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The Birch Creek Ranch #2
La promesa
Tres mujeres obstinadas, cada una de las cuales hizo una promesa. ¿Quién cederá y quién la romperá?
Abigail hizo una promesa a su marido antes de que falleciera, una promesa que no podía ni quería romper. Pero la vida no ha sido fácil sin él a su lado, y sus hijos crecen cada día más. A veces tiene la sensación de que estará sola para siempre.
Amanda está cansada de ser un desastre. Quiere triunfar, impresionar, sobresalir. Si eso significa cambiar quién es, incluso cambiar toda su vida, entonces que así sea.
Donna ha aprendido la verdad sobre el mundo por las malas. O atacas o te atacan a ti. No le gusta ser la villana, pero está harta de ser una presa fácil. Está decidida a abrirse camino, pase lo que pase.
Todas estas mujeres han vuelto a Birch Creek con grandes planes, pero al futuro le encanta sorprendernos. ¿Podrán mantenerse fieles a sus promesas? ¿O decidirán que es más importante hacer lo que les dicte el corazón, sin importar lo malas que sean las consecuencias?
Abigail hizo una promesa a su marido antes de que falleciera, una promesa que no podía ni quería romper. Pero la vida no ha sido fácil sin él a su lado, y sus hijos crecen cada día más. A veces tiene la sensación de que estará sola para siempre.
Amanda está cansada de ser un desastre. Quiere triunfar, impresionar, sobresalir. Si eso significa cambiar quién es, incluso cambiar toda su vida, entonces que así sea.
Donna ha aprendido la verdad sobre el mundo por las malas. O atacas o te atacan a ti. No le gusta ser la villana, pero está harta de ser una presa fácil. Está decidida a abrirse camino, pase lo que pase.
Todas estas mujeres han vuelto a Birch Creek con grandes planes, pero al futuro le encanta sorprendernos. ¿Podrán mantenerse fieles a sus promesas? ¿O decidirán que es más importante hacer lo que les dicte el corazón, sin importar lo malas que sean las consecuencias?
404 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 25, 2023
290 people are currently reading
282 people want to read
About the author
B.E. Baker
47 books158 followersBridget loves her husband (every day) and all five of her kids (most days).
She’s a lawyer but does as little legal work as possible. She has three quarter horse geldings, a Holsteiner (jumping) horse, and she spends too much time riding and not enough time writing. (Or too much time writing and not enough time riding, depending on your perspective!)
B.E. Baker is the romance/women's fiction penname for Bridget E. Baker, who also writes fantasy, end of the world, and dystopian books that add a little magic to the world.
Please sign up for Bridget's fantasy or romance newsletters on her website at www.BridgetEBakerWrites.com or click Follow on her bio above to get notices and updates when she releases new books!
She’s a lawyer but does as little legal work as possible. She has three quarter horse geldings, a Holsteiner (jumping) horse, and she spends too much time riding and not enough time writing. (Or too much time writing and not enough time riding, depending on your perspective!)
B.E. Baker is the romance/women's fiction penname for Bridget E. Baker, who also writes fantasy, end of the world, and dystopian books that add a little magic to the world.
Please sign up for Bridget's fantasy or romance newsletters on her website at www.BridgetEBakerWrites.com or click Follow on her bio above to get notices and updates when she releases new books!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
February 10, 2022
I absolutely loved the first book in this series The Bequest, so I was really looking forward to reading this one. This starts off not too long after the first book ended, with the summer over and the kids starting school. Both moms are still dealing with the challenges of their jobs and living on the ranch.
I really liked the growth of Amanda in this book, and how she learned to be herself and work off her own strengths, rather than try to be like Abigail. Abigail has lots of great qualities, but there are also things that she needs to learn as well, and I don't think she is as put together as she appears to be. I really connected with Amanda in this book and could see similarities in our personalities. That made me enjoy her character the most this time around.
As for Abigail, she seems so put together on the outside, but is falling apart on the inside. I thought she finally started loosening up and letting go a bit in this book, which was great, but at times I wanted to hit her over the head when it came to her relationship with Steve. The promise Abigail made to her husband before he died, was one that I thought he never had the right to ask her to make, and while I could understand why he felt the way he did about it, that didn't make it ok. Through much of the book, Abigail worried about whether she was making the right decisions because of her children, and I get that, but there is a line there. No parent should have to sacrifice their true happiness for their children's happiness and well-being. Children benefit from having parents who are in happy, healthy relationships. I think they know when we aren't happy, and it affects them. I think Abigail may be coming to see that, and I like that growth for her character. It just took a frustratingly long while to get there.
The addition of Donna's character was a surprise, but I liked it. I enjoyed reading her journey of growth and learning to stand up for herself. It will be interesting to see if her character continues to have a point of view in the series, and if she will also find love.
While reading these books, I thought a lot about the kids and their behaviors. I may be reading too much into it, but I like the way the book shows the differences in the kids and how they are dealing with things. Amanda's kids have been a bit unruly, especially her oldest daughter. She really cares deep down but seems to put on this front of not caring for her mother. It's her way of acting out because of all they've been through. Her younger daughter chooses to disappear and not be heard. A lot of it is aided by Amanda's personality type and parenting style.
On the flip-side Abigail's kids seem way too well behaved. It's mentioned they have a fear of disappointing their mother. I also think they want to make things easier on their mom because of what they've all been through. This is also aided by their mother's personality type and parenting style. On the surface this seems good but isn't exactly healthy either. I just like the way the book seems to be showing the different ways not only the grown-ups, but also the kids, can end up acting when they go through something tragic.
Story-wise, I like the self-reflection and feelings these books pull out of me. I can see things that I have in common with both Abigail and Amanda from time to time, although as I said, this time it was mostly Amanda. Plot-wise, I thought this book tied some things up nicely, but also left some threads waiting to be resolved, which is a good way to end a book in the middle of a series. I did think the thing that happens at the end with a certain person driving up and making a big reveal was a little bit too coincidental, but that's a small gripe that I can overlook. I'm looking forward to continuing on when the next book is released.
Thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC of this book.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader.
I really liked the growth of Amanda in this book, and how she learned to be herself and work off her own strengths, rather than try to be like Abigail. Abigail has lots of great qualities, but there are also things that she needs to learn as well, and I don't think she is as put together as she appears to be. I really connected with Amanda in this book and could see similarities in our personalities. That made me enjoy her character the most this time around.
As for Abigail, she seems so put together on the outside, but is falling apart on the inside. I thought she finally started loosening up and letting go a bit in this book, which was great, but at times I wanted to hit her over the head when it came to her relationship with Steve. The promise Abigail made to her husband before he died, was one that I thought he never had the right to ask her to make, and while I could understand why he felt the way he did about it, that didn't make it ok. Through much of the book, Abigail worried about whether she was making the right decisions because of her children, and I get that, but there is a line there. No parent should have to sacrifice their true happiness for their children's happiness and well-being. Children benefit from having parents who are in happy, healthy relationships. I think they know when we aren't happy, and it affects them. I think Abigail may be coming to see that, and I like that growth for her character. It just took a frustratingly long while to get there.
The addition of Donna's character was a surprise, but I liked it. I enjoyed reading her journey of growth and learning to stand up for herself. It will be interesting to see if her character continues to have a point of view in the series, and if she will also find love.
While reading these books, I thought a lot about the kids and their behaviors. I may be reading too much into it, but I like the way the book shows the differences in the kids and how they are dealing with things. Amanda's kids have been a bit unruly, especially her oldest daughter. She really cares deep down but seems to put on this front of not caring for her mother. It's her way of acting out because of all they've been through. Her younger daughter chooses to disappear and not be heard. A lot of it is aided by Amanda's personality type and parenting style.
On the flip-side Abigail's kids seem way too well behaved. It's mentioned they have a fear of disappointing their mother. I also think they want to make things easier on their mom because of what they've all been through. This is also aided by their mother's personality type and parenting style. On the surface this seems good but isn't exactly healthy either. I just like the way the book seems to be showing the different ways not only the grown-ups, but also the kids, can end up acting when they go through something tragic.
Story-wise, I like the self-reflection and feelings these books pull out of me. I can see things that I have in common with both Abigail and Amanda from time to time, although as I said, this time it was mostly Amanda. Plot-wise, I thought this book tied some things up nicely, but also left some threads waiting to be resolved, which is a good way to end a book in the middle of a series. I did think the thing that happens at the end with a certain person driving up and making a big reveal was a little bit too coincidental, but that's a small gripe that I can overlook. I'm looking forward to continuing on when the next book is released.
Thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC of this book.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader.
February 11, 2022
This book is a great read! It hooks you on the first page and doesn't let go. I loved it and can't wait to read the next book!
I received a complimentary copy and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary copy and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 20, 2022
This is another wonderful book by Ms. Baker. I've enjoyed so many of her books so far and was happy to read and review the arc copy of this book. I willingly offer my honest review.
Abigail and Amanda have both recently lost their husbands and moved to Birch Creek to take ownership of their great uncle's ranch. There are stipulations in the will that will ensure that they have to stay on the ranch for a year before deciding whether or not to sell it. If not, it will be turned over to an Alien Foundation to do whatever they want with it. So, the two of them with their six kids between them move to the ranch in this small town.
Both women had made vows they meant to honor but by doing so, can it bring more pain to them or bring deliverance? Then, there is a third woman, Donna, added who also made a vow. Unfortunately, in order to honor her vow, she needed to betray Abigail and Amanda.
This story includes family, love, pain, tragedy, tough life decisions and some sweet , swoony romance, as well. There is so much more to this story but I'll let you discover that for yourself.
Abigail and Amanda have both recently lost their husbands and moved to Birch Creek to take ownership of their great uncle's ranch. There are stipulations in the will that will ensure that they have to stay on the ranch for a year before deciding whether or not to sell it. If not, it will be turned over to an Alien Foundation to do whatever they want with it. So, the two of them with their six kids between them move to the ranch in this small town.
Both women had made vows they meant to honor but by doing so, can it bring more pain to them or bring deliverance? Then, there is a third woman, Donna, added who also made a vow. Unfortunately, in order to honor her vow, she needed to betray Abigail and Amanda.
This story includes family, love, pain, tragedy, tough life decisions and some sweet , swoony romance, as well. There is so much more to this story but I'll let you discover that for yourself.
June 18, 2023
The Promises We Make and Heal in our Growth
The Vow leads us further into the journey of individuals forming family bonds in their quest for solidarity in this charming true-to-life fiction. Recommended for anyone ready for simple answers to complicated questions. The unique way the author leads you closer and closer to their happy endings sheds light on the achievements they are making along the way. The gifts of discovery, hope, and friendship leading to a greater good has me captivated for the next read in this series!
The Vow leads us further into the journey of individuals forming family bonds in their quest for solidarity in this charming true-to-life fiction. Recommended for anyone ready for simple answers to complicated questions. The unique way the author leads you closer and closer to their happy endings sheds light on the achievements they are making along the way. The gifts of discovery, hope, and friendship leading to a greater good has me captivated for the next read in this series!
March 12, 2022
I loved the first book so was so looking forward to reading this second book and it did not let me down! We carry on where book one left off carrying on with Amanda and Abigail‘s hard journey. It’s well written, well paced and nice to read that life can be messy just as in real life. The storyline is enjoyable and I love watching these characters grow and develop as each challenge that life throws at them comes their way. It’s emotional, it’s got a little adventure, a little romance and is a nice clean read. I look forward to reading the next book.
June 5, 2024
Audiobook. 3 1/2 stars. Good, not extraordinary. Life.
September 12, 2022
Another nice entry into this series about two widowed sister-in-laws trying to make new lives on a cattle ranch in rural Utah. Once again, Abigail and her children are the level-headed ones with good hearts. Amanda continues to be a bit selfish and immature although there are sparks of self-awareness here and there. My only criticism is the description of physical attraction, which are unnecessary and a bit offensive.
December 30, 2024
(As usual, these are my own thoughts and comments and nit really a review. )Well book 1 I couldn't stand Amanda. Book 2 I'm now okay with Amanda and can't stand Donna. The ending on Abigail's side was kinda ridiculous. And Amanda is starting a cookie business when she had basically never cooked cookies in her life?? And no one thinks this is a stupid idea? Like of all the businesses she could start, why something totally random like that?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2025
3.75 stars rounded up to 4. I am really enjoying this series, but this one seemed a little slapped together--some things just didn't even seem to make sense.
One of the main issues I had with it was Amanda and her bakery. From what I can tell, she has hardly ever baked cookies before, and the one time she did, she messed it up, and yet she is investing a bunch of money into opening a cookie shop on a whim--and no one tells her this is a bad idea? Everyone is encouraging and helping her and when the shop opens, she all of the sudden has this big variety of cookies to sell and a bunch of orders It never shows her actually working on the recipes or developing baking skills (or making cookies for that matter)--she doesn't even seem to like baking cookies. And after the opening day, it never really mentions her going to the bakery again. It all just felt disjointed and like it didn't make one bit of sense for her to be doing that.
I also felt like Steve's ex-wife showing up exactly at that moment felt a bit contrived. When you found out there was a car in the driveway, you immediately knew who it was going to be and that it was just put there to provide a proverbial "wrench in the works".
And speaking of contrived, both women ending up at their love interest's house for some reason just before the big storm seemed a little too convenient. And then after all the build up of how this is a monster storm, the book totally skips it. They settle in for the storm and next thing you know it is a few days later and not another word is said about it--it was jarring to realize the big event they had been gearing up for had been totally skipped over.
I have to say that it also bothers me a bit just how little Amanda does to help out on the ranch. Abigail and her kids are working their butts off and Amanda just coasts along and decides to open a cookie shop. Her kids never do much either, and for all of her talk in this book about becoming more like Abby, you don't see her making any efforts to become a better mom or learn to parent her kids in a different--possibly better--way. As a matter of fact you hardly see her interact with the kids at all. She just seems to totally do her own thing.
All of that said, I do love the characters, the humor, and the insights in the book. I hope the next ones are a little more well-put together because I really am loving the story, despite the drawbacks.
One of the main issues I had with it was Amanda and her bakery. From what I can tell, she has hardly ever baked cookies before, and the one time she did, she messed it up, and yet she is investing a bunch of money into opening a cookie shop on a whim--and no one tells her this is a bad idea? Everyone is encouraging and helping her and when the shop opens, she all of the sudden has this big variety of cookies to sell and a bunch of orders It never shows her actually working on the recipes or developing baking skills (or making cookies for that matter)--she doesn't even seem to like baking cookies. And after the opening day, it never really mentions her going to the bakery again. It all just felt disjointed and like it didn't make one bit of sense for her to be doing that.
I also felt like Steve's ex-wife showing up exactly at that moment felt a bit contrived. When you found out there was a car in the driveway, you immediately knew who it was going to be and that it was just put there to provide a proverbial "wrench in the works".
And speaking of contrived, both women ending up at their love interest's house for some reason just before the big storm seemed a little too convenient. And then after all the build up of how this is a monster storm, the book totally skips it. They settle in for the storm and next thing you know it is a few days later and not another word is said about it--it was jarring to realize the big event they had been gearing up for had been totally skipped over.
I have to say that it also bothers me a bit just how little Amanda does to help out on the ranch. Abigail and her kids are working their butts off and Amanda just coasts along and decides to open a cookie shop. Her kids never do much either, and for all of her talk in this book about becoming more like Abby, you don't see her making any efforts to become a better mom or learn to parent her kids in a different--possibly better--way. As a matter of fact you hardly see her interact with the kids at all. She just seems to totally do her own thing.
All of that said, I do love the characters, the humor, and the insights in the book. I hope the next ones are a little more well-put together because I really am loving the story, despite the drawbacks.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2024
3 1/2 Stars
Abigail and Amanda are back in Birch Creek living in the same farm house. With Abby's four children and Amanda's two, things are crowded. Two widowed sister-in-laws living together at a ranch left to their children by their husband's uncle. His will stated they must live and work on the ranch for one year or else a Society focusing on Alien's will take ownership. They broke the rules already when both of them left to go back to their respective homes for more than a week but they both decided they wanted to return to the ranch. Will their return satisfy the officials and let them keep the ranch?
Abbey is a successful lawyer working long distance, she seems like Superwoman, there is nothing she can't do. Their next door neighbor, Steve is an ER physician and wants to date Abbey. With four children and working full time, she has no time for a relationship even though she is lonely for male companionship. Steve also wants to have a child of his own but Abbey made a vow to her husband when he was dying and has no intention of having any more children.
Amanda is an Instagram influencer whose boss is taking more and more control of her life. She really likes the local vet Eddie, but he did something wrong many years earlier and Amanda's boss wants her to dump him. She wants to find other income so she can quit her job and pursue a relationship with him but she has no other employable skills.
Donna's soon to be divorced husband is in jail accused of embezzlement. The prosecutor wants her to testify against him and the statue of limitations is running out. She lives with her young son and elderly father who has dementia. Her brother lives next door and he is pressuring her to wait until her divorce is final then buy the ranch that Abbey and Amanda are currently living on which she will turn over to him.
Three women, each with problems they want to solve, each just trying to put one foot forward then the next to get through the next few years.
Second in the series and I love how the author ended the book, makes you want to open the next book to discover what happens next!
Abigail and Amanda are back in Birch Creek living in the same farm house. With Abby's four children and Amanda's two, things are crowded. Two widowed sister-in-laws living together at a ranch left to their children by their husband's uncle. His will stated they must live and work on the ranch for one year or else a Society focusing on Alien's will take ownership. They broke the rules already when both of them left to go back to their respective homes for more than a week but they both decided they wanted to return to the ranch. Will their return satisfy the officials and let them keep the ranch?
Abbey is a successful lawyer working long distance, she seems like Superwoman, there is nothing she can't do. Their next door neighbor, Steve is an ER physician and wants to date Abbey. With four children and working full time, she has no time for a relationship even though she is lonely for male companionship. Steve also wants to have a child of his own but Abbey made a vow to her husband when he was dying and has no intention of having any more children.
Amanda is an Instagram influencer whose boss is taking more and more control of her life. She really likes the local vet Eddie, but he did something wrong many years earlier and Amanda's boss wants her to dump him. She wants to find other income so she can quit her job and pursue a relationship with him but she has no other employable skills.
Donna's soon to be divorced husband is in jail accused of embezzlement. The prosecutor wants her to testify against him and the statue of limitations is running out. She lives with her young son and elderly father who has dementia. Her brother lives next door and he is pressuring her to wait until her divorce is final then buy the ranch that Abbey and Amanda are currently living on which she will turn over to him.
Three women, each with problems they want to solve, each just trying to put one foot forward then the next to get through the next few years.
Second in the series and I love how the author ended the book, makes you want to open the next book to discover what happens next!
August 14, 2023
The second installment of the Birch Creek Ranch series is just as mediocre as the first, but I rarely read "twaddle," so once in a while, for fun (or frustration) I read books with absolutely no literary merit. The first book made me so mad, I basically hated most of the characters most of the time. This book made me mad for the same and for different reasons.
If someone in this book had an opportunity to be an Ahole, you could pretty much count on them to do it. Learning Donna's backstory did not make her a sympathetic character. At. All. I realize she's the antagonist, but reading the synopses for the rest of the available books in this series (TWO freaking more have been added since I started the first book!), it seems she becomes friends with our protagonists. I am made to so completely despise this woman so much in book two, I have no idea what kind of magical "fuggedabouteverything" dust the author could possibly have that will make me like Donna.
The romance dialog is so cringy, I alternate between rolling my eyes, laughing, and being slightly disgusted (actually the kiss that disgusted me might be in book three). The drooling over the only two bachelors in town, who happen to also be the hottest men on the planet is kind of gross. If you like Harlequin light or Hallmark Heavy, these books might be for you.
Most of the female characters are pretty weak considering they're supposed to be strong, independent women. "Save me, hero!" And the Vow was just about the crappiest promise a dying husband could ask. Mr. Perfect Dead Husband was a jerk.
And, yes, I'm a glutton for punishment because I started book three just TWO DAYS after finishing this one.
But the absolute worst thing about this book is when a man who should know better! fired two shots into the air, presumably in or near town since it was right outside a certain shop. Gravity works, people. In the immortal words of Blood, Sweat, and Tears, "What goes up must come down." And just about everyone in this book would have known that.
If someone in this book had an opportunity to be an Ahole, you could pretty much count on them to do it. Learning Donna's backstory did not make her a sympathetic character. At. All. I realize she's the antagonist, but reading the synopses for the rest of the available books in this series (TWO freaking more have been added since I started the first book!), it seems she becomes friends with our protagonists. I am made to so completely despise this woman so much in book two, I have no idea what kind of magical "fuggedabouteverything" dust the author could possibly have that will make me like Donna.
The romance dialog is so cringy, I alternate between rolling my eyes, laughing, and being slightly disgusted (actually the kiss that disgusted me might be in book three). The drooling over the only two bachelors in town, who happen to also be the hottest men on the planet is kind of gross. If you like Harlequin light or Hallmark Heavy, these books might be for you.
Most of the female characters are pretty weak considering they're supposed to be strong, independent women. "Save me, hero!" And the Vow was just about the crappiest promise a dying husband could ask. Mr. Perfect Dead Husband was a jerk.
And, yes, I'm a glutton for punishment because I started book three just TWO DAYS after finishing this one.
But the absolute worst thing about this book is when a man who should know better! fired two shots into the air, presumably in or near town since it was right outside a certain shop. Gravity works, people. In the immortal words of Blood, Sweat, and Tears, "What goes up must come down." And just about everyone in this book would have known that.
May 9, 2025
A heartwarming second addition to an excellent series!
The Vox by B.E. Baker is an excellent addition to The Birch Creek Ranch series. It is chock-full of precious moments that warmed me like a cup of tea and a warm fire on a snowy day! It deserves to be made into a Hallmark movie! Make sure to keep the tissues handy while reading The Vow! B.E. Baker's writing invokes so much emotion, from soft giggles to laugh-out-loud moments, to sad tears and happy tears. Reading this book was a roller coaster ride of feelings!
I especially liked how much this book spoke to me about my own life, my own concerns, and struggles. My copy is full of highlights, notes, and sometimes emojis because words failed me. It was like Ms. Baker was writing my thoughts and words; if I could have found the words to express myself that eloquently! The Vow is about our promises to ourselves, our spouses, our kids, and everyone we contact. As good humans, we strive to keep those vows, almost to the point of killing ourselves. And when we fail to keep those promises, we believe we are failures. But sometimes circumstances change, and our vows no longer fit our lives. Or, if other demands take priority, we are forced to break those promises. The Vow is about learning to cope with changing decisions and broken promises. It's about letting go of expectations of perfection, our fears of losing or being losers, and living life to its fullest. B.E. Baker imparts this powerful philosophy through the story of women like ourselves. To say that Amanda, Abigail, and Donna are believable and relatable characters is an understatement!
I can't wait to start the next book in the series. Even though it means my TBR shelf will be so heavy it might just collapse!
The Vox by B.E. Baker is an excellent addition to The Birch Creek Ranch series. It is chock-full of precious moments that warmed me like a cup of tea and a warm fire on a snowy day! It deserves to be made into a Hallmark movie! Make sure to keep the tissues handy while reading The Vow! B.E. Baker's writing invokes so much emotion, from soft giggles to laugh-out-loud moments, to sad tears and happy tears. Reading this book was a roller coaster ride of feelings!
I especially liked how much this book spoke to me about my own life, my own concerns, and struggles. My copy is full of highlights, notes, and sometimes emojis because words failed me. It was like Ms. Baker was writing my thoughts and words; if I could have found the words to express myself that eloquently! The Vow is about our promises to ourselves, our spouses, our kids, and everyone we contact. As good humans, we strive to keep those vows, almost to the point of killing ourselves. And when we fail to keep those promises, we believe we are failures. But sometimes circumstances change, and our vows no longer fit our lives. Or, if other demands take priority, we are forced to break those promises. The Vow is about learning to cope with changing decisions and broken promises. It's about letting go of expectations of perfection, our fears of losing or being losers, and living life to its fullest. B.E. Baker imparts this powerful philosophy through the story of women like ourselves. To say that Amanda, Abigail, and Donna are believable and relatable characters is an understatement!
I can't wait to start the next book in the series. Even though it means my TBR shelf will be so heavy it might just collapse!
February 14, 2022
After the first book in this series, I was really invested in the characters. This next installment showed both of the main women living life as more than just widows with children playing ranchers for a short time. Now they really ARE ranchers and are moving on in terms of figuring out what they want in this next phase of their lives. No longer just reacting to circumstances and trying to stay afloat, but really thinking about the future beyond the next day. Now does this happen easily or quickly? Absolutely not. A few knocks upside the head would have moved things along a bit quicker, but the story was not boring. Some new characters were introduced (both two and four legged!) and some pretty harrowing events occurred. Abby is still a bit too good, but she’s hanging on by a thread. Amanda is trying to spread her wings but is forced to hold back while she figures out finances for herself and her girls. The kids are all over the place. The other Amanda gets more page time and it was bittersweet to hear more of her tale. The new and old men are fleshed out a bit more but the women still are the main focus. Donna is an interesting new addition and I alternately loathed her and felt sorry for her. Being a parent is not for the faint of heart. It takes a good while to find out where the title of this book comes from and it’s not what I would have guessed. The end was one of those awful cliffhangers where you feel so much is left unfinished. Thank goodness there will be more to come to tie up loose ends! It’s another slowly building clean romance that’s okay to play out loud when the kids are around.
February 13, 2022
Ok, don’t get me wrong. The book is good and I’m very glad to have read it.
But it does fall a bit into Second Book Syndrome.
We do add a new main character, which adds a new layer of problems and personalities. Relationships move along some. Some problems are resolved. But I definitely didn’t enjoy this book as much as the first.
I think my biggest disappointment is in Abigail’s big conflict—the reasoning behind the promise she made really falls flat to me and stubbornly clinging to it without discussing it with the person she needs to discuss it with seems a little ridiculous for such a practical thinker.
I did like the addition of the new main character, Donna, and the development of both her and Amanda.
Amanda Saddler’s role in this one is great! I loved learning more about her.
The book has definitely set me up to want to read more and see where these characters end up. Can’t wait for book three!
But it does fall a bit into Second Book Syndrome.
We do add a new main character, which adds a new layer of problems and personalities. Relationships move along some. Some problems are resolved. But I definitely didn’t enjoy this book as much as the first.
I think my biggest disappointment is in Abigail’s big conflict—the reasoning behind the promise she made really falls flat to me and stubbornly clinging to it without discussing it with the person she needs to discuss it with seems a little ridiculous for such a practical thinker.
I did like the addition of the new main character, Donna, and the development of both her and Amanda.
Amanda Saddler’s role in this one is great! I loved learning more about her.
The book has definitely set me up to want to read more and see where these characters end up. Can’t wait for book three!
February 11, 2024
Awesome Book!!!
I really enjoyed reading The Vow(The Birch Creek Ranch Series Book 2)!!! All about the Brooks family’s Abigail and her kids from Houston, Texas & Amanda and her kids from Manhattan, NY. Both family’s children are in the running to inherit their dad’s uncle’s ranch in Manila, Utah. The rule is the family must live on the ranch and take care of the animals and do the chores for one full year. They can work with the ranch hands to learn the ropes, but working the ranch is not up for debate. So in this book, both families lived on the ranch for two months, then left for a few weeks, then came back for good. This story is a continuation from book one as the families try to fulfill the terms of the bequest. Lots of emotion, plenty of laughing and crying does occur. This is a definite read!!!I can’t wait to read book three.
I really enjoyed reading The Vow(The Birch Creek Ranch Series Book 2)!!! All about the Brooks family’s Abigail and her kids from Houston, Texas & Amanda and her kids from Manhattan, NY. Both family’s children are in the running to inherit their dad’s uncle’s ranch in Manila, Utah. The rule is the family must live on the ranch and take care of the animals and do the chores for one full year. They can work with the ranch hands to learn the ropes, but working the ranch is not up for debate. So in this book, both families lived on the ranch for two months, then left for a few weeks, then came back for good. This story is a continuation from book one as the families try to fulfill the terms of the bequest. Lots of emotion, plenty of laughing and crying does occur. This is a definite read!!!I can’t wait to read book three.
January 23, 2024
The Vow by B. E. Baker is the second book in the Birch Creek Ranch series. I read the first book and I wanted to continue with the stories of the different characters. In addition to Amanda and Abby, the author added another character, Donna, into the mix. At first, I did not care much for the addition, but as the story progressed, it seemed to be a good choice. I currently own the first book; I borrowed the second book from Hoopla, our free library. I was hoping that this would be a 3 book series, but so far there are 8 books in the series. I did download book 3 from Hoopla and I am looking forward to reading it.
This is an interesting series and the characters and plot are well developed. Enjoy.
This is an interesting series and the characters and plot are well developed. Enjoy.
June 24, 2025
An enjoyable series!
The Vow is book 2 in The Birch Creek Ranch Series that is engrossing and habit forming. I can’t get enough of the intriguing and varied characters, the storyline, the scenes of the ranch and all the animals there.
The author did such a wonderful job of creating this series that I feel as if I know these characters and have come to feel at home and comfortable with them. I don’t want to see each book end but at the same time I look forward to what will happen next to them.
I look forward to the next book in the series and highly recommend this wonderful series who love stories about family life, love and how difficult it can be to be a parent and make the right decisions for not only yourself but also for your family.
The Vow is book 2 in The Birch Creek Ranch Series that is engrossing and habit forming. I can’t get enough of the intriguing and varied characters, the storyline, the scenes of the ranch and all the animals there.
The author did such a wonderful job of creating this series that I feel as if I know these characters and have come to feel at home and comfortable with them. I don’t want to see each book end but at the same time I look forward to what will happen next to them.
I look forward to the next book in the series and highly recommend this wonderful series who love stories about family life, love and how difficult it can be to be a parent and make the right decisions for not only yourself but also for your family.
February 12, 2022
This book starts immediately where Book 1 ends, both Brook families, Amanda's and Abigail's are back in the ranch, and this time is not because they had to be there but because of they want to be there. This makes it easy for them but at the same time hard for us the readers because of the setbacks that happen in the story.
I love the way the story flows, the continuous character development and the curves that life throws to these two strong women, even though Amanda won't agree with my description of her.
I can wait to read Book 3 of this story, the author left us with a cliffhanger with the ending of this book.
I love the way the story flows, the continuous character development and the curves that life throws to these two strong women, even though Amanda won't agree with my description of her.
I can wait to read Book 3 of this story, the author left us with a cliffhanger with the ending of this book.
February 21, 2022
The Vow is a clean romance but it is so much more than that. It's about life, love and loss. It's about making hard choices and working through all of life's challenges. Abigail and Amanda continue to learn how to navigate the small town life while attempting to leave their big city dreams and lives behind. We meet Donna and even though she shakes things up you learn to love her too. Some promises were made by all three that might just have to be broken. These characters have depth and their trials are real. This story really makes you feel what they are feeling. And I am on the edge of my seat waiting to read the next book in this series!
May 26, 2023
Four stars for the writing. This is book two of a series. I really enjoyed book one and couldn’t wait for book two. But now that I am finished I won’t be reading more. This series is really just a long story broken down into multiple books. I am okay with that sometimes, I’ve read multiple trilogy series. After I finished this one I read the blurbs for the next three books and I don’t see that I will be getting resolution anytime soon. As of Feb 2023 there are five books and I am not sure if that one concludes the series or not. As much as I enjoyed the plot, the characters and the writing, I won’t be reading more.
April 16, 2025
I enjoyed the growth of the two main characters, and especially Amanda's. A new main character was introduced in this second book of the series, Donna. Her change is also inspiring as we identify with her struggles as a single mom, caregiver for her father, and dealing with a rascal of a brother. The older Amanda plays an important role in younger Amanda's life and growth. Her character is quite delightful. Baker's style is very easy to follow, even as she weaves multiple story lines. I'd give the ending a 3 out of 5, with a bit of closure, but a definite need to know more in the next book(s).
February 15, 2022
I really enjoyed getting to know the characters more. Like Amanda I wish I was more like Abigail, gets my children to follow directions and listen easily, is able to get them to do chores without whining, keeps and clean house, gets work done in a reasonable amount of time, even gets a workout in. But alas I think I’m more of an Amanda. I liked the growth we see in Amanda in this book. She’s not as self centered and we see her really caring about those around her. The addition of Donna was good and definitely not how I expected things to go by the end of this book. I look forward to the next!
June 19, 2023
2.5 rounded down
audiobook
I liked this one less than the first in the series and will not be reading/listening to more.
The story felt very disjointed. Someone wants to cheat the family out of inheriting the ranch. Someone was blackmailing someone else. There was terrible storm, the kids were sick, the SM person has an abusive contract with an employer or sponsor or something.
The families moved in an immediate wanted to renovate the garage. What a mess.
Then there were the WWJD bracelets. This is not presented as Christian fic, but it has become more blatant in this book.
audiobook
I liked this one less than the first in the series and will not be reading/listening to more.
The story felt very disjointed. Someone wants to cheat the family out of inheriting the ranch. Someone was blackmailing someone else. There was terrible storm, the kids were sick, the SM person has an abusive contract with an employer or sponsor or something.
The families moved in an immediate wanted to renovate the garage. What a mess.
Then there were the WWJD bracelets. This is not presented as Christian fic, but it has become more blatant in this book.
December 27, 2024
Okay. I just breezed through this book because I couldn’t out it down. This whole series is just like one huge book. I’d stoped reading Women’s Fiction a while back because I prefer romance but this series is just so good! I totally wasn’t expecting a third woman to be added to the mix and so many things happen in this book and I’m just hanging on for the ride! I love the life and parenting tips I get from Baker’s writing. I laughed and I gasped. I cannot wait to start the next book. Like, literally, I’m going to start it right now.
February 11, 2022
As Abigail and Amanda return to the ranch, to make a go of it, different problems come up. They need more room for the two families, someone is trying to get them removed from the property and both of their love life's are in turmoil. Can they put all the promises and hurt behind and move forward. A very touching story. Strong characters with a storyline that will touch your heart. Loving this series.
I was given an ARC copy of this book by the author for an honest review.
I was given an ARC copy of this book by the author for an honest review.
February 24, 2022
I love how the story continues on from The Bequest. I enjoy the pace of the telling and how we get the 3 different perspectives. B. E. Baker really paints a great picture as she draws me into the lives of her characters. The Vow really got me thinking of all the promises we make to ourselves and others and how life and circumstances can change or effect those promises. A great book and I can't wait for the next to release.
March 3, 2022
In a world of craziness be alittle bit of Abigail and a little bit of Amanda! Both have had their fair share of hurt, losing their husbands and moving to a ranch. Abigail is the put together person who doesn’t let a lot bother her or at least she acts like. Amanda is a gi with the flow and say what your thinking, think about consequences later. They both grow through the story and they both have their own problems but it’s how they work together and face them head on.
March 14, 2022
Wow, excellent second in a series
So many time sequels disappoint after the first INE is so amazing you can't wait to get more of the story, but The Vow is just a ps wonderful as the first! I loved getting deeper with all the characters. I was dreading when I saw in the table of contents that a new character was added, be put she only brought more depth to the other characters and the story in general. Already did a prep buy for #3!!
So many time sequels disappoint after the first INE is so amazing you can't wait to get more of the story, but The Vow is just a ps wonderful as the first! I loved getting deeper with all the characters. I was dreading when I saw in the table of contents that a new character was added, be put she only brought more depth to the other characters and the story in general. Already did a prep buy for #3!!
April 18, 2022
I loved this story that chronicals the lives of Abigail and Amanda as they learn to work a farm/ranch. They are as different as any two mature women might be. But they've learned to love each other and be friends. There are certainly plenty of daily life challenges. And there's some excitement to kep them on thier toes. I so enjoyed this second story in the series and can hardly wait for the next book.
September 23, 2023
Work Hard and Do What Is Right
The Vow demonstrates how real the struggle sometimes is between doing what is right and what is comfortable. In the end we see that kindness is always the best choice. The families in the Birch Creek series are wonderful human characters who are fiercely loyal to their families and strive to do what is right. I love the good examples of these characters. I look forward to the rest of the series.
The Vow demonstrates how real the struggle sometimes is between doing what is right and what is comfortable. In the end we see that kindness is always the best choice. The families in the Birch Creek series are wonderful human characters who are fiercely loyal to their families and strive to do what is right. I love the good examples of these characters. I look forward to the rest of the series.
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