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Mercenary Ranch #1

Forever After All: Book 1 in The Mercenary Ranch Series

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Charlie Evans swore she'd never go back to her small hometown in Texas...until she's forced to return with the death of her older sister. As if dealing with that isn't hard enough, she's just become the sole guardian of her five-year-old nephew, and must stay in town for the next three months to help him transition from the loss. But Charlie is less than thrilled to be back in town.
Then enter Ryder Wright-a true southern gentleman with a sense of humor and who's hot as hell. Only he's a rodeo cowboy. And Charlie swore long ago they were off limits.
Ryder's dreamed of nothing but rodeos since he was a kid. It's finally his year for a big break, he can feel it. Then she comes in like a hurricane, turning his life upside down and making him question everything he thought he wanted.
Can Charlie let go of her haunting past? Can Ryder be the man Charlie needs? Will it all end up in heartbreak or forever after all?

498 pages, Paperback

Published October 27, 2023

18 people are currently reading
299 people want to read

About the author

Shelby Storme

9 books30 followers

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5 stars
58 (48%)
4 stars
46 (38%)
3 stars
13 (10%)
2 stars
2 (1%)
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0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
Profile Image for Bailey (Myveinsbleedink).
433 reviews9 followers
October 21, 2023
This was my first cowboy romance and holy smokes I loved it. The book is a bit longer, over the 400 page mark, but I didn't feel like it was at all. I stayed engrossed for the whole book.
Charlotte (Charlie) Evans & Ryder Wright, yeah you read that correctly....ride her right!! Wait until I tell you his Dad's name....Stroker Wright! The author definitely has a sense of humour! Anywhoooo, this romance was heated from the first moment. If you don't believe in love at first sight then saddle up and take a spin with this whirlwind romance. These two are end goals. In the words of Maverick, Ryders best friend "..Do you understand what people would give for a love like that? For someone to look at them the way she looks at you?" It's obvious to everyone how big their love is but is it enough. Not having a hot clue about anything cowboy related it was a total learning experience as to how it is and the absolutely terrifying passion involved. The fear that loved ones go through, the adrenaline the cowboys feel and the lack of fear they have for one of the most dangerous sports out there! It's quite incredible and I think Shelby captured this amazingly.
This book is definitely emotional but also very uplifting and wholesome. I'm glad I had the opportunity to read and review. Thank you!
Profile Image for ₊⋆ Nyxia ☾.
684 reviews51 followers
October 23, 2023
Small Town Romance • Cowboy • Opposites Attract • He Falls First

Loved this book! So sweet, wholesome, and filled with a lot of emotion. I loved Charlie. Her sass, her strength, everything. Ryder was swoon worthy as well. I really loved these two.

The story was great. I honestly haven’t read a cowboy romance before and this book was amazing! This book deals with real emotions and real issues in a relationship as a couple and individual issues. I felt so many emotions reading this book, ahh it was amazing!

Definitely recommend if you want a wholesome romance read. Also, the names in this book yes I was laughing so much. Loved it all.

"𝒮𝑜𝓂𝑒𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓃'𝓈 𝒷𝓇𝑜𝓊𝑔𝒽𝓉 𝓊𝓈 𝓉𝑜𝑔𝑒𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓇, 𝑀𝒾𝓈𝓈 𝒞𝒽𝒶𝓇𝓁𝑜𝓉𝓉𝑒. 𝐼 𝓌𝑜𝓊𝓁𝒹𝓃'𝓉 𝓂𝒾𝓃𝒹 𝓉𝓇𝓎𝒾𝓃' 𝓉𝑜 𝒻𝒾𝑔𝓊𝓇𝑒 𝑜𝓊𝓉 𝓌𝒽𝓎."
Profile Image for Amanda .
46 reviews
October 24, 2023
✔️Opposites attract
✔️Forbidden love
✔️Small town
✔️Rodeo cowboy
✔️Amazing side characters

I’ve read a couple of rodeo cowboy romances before, but this one knocked them out of the park. I now have an overwhelming desire to get my boots out and head to a rodeo.

Most romances I read tend to be the couple taking most of the book to get together. I loved that this book isn’t a slow burn, instead focusing more on the start of a new relationship and the struggles they’re facing while the FMC deals with fears from a past experience.

Another aspect that I loved is the side characters. The MMC’s friends play a big part in the story and have very different personalities. And when I say I squealed when I flipped the last page to see, “Don’t miss Maverick’s story…” I’m not exaggerating! Maverick is my favorite side character and I cannot wait to read his story.

It’s so cool to read a book set in your state and mention cities that are close to you. Even though Texas is the second biggest state, somehow this is only the second book I’ve read set in Texas. I love that so much was familiar- Texas Roadhouse, the accents, the big Texas-sized personalities-especially Mrs. Mooney.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for lauren kindl3w0rm .
79 reviews15 followers
January 9, 2025
Ahhhhh, I thought I loved Hux & Quinn but Ryder Wright & Charlie are a very close to them! The way Shelby gets you so invested in their relationship is so well written. Ryder loves Charlie the minute he sees her, the way he is with her is so cute. When they had the fight ECT I was like nooooooo but the ending 🥹🥹 I have whiplash ahahaha. Brilliant writing, brilliant story, brilliant book 💛💛💛💛💛
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Sarah Seelbaugh.
469 reviews15 followers
September 2, 2024
Not going to lie I never really got into the country, cowboy romance type genre tropes of books. However, I got into this one. Shelby made the characters so easy to connect with and to and their story just is amazing! it makes you want to keep going! Also, I love the side characters to! Maverick is omg my fav! I can't wait to read the next one keep it up girlfriend!
Profile Image for Tasha's Book Journey .
64 reviews11 followers
April 5, 2024
Allow me to confess: I have a weakness for captivating romances, though it may take me some time to acknowledge it. Add a charming small town setting, and I'm utterly captivated. But throw in a rugged cowboy, and I'm breathless with anticipation!

Shelby's Mercenary Ranch Series has secured its place atop my list of Cowboy Small Town Romances. "Forever after All" kicks off the series, unveiling the love story between Ryder and Charlie (Charlotte). Warning: Have tissues at the ready before diving in!

Right from page one, Charlie's sister's poignant note sets the stage for this heartfelt tale. With a strong female main character (FMC) and a truly endearing male main character (MMC), you'll find yourself rooting for them from the very first chapter, feeling like a part of their unfolding story.

Though there are moments of frustration when both main characters dig in their heels, it feels authentic to the narrative, never overwhelming. Ryder's friends, Cash and Maverick, are as different as can be, yet equally lovable in their own ways. They become integral to the story, offering support and depth to both Ryder and Charlie's journey.

As the story unfolds, exploring themes of friendship, family, and love, you'll find yourself completely engrossed, eager for more with each turn of the page. The fast-paced, descriptive prose allows your mind to immerse itself fully into the world of the Mercenary Ranch.

This romance novel delivers everything you could desire from the genre, with an extra sprinkle of love to keep you hooked. I can't wait to dive into book 2, delving into the romance between Maverick and Cheyenne. So, gather your essentials - chocolates, snacks, drinks, a cozy blanket, and of course, tissues - and settle in for an enchanting journey.

Let's meet our next book boyfriend! 💛
Profile Image for ⚜️Heather-Christine⚜️ Lynch.
52 reviews8 followers
June 16, 2025
A Million Stars Would Be the Start

Charlie’s story is one of those rare ones that sneaks up on you and completely takes over your heart. It’s like her life hadn’t truly *started* until tragedy forced her to feel everything all at once…and from that moment on, I was hooked. The emotions this book stirred in me? Off the charts. I laughed, I cried, I shouted are you kidding me…more than once.

The connection between Charlie and Ryder? So real. So tangible. It jumps off the page from their very first scene together. Their bond builds, quickly, naturally, with so much depth. The emotional growth Charlie goes through from beginning to end is just beautiful. She’s not written to be strong all the time, she’s raw, she’s vulnerable, and that’s what makes her feel real. Shelby Storme nailed it.

I found myself rooting so hard for Charlie and Ryder. I needed them to get it right. The found family Charley and Cason so desperately needed she finds in Cash, Mav, the Mooney… (I would LOVE a Bad Mooney origins type story so bad 10/10 I’d devour it) they brought such warmth and heart to the story. I fell in love with every single one of them.

This story gave me everything. Romance, heartbreak, healing, laughter, hope, paralyzing fear of loosing the ones you love. I wish I could give it more than five stars…honestly, a million stars would be the start.

I’m beyond excited to continue this series. If I get to read even one more book that makes me feel like this one did, I’ll consider myself lucky.
Profile Image for Rebmay.
2,698 reviews47 followers
October 13, 2023
This book evokes so many emotions and reactions, just as a great book should. Charlie (Charlotte) and Ryder effortlessly drew me into their story, showing me turbulent emotions, chaotic thoughts, hot chemistry and attraction that quickly turns into love. Charlie and her young nephew are learning to cope after the far too early death of his mother. They have never met in person before and now they are doing their best to forge bonds and find away forward. For Charlie it is a bittersweet transition from aunt to guardian since she is also struggling to come to terms with being back in a town she couldn’t wait to leave, and the mother who riles her up like nobody else. Ryder, a cowboy from the past, is the one who grounds Charlie, gets her through her panic attacks and sparks something deep within her. Having lost her father in a rodeo accident, Ryder’s own rodeo career is a deterrent to building any relationship other than friendship between them. Somehow, friendship just doesn’t seem to be enough between them, and Ryder’s care and treatment of her nephew melts a little bit more of her resistance. Can she let go of her fears to fight for a forever love and future with Ryder?

It was easy to fall for Charlie, Ryder and young Cason, and to want a very happy ending for them. I will be reading this book again and again. I received a copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
2,477 reviews
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July 8, 2024
free ebook

doesnt get along with mother
left tx to go to ca
boyfriend not there for her
sister was going to die and had her as guardian of her 5 yr old son, asked she stay in their house till end of school year
she got there just before her sister died, no one told her ahead of time so she could spend more time with her

she went to bar that night and met cowboy who took her home and was there for her. her boyfriend couldnt be bothered to call her

she and the cowboy fell in love, he got hurt on a bull ride
but he got better and went back to rodeo again
they broke up

but mav had a talk with her and they got back together

the 3 cowboys bought a ranch but he kept doing the rodeo
she got preg
he asked to marry her
she said yes

i would read more of this series

her nephew really loves her and took his moms passing well. she had told him what was coming

her dad died in rodeo and now she finds out cowboy is in rodeo too

she broke up with jerk boyfriend

she is looking for job till she can figure out what to do now that shes not moving back to her boyfriend

she went to the rodeo with him
her x boyfriend was a jerk, she hired movers to get her stuff for her
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Rieka.
392 reviews8 followers
October 30, 2023
I have nothing but absolute awe for this book. By the time I finished it I was sent through a roller coaster 0f emotions. I cried and laughed so hard. For a 400+ page book it was really easy to read and it flowed smoothly. It was very hard to put down and my husband kept staring at me with how hard I was laughing at some of the banter that happens between the characters including the little kiddo. Shelby knew exactly what she was doing throwing in all the humor right up until my heart got broken. This book was nothing shy of phenomenal!!

The characters in this story are one of a kind. I laughed so hard at names chosen for characters but even though they were funny I believe they really helped create the characters personalities too. Even with how she was treated and isolated growing up our Charlie girl grew up to be an amazing woman. Ryder is of course our perfect cowboy, bull riding gentleman. I love them together. Cash is well Cash but he has a heart of gold when you look pass his shenanigans. Mav is one of my favorites in the book and I can't wait to read more about him. Cason sweet sweet Cason sold this book.
Profile Image for Nicole Wills.
213 reviews1 follower
June 3, 2025
This was, by far, one of the most relatable character arcs that I have ever read. The instant attraction between Charlie and Ryder was electric and jumped off the pages. The friendship between Ryder, Maverick and Cash was so balanced - none of them are whole without the others. Cason was absolutely adorable and did what all little kids do - talked sense into the adults. Cash, Cason and Bad added some comedic relief in otherwise overwhelming situations. The best advice ever is given by Maverick - and I can’t wait to read his book soon!
What started with Sheldon’s passing, turned into a heartwarming journey of discovering love, not just for another but for oneself, and healing from grief. I absolutely loved it.
Main points:
🤠 Rodeo Cowboy
❤ Cinnamon Roll MMC
🤠Fiesty Curvy Girl FMC
❤Medium burn
🤠Found Family
❤Country love song vibes
🤠Forbidden love vibes
❤If fated mates were a thing
🤠Angsty
❤He falls first and hard
🤠Coming home
❤Healing journey
Profile Image for Adelaide James.
96 reviews
August 6, 2024
Ooooooooh boy I loved this read 🤠

First of all, the VOICE in this book?!? It’s so strong & clear. I could hear Ryder talking in my head, accent and all haha
Every character from Charlie to Ryder to Cason to Bad…they all had such distinct voices, it was like I was watching a movie rather than reading. In fact, every aspect of this book worked together to paint the most vivid picture in my head.

Second, I have never been brought to tears so early on and so often during a book. I don’t cry while reading often, but this one got me more than once. Both happy and sad tears.

And speaking of emotions…the amount of times I laughed out loud while reading this was insane 😂 these characters cracked me up! They were so well rounded and so dang funny 😅

I absolutely cannot wait to dive into book two!!!
Profile Image for Cindy Acosta .
170 reviews1 follower
November 9, 2023
3.5 ⭐️

If you love cowboys and small town romance, then this book is for you.

Charlie gains guardianship over her nephew and both are coping with the death of her sister from cancer. Charlie has no clue how to raise a kid. And the strained relationship she has with her mother, keeps her from asking for help. She quickly becomes attracted to Ryder but soon realizes he competes in the rodeo for a living. Having lost her father in a rodeo accident right in front of her, it becomes a deal breaker. She is struggling trying to keep everything together, meanwhile trying to decide if she should continue forward with Ryder.

I really loved the side characters in this book. Ryder’s friends play a big part in the story and have very different personalities. When I reached the end and saw the second book was going to be about Maverick, OMG!! He is my absolute favorite and I’m excited to read about his story.

The story was overall good, the mom frustrated me so much, just wanted to shake her a bit. Cash was a little annoying at times but was so good with little Cason. I’ll definitely read the second book about Maverick.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Danielle Watts.
169 reviews3 followers
April 18, 2024
I really liked reading this. I love a good cowboy/rodeo romance. The way the story unfolded kept me reading. I enjoyed the sass and personality of the FMC. And of course she would fall for the one type of guy she swore off right? But who could resist him? The MMC was well written and just made you fall in love with him! I liked that I didn't have to wait until the last 15% of the book for them to be together but I still appreciated the struggles along the way. It was more realistic than some of the other books I have read along these lines. And I really enjoyed all of the characters. They made the book that much more fun! I highly recommend giving this one a try.
Profile Image for Chronicles_of_a_book_princess.
520 reviews6 followers
October 31, 2023
A very enjoyable read, some great characters and supporting characters. A very good storyline, liked Ryders character. Charlotte was not sure about staying her hometown but I’m glad she did and not just for Cason. I liked Cash and Maverick who where always there for not just Ryder but also Charlotte and Cason. Cason is so sweet and has so much love to give. I enjoyed the whole cowboy rodeo setting. I disliked Charlottes mom she was so mean and vicious , it hurt my heart to see Charlotte on the receiving end of that. I liked how the main characters story ends and the epilogue too.
Profile Image for Miriam_Reads94.
258 reviews1 follower
April 5, 2024
I absolutely loved this book. The small town cowboy romance was a new trope to me and I am now going to find a BUNCH more books with this feel too it. I loved watching the characters grow and watching the relationships develop amongst them. The characters are loveable and their problems are relateable. I found this a very easy book to get into, It started out on a very sad note but it ended up being a very happy lovely story. I highly suggest!
Profile Image for Mrs A.
1,353 reviews29 followers
October 31, 2023
This was such a fab read, I love a good small town romance and this all the right boxes for me. This is an emotional read with plenty of drama, angst and banter. The romance is slow burn in nature but totally fits the story and I loved how Charlotte and Ryder’s relationship grows throughout the book
46 reviews2 followers
December 11, 2023
Honest ARC REVIEW. This was a cute little slow burn read. I'm heavy on fantasy, and dark romance books but this was a good start to my first ever read to a country small town romance book. It was a quick read and a nice clean break from all the smutt I've been reading. 🥴🤣 that being said I enjoyed it a lot!
Profile Image for Tristyn Clary.
1 review
October 3, 2023
This quickly became my new favorite read of the year! I was hooked from the first sentence. The emotional rollercoaster this story had me going through…I have no words. The characters are amazing and the story is so beautifully written! I felt like I was there in the story!
Profile Image for Shellslostinbooks .
91 reviews1 follower
October 16, 2023
This was my first cowboy/rodeo romance. I loved it. The emotional roller coaster Charlie goes through with Ryder and her nephew Cason was necessary, but beautiful if that makes sense, I cried and I laughed.
Profile Image for Bri Jones.
68 reviews9 followers
November 18, 2023
★★★★★

An easy 5 star book.

Small Town Romance - He Falls First - Cinnamon Roll MMC - Cowboy - Opposites Attract

What was not to love about this book? It was wholesome, sweet and had me wanting more! I feel in love with Charlie and Ryder throughout this book. Between the emotions both happy and sad, I was rooting for them! She said she’d never go back but I bet she is grateful she did.

“But every time I thought of what I wanted years from now, all I could see was him.”

Nothing compares to a cowboy romance. YEE HAW 🤠
Profile Image for Kristina Marquardt.
211 reviews12 followers
April 30, 2024
This was a beautiful story that had me hooked from the first pages. Making my eyes watery throughout the whole story. I loved the characters, the slow burn, and the way the main characters' relationship builds over time. This story was relatable. Touching on grief, overcoming past trauma, and finding new happiness. Highly recommend this romance novel.
Profile Image for Sarah .
212 reviews5 followers
February 20, 2025
4.75

So pleased I read this book. I loved both Charlie and Ryder. Lovely characters baring their flaws and living their lives despite them. I can’t wait to read Mac’s story next and I really hope there is one planned for Cash as well
34 reviews1 follower
October 8, 2023
A rollercoaster of a read but in all the right ways.
Profile Image for Ashley Arca.
241 reviews
November 1, 2023
I loved every minute of Charlie & Ryders story!

I laughed, I cried, I blushed, and everything in between.
If you love cowboys and small town romance, This is the book for you!
Profile Image for Krystal.
48 reviews
February 6, 2024
Hallmark wishes they made cowboy romances this adorably perfect
Profile Image for Taylor Rose.
12 reviews
February 4, 2025
Honestly didn’t expect so much emotion from the characters. It was heartfelt, facing your fears type of romance that was refreshing to read.
2 reviews
February 9, 2025
best. read. ever.

This book was sooo good. It had me crying both sad & happy tears. The storyline was perfect. I loved getting to know each of the characters.
Profile Image for Karen Bk.
183 reviews
July 6, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ this one took me a little longer to finish, but it was mainly my mood! I totally loved Ryder and Charlie!! What a nice story
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews

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