to boot - what;s not to love?
I received a free ARC directly from the publisher. A positive review was not promised in return.
This is Nathan's book. You'll remember Nathan from previous books in the series, working as a receptionist for Mike (from book 1) in the acupuncture clinic.
Nathan has just bought himself a horse. A young Trakehner mare (if you're not familiar with the breed, google it and weep with envy - it's one of the most prestigious breeds available) named Tsarina (yes, there's a reason for the name. See my previous statement).
On their first field trip, while galloping up a steep incline (at this point, I was weeping with envy myself, OMG), a motor bike driven by Ryan comes out of nowhere, spooks the mare and causes a fall that ends with a broken leg (Nathan), a lovely shiner (Ryan, after being punched by Nathan) and a broken wrist (Nathan, after punching Ryan). Thankfully, the horse escapes uninjured.
Now Nathan has a cast on his leg, a cast on his arm and gets to bury his dreams of riding his horse all summer. He's understandably angry, but also realizes that it was simply an accident.
From there (we're only at about 20% here), the story takes off with Ryan offering to ride Tsarina while Nathan can't, and the men forming a comfortable relationship, getting to know each other, and slowly but surely starting a little romance.
I liked how the author gave both men certain relationship hang-ups, and how they used communication to address and resolve them. There is a typical romance cliche included, but while I rolled my eyes for a moment, it didn't detract from the overall story.
As usual, Ms. Witt's writing is superb. Much of it is infused with her special brand of humor and snark, as well as emotionally charged. On a few occasions, Nathan sounded a wee bit too girly for me, but those were few and far between. The sexual situations were well done. Explicit but never clinical, and emotional and romantic, despite a couple of casts getting in the way.
A solid romance, two guys who were believable and realistic and a gorgeous horse to boot - what;s not to love?
I received a free ARC directly from the publisher. A positive review was not promised in return.
October 7, 2013
I received this book as an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Another really good installment in the Tucker Springs novels. I really liked the characters, and the romance in this one. They had a nice balance, and I liked that they took the time to get to know each other before they slept together, and before any of the I love yous start. It made it feel like a much stronger, and more genuine connection for that. I liked the sweet, and fairly uncomplicated nature of the romance. They did have their issues, but there was nothing too terribly dark, or heavy, and no terrible angst. It also didn’t overdose on the sugar and sap either. It was a perfect story for some rainy day reading. Did I mention there was a horise *cough* I mean a horse. Yeah, that was the icing on the cake for me.
Another really good installment in the Tucker Springs novels. I really liked the characters, and the romance in this one. They had a nice balance, and I liked that they took the time to get to know each other before they slept together, and before any of the I love yous start. It made it feel like a much stronger, and more genuine connection for that. I liked the sweet, and fairly uncomplicated nature of the romance. They did have their issues, but there was nothing too terribly dark, or heavy, and no terrible angst. It also didn’t overdose on the sugar and sap either. It was a perfect story for some rainy day reading. Did I mention there was a horise *cough* I mean a horse. Yeah, that was the icing on the cake for me.
October 19, 2013
Once again it was nice to return to Tucker Springs, the town that has seen the start of some wonderful relationships. After The Fall is the story of Nathan and Ryan who meet after Ryan rides his motorbike into the path of Nathan's horse, causing Nathan to fall and be injured. Instead of Nathan spending his summer riding the horse he has dreamed about and saved for, he finds himself falling for the man of his dreams - literally!
Ryan is the ultimate nice guy. From their first meeting, in less than perfect circumstances, his actions demonstrate to Nathan just what type of man he is and he gradually earns Nathan's trust. The slow and steady build from friendship to more was very well done and it was a sweet journey.
The thing I did find a bit in contrast to the trust between Nathan and Ryan shown up until that point was
The story is told from Nathan's POV and it is interesting to see him deal with needing to depend on someone for his physical needs but also his fear of loving someone again. Ryan's nomadic ways give Nathan a false sense of security that their relationship will be temporary so it comes somewhat as a shock to him when he discovers that love has crept up on him after all.
Combining some drama, a gorgeous horse, and two men who are both very likable, this story was a lovely addition to the Tucker Springs series.
3.5 stars
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
I publish all my m/m reviews on my blog so if you want to see all my m/m reviews in one place come visit at Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
Ryan is the ultimate nice guy. From their first meeting, in less than perfect circumstances, his actions demonstrate to Nathan just what type of man he is and he gradually earns Nathan's trust. The slow and steady build from friendship to more was very well done and it was a sweet journey.
The thing I did find a bit in contrast to the trust between Nathan and Ryan shown up until that point was
The story is told from Nathan's POV and it is interesting to see him deal with needing to depend on someone for his physical needs but also his fear of loving someone again. Ryan's nomadic ways give Nathan a false sense of security that their relationship will be temporary so it comes somewhat as a shock to him when he discovers that love has crept up on him after all.
Combining some drama, a gorgeous horse, and two men who are both very likable, this story was a lovely addition to the Tucker Springs series.
3.5 stars
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
I publish all my m/m reviews on my blog so if you want to see all my m/m reviews in one place come visit at Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
October 13, 2013
Nathan has always been reluctant to accept help and now that he finds himself needing help, he can't help but be frustrated by it. But that's not the only thing that frustrates him. There's also his sudden attraction to Ryan, especially when he watches him riding his horse. All of a sudden, spending time with Ryan and having him help Nathan is not as problematic as admitting that there's definitely something more developing between them. But stubborn as ever, Nathan would rather deny it that open himself to another bad breakup.
I loved everything about this story. First, there were the characters. Both Nathan and Ryan were adorable in their attraction for each other. Ryan was funny and shy and completely enamored with Nathan. But Nathan was clueless. He was jaded by his previous relationships and kept himself at bay. Never got too close, never committed and when the time came to step up, he failed miserably.
I loved it!
Once again, L.A. Witt came up with a couple of compelling characters that managed to make me sympathetic to their fate. I wanted to soothe Nathan's fear, smack him upside the head and yell in his face. Witt's characters always get to me , so it's no surprise that I responded to these characters in that way.
Of course, Nathan and Ryan's chemistry radiated from the page. The sex scenes were not as numerous or as raunchy as I've come to expect from Witt, yet they were enough to convey their purpose. Sweet and sensual, they added to the story beautifully. And that first kiss? Phew! But what truly made this such a wonderful read for me was how their connection developed over time in a way that wasn't over the top. It all came together slowly, yet naturally. I wouldn't change anything about it.
After the Fall is the sixth book in the Tucker Springs series, but can be read as a stand alone. Funny, sweet and with a little bit of angst, After the Fall was a great addition to the series and another winner for L.A. Witt.
I received this title from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange of my honest opinion.
I loved everything about this story. First, there were the characters. Both Nathan and Ryan were adorable in their attraction for each other. Ryan was funny and shy and completely enamored with Nathan. But Nathan was clueless. He was jaded by his previous relationships and kept himself at bay. Never got too close, never committed and when the time came to step up, he failed miserably.
I loved it!
Once again, L.A. Witt came up with a couple of compelling characters that managed to make me sympathetic to their fate. I wanted to soothe Nathan's fear, smack him upside the head and yell in his face. Witt's characters always get to me , so it's no surprise that I responded to these characters in that way.
Of course, Nathan and Ryan's chemistry radiated from the page. The sex scenes were not as numerous or as raunchy as I've come to expect from Witt, yet they were enough to convey their purpose. Sweet and sensual, they added to the story beautifully. And that first kiss? Phew! But what truly made this such a wonderful read for me was how their connection developed over time in a way that wasn't over the top. It all came together slowly, yet naturally. I wouldn't change anything about it.
After the Fall is the sixth book in the Tucker Springs series, but can be read as a stand alone. Funny, sweet and with a little bit of angst, After the Fall was a great addition to the series and another winner for L.A. Witt.
I received this title from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange of my honest opinion.
October 7, 2013
AFTER THE FALL is a sweet, funny and charming story set in Tucker Springs. Nathan has just fulfilled his dreams and has acquired Tsarina, the horse of his dreams and is taking her out for some exercise when a crazy motorcyclist scares the poor horse to death and she falls, landing straight on top of Nathan. In pain and pissed off is not a good combination for Nathan because when the motorcyclist comes to help him, he gets a punch in the face that is hard enough to draw blood.
The accident, however, ends up creating a unique relation between Nathan and Ryan. When Ryan offers to help Tsarina with her training while Nathan is recovering in a cast for the next few months, a romance blooms between these two in such a way that can’t help but enjoy!
First thing I have to mention is L.A. Witt’s ability to create such authentic, flowing dialogue between her characters. She is always able to infused their conversations with funny antics, personality and a dash of sensuality which I think makes it so easy for readers to devour. I read this book so fast that I was almost disappointed that it was over.
Ryan and Nathan are adorable together. Ryan’s shyness and Nathan’s vulnerability is what makes reading them fun. You can tell that this romance wasn’t expected and just bloomed naturally for them and I think Witt does a great job of making it all feel believable.
Though this is the sixth book in the series, I definitely think you can read this book as a standalone. There is mention of previous characters in the series but nothing that will be confusing to new readers hoping to find something new to enjoy.
*ARC provided by publisher
November 12, 2013
I received an ARC copy of this book from the publisher for review.
I wanted to like this book a lot more than I actually did. I love hurt/comfort themes, and any book involving horses usually rates high on my list. But here's the thing: I was bored.
The beginning was great and the set up to this romance was interesting. I thought I was going to remain interested through the whole thing and finish the book with some amount of satisfaction. After the first few chapters, though, I realized that I was getting restless and wanted to read something different. Not a good sign. It seemed that after a certain point, there wasn't much going on that hasn't happened in every single chapter so far: Nathan gets help going down the stairs, they go visit Tsarina, they go to a restaurant to eat, they talk too long and leave the restaurant late, Nathan gets help going up the stairs, he crashes on the couch. Rinse. Repeat. Add in some sex scenes about halfway through and go through everything again.
Speaking of those scenes, I thought there were too many and after a while I just started skipping them. I do the same with any type of romance that tries to tell you how much the characters feel about each other by the amount of sex they have. It makes their relationship seem one-dimensional and I get tired of having to skip ahead.
The characters themselves were kind of...meh. There wasn't much emotional depth to them and it left me disappointed.
I regained a small amount of interest in the last two chapters, but not enough to make me want to read it again.
I wanted to like this book a lot more than I actually did. I love hurt/comfort themes, and any book involving horses usually rates high on my list. But here's the thing: I was bored.
The beginning was great and the set up to this romance was interesting. I thought I was going to remain interested through the whole thing and finish the book with some amount of satisfaction. After the first few chapters, though, I realized that I was getting restless and wanted to read something different. Not a good sign. It seemed that after a certain point, there wasn't much going on that hasn't happened in every single chapter so far: Nathan gets help going down the stairs, they go visit Tsarina, they go to a restaurant to eat, they talk too long and leave the restaurant late, Nathan gets help going up the stairs, he crashes on the couch. Rinse. Repeat. Add in some sex scenes about halfway through and go through everything again.
Speaking of those scenes, I thought there were too many and after a while I just started skipping them. I do the same with any type of romance that tries to tell you how much the characters feel about each other by the amount of sex they have. It makes their relationship seem one-dimensional and I get tired of having to skip ahead.
The characters themselves were kind of...meh. There wasn't much emotional depth to them and it left me disappointed.
I regained a small amount of interest in the last two chapters, but not enough to make me want to read it again.
April 1, 2021
The 'Tucker Springs' series has been written by three different authors and I have loved each installment. I couldn't wait to jump back into the town, and its characters, plus the description of 'After the Fall' grabbed me as I'm not sure I've ever gotten over wanting to own a horse. Yep, that twelve-year old girl is still pouting inside me. Plus, I'd been waiting for Nathan's story ever since he appeared in the very first book.
Nathan was so incredibly excited about his summer plans. After years of scrimping and saving he's finally bought Tsarina, the horse he's going to train with to compete in dressage, and this summer Nathan is going to spend as much time as possible getting to know her and exercising her. Until on his very first ride a motorcycle comes out of nowhere on the multi use trail, Tsarina spooks and goes down taking Nathan with her. Nothing can quite compare to having twelve hundred pounds of horse land on your leg. Snap! Nathan's lower leg is broken in two places and he's stuck in a cast. Of course, punching the motorcycle driver in the face after Tsarina runs off is what causes Nathan's right hand to be in a cast, too.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
Nathan was so incredibly excited about his summer plans. After years of scrimping and saving he's finally bought Tsarina, the horse he's going to train with to compete in dressage, and this summer Nathan is going to spend as much time as possible getting to know her and exercising her. Until on his very first ride a motorcycle comes out of nowhere on the multi use trail, Tsarina spooks and goes down taking Nathan with her. Nothing can quite compare to having twelve hundred pounds of horse land on your leg. Snap! Nathan's lower leg is broken in two places and he's stuck in a cast. Of course, punching the motorcycle driver in the face after Tsarina runs off is what causes Nathan's right hand to be in a cast, too.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
November 2, 2015
The beginning of this story was very captivating and I was hooked on both MCs right out of the gate. The whole thing with the horse, the injury and so on was on point. Then they started to have sex and that was the end of the story-building and the beginning of an erotic read. That's pretty much all that happened sex, sex, talk, sex, talk, sex, story over. There are so many places Witt could have taken us, color me sad. I'm spoiled by the past installments in this series I've been fulfilled by but I have faith in future books. I have enjoyed LA Witt many times in the past and I know Witt will come through in the future.
October 10, 2013
Not my favourite in the series.
This story has an interesting context - a motorcycling roamer and a horse riding receptionist, but the story didnt really grip me as the other books did. I found this one to be a little boring. I think the series so far has been really high calibre but the characters here are pretty run of the mill.
Having said this it is still a nice story with appearances from some of the characters from earlier books. It is a nice steady romance, not gripping but still good.
This story has an interesting context - a motorcycling roamer and a horse riding receptionist, but the story didnt really grip me as the other books did. I found this one to be a little boring. I think the series so far has been really high calibre but the characters here are pretty run of the mill.
Having said this it is still a nice story with appearances from some of the characters from earlier books. It is a nice steady romance, not gripping but still good.
March 29, 2016
I love this series! The setting is so well-described and it makes me want to venture out to Colorado. I had been intrigued by Nathan since his first appearance and loved how he was developed. And Ryan was just so sweet and surprising in his temperament. I thought they made an adorable couple and it was fun to see them move on from the accident into close friendship. As always, I enjoyed the cameos of other Tucker Springs residents, particularly Owen and Seth. I hope we get more of this series soon!
November 9, 2013
ARC received courtesy of Riptide Publishing via NetGalley
3.5 starts
This was a well written, cute story. For me personally I like a little more angst. A little slow to start but not a bad story. Would I recommend it? Sure if you are looking for something to make you feel good, this is the story for you. If you are looking for something with a good dose of drama then I'd save this for a day when you need something to cheer you up.
http://www.rebelbookchicks.com/home.html
3.5 starts
This was a well written, cute story. For me personally I like a little more angst. A little slow to start but not a bad story. Would I recommend it? Sure if you are looking for something to make you feel good, this is the story for you. If you are looking for something with a good dose of drama then I'd save this for a day when you need something to cheer you up.
http://www.rebelbookchicks.com/home.html
November 14, 2013
I found this story boring, and I liked the characters less and less the more I read. Hope Springs books are hit or miss with me, and this one was really a miss.
October 25, 2013
Boring.
September 4, 2019
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the sixth book in the series. Each one deals with a different relationship, but there are inevitable links across books, seeing as they all live so close to each other.
Here we get Nathan, Mike's receptionist's story. He has finally saved up enough to buy a horse, and plans on spending the summer training her for dressage. Unfortunately his hopes are dashed by an accident caused by the horse startling at a motorbike on the same trail. Be prepared to wince at the injuries sustained - but also possibly chuckle at how his hand is hurt! Fate however has meant that the man who caused the accident is someone of great integrity, and who offers to help ride Tsarina.
Ryan is a bit of a nomad, and has no expectations of settling down any time soon - but the time he spends with Nathan definitely starts to make him question his next move. As we watch them both dance (or stumble) around their no-strings "friendship", it is both amusing and frustrating. However, fans of Witt will know that there will be the very ending we wish for, even if not in the way that we might have expected.
Another lovely addition to the series - I recommend it to you.
This is the sixth book in the series. Each one deals with a different relationship, but there are inevitable links across books, seeing as they all live so close to each other.
Here we get Nathan, Mike's receptionist's story. He has finally saved up enough to buy a horse, and plans on spending the summer training her for dressage. Unfortunately his hopes are dashed by an accident caused by the horse startling at a motorbike on the same trail. Be prepared to wince at the injuries sustained - but also possibly chuckle at how his hand is hurt! Fate however has meant that the man who caused the accident is someone of great integrity, and who offers to help ride Tsarina.
Ryan is a bit of a nomad, and has no expectations of settling down any time soon - but the time he spends with Nathan definitely starts to make him question his next move. As we watch them both dance (or stumble) around their no-strings "friendship", it is both amusing and frustrating. However, fans of Witt will know that there will be the very ending we wish for, even if not in the way that we might have expected.
Another lovely addition to the series - I recommend it to you.
August 21, 2019
4.75 Stars
I’ll admit to knowing next to nothing about horses, except not to put your foot under their hoof, because, yea, that shit hurts! My only real complaint about this book was the horse aspect, not that I don’t like them, even after having my foot nearly broken by one at the age of 15, but that I had no clue what dressage was. Turns out it’s fancy foot work performed by a horse, but that wasn’t explained in the book. I was going to google it, but I have really smart co-bloggers who both knew exactly what it was.
As for the romance, it was slow going at first, but once Nathan and Ryan gave into their attraction, it was amazing. I have no clue how Ms. Witt does it, but she writes the absolute best kissing and sex scenes. They never feel repetitive and the passion between the characters comes off the pages at you, and Nathan and Ryan were not the exception. The chemistry between them was out of this world and they were perfect together.
I really enjoyed this story. It was well-written and it flowed well. Both Nathan and Ryan were super sweet and they made me swoon a bit. Highly recommendable!
*copy provided by author/publisher in exchange for an honest review*
I’ll admit to knowing next to nothing about horses, except not to put your foot under their hoof, because, yea, that shit hurts! My only real complaint about this book was the horse aspect, not that I don’t like them, even after having my foot nearly broken by one at the age of 15, but that I had no clue what dressage was. Turns out it’s fancy foot work performed by a horse, but that wasn’t explained in the book. I was going to google it, but I have really smart co-bloggers who both knew exactly what it was.
As for the romance, it was slow going at first, but once Nathan and Ryan gave into their attraction, it was amazing. I have no clue how Ms. Witt does it, but she writes the absolute best kissing and sex scenes. They never feel repetitive and the passion between the characters comes off the pages at you, and Nathan and Ryan were not the exception. The chemistry between them was out of this world and they were perfect together.
I really enjoyed this story. It was well-written and it flowed well. Both Nathan and Ryan were super sweet and they made me swoon a bit. Highly recommendable!
*copy provided by author/publisher in exchange for an honest review*
November 22, 2023
Darum geht’s:
Nathan unternimmt seinen ersten Ausritt mit seinem eigenen Pferd – und wird prompt abgeworfen, weil ein Motorradfahrer sein Pferd erschreckt. Biker Ryan bietet aus schlechtem Gewissen seine Hilfe an, denn Nathan hat sich Bein und Hand gebrochen. Erst entwickelt sich eine Freundschaft zwischen ihnen, dann wird es mehr. Problematisch bleibt, dass Ryan nur auf der Durchreise ist und bald weiterziehen wird.
Meine Meinung dazu gibt’s hier
Nathan unternimmt seinen ersten Ausritt mit seinem eigenen Pferd – und wird prompt abgeworfen, weil ein Motorradfahrer sein Pferd erschreckt. Biker Ryan bietet aus schlechtem Gewissen seine Hilfe an, denn Nathan hat sich Bein und Hand gebrochen. Erst entwickelt sich eine Freundschaft zwischen ihnen, dann wird es mehr. Problematisch bleibt, dass Ryan nur auf der Durchreise ist und bald weiterziehen wird.
Meine Meinung dazu gibt’s hier
February 23, 2022
Solid romance. Probably 3.5 stars but we’ll-drawn characters and engaging.
December 23, 2020
Voto 4+/5
In “Quando si cade” di L.A. Witt abbiamo la possibilità di conoscere meglio il personaggio di Nathan, il giovane, malizioso ed esuberante segretario dello studio medico dell'agopuntore Michael Whitman, nonché generoso e leale amico di Owen. In questo romanzo che lo vede come protagonista, l'autrice ci presenta diverse altre sfumature del suo carattere. Maniaco del controllo, perfezionista quasi ossessivo, dopo due disastrose relazioni teme di legarsi di nuovo e preferisce attendere qualche anno, consapevole che anche i rapporti più stabili rischiano di incrinarsi.
Nathan mostra una grande passione per l'equitazione, coltivata sin da piccolo, e ha risparmiato diversi anni prima di potersi permettere l'acquisto di un cavallo tutto suo. È talmente orgoglioso ed emozionato per la sua splendida puledra Zarina che freme per poter finalmente cavalcare con lei, sognando di poterlo fare tutta l'estate. Purtroppo, la prima cavalcata non va come sperato: un motociclista taglia loro la strada, Zarina si spaventa e Nathan cade rompendosi una gamba (e fratturandosi una mano dopo aver sferrato un pugno al motociclista).
Ryan ama girare per il mondo e non ha, al momento, alcuna intenzione di mettere radici e di fermarsi in uno stesso posto per più di due anni di seguito. Quando, a bordo della sua moto, si rende conto di aver fatto cadere un ragazzo da cavallo, non esita a prestargli immediato soccorso, beccandosi anche un pugno ben assestato, e in preda ai sensi di colpa per avergli causato un infortunio, offre tutto il suo aiuto durante la guarigione.
Dopo una prima fase di rabbia e spavento, Nathan si mostra sempre più propenso ad accettare l'aiuto di Ryan, che vorrebbe imparare a cavalcare e tenere allenata Zarina durante l'estate, considerato che il suo padrone è impossibilitato a farlo. Gli allenamenti sono un'occasione per i due ragazzi per conoscersi meglio e per stringere un'amicizia che diviene ben presto qualcosa di più profondo.
Con la sua consueta scrittura fluida e lineare, l'autrice ci racconta una storia molto dolce e romantica lasciando intravedere una certa evoluzione dei protagonisti. Nella prima parte, infatti, mentre la narrazione ci mostra il modo con cui si sviluppa l'amicizia tra i due ragazzi, le loro confidenze, i ricordi adolescenziali, le lunghe chiacchierate sui temi più disparati, possiamo osservare un Nathan inizialmente dubbioso e poi sempre più convinto e coinvolto e un Ryan, dapprima timoroso e poi molto più deciso. I paletti che avevano eretto intorno alle loro esistenze circa la possibilità di stringere legami sentimentali stabili iniziano gradualmente a incrinarsi.
Nathan si è sempre rifiutato di dipendere dagli altri e anche con una gamba ingessata cerca, spesso invano, di fare tutto da solo. Eppure accetta con spontaneità l'aiuto di Ryan, che interagisce con naturalezza con lui senza farlo sentire un invalido.
La seconda parte vede Nathan, sempre più attratto e intrigato da Ryan, cedere finalmente alla passione nei suoi confronti. Come sempre, l'autrice riesce a esprimere l'erotismo tra i due protagonisti con grande intensità lasciando trapelare emozioni che si fanno sempre più solide e vere.
Posso dire di aver amato molto la caratterizzazione di entrambi i protagonisti. Ryan, libero e nomade, gentile e affabile, deve iniziare a fare i conti con cosa significhi davvero non avere radici in nessun posto, oltre a capire se realmente riuscirà un giorno a sentirsi a casa: «Scese di nuovo il silenzio e continuammo entrambi a guardare il cielo.
Fui io a spezzarlo, la voce a malapena un sussurro. “Credi che metterai mai radici da qualche parte?”
Scrollò le spalle. “Non lo so. Non sono mai stato in un luogo in cui mi sentissi a casa, capisci?”
“Da nessuna parte?”
“Da nessuna parte”, Riprese ad accarezzarmi distrattamente il braccio, “Da un lato, credo che sarei felice di macinare asfalto finché non sarò troppo vecchio per continuare a farlo. D'altro canto, una parte di me pensa che forse sono alla ricerca di qualcosa che non ho ancora trovato”».
Nathan, adorabile testardo, aveva sempre mostrato una grande sicurezza che nascondeva molte incertezze e paure. Il suo terrore di affrontare un altro legame fallimentare deve fare i conti con ciò che sta iniziando a provare per Ryan e con la paura che lui un giorno possa andare via: «C'era qualcosa tra noi in quel momento, qualcosa di inconfessato, nascosto in un angolino buio ad aspettare che uno dei due lo portasse alla luce. Era spaventosamente familiare e, allo stesso tempo, intrigantemente alieno. Come una parola sulla punta della lingua che non riuscivo proprio a ricordare, ma che mi sarebbe sembrata ovvia non appena l'avessi sentita».
“Quando si cade” è, dunque, un romanzo che mi ha fatto davvero sognare ed emozionare per la dolcezza dei sentimenti espressi dai protagonisti, per la loro paura di affrontare i cambiamenti, per l'intensità con cui hanno mostrato la reciproca passione.
In “Quando si cade” di L.A. Witt abbiamo la possibilità di conoscere meglio il personaggio di Nathan, il giovane, malizioso ed esuberante segretario dello studio medico dell'agopuntore Michael Whitman, nonché generoso e leale amico di Owen. In questo romanzo che lo vede come protagonista, l'autrice ci presenta diverse altre sfumature del suo carattere. Maniaco del controllo, perfezionista quasi ossessivo, dopo due disastrose relazioni teme di legarsi di nuovo e preferisce attendere qualche anno, consapevole che anche i rapporti più stabili rischiano di incrinarsi.
Nathan mostra una grande passione per l'equitazione, coltivata sin da piccolo, e ha risparmiato diversi anni prima di potersi permettere l'acquisto di un cavallo tutto suo. È talmente orgoglioso ed emozionato per la sua splendida puledra Zarina che freme per poter finalmente cavalcare con lei, sognando di poterlo fare tutta l'estate. Purtroppo, la prima cavalcata non va come sperato: un motociclista taglia loro la strada, Zarina si spaventa e Nathan cade rompendosi una gamba (e fratturandosi una mano dopo aver sferrato un pugno al motociclista).
Ryan ama girare per il mondo e non ha, al momento, alcuna intenzione di mettere radici e di fermarsi in uno stesso posto per più di due anni di seguito. Quando, a bordo della sua moto, si rende conto di aver fatto cadere un ragazzo da cavallo, non esita a prestargli immediato soccorso, beccandosi anche un pugno ben assestato, e in preda ai sensi di colpa per avergli causato un infortunio, offre tutto il suo aiuto durante la guarigione.
Dopo una prima fase di rabbia e spavento, Nathan si mostra sempre più propenso ad accettare l'aiuto di Ryan, che vorrebbe imparare a cavalcare e tenere allenata Zarina durante l'estate, considerato che il suo padrone è impossibilitato a farlo. Gli allenamenti sono un'occasione per i due ragazzi per conoscersi meglio e per stringere un'amicizia che diviene ben presto qualcosa di più profondo.
Con la sua consueta scrittura fluida e lineare, l'autrice ci racconta una storia molto dolce e romantica lasciando intravedere una certa evoluzione dei protagonisti. Nella prima parte, infatti, mentre la narrazione ci mostra il modo con cui si sviluppa l'amicizia tra i due ragazzi, le loro confidenze, i ricordi adolescenziali, le lunghe chiacchierate sui temi più disparati, possiamo osservare un Nathan inizialmente dubbioso e poi sempre più convinto e coinvolto e un Ryan, dapprima timoroso e poi molto più deciso. I paletti che avevano eretto intorno alle loro esistenze circa la possibilità di stringere legami sentimentali stabili iniziano gradualmente a incrinarsi.
Nathan si è sempre rifiutato di dipendere dagli altri e anche con una gamba ingessata cerca, spesso invano, di fare tutto da solo. Eppure accetta con spontaneità l'aiuto di Ryan, che interagisce con naturalezza con lui senza farlo sentire un invalido.
La seconda parte vede Nathan, sempre più attratto e intrigato da Ryan, cedere finalmente alla passione nei suoi confronti. Come sempre, l'autrice riesce a esprimere l'erotismo tra i due protagonisti con grande intensità lasciando trapelare emozioni che si fanno sempre più solide e vere.
Posso dire di aver amato molto la caratterizzazione di entrambi i protagonisti. Ryan, libero e nomade, gentile e affabile, deve iniziare a fare i conti con cosa significhi davvero non avere radici in nessun posto, oltre a capire se realmente riuscirà un giorno a sentirsi a casa: «Scese di nuovo il silenzio e continuammo entrambi a guardare il cielo.
Fui io a spezzarlo, la voce a malapena un sussurro. “Credi che metterai mai radici da qualche parte?”
Scrollò le spalle. “Non lo so. Non sono mai stato in un luogo in cui mi sentissi a casa, capisci?”
“Da nessuna parte?”
“Da nessuna parte”, Riprese ad accarezzarmi distrattamente il braccio, “Da un lato, credo che sarei felice di macinare asfalto finché non sarò troppo vecchio per continuare a farlo. D'altro canto, una parte di me pensa che forse sono alla ricerca di qualcosa che non ho ancora trovato”».
Nathan, adorabile testardo, aveva sempre mostrato una grande sicurezza che nascondeva molte incertezze e paure. Il suo terrore di affrontare un altro legame fallimentare deve fare i conti con ciò che sta iniziando a provare per Ryan e con la paura che lui un giorno possa andare via: «C'era qualcosa tra noi in quel momento, qualcosa di inconfessato, nascosto in un angolino buio ad aspettare che uno dei due lo portasse alla luce. Era spaventosamente familiare e, allo stesso tempo, intrigantemente alieno. Come una parola sulla punta della lingua che non riuscivo proprio a ricordare, ma che mi sarebbe sembrata ovvia non appena l'avessi sentita».
“Quando si cade” è, dunque, un romanzo che mi ha fatto davvero sognare ed emozionare per la dolcezza dei sentimenti espressi dai protagonisti, per la loro paura di affrontare i cambiamenti, per l'intensità con cui hanno mostrato la reciproca passione.
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