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Sinful, Montana #4
Born to Sin
Being sentenced by a woman in a black robe is not a meet-cute.
Quinn Jeffries follows the rules. A judge in small-town Sinful, Montana, doesn’t have much room for missteps, and when you spend your childhood training for the Olympics, you don’t have time for anything but discipline anyway. And, see? It’s worked! Her life is just fine. Of course, it doesn’t include any romance, but her new six-first-dates plan could fix that. She just has to be feminine and beguiling, or maybe marginally less take-charge. Too bad she doesn’t know how.
Beckett Hughes has a few problems, too, but nothing he can’t fix. Yes, he’s an Aussie in small-town Montana, and his kids don’t understand why he’s moved them halfway around the world, but he can do this. He has to. He isn’t counting on rescuing a useless monkey-faced dog from a rubbish bag, or on making one of the stupidest decisions of his life bang in front of a cop and ending up standing before a judge he last saw in her swim costume. He doesn’t need any of this. Except that it seems he does.
How do you drag a woman into sin when she doesn’t even recognize the destination?
Quinn Jeffries follows the rules. A judge in small-town Sinful, Montana, doesn’t have much room for missteps, and when you spend your childhood training for the Olympics, you don’t have time for anything but discipline anyway. And, see? It’s worked! Her life is just fine. Of course, it doesn’t include any romance, but her new six-first-dates plan could fix that. She just has to be feminine and beguiling, or maybe marginally less take-charge. Too bad she doesn’t know how.
Beckett Hughes has a few problems, too, but nothing he can’t fix. Yes, he’s an Aussie in small-town Montana, and his kids don’t understand why he’s moved them halfway around the world, but he can do this. He has to. He isn’t counting on rescuing a useless monkey-faced dog from a rubbish bag, or on making one of the stupidest decisions of his life bang in front of a cop and ending up standing before a judge he last saw in her swim costume. He doesn’t need any of this. Except that it seems he does.
How do you drag a woman into sin when she doesn’t even recognize the destination?
524 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2023
188 people are currently reading
85 people want to read
About the author
Rosalind James
55 books1,219 followersRosalind James writes contemporary romance and romantic suspense published both by Montlake Romance and independently. Her stories are set in New Zealand, Idaho, California, New York . . . really, anyplace that seems cool. (Research trips, especially those involving lots of rugby, are a bonus.) Her books are available in ebook, paperback, and audio formats. Rosalind is a former marketing executive who spent several years in Australia and New Zealand, where she fell in love with the people, the landscape, and the culture of both countries. She attributes her rapid success to the fact that "Lots of people would like to escape to New Zealand! I know I did!"
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
November 10, 2023
3.5 to 4 stars. I quite enjoyed this book, although it's not my favourite by Ms. James. Beckett and Quinn were well-suited, and the ending of the book was satisfying. I did find the 'mystery' section of the book didn't really work that well for me, but otherwise, the romance was believable and enjoyable to read. I liked that Quinn was a judge.
I did find Beckett's daughter a little too precocious. I would also have liked a little more about the scenery and settings of both Montana and Brisbane. The New Zealand and Australian settings in her other books have been a real part of my enjoyment, and I missed that a little in this one. But overall, another good read from Ms James, even if not her best book.
I did find Beckett's daughter a little too precocious. I would also have liked a little more about the scenery and settings of both Montana and Brisbane. The New Zealand and Australian settings in her other books have been a real part of my enjoyment, and I missed that a little in this one. But overall, another good read from Ms James, even if not her best book.
April 10, 2025
Ms. James rarely gets less than a 4 star from me. 👏🏻
November 23, 2023
Four and a half stars.
Quinn Jeffries is a former Olympic swimmer turned lawyer and local judge. She has a reputation to maintain and some could consider her standoffish, a bit aloof, or maybe a bit odd. However, one of her running friends has decided she must start dating and has devised a six week programme, one date a week, to find her the perfect man. The trouble is, Quinn is a highly motivated, take-charge kind of woman and most men find that off-putting.
Single dad, Beckett Hughes has recently moved from Australia to small-town Sinful, Montana to manage a construction site for his boos, but also to get away from the memories of his late wife which beset him at home. His relationship with Quin gets off to a bad start when he appears in her traffic court after trying to outrun a train to get his two children to school on time for their first day. After that they seem to keep running into each other, she teaches swimming classes for the nervous, he takes the kids to the park and witnesses the disintegration of her date, etc, etc.
Just when it seems as though Beckett could be the man Quinn has been looking for, his old life comes beckoning.
This was an absolute blast of 100% full-on Rosalind James at her best. Funny, sweet, romantic, clever, witty dialogue, cute moppets, brilliant characters that just jump off the page.
Loved it.
Available on Kindle Unlimited.
Quinn Jeffries is a former Olympic swimmer turned lawyer and local judge. She has a reputation to maintain and some could consider her standoffish, a bit aloof, or maybe a bit odd. However, one of her running friends has decided she must start dating and has devised a six week programme, one date a week, to find her the perfect man. The trouble is, Quinn is a highly motivated, take-charge kind of woman and most men find that off-putting.
Single dad, Beckett Hughes has recently moved from Australia to small-town Sinful, Montana to manage a construction site for his boos, but also to get away from the memories of his late wife which beset him at home. His relationship with Quin gets off to a bad start when he appears in her traffic court after trying to outrun a train to get his two children to school on time for their first day. After that they seem to keep running into each other, she teaches swimming classes for the nervous, he takes the kids to the park and witnesses the disintegration of her date, etc, etc.
Just when it seems as though Beckett could be the man Quinn has been looking for, his old life comes beckoning.
This was an absolute blast of 100% full-on Rosalind James at her best. Funny, sweet, romantic, clever, witty dialogue, cute moppets, brilliant characters that just jump off the page.
Loved it.
Available on Kindle Unlimited.
September 10, 2025
Loved this book I give it 4.5 stars but will round up to 5 for review. Quinn grew up super competitive and always gives her best. She won 2 swimming medals at olympics, aced her law degree and is now a judge. At 37 yrs old she's had bad luck with her only 2 long term relationships, the men said she is not feminine enough, too take charge and she was left for younger girly girls.
Beckett an Aussie, comes to town to work with his 2 kids. He likes Quinn from the first time he sets eyes on her, a lot. They keep running into each other around town and the attraction grows.
His wife died two years ago and this is the first time he's been attracted to anyone since. He feels guilty, he loved his wife not sure he is over her yet. His 5 yr old likes Quinn but his 11yr old daughter is jealous, unhappy and wants no woman in her dad's life, especially Quinn.
This book is so good, there are heartfelt talks about life, death, growing up, love and the kids make it so real. The 11yr old is a preteen and dealing with a girl that age for anyone is difficult, for a single dad even more so but he does it with humor, honesty, love and strength. Quinn is so special, hot, sexy and a example of a real man (where can I get one please?).
Listened on audio, highly recommend as the narrator did excellent job of all the voices and accents.
Beckett an Aussie, comes to town to work with his 2 kids. He likes Quinn from the first time he sets eyes on her, a lot. They keep running into each other around town and the attraction grows.
His wife died two years ago and this is the first time he's been attracted to anyone since. He feels guilty, he loved his wife not sure he is over her yet. His 5 yr old likes Quinn but his 11yr old daughter is jealous, unhappy and wants no woman in her dad's life, especially Quinn.
This book is so good, there are heartfelt talks about life, death, growing up, love and the kids make it so real. The 11yr old is a preteen and dealing with a girl that age for anyone is difficult, for a single dad even more so but he does it with humor, honesty, love and strength. Quinn is so special, hot, sexy and a example of a real man (where can I get one please?).
Listened on audio, highly recommend as the narrator did excellent job of all the voices and accents.
November 2, 2023
Another fantastic edition to Rosalind James’ Sinful Montana series.
All of Rosalind’s stories feature fully developed, well rounded characters that are so well described, you feel like you know them. Born to Sin is no exception, with two fantastic characters in local small town Judge Quinn and transplanted Aussie Beckett.
Quinn is fantastic, a high achieving, incredibly capable and intelligent woman, and yet, she doesn’t see herself as desirable or sexy as a romantic partner. I love how she comes across as having it all together, but gradually, as Beckett and the kids get to know her, she starts to show her vulnerabilities and reveal her fears.
Widowed and still grieving Beckett brings his two kids to the US for a new job and a fresh start. He is struggling to deal with his own grief, especially as he doesn’t exactly understand the circumstances of his wife’s death, while trying to help two kids with their own big feelings and trying to help them get back on their feet. The way he does that is loving but delightfully imperfect, like most parents he is doing the best he can and really just making it up as he goes along.
The relationship between Beckett and Quinn develops gradually, but like an Australian bushfire, once it gets going, there is a “whoosh” and it takes on an unstoppable life of its own.
All of the secondary characters, from Beckett’s kids, to Quinn’s friends and family are all fully developed, quirky, interesting and imperfect characters in their own right.
While I have never been to Montana, and Sinful is, as far as I know, a fictitious town, Rosalind makes it feel very real.
Another thing I love about Rosalind’s stories are the quirky chapter names. I love not knowing exactly what to expect when I start a new chapter, and how the chapter names start to make sense as I continue reading.
What makes this book a little different from others is there is a suspense/crime element as Quinn and Beckett team up to solve the mystery of the death of Beckett’s wife. I really liked how this was woven in subtly in the beginning of the book and then it became a pivotal plot point in the latter stages of the story.
While Rosalind writes this book in third person POV, she can very skilfully change POV, sometimes right in the middle of the chapter, and not lose the thread of the story.
I also adore all of Rosalind’s covers. Rather than the stereotypical shirtless ripped man, her covers are quirky without being sickly.
The only very minor niggle I have is that while Rosalind captures the quirky Australian lexicon and culture almost perfectly, there were a couple of really small details that were slightly off. As an example, in Australia we dial 000 in emergencies (or 112 on mobiles), not 111 as referred to in the story.
All of Rosalind’s stories feature fully developed, well rounded characters that are so well described, you feel like you know them. Born to Sin is no exception, with two fantastic characters in local small town Judge Quinn and transplanted Aussie Beckett.
Quinn is fantastic, a high achieving, incredibly capable and intelligent woman, and yet, she doesn’t see herself as desirable or sexy as a romantic partner. I love how she comes across as having it all together, but gradually, as Beckett and the kids get to know her, she starts to show her vulnerabilities and reveal her fears.
Widowed and still grieving Beckett brings his two kids to the US for a new job and a fresh start. He is struggling to deal with his own grief, especially as he doesn’t exactly understand the circumstances of his wife’s death, while trying to help two kids with their own big feelings and trying to help them get back on their feet. The way he does that is loving but delightfully imperfect, like most parents he is doing the best he can and really just making it up as he goes along.
The relationship between Beckett and Quinn develops gradually, but like an Australian bushfire, once it gets going, there is a “whoosh” and it takes on an unstoppable life of its own.
All of the secondary characters, from Beckett’s kids, to Quinn’s friends and family are all fully developed, quirky, interesting and imperfect characters in their own right.
While I have never been to Montana, and Sinful is, as far as I know, a fictitious town, Rosalind makes it feel very real.
Another thing I love about Rosalind’s stories are the quirky chapter names. I love not knowing exactly what to expect when I start a new chapter, and how the chapter names start to make sense as I continue reading.
What makes this book a little different from others is there is a suspense/crime element as Quinn and Beckett team up to solve the mystery of the death of Beckett’s wife. I really liked how this was woven in subtly in the beginning of the book and then it became a pivotal plot point in the latter stages of the story.
While Rosalind writes this book in third person POV, she can very skilfully change POV, sometimes right in the middle of the chapter, and not lose the thread of the story.
I also adore all of Rosalind’s covers. Rather than the stereotypical shirtless ripped man, her covers are quirky without being sickly.
The only very minor niggle I have is that while Rosalind captures the quirky Australian lexicon and culture almost perfectly, there were a couple of really small details that were slightly off. As an example, in Australia we dial 000 in emergencies (or 112 on mobiles), not 111 as referred to in the story.
November 6, 2023
This is a really lovely story. The romantic element is very romantic, but probably sits under the romantic comedy banner as Beckett (Australian) and Quinn (American) misunderstand each other all the time! Beckett Hughes is a widower, his wife drowned in a car accident, leaving him with two young children, Janey who was nine when her mother died, and Troy who was just three. He found it quite difficult as he did not get on with his wife’s family, and he needed to work as a Construction Manager for Brett Hunter, in Brisbane. Two years later, when the project ends, Brett offers him a new contract to build a ski resort in Sinful, Montana, and he jumps at the opportunity to get away from the sad memories.
He meets Quinn by accident when he and the children are out walking, and eating ice cream, and they see a woman, dressed all in black, being bombarded by two crows. Five year old Troy goes racing towards her, waving his arms and shouting, to scare them off. It turned out that she was about to feed them with peanuts. They chat for a while, and there is an instant spark between them. On the first day of the children starting school they are running late, Beckett jumps the lights at a level crossing because the train is some distance away, then is followed to the school by a policeman who gives him a ticket, he has to appear in court the next day. There he discovers that Quinn is the judge, a strong woman.
They keep meeting each other unexpectedly, when Beckett is out with his children, and gradually get to know each other. Janey is very unhappy about it - her father had promised to love her mother for ever, and she is not prepared to let any woman come close … ever! On the other hand Troy does not really remember his mother, he wants a dog so that he won’t be lonely, and a lady to live with them so that he can be cuddled and have bedtime stories read to him. Couple that with all the misunderstandings between Beckett and Quinn and it is no wonder that Beckett has a hard time! When he needs to find another house to rent for two months until his new house is ready Quinn suggests they move in with her, there is plenty of room. It causes quite a few issues, and lots of humour.
Rosalind writes children very well, Janey is a typical eleven-year-old girl, she thinks she knows everything; Troy is a timid little boy, much braver than he thinks he is; and some of the occasions when he gets brave and says what he thinks brings a tear to the eye of this reader!
A crisis occurs just before Christmas, and Beckett is obliged to go back to Brisbane, albeit briefly. Knowing it will be an ordeal Quinn insists on going with him … a lot happens there in a short time! And so the story draws to a close, and a happy ending is on the way. Tissues probably need to be at the ready!
He meets Quinn by accident when he and the children are out walking, and eating ice cream, and they see a woman, dressed all in black, being bombarded by two crows. Five year old Troy goes racing towards her, waving his arms and shouting, to scare them off. It turned out that she was about to feed them with peanuts. They chat for a while, and there is an instant spark between them. On the first day of the children starting school they are running late, Beckett jumps the lights at a level crossing because the train is some distance away, then is followed to the school by a policeman who gives him a ticket, he has to appear in court the next day. There he discovers that Quinn is the judge, a strong woman.
They keep meeting each other unexpectedly, when Beckett is out with his children, and gradually get to know each other. Janey is very unhappy about it - her father had promised to love her mother for ever, and she is not prepared to let any woman come close … ever! On the other hand Troy does not really remember his mother, he wants a dog so that he won’t be lonely, and a lady to live with them so that he can be cuddled and have bedtime stories read to him. Couple that with all the misunderstandings between Beckett and Quinn and it is no wonder that Beckett has a hard time! When he needs to find another house to rent for two months until his new house is ready Quinn suggests they move in with her, there is plenty of room. It causes quite a few issues, and lots of humour.
Rosalind writes children very well, Janey is a typical eleven-year-old girl, she thinks she knows everything; Troy is a timid little boy, much braver than he thinks he is; and some of the occasions when he gets brave and says what he thinks brings a tear to the eye of this reader!
A crisis occurs just before Christmas, and Beckett is obliged to go back to Brisbane, albeit briefly. Knowing it will be an ordeal Quinn insists on going with him … a lot happens there in a short time! And so the story draws to a close, and a happy ending is on the way. Tissues probably need to be at the ready!
November 3, 2023
Born to Sin is the fourth book in the Sinful Montana series. While some characters from the earlier books make cameo appearances, this is a standalone book. Rosalind always develops full characters with faults, doubts, and quirks.
Quinn is a smart, capable woman who is independent to a fault. She believes she can do everything herself and relying on others goes against her character. She chooses function over form in her wardrobe and is the furthest thing from a “girly” girl.
Beckett is widowed with two children, newly arrived from Australia. His children are still adjusting to life without mum and now have to figure out how to fit in in small town Montana. Beckett finds himself attracted to Quinn and is trying to figure out how to be a single man again. He also wants to be her knight in shining armor. The conflict this creates is sometimes funny, sometimes awkward, and ultimately heartwarming.
Their relationship grows while Quinn is on a dating rotation set up by a friend to get her out of her shell. After a few disastrous dates, Beckett starts looking like a better option. Their romance grows slowly and naturally. Beckett is more sure than Quinn and his patience with her will melt your heart.
As their relationship grows, Beckett’s past interferes and the couple find themselves with a mystery to solve in order to clear his name. The resolution brings them closer and they both finally realize that they are meant to be together. Even that had a few awkward moments!
This book has two of the characters that Rosalind writes best. A “quirky” woman who is awkward in certain situations and children. I always love Rosalind’s kids! The children are not window dressing. They are an important part of the story. The teenage daughter wants to keep them apart while the younger son freely admits that he wants Quinn in their lives. Some of the conversations Beckett has with his daughter made me cringe with their frankness, but it shows the situations that a single dad has to navigate.
As with all of Rosalind’s books, the romance grows slowly, naturally and believably. When they get together you will be rooting for them all the way. Her sex scenes have just the right amount of heat but won’t leave you rolling your eyes.
Born to Sin is a great addition to one of my favorite series.
Quinn is a smart, capable woman who is independent to a fault. She believes she can do everything herself and relying on others goes against her character. She chooses function over form in her wardrobe and is the furthest thing from a “girly” girl.
Beckett is widowed with two children, newly arrived from Australia. His children are still adjusting to life without mum and now have to figure out how to fit in in small town Montana. Beckett finds himself attracted to Quinn and is trying to figure out how to be a single man again. He also wants to be her knight in shining armor. The conflict this creates is sometimes funny, sometimes awkward, and ultimately heartwarming.
Their relationship grows while Quinn is on a dating rotation set up by a friend to get her out of her shell. After a few disastrous dates, Beckett starts looking like a better option. Their romance grows slowly and naturally. Beckett is more sure than Quinn and his patience with her will melt your heart.
As their relationship grows, Beckett’s past interferes and the couple find themselves with a mystery to solve in order to clear his name. The resolution brings them closer and they both finally realize that they are meant to be together. Even that had a few awkward moments!
This book has two of the characters that Rosalind writes best. A “quirky” woman who is awkward in certain situations and children. I always love Rosalind’s kids! The children are not window dressing. They are an important part of the story. The teenage daughter wants to keep them apart while the younger son freely admits that he wants Quinn in their lives. Some of the conversations Beckett has with his daughter made me cringe with their frankness, but it shows the situations that a single dad has to navigate.
As with all of Rosalind’s books, the romance grows slowly, naturally and believably. When they get together you will be rooting for them all the way. Her sex scenes have just the right amount of heat but won’t leave you rolling your eyes.
Born to Sin is a great addition to one of my favorite series.
November 7, 2023
Born to Sin is the 4th book of the Sinful Montana, but it is completely standalone. Essentially you know a about the lives of other people in the town, but that knowledge is not critical to the story.
The relationship between Quinn and Beckett really grows naturally throughout the book which I appreciate and seems appropriate to two adults who have strong sense of who they are, professions, and have adult considerations. This is a great book for when you want to read something with some maturity to the characters. The chemistry between the two is fantastic. I like all the side characters, especially the family who really flesh out these characters and make them real. I also think James does a great job of making settings such as homes seem very real and well thought out. I really liked Quinn’s parents in this book.
This book also has a suspenseful aspect to it (maybe 20 percent of the book). If you are not into suspense, I would still recommend this book. It is a good sized book, so if you skimmed those parts it would still be worth the purchase and you would still get an excellent heart-felt story.
A nice byproduct of James’s books is that they are great encouragement to stay physically active. Quinn swims and runs and you get the same sense of encouragement from reading this book as you would when talking to a friend about your respective exercising. It is really great to have that extra bit of passive motivation to work out.
I enjoy that James often writes about settings (Montana and Idaho) that get overlooked in fiction that isn’t specifically “western USA” fiction. It is always good to see middle of the US get some fiction love.
The relationship between Quinn and Beckett really grows naturally throughout the book which I appreciate and seems appropriate to two adults who have strong sense of who they are, professions, and have adult considerations. This is a great book for when you want to read something with some maturity to the characters. The chemistry between the two is fantastic. I like all the side characters, especially the family who really flesh out these characters and make them real. I also think James does a great job of making settings such as homes seem very real and well thought out. I really liked Quinn’s parents in this book.
This book also has a suspenseful aspect to it (maybe 20 percent of the book). If you are not into suspense, I would still recommend this book. It is a good sized book, so if you skimmed those parts it would still be worth the purchase and you would still get an excellent heart-felt story.
A nice byproduct of James’s books is that they are great encouragement to stay physically active. Quinn swims and runs and you get the same sense of encouragement from reading this book as you would when talking to a friend about your respective exercising. It is really great to have that extra bit of passive motivation to work out.
I enjoy that James often writes about settings (Montana and Idaho) that get overlooked in fiction that isn’t specifically “western USA” fiction. It is always good to see middle of the US get some fiction love.
October 30, 2023
Born To Sin is one of Rosalind Jame’s best stories, in this reader’s opinion. BTS is book #4 in the author’s Sinful series, set in a small Montana town called Sinful.
It’s a sort of family, loyalty, pushing through life’s most difficult and heart wrenching situations, while continuing to live each day to one’s best and searching for home and heart in the process.
Quinn is a small town judge who has a posse of eclectic friends (from the previous books in the series) ... all with big hearts and who want to see her with a man. Their 6 first dates strategy is set in action.
Beckett is new in town from Oz with his two children Janey and Troy. They are all grappling with the loss of Abby, Beckett’s wife and the mother of the kids, who died in an accident. Beckett’s got his hands full with kids who are struggling to fit into the new schools, find friends. He’s picket up a stray dog, Bacon, is wrestling with a housing dilemma, and the Aussie police want him to come back for questioning about Abby’s accident.
The housing dilemma is solved when Quinn offers her extra rooms to the family ... and despite the first date strategy, Quinn and Beckett start a romance.
BTS is classic Rosalind James ... family, friends, suspense, kids, family, life lessons. Its’ the best kind of series book ... one that has familiar friends from previous books, but can be read as a standalone. The writing is top notch, characters are realistic, and the dialogue is raw, honest, and real. I highlighted nearly half the book with favorite scenes.
If you’re looking for your next read, look no further. Born To Sin is one you’ll want to read over and over. I received an ARC. This is my honest review.
It’s a sort of family, loyalty, pushing through life’s most difficult and heart wrenching situations, while continuing to live each day to one’s best and searching for home and heart in the process.
Quinn is a small town judge who has a posse of eclectic friends (from the previous books in the series) ... all with big hearts and who want to see her with a man. Their 6 first dates strategy is set in action.
Beckett is new in town from Oz with his two children Janey and Troy. They are all grappling with the loss of Abby, Beckett’s wife and the mother of the kids, who died in an accident. Beckett’s got his hands full with kids who are struggling to fit into the new schools, find friends. He’s picket up a stray dog, Bacon, is wrestling with a housing dilemma, and the Aussie police want him to come back for questioning about Abby’s accident.
The housing dilemma is solved when Quinn offers her extra rooms to the family ... and despite the first date strategy, Quinn and Beckett start a romance.
BTS is classic Rosalind James ... family, friends, suspense, kids, family, life lessons. Its’ the best kind of series book ... one that has familiar friends from previous books, but can be read as a standalone. The writing is top notch, characters are realistic, and the dialogue is raw, honest, and real. I highlighted nearly half the book with favorite scenes.
If you’re looking for your next read, look no further. Born To Sin is one you’ll want to read over and over. I received an ARC. This is my honest review.
November 5, 2023
Rosalind's latest book takes us back to Sinful, Montana. Quinn is a judge in this small town. This was interesting. I don't think I've read a book where the heroine was a judge. Beckett Hughes is a widower, single dad Aussie. This was interesting too. Usually it's the h who is the transplant in the H's country. Quinn is kind of a no-nonsense kind of a gal - not really too feminine and not much confidence in that part of herself. Beckett struggles with the loss of his wife and moving his two kids to the other side of the world. I really enjoyed their story. I liked that they weren't kids and figured out a way around all their complications to make it work. Rosalind writes kids very well. The little boy was adorable, the girl was a bit of a challenge, but understandably missing her mother and her old life in Australia. They were some touching sexy parts, sad parts and of course, it's Rosalind, funny parts as well. Really enjoyed this one. Look forward to listening to the Audible version too.
November 20, 2023
Quinn is a small town judge who has a posse of eclectic friends (met in previous books). They want to see her happy again, and set in motion a 6 first dates strategy. Beckett is new in town and comes with two children in tow. The three of them have been dealing with the death of their wife and mother, and Beckett has his hands full with meeting their physical and emotional needs. Quinn offers them a place to stay, and, despite the first date plan, Quinn and Beckett start a romance.
Born to Sin has all of the classic touches of a Rosalind James book: robust characters, found family, familiar side characters and substantial friend connections, suspense, usually a kid or a dog (in this case both!). Strong writing with realistic and honest character dialogue, and an interesting backdrop with the town of Sinful Montana. Coming into a Rosalind James book is like coming home to a familiar friend.
Born To Sin is book #4 in Rosalind James’ Sinful Montana series, but can be read as a standalone.
Born to Sin has all of the classic touches of a Rosalind James book: robust characters, found family, familiar side characters and substantial friend connections, suspense, usually a kid or a dog (in this case both!). Strong writing with realistic and honest character dialogue, and an interesting backdrop with the town of Sinful Montana. Coming into a Rosalind James book is like coming home to a familiar friend.
Born To Sin is book #4 in Rosalind James’ Sinful Montana series, but can be read as a standalone.
October 30, 2023
Born to Sin brings us back to Sinful, Montana with brand new characters. Quinn is a local judge and Beckett an Australian single dad looking for a new start with his kids.
To be honest, this is not an easy book. It’s well written in Ms James unique style and the characters are intriguing, but it is not an easy book.
Quinn is incredibly capable in so many aspects of her life, I appreciated seeing the vulnerability she would show and some of her very honest missteps in underestimating of herself.
Beckett is an excellent dad and I loved the way he embraced Quinn’s quirks and worked to navigate the complicated factors of his life.
So, what do I mean about this not being an easy book? It’s honestly some of those complicating factors. Beckett is a widower/single dad with a preteen. He has fine lines to walk between the well being of his young family and navigating a unconventional new relationship. Ms James embraced this with an extreme about of grace and just enough awkwardness for everything to feel authentic.
This is another emotional and impactful book from Ms James! I am curious about where she will take us next.
To be honest, this is not an easy book. It’s well written in Ms James unique style and the characters are intriguing, but it is not an easy book.
Quinn is incredibly capable in so many aspects of her life, I appreciated seeing the vulnerability she would show and some of her very honest missteps in underestimating of herself.
Beckett is an excellent dad and I loved the way he embraced Quinn’s quirks and worked to navigate the complicated factors of his life.
So, what do I mean about this not being an easy book? It’s honestly some of those complicating factors. Beckett is a widower/single dad with a preteen. He has fine lines to walk between the well being of his young family and navigating a unconventional new relationship. Ms James embraced this with an extreme about of grace and just enough awkwardness for everything to feel authentic.
This is another emotional and impactful book from Ms James! I am curious about where she will take us next.
November 7, 2023
I patiently await Rosalind’s next book and she never disappoints.
We’re back in Sinful, Montana with a heartfelt story of loss and love.
Beckett Hughes and his two young children transplant from Australia after Beckett’s competent wife tragically drowns. Beckett is the construction manager for Brett Hunter (would have loved a cameo) overseeing the construction of a new ski resort.
We meet our heroine, Quinn Jeffries, an Olympic swimmer turned small town judge in not one, but three meet cutes! The antidotes between her awkwardness and quirky friends left me in stitches.
The struggles that Beckett’s children have are so endearing and real. Not only dealing with their mother’s death, they are trying to fit in at school and then navigate their father’s new found romance.
The story is wrapped up with a whirlwind trip to Australia with Quinn defending Beckett’s innocence surrounding his wife’s death.
Wrap it all up with a monkey-faced dog and we have another winner from Ms. James.
We’re back in Sinful, Montana with a heartfelt story of loss and love.
Beckett Hughes and his two young children transplant from Australia after Beckett’s competent wife tragically drowns. Beckett is the construction manager for Brett Hunter (would have loved a cameo) overseeing the construction of a new ski resort.
We meet our heroine, Quinn Jeffries, an Olympic swimmer turned small town judge in not one, but three meet cutes! The antidotes between her awkwardness and quirky friends left me in stitches.
The struggles that Beckett’s children have are so endearing and real. Not only dealing with their mother’s death, they are trying to fit in at school and then navigate their father’s new found romance.
The story is wrapped up with a whirlwind trip to Australia with Quinn defending Beckett’s innocence surrounding his wife’s death.
Wrap it all up with a monkey-faced dog and we have another winner from Ms. James.
November 15, 2023
Solid read
Rosalind James has a wonderful ability to write believable characters acting in logical ways in realistic situations. That’s one of the things I like most about her writing.
Quinn’s dogged self reliance and determination were believably based upon her previous experiences as an elite athlete facing down the end of a competitive career. Beckette’s struggles as a fairly new widower and single father, were poignant and realistic. The voices of the children, a precocious 11 year old and a needy 5 year old navigating a new country and life without their mother, were on the money.
My only criticism is that the bit of drama at the end that takes Quinn and Beckett to Australia seemed a bit forced. Without giving too much away, let’s just say that I didn’t believe the circumstances and actions of the Police that brought them back.
Apart from that, this was a solid, very enjoyable read.
Rosalind James has a wonderful ability to write believable characters acting in logical ways in realistic situations. That’s one of the things I like most about her writing.
Quinn’s dogged self reliance and determination were believably based upon her previous experiences as an elite athlete facing down the end of a competitive career. Beckette’s struggles as a fairly new widower and single father, were poignant and realistic. The voices of the children, a precocious 11 year old and a needy 5 year old navigating a new country and life without their mother, were on the money.
My only criticism is that the bit of drama at the end that takes Quinn and Beckett to Australia seemed a bit forced. Without giving too much away, let’s just say that I didn’t believe the circumstances and actions of the Police that brought them back.
Apart from that, this was a solid, very enjoyable read.
Read
November 3, 2023Small Town, Single Dad Romance
Rosalind James is a favorite author of mine. She writes heart engaging storylines and complex characters. Beckett and Quinn had heartbreaking pasts to overcome. The way they interacted was heartwarming, especially with the children. I got so emotionally invested and immersed myself into their world.
At the same time, there were some irritations in this book for me. Eleven, almost twelve, year olds should not be having some of the conversations they were having regarding sex. There are always exceptions, I realize. But was this one of those times? Add the way she was speaking to her father!? Unfortunately it brought me out of my book haze thinking about real life. Ugh.
Emma Wilder is an excellent narrator. She has an easy to listen to voice and performs with emotion. It was perfection.
Rosalind James is a favorite author of mine. She writes heart engaging storylines and complex characters. Beckett and Quinn had heartbreaking pasts to overcome. The way they interacted was heartwarming, especially with the children. I got so emotionally invested and immersed myself into their world.
At the same time, there were some irritations in this book for me. Eleven, almost twelve, year olds should not be having some of the conversations they were having regarding sex. There are always exceptions, I realize. But was this one of those times? Add the way she was speaking to her father!? Unfortunately it brought me out of my book haze thinking about real life. Ugh.
Emma Wilder is an excellent narrator. She has an easy to listen to voice and performs with emotion. It was perfection.
November 6, 2023
I have a weird fascination with the first lines of books and this one is right up there with some of my other favourites: "Beckett Hughes wasn't expecting the crows."
Small town Montana judge Quinn meets Aussie widower Beckett and his 2 children and of course Rosalind James delivers her usual magic. Add in a "monkey-faced dog" and you have the perfect recipe for brilliant romantic comedy.
One of the best things about Rosalind is the way she writes children. From young and adorable to teenagers that you want to send to their rooms, and everything in between. You cannot help but feel empathy for two kids that lost their mum too young and a father who is trying his best to keep everything together.
Oh, and Martin, personal assistant to the stars, is back in this book to my absolute delight.
Small town Montana judge Quinn meets Aussie widower Beckett and his 2 children and of course Rosalind James delivers her usual magic. Add in a "monkey-faced dog" and you have the perfect recipe for brilliant romantic comedy.
One of the best things about Rosalind is the way she writes children. From young and adorable to teenagers that you want to send to their rooms, and everything in between. You cannot help but feel empathy for two kids that lost their mum too young and a father who is trying his best to keep everything together.
Oh, and Martin, personal assistant to the stars, is back in this book to my absolute delight.
November 12, 2024
meh
I used to be a huge fan of this author, and have read her earlier works multiple times. For me, her later works are not compelling and this is evidence. The “meet cute” is when the hero is in traffic court, although the heroine is supposed to be a family law judge. Two separate disciplines. The vast majority of the story is descriptions of sex between the hero and heroine — plot and character development are really nice, but non existence. There were two cringy conversations justifying their sexual activity between the heroine and her father and the hero and his 11 year old that didn’t add positive vibes. The real plot and action didn’t occur until the very end, so it was nice to see some semblance of a plot, it was a little to late. I only regret I spent actual money on this book.
I used to be a huge fan of this author, and have read her earlier works multiple times. For me, her later works are not compelling and this is evidence. The “meet cute” is when the hero is in traffic court, although the heroine is supposed to be a family law judge. Two separate disciplines. The vast majority of the story is descriptions of sex between the hero and heroine — plot and character development are really nice, but non existence. There were two cringy conversations justifying their sexual activity between the heroine and her father and the hero and his 11 year old that didn’t add positive vibes. The real plot and action didn’t occur until the very end, so it was nice to see some semblance of a plot, it was a little to late. I only regret I spent actual money on this book.
November 9, 2023
I've read all of the Sinful, Montana books (and honestly, I'm almost positive, all of Rosalind James books). That said, I was not surprised what a sweet and spicy read this book was.
Quinn (our heroine) has a rock solid life. She's a successful woman, who's never been afraid of working hard. Beckett (our hero) is a rock solid guy, but sadly his and his children's lives have been through some very turbulent times in the past few years.
The characters are well written and likable from our first introduction to them. They are not perfect but they try to be the best people that they can be. The children (and other secondary characters) are also well written.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys well written romance.
Quinn (our heroine) has a rock solid life. She's a successful woman, who's never been afraid of working hard. Beckett (our hero) is a rock solid guy, but sadly his and his children's lives have been through some very turbulent times in the past few years.
The characters are well written and likable from our first introduction to them. They are not perfect but they try to be the best people that they can be. The children (and other secondary characters) are also well written.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys well written romance.
November 17, 2023
Love Whatever She Writes
The richly drawn characters are a delight, as always. Beckett just shines. Quinn, so quirky yet charming. The children and dog - fun.
Secondary characters are an important part of the story too. But I didn't like the rabbit trail of murder by Beckett. That whole plot line was very weak. And the in-laws? Were they just snobs? That part of the story was not well done. Added nothing and seemed an afterthought.
I think an exploration of the brother barely mentioned or Martin would have added richness to the story.
Also, finding out that Quinn is pregnant for the wedding at epilogue troubled me. Would have been nice to have that reveal earlier. Just a thought.
Still, I so enjoy Rosalind James' work. Can't wait for the next one.
The richly drawn characters are a delight, as always. Beckett just shines. Quinn, so quirky yet charming. The children and dog - fun.
Secondary characters are an important part of the story too. But I didn't like the rabbit trail of murder by Beckett. That whole plot line was very weak. And the in-laws? Were they just snobs? That part of the story was not well done. Added nothing and seemed an afterthought.
I think an exploration of the brother barely mentioned or Martin would have added richness to the story.
Also, finding out that Quinn is pregnant for the wedding at epilogue troubled me. Would have been nice to have that reveal earlier. Just a thought.
Still, I so enjoy Rosalind James' work. Can't wait for the next one.
December 18, 2023
This became my favorite novel by Rosalind James as I read more of the book. I liked the main characters and the secondary ones were well developed and added to the storyline. Quinn and Beckett are strong, accomplished persons who have had challenges in life but are persevering. I like the addition of the children because they added a more realistic element. The only issue I found was that the last part of the novel had an unexpected twist that took it in another direction and then the end seemed to be wrapped up very quickly. I would have liked to have seen more of the interaction with the couple and children on their return to Montana. But regardless it was a strong addition to the series and I really enjoyed reading it.
April 1, 2024
I realize I've been doing this wrong the whole time. Generally, I've been giving any book good enough to finish five stars. (there are way too many books, to finish bad ones) Which brings me to this series. I read these four books in about five and a half days and I'm sorry I'm done! These stories were totally believable, the characters were as real as anyone I know, and two days later I feel like the kid who had to move away and leave all his friends behind. Well done, Ms. James! You've made me laugh, you've made me cry, you've made me believe, and you've made me mad that I don't have eight or nine stars to give you. You can rest assured that more of your work is now on my wish list, and your name is at the top of my search. Thank you!
November 2, 2023
Love, Loss and Redemption
What happens when you invite your new gorgeous Australian widower friend, who recently was in your courtroom, to move in with you? First you fall in love with his kids then you fall in love with him. Laughter, hilarity, touching moments and lots of hidden romance ensues.
Rosalind, as always, is a master of human emotion. There is a mystery thrown into this book that makes it a definite winner!
Especially read this if you have been devorced or widowed and have children. It will bring you hope. Or if you have a snarky preteen, because you need hope then too! 🤣
Don't miss out on this beautiful story of love, loss and redemption!
What happens when you invite your new gorgeous Australian widower friend, who recently was in your courtroom, to move in with you? First you fall in love with his kids then you fall in love with him. Laughter, hilarity, touching moments and lots of hidden romance ensues.
Rosalind, as always, is a master of human emotion. There is a mystery thrown into this book that makes it a definite winner!
Especially read this if you have been devorced or widowed and have children. It will bring you hope. Or if you have a snarky preteen, because you need hope then too! 🤣
Don't miss out on this beautiful story of love, loss and redemption!
December 15, 2023
I loved Troy and Janey!
Former American Olympic swimmer and Judge Quinn Jeffries was on a plan to have six-first-dates trying to find to find someone but meeting widower Beckett Hughes might change her plans about dating.
Australian Beckett Hughes had moved to Sinful, Montana with his kids to take a job as a construction manager for Brett Hunter at the new ski resort to start over after his wife drowned in an accident during a storm. But he never expected to meet someone like Quinn Jeffries.
I loved Troy and Janey especially with Quinn’s parents while Beckett and Quinn solve the mystery about death of Beckett’s wife.
Former American Olympic swimmer and Judge Quinn Jeffries was on a plan to have six-first-dates trying to find to find someone but meeting widower Beckett Hughes might change her plans about dating.
Australian Beckett Hughes had moved to Sinful, Montana with his kids to take a job as a construction manager for Brett Hunter at the new ski resort to start over after his wife drowned in an accident during a storm. But he never expected to meet someone like Quinn Jeffries.
I loved Troy and Janey especially with Quinn’s parents while Beckett and Quinn solve the mystery about death of Beckett’s wife.
January 13, 2024
Where the heart is comes to mind
Rosalind breaks it down and brings to life a world, lives and love so incredibly beautifully, that you have to experience it by reading her books. She brings such enjoyment to me with all of her books, including this extraordinary story of life, loss and love. I can’t wait for the next book and then the book after that. Keep them coming and know that you are so very much appreciated and loved for the happiness you bring to us with your writing. The truth, loving nature and depth of character comes through in the characters written, and I love that.
Rosalind breaks it down and brings to life a world, lives and love so incredibly beautifully, that you have to experience it by reading her books. She brings such enjoyment to me with all of her books, including this extraordinary story of life, loss and love. I can’t wait for the next book and then the book after that. Keep them coming and know that you are so very much appreciated and loved for the happiness you bring to us with your writing. The truth, loving nature and depth of character comes through in the characters written, and I love that.
February 19, 2024
4.5 stars (rounded up)
This was a fun series. Each of the books had a mystery/suspense element which meant no 3rd act breakup (yay! and one of the reasons I read the sub-genre). James' MMCs are alphas, but they're all thoughtful and kind -- sort of a new-age alpha. Her FMCs are smart and caring, with 3 out of the 4 worried that they're not girly enough. Since I'm not particularly girly, I could happily relate. (Although I'm not particularly concerned about it.) The kids are all complicated and wonderful.
I enjoyed putting myself in James' hands for a couple of days and spending time in Montana and Australia.
This was a fun series. Each of the books had a mystery/suspense element which meant no 3rd act breakup (yay! and one of the reasons I read the sub-genre). James' MMCs are alphas, but they're all thoughtful and kind -- sort of a new-age alpha. Her FMCs are smart and caring, with 3 out of the 4 worried that they're not girly enough. Since I'm not particularly girly, I could happily relate. (Although I'm not particularly concerned about it.) The kids are all complicated and wonderful.
I enjoyed putting myself in James' hands for a couple of days and spending time in Montana and Australia.
August 23, 2025
Full-bodied story with romance and drama
I really enjoyed this book and the companion audiobook. I must say that I wanted to shake Quinn several times when she made assumptions in her head about Beckett. She was quick to jump to the negative response when it came to men. Fortunately, Beckett was a strong-minded man that was willing to take on her strong personality. This was a long book that addressed so many issues - loss of a wife and mother, recovering from grief to live in the now and for the future, and solving the mystery of Beckett’s wife’s death. Highly recommended.
I really enjoyed this book and the companion audiobook. I must say that I wanted to shake Quinn several times when she made assumptions in her head about Beckett. She was quick to jump to the negative response when it came to men. Fortunately, Beckett was a strong-minded man that was willing to take on her strong personality. This was a long book that addressed so many issues - loss of a wife and mother, recovering from grief to live in the now and for the future, and solving the mystery of Beckett’s wife’s death. Highly recommended.
November 2, 2023
Enjoyable Reading!
Loved all the characters in this story. I especially liked the humor in the dialogues. Strong woman characters is always welcome and assured when reading Rosalind Jame’s stories. Therefore I wasn’t disappointed in Quinn’s character, strength, kindness, integrity, frailty, vulnerability, understanding, honesty, humor… what’s not to enjoy in characters that encompass these traits.
Loved all the characters in this story. I especially liked the humor in the dialogues. Strong woman characters is always welcome and assured when reading Rosalind Jame’s stories. Therefore I wasn’t disappointed in Quinn’s character, strength, kindness, integrity, frailty, vulnerability, understanding, honesty, humor… what’s not to enjoy in characters that encompass these traits.
November 6, 2023
What a treat to read!
Ms James is one of my favorite authors and I didn’t realize she had a new book coming out. What a delightful surprise! It was fun to be back in Sinful again and meet new characters. Quinn and Beckett’s story was a romantic, heart wrenching and exciting one. The relationships with the children added reality and depth to the story. Now I’m just sad to have to wait for her next book.
Ms James is one of my favorite authors and I didn’t realize she had a new book coming out. What a delightful surprise! It was fun to be back in Sinful again and meet new characters. Quinn and Beckett’s story was a romantic, heart wrenching and exciting one. The relationships with the children added reality and depth to the story. Now I’m just sad to have to wait for her next book.
November 8, 2023
This is a great addition to the Sinful series. I love how the characters are a very competent judge, but romantically awkward, Olympic gold medalist woman and a general contractor, single father of 2 from Australia find a way to become friends then more. There's lots of different angles this book brings in as well as some characters from previous books. I love that Martin is a big presence. He such a great character. I always look forward to her next book no matter what series it is.
November 11, 2023
Another book of wondrous love.
MS James is so gifted at creating touching love stories. Always finding another way to see the world and find the good in her characters. Her villains are so surprising, never the typical snake jumping out from under the rock. Guaranteed to entertain and make you think twice about your own relationships. Use what you read to make yourself a better person, partner, parent, and live and love life to its fullest.
MS James is so gifted at creating touching love stories. Always finding another way to see the world and find the good in her characters. Her villains are so surprising, never the typical snake jumping out from under the rock. Guaranteed to entertain and make you think twice about your own relationships. Use what you read to make yourself a better person, partner, parent, and live and love life to its fullest.
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