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King's Creek #4
King's Country
I’ve been the wicked witch of King’s Creek since I was eight years old, from my angry red hair down to my ball-busting boots. With a mean drunk for a daddy who left nothing but insults and unpaid bills in his wake, was there ever any other fate? Now his passing has left me one bad turn, from losing my land to the neighbors my family’s been feuding with for generations.
So of course it’s Dawson King who comes to my rescue in the middle of a snowstorm. But I don’t care how good he looks in a pair of Wranglers, or how much he spoils my horse, or how great of a cook he is. The Kings already have everything—money, looks, and charm. Dawson’s not getting my heart too.
*********
I’m living my dream, I admit it. I took over the family ranch from my dad and grew it into the envy of Montana. I have the best views, the best employees, and the respect of the entire town. The only thing I don’t have is someone to share my dream with. So when my neighbor breaks her leg and nearly freezes to death, I all but kidnap her back to my place to recover.
We grew up less than a mile apart, but we couldn’t be in more different places now. Bristol’s had nothing but pride for so long, it’s hard to get close to her. And I want to get very close to Bristol.
I don’t care if the whole town loves me, I’m only interested in earning the love of one woman. But for a guy who’s got the world at his feet, Bristol’s heart might be out of my reach.
So of course it’s Dawson King who comes to my rescue in the middle of a snowstorm. But I don’t care how good he looks in a pair of Wranglers, or how much he spoils my horse, or how great of a cook he is. The Kings already have everything—money, looks, and charm. Dawson’s not getting my heart too.
*********
I’m living my dream, I admit it. I took over the family ranch from my dad and grew it into the envy of Montana. I have the best views, the best employees, and the respect of the entire town. The only thing I don’t have is someone to share my dream with. So when my neighbor breaks her leg and nearly freezes to death, I all but kidnap her back to my place to recover.
We grew up less than a mile apart, but we couldn’t be in more different places now. Bristol’s had nothing but pride for so long, it’s hard to get close to her. And I want to get very close to Bristol.
I don’t care if the whole town loves me, I’m only interested in earning the love of one woman. But for a guy who’s got the world at his feet, Bristol’s heart might be out of my reach.
Unknown Binding
First published May 18, 2021
142 people are currently reading
1240 people want to read
About the author
Marie Johnston
100 books1,059 followersMarie Johnston is an award-winning, best-selling paranormal and contemporary romance writer. She grew up in the upper Midwest and planned to go to college for English. Didn't happen. She started college in accounting and was awful! Grabbing her inner science geek by the pocket protector, she changed to microbiology and medical technology where her only writing involved scientific articles and procedures.
Eventually, she left full-time work for full-time baby raising but kept thinking, "one day, I'd like to write a book." Finally, before any more time passed, Marie decided to buckle down and write. She loves it!
Eventually, she left full-time work for full-time baby raising but kept thinking, "one day, I'd like to write a book." Finally, before any more time passed, Marie decided to buckle down and write. She loves it!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
November 21, 2024
This had good angst potential, but it felt surface level and the emotion didn’t quite land. I've felt this way about all books I tried from this author. She's aggressively Fine. She's competent, her books are entertaining enough if you just want a palate cleanser read. But they don't stick with me or emotionally move me, and it always feels like there's something missing from them.
This is book 4 in a series, but I didn't read the first 3 books, and I wasn't confused. It's about Bristol and Dawson, who are both around 28. They live on neighboring ranches in Montana, and their families are rivals. His family is rich, hers is poor. His family is beloved in their town, hers is hated. He’s got a big family and lots of friends and is the town golden boy, Bristol is isolated and lonely. That’s the good shit. I like that sort of angsty premise. Even better, although Bristol is a downtrodden heroine, she’s not a doormat.
There’s some convoluted trust fund situation where basically, his family screwed hers out millions of dollars. She knows that, but she doesn’t know the extent of it. So, that’s a secret hanging over his head-- how to reveal that to her, and how she’ll react when she finds out.
I do love a good bitchy heroine who is emotionally wounded, and misunderstood by everyone. It's my favorite type of heroine, and, this book did deliver that pretty well. (Other good heroines with this vibe are Elena in When Heroes Fall, Lavinia in Dukes of Ruin, and Sugar Beth in Ain't She Sweet?). The entire town is mean to Bristol because her late dad was widely hated. For some reason, everyone has made that her problem, too. Bristol doesn’t just take that treatment lying down, she pushes back when people are rude to her. So, she’s got a reputation as a bitch, but she’s just responding to people treating her poorly for unfair reasons.
I also liked how Dawson was able to see how differently they were treated when he and Bristol went out in town. And how, eventually, he worked to try to fix it. These kinds of scenes are catnip to me. (But, he was a people-pleaser for too long, and took his time to act).
But their relationship could have had more depth, and Dawson was a little bland. His secret was also dragged out for too long. Then, there wasn’t enough time spent on the fallout. The pacing was off. What’s the point of a story dragging out the hero having a secret that will hurt the heroine, if you’re going to rush through the part where it's revealed and impacts her? I also liked her less when she forgave him pretty much immediately. And, it pissed me off that his family was complicit in keeping her in poverty – keeping this money away from her – and that just got shrugged off. His entire family needed to grovel to Bristol, and that didn’t happen. It made the end of this book unsatisfying.
But, this wasn't bad. It might hit the spot if you want a small town read where they’re both ranchers, he’s got an angsty secret that will hurt her when she finds out, and she’s a "misunderstood bitch" type of heroine.
This is book 4 in a series, but I didn't read the first 3 books, and I wasn't confused. It's about Bristol and Dawson, who are both around 28. They live on neighboring ranches in Montana, and their families are rivals. His family is rich, hers is poor. His family is beloved in their town, hers is hated. He’s got a big family and lots of friends and is the town golden boy, Bristol is isolated and lonely. That’s the good shit. I like that sort of angsty premise. Even better, although Bristol is a downtrodden heroine, she’s not a doormat.
There’s some convoluted trust fund situation where basically, his family screwed hers out millions of dollars. She knows that, but she doesn’t know the extent of it. So, that’s a secret hanging over his head-- how to reveal that to her, and how she’ll react when she finds out.
I do love a good bitchy heroine who is emotionally wounded, and misunderstood by everyone. It's my favorite type of heroine, and, this book did deliver that pretty well. (Other good heroines with this vibe are Elena in When Heroes Fall, Lavinia in Dukes of Ruin, and Sugar Beth in Ain't She Sweet?). The entire town is mean to Bristol because her late dad was widely hated. For some reason, everyone has made that her problem, too. Bristol doesn’t just take that treatment lying down, she pushes back when people are rude to her. So, she’s got a reputation as a bitch, but she’s just responding to people treating her poorly for unfair reasons.
I also liked how Dawson was able to see how differently they were treated when he and Bristol went out in town. And how, eventually, he worked to try to fix it. These kinds of scenes are catnip to me. (But, he was a people-pleaser for too long, and took his time to act).
But their relationship could have had more depth, and Dawson was a little bland. His secret was also dragged out for too long. Then, there wasn’t enough time spent on the fallout. The pacing was off. What’s the point of a story dragging out the hero having a secret that will hurt the heroine, if you’re going to rush through the part where it's revealed and impacts her? I also liked her less when she forgave him pretty much immediately. And, it pissed me off that his family was complicit in keeping her in poverty – keeping this money away from her – and that just got shrugged off. His entire family needed to grovel to Bristol, and that didn’t happen. It made the end of this book unsatisfying.
But, this wasn't bad. It might hit the spot if you want a small town read where they’re both ranchers, he’s got an angsty secret that will hurt her when she finds out, and she’s a "misunderstood bitch" type of heroine.
May 23, 2021
“I don’t need everyone to like me, I just need you to love me.”
Small town romances can be sweet, light hearted and quirky or dark, gritty and downright antagonistic and King’s Creek was the latter for Bristol. Her family and the Kings’ have been feuding for decades and she was always been treated differently because the town always sided with the Kings. It didn’t help that her daddy was a drunk who let his family’s land go to the brink of ruin. Everyone just assumed Bristol was the apple that didn’t fall far from the tree and treated her as such so Bristol learned early how to handle herself, never letting anyone take advantage of her.
When she has an accident that leaves her with a broken leg, she has absolutely no one to turn to for help. Bristol finds help from the most unlikely of places. Her neighbor and mortal enemy, Dawson King.
This was a cross between the love/hate trope and the friends to lovers. Dawson and Bristol were friends growing up but when his mother is murdered, their friendship abruptly ended. Seeing Bristol again and seeing just how independent she’s had to become, now that she’s all alone, brings out Dawson’s protective instincts. Caring for Bristol and seeing her slowly let down her guard around him, shows Dawson just how wrong his misconceptions about her and her father have been.
These two have such a sweet, genuine connection that was full of simmering chemistry, easy friendship and budding romance, I couldn’t put it down. Hands down, one of my favorite reads this year.
This story was so freaking sweet and heartfelt, I couldn’t stop reading it. I loved Bristol, she was a snarky, gives-as-good-as-she-gets heroine who didn’t have an easy life but didn’t let that change who she was at her core. She was smart, caring, resourceful and someone to be admired. I don’t know that everyone would have her courage to stick around for the land and the animals she loved instead of throwing in the towel and getting the hell out of King’s Creek. Bristol was a big old softie with a vulnerable side that melted my heart. Loved her.
Dawson was also a really great Hero. He was a good guy who’s always had the solid backing and support of his family. He’s grown up in a town where everyone looks up to and respects him because of who his family is. He’s always been popular, charming and well liked. He’s the polar opposite of Bristol but he sees past her protective shell to the sweet girl he used to know and also the strong woman she’s grown up to be. He has to have his eyes opened to the double standards his small town lives by and also his family’s part in the way Bristol is treated but he doesn’t shy away from owning it and doing what needs to get done to change it.
I loved that this was a slow burn romance between these two. They’ve known each other basically their whole lives but have had two separate upbringings that have shaped who they are. Watching them learn to trust each other again and get to know each other as adults gave the story a strong foundation.
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
Small town romances can be sweet, light hearted and quirky or dark, gritty and downright antagonistic and King’s Creek was the latter for Bristol. Her family and the Kings’ have been feuding for decades and she was always been treated differently because the town always sided with the Kings. It didn’t help that her daddy was a drunk who let his family’s land go to the brink of ruin. Everyone just assumed Bristol was the apple that didn’t fall far from the tree and treated her as such so Bristol learned early how to handle herself, never letting anyone take advantage of her.
When she has an accident that leaves her with a broken leg, she has absolutely no one to turn to for help. Bristol finds help from the most unlikely of places. Her neighbor and mortal enemy, Dawson King.
This was a cross between the love/hate trope and the friends to lovers. Dawson and Bristol were friends growing up but when his mother is murdered, their friendship abruptly ended. Seeing Bristol again and seeing just how independent she’s had to become, now that she’s all alone, brings out Dawson’s protective instincts. Caring for Bristol and seeing her slowly let down her guard around him, shows Dawson just how wrong his misconceptions about her and her father have been.
These two have such a sweet, genuine connection that was full of simmering chemistry, easy friendship and budding romance, I couldn’t put it down. Hands down, one of my favorite reads this year.
This story was so freaking sweet and heartfelt, I couldn’t stop reading it. I loved Bristol, she was a snarky, gives-as-good-as-she-gets heroine who didn’t have an easy life but didn’t let that change who she was at her core. She was smart, caring, resourceful and someone to be admired. I don’t know that everyone would have her courage to stick around for the land and the animals she loved instead of throwing in the towel and getting the hell out of King’s Creek. Bristol was a big old softie with a vulnerable side that melted my heart. Loved her.
Dawson was also a really great Hero. He was a good guy who’s always had the solid backing and support of his family. He’s grown up in a town where everyone looks up to and respects him because of who his family is. He’s always been popular, charming and well liked. He’s the polar opposite of Bristol but he sees past her protective shell to the sweet girl he used to know and also the strong woman she’s grown up to be. He has to have his eyes opened to the double standards his small town lives by and also his family’s part in the way Bristol is treated but he doesn’t shy away from owning it and doing what needs to get done to change it.
I loved that this was a slow burn romance between these two. They’ve known each other basically their whole lives but have had two separate upbringings that have shaped who they are. Watching them learn to trust each other again and get to know each other as adults gave the story a strong foundation.
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
January 2, 2022
Dawson & Bristol
I loved them! Fighting, feuding, fornicating, they were perfect together.
Each brother has their own challenges to overcome, are still dealing with the grief of losing their mom as kids and teens. Dawson helps Bristol recover physically (after finding her badly injured) and feel accepted by the town, while she teaches him not everyone is worth your time and business.
Dawson is the most centered of the King men. I really enjoyed his story.
I loved them! Fighting, feuding, fornicating, they were perfect together.
Each brother has their own challenges to overcome, are still dealing with the grief of losing their mom as kids and teens. Dawson helps Bristol recover physically (after finding her badly injured) and feel accepted by the town, while she teaches him not everyone is worth your time and business.
Dawson is the most centered of the King men. I really enjoyed his story.
Read
May 20, 2021I wanted to share an excerpt with you! Enjoy :)
My fingers and toes weren’t as numb as when Dawson had found me. I’d narrowly escaped frostbite and wasn’t shivering thanks to the warmed blankets Emma had brought. Dr. Jangula’s bedside manner sucked, but I was patched up and had gotten a tetanus shot. There was nothing left to do.
Emma’s gaze softened. “Dawson’s a good guy.”
Ugh, I didn’t need this. Dawson was the golden boy and I was the town’s very own wicked witch. The one whose mom hadn’t bothered to stick around long after birth. “I don’t need him.”
Emma pursed her lips and she eased onto the edge of the bed. “Bristol, do you have anyone else to call?”
“I lost my phone in the fall.” My empty excuse fell dead between us. She knew I was full of shit, and I didn’t care to have one of Dawson’s lovers witness my low point.
I’d run into Emma and Dawson on a date. She’d been dressed exactly how Marshall wished I would’ve dressed the night I was supposed to meet his parents: silky leggings and a glittery shirt that was flattering and elegant, her ankle boots only pulling the look together. Emma was everything I wasn’t. She was smart, had a successful job, and would make the parents of whomever she settled with proud.
I was not envious of the girls Dawson dated. There were too many to count.
“Is there a friend you can call?”
My cheeks burned, the warmest they’d been all day. I didn’t bother to shake my head and confirm her assumption that I had no friends. The whole town knew I was a loner.
“Boyfriend?” she asked softly.
“None of your business,” I mumbled, the conversation with Marshall pinballing through my brain.
“Well, Dawson’s willing to help. I say you hear him out. Can I bring him in?”
“No.” At her steady gaze, I sighed. “Fine. Then I can tell him to leave.”
She nodded and left. I combed my fingers through my hair. It was a tangled mess. I was a tangled mess. I had on a worn Montana State sweatshirt I’d gotten from a thrift store in Miles City. Marshall had scoffed at secondhand stores, so I’d only stopped there before going to his place.
Dawson swaggered through the door, his expression guarded, like he expected me to attack. He had on a black stocking hat with the King’s Ranch logo and his hands shoved into his dark brown coat. How his brown coat hid all the grunge that came with working on a ranch and mine only looked dirtier, I didn’t know.
Emma closed me in with him. The small exam room shrank even further around his broad shoulders. I wasn’t short, but he towered several inches over me.
Dawson’s brown gaze was serious by the time it collided with mine. He didn’t start with small talk. “Why can’t you stay with me?”
“Because I don’t need to.”
He cocked an arrogant brow, and it only added to his rugged manliness instead of making him repellent. “The snow’s started. I have your horse, your cow, and your dog. You might as well stay.”
I gave him a tight smile. “Are you going to put me in the barn too?”
“I have nice straw, what can I say?” He rolled his eyes. “I don’t know what cave you think I crawled out of, but I have a big house. You won’t even have to see me that much.”
I gestured to my cast. “All your bedrooms are upstairs.”
“Not mine.” Grief hid in the depths of his whiskey eyes. “I have Mama and Dad’s old room downstairs,” he added softly.
The reminder of his mom peeled open the haphazard bandage I’d slapped over my heart years ago. Sarah King had been one of the best people who roamed the earth, and one of my dad’s stupidest decisions had stolen her from us.
“I don’t want to sleep on a couch.” Dawson’s couch was probably nicer than the salvaged mattress I had in the RV, but I didn’t want to sleep under the same roof as him. If only the trailer were more inhabitable.
“I’ll stand at the end of the stairs so when you fall hopping up them, I can catch you.” His tone was dry. “You can use my bed.”
Heat swamped my body. There was no reason on God’s green earth that I needed to be near or in Dawson’s bed. I didn’t care if it was for convalescence. No. “I’ll be fine at home.”
That wasn’t true. I had no godd--n clue how I was going to stay in my RV and do what needed to get done, but I’d figure it out like I had all my life.
“Bristol.”
“Take me home.” I sat up and scooted my legs over, biting back a grimace. My right leg was killing me and my cuts screamed. “Never mind. I can call for a ride.”
“And pay them how? I didn’t see a purse on you.”
“I can call . . . someone else.”
“Like a boyfriend?” His voice was stilted. Odd.
I gave him a careful glare. “Yeah, like a boyfriend.”
He pulled out my phone and handed it over. The screen blinked on. The barrage of messages from Marshall would’ve been easy to see. My cheeks burned. Would there be a time I wasn’t ashamed around Dawson King?
My fingers and toes weren’t as numb as when Dawson had found me. I’d narrowly escaped frostbite and wasn’t shivering thanks to the warmed blankets Emma had brought. Dr. Jangula’s bedside manner sucked, but I was patched up and had gotten a tetanus shot. There was nothing left to do.
Emma’s gaze softened. “Dawson’s a good guy.”
Ugh, I didn’t need this. Dawson was the golden boy and I was the town’s very own wicked witch. The one whose mom hadn’t bothered to stick around long after birth. “I don’t need him.”
Emma pursed her lips and she eased onto the edge of the bed. “Bristol, do you have anyone else to call?”
“I lost my phone in the fall.” My empty excuse fell dead between us. She knew I was full of shit, and I didn’t care to have one of Dawson’s lovers witness my low point.
I’d run into Emma and Dawson on a date. She’d been dressed exactly how Marshall wished I would’ve dressed the night I was supposed to meet his parents: silky leggings and a glittery shirt that was flattering and elegant, her ankle boots only pulling the look together. Emma was everything I wasn’t. She was smart, had a successful job, and would make the parents of whomever she settled with proud.
I was not envious of the girls Dawson dated. There were too many to count.
“Is there a friend you can call?”
My cheeks burned, the warmest they’d been all day. I didn’t bother to shake my head and confirm her assumption that I had no friends. The whole town knew I was a loner.
“Boyfriend?” she asked softly.
“None of your business,” I mumbled, the conversation with Marshall pinballing through my brain.
“Well, Dawson’s willing to help. I say you hear him out. Can I bring him in?”
“No.” At her steady gaze, I sighed. “Fine. Then I can tell him to leave.”
She nodded and left. I combed my fingers through my hair. It was a tangled mess. I was a tangled mess. I had on a worn Montana State sweatshirt I’d gotten from a thrift store in Miles City. Marshall had scoffed at secondhand stores, so I’d only stopped there before going to his place.
Dawson swaggered through the door, his expression guarded, like he expected me to attack. He had on a black stocking hat with the King’s Ranch logo and his hands shoved into his dark brown coat. How his brown coat hid all the grunge that came with working on a ranch and mine only looked dirtier, I didn’t know.
Emma closed me in with him. The small exam room shrank even further around his broad shoulders. I wasn’t short, but he towered several inches over me.
Dawson’s brown gaze was serious by the time it collided with mine. He didn’t start with small talk. “Why can’t you stay with me?”
“Because I don’t need to.”
He cocked an arrogant brow, and it only added to his rugged manliness instead of making him repellent. “The snow’s started. I have your horse, your cow, and your dog. You might as well stay.”
I gave him a tight smile. “Are you going to put me in the barn too?”
“I have nice straw, what can I say?” He rolled his eyes. “I don’t know what cave you think I crawled out of, but I have a big house. You won’t even have to see me that much.”
I gestured to my cast. “All your bedrooms are upstairs.”
“Not mine.” Grief hid in the depths of his whiskey eyes. “I have Mama and Dad’s old room downstairs,” he added softly.
The reminder of his mom peeled open the haphazard bandage I’d slapped over my heart years ago. Sarah King had been one of the best people who roamed the earth, and one of my dad’s stupidest decisions had stolen her from us.
“I don’t want to sleep on a couch.” Dawson’s couch was probably nicer than the salvaged mattress I had in the RV, but I didn’t want to sleep under the same roof as him. If only the trailer were more inhabitable.
“I’ll stand at the end of the stairs so when you fall hopping up them, I can catch you.” His tone was dry. “You can use my bed.”
Heat swamped my body. There was no reason on God’s green earth that I needed to be near or in Dawson’s bed. I didn’t care if it was for convalescence. No. “I’ll be fine at home.”
That wasn’t true. I had no godd--n clue how I was going to stay in my RV and do what needed to get done, but I’d figure it out like I had all my life.
“Bristol.”
“Take me home.” I sat up and scooted my legs over, biting back a grimace. My right leg was killing me and my cuts screamed. “Never mind. I can call for a ride.”
“And pay them how? I didn’t see a purse on you.”
“I can call . . . someone else.”
“Like a boyfriend?” His voice was stilted. Odd.
I gave him a careful glare. “Yeah, like a boyfriend.”
He pulled out my phone and handed it over. The screen blinked on. The barrage of messages from Marshall would’ve been easy to see. My cheeks burned. Would there be a time I wasn’t ashamed around Dawson King?
August 18, 2022
8/17/2022 - Updated review for Audio
5/9/2022 - This is the fourth book in the Oil Kings series. The relationship arc of Dawson & Bristol is completed in the book. However other themes/events carry through the series and these are best enjoyed in order, starting with King’s Crown.
I couldn’t wait for audio after binging the first three books of the series, so I read this one. Oh my heart! This ties with the first book for being my favorite of the series. Bristol - prickly, focused, misunderstood, and heartbroken. Johnston had me in tears over and over for Bristol. Dawson was perfect for her. He starts by just trying to do the right thing to really getting to know and love her. I just adored how they had wildly different upbringings but had so much in common as well. Their mutual love of animals and ranching shown through.
Dawson finds himself in a horrible catch-22 where he’s fallen in love with and wants to marry Bristol but that means telling her about the trust and why it’s been kept from her all this time. I really liked the way Johnston handled this and how Dawson and Bristol worked things out. These two are absolutely perfect for each other.
So excited to move on to Aiden’s book.
Narration:
I loved this when I read it in May - but I wish I could add stars for this fantastic audio. Alas, I’m maxed out. Chloe Ryan and Tyler Darby brought to life the love, laughter, and emotions. Ryan was exactly how I imagined Bristolwould sound and Darby made Dawson particularly swoony. Such a great listen. I know this series is going to be one I listen to over and over.
While I own the ebook, I did receive a review copy of the audio from Home Cooked Books and am leaving an honest review.
5/9/2022 - This is the fourth book in the Oil Kings series. The relationship arc of Dawson & Bristol is completed in the book. However other themes/events carry through the series and these are best enjoyed in order, starting with King’s Crown.
I couldn’t wait for audio after binging the first three books of the series, so I read this one. Oh my heart! This ties with the first book for being my favorite of the series. Bristol - prickly, focused, misunderstood, and heartbroken. Johnston had me in tears over and over for Bristol. Dawson was perfect for her. He starts by just trying to do the right thing to really getting to know and love her. I just adored how they had wildly different upbringings but had so much in common as well. Their mutual love of animals and ranching shown through.
Dawson finds himself in a horrible catch-22 where he’s fallen in love with and wants to marry Bristol but that means telling her about the trust and why it’s been kept from her all this time. I really liked the way Johnston handled this and how Dawson and Bristol worked things out. These two are absolutely perfect for each other.
So excited to move on to Aiden’s book.
Narration:
I loved this when I read it in May - but I wish I could add stars for this fantastic audio. Alas, I’m maxed out. Chloe Ryan and Tyler Darby brought to life the love, laughter, and emotions. Ryan was exactly how I imagined Bristolwould sound and Darby made Dawson particularly swoony. Such a great listen. I know this series is going to be one I listen to over and over.
While I own the ebook, I did receive a review copy of the audio from Home Cooked Books and am leaving an honest review.
September 14, 2022
Small town romance goodness! KING’S COUNTRY by Marie Johnson was so so good. This slow-burn/enemies-to-lovers/forbidden romance was fab from start to finish. This was my first book in the series despite it being book 4 in Oil Kings series, but I thoroughly enjoyed it as a standalone.
Dawson and Britstol’s romance sizzled. Despite their apparent dislike for each other these two had chemistry that just oozed from the story. I rooted hard for these two the entire time. And oh my gosh was Dawson just as swoony as they come when as he helped Bristol through some of her hardships despite the HUGE secret he was keeping from her. Still they make their way to a HEA and I was here for it!
Narrated by Chloe Ryan and Tyler Darby. Chloe was a new narrator to me, but did a great job portraying strong and feisty Bristol and Tyler Darby made Dawson even more swoon-worthy than I thought was possible. This was one awesome listen and most definitely credit worthy.
Dawson and Britstol’s romance sizzled. Despite their apparent dislike for each other these two had chemistry that just oozed from the story. I rooted hard for these two the entire time. And oh my gosh was Dawson just as swoony as they come when as he helped Bristol through some of her hardships despite the HUGE secret he was keeping from her. Still they make their way to a HEA and I was here for it!
Narrated by Chloe Ryan and Tyler Darby. Chloe was a new narrator to me, but did a great job portraying strong and feisty Bristol and Tyler Darby made Dawson even more swoon-worthy than I thought was possible. This was one awesome listen and most definitely credit worthy.
September 10, 2021
My heart hurt for the heroine. She really got the raw end of the deal. The Hero was the golden child of the town so it was good to see him realize how differently they were treated. I also enjoyed that he defended her and put his words into actions.
June 8, 2021
Dawson and Bristol's Story . . .
Because Bristol’s father was a mean drunk, most people figured she was the same as he was and worthless. So when she breaks her leg and nearly freezes to death, it is Dawson King, an enemy, who comes to her rescue. He takes her to his home and takes good care of her, and she doesn’t want to feel anything toward him. But being together gives them both a chance to see how they may have misjudged each other. Bristol does have a huge chip on her shoulder, but can Dawson get through to her heart?
Because Bristol’s father was a mean drunk, most people figured she was the same as he was and worthless. So when she breaks her leg and nearly freezes to death, it is Dawson King, an enemy, who comes to her rescue. He takes her to his home and takes good care of her, and she doesn’t want to feel anything toward him. But being together gives them both a chance to see how they may have misjudged each other. Bristol does have a huge chip on her shoulder, but can Dawson get through to her heart?
June 4, 2021
MY RATING: 2.5*
RELEASE DATE: 07 June 2021
CLIFFHANGER: No
ARC was kindly provided for an honest review
I have to say, having read the first three books I was really keen to find out how these two are going to navigate the dynamics of their family feud spanning two generations. And to be honest, it fell a bit short for me.
As I said, I’ve read the other books in this series, so to say I’m fed up with the Trust narrative is an understatement. Anyway, lets start with what I liked.
I liked how Dawson was able to go above the trivialities of what is expected of him when dealing with a Cartwright. He saw someone in need, and he helped her. End of. I loved how fierce and independent Bristol was. How despite the circumstances of her childhood, and how her father was, she still loved the man. I loved her fierce determination and her I don’t take shit from anyone mentality.
Now, for what I didn’t like. The Trust. That fucking trust narrative is doing me in. There’s just no mystery anymore. Atleast in this one unlike the first two, the author dealt with it slightly different. While I appreciate how Gentry and his oldest sons reacted to Dawson and Bristol’s relationship, I thought it was crazy how they had a change of heart about what Dawson should do regarding that trust. All throughout the first books, the objective has been not to under any circumstances let the Cartwright get that money. So, the idea that Dawson could pursue a relationship with a Cartwright and everybody except the grandma is just chill and about it and all “do whatever you think is best” is crazy to me.
I expected some serious backlash from the Kings. I expected Dawson and Bristol to have to really fight for their love. While I get why Dawson may have not really had beef with Bristol considering their age and their childhood friendship, his brothers did some crazy shit to avoid the very mine field they’re so blaze about Dawson pursuing.
So no. I don’t know. Something was just missing. Passion. I think passion is what’s missing in this story. The fights, the sex. Its just a bit lacklustre for me. If people are going to fight, I want some serious arguing full of passion and angst and drama. The kind that makes you feel like you’re in the room with them and watching it unfold. This didn’t do that for me I’m afraid.
But chile, I CANNOT WAIT for Aiden’s story. To see how Kate reacts to the news and I pray that the fights are a lot more impassioned, and Aiden does a better job of grovelling than his brother’s did.
May 28, 2021
OVERALL RATING –5 stars
RECOMMENDED FOR: those that like a bit of angst and drama before the Happily Ever After in the wild west
First my usual points:
- I do not do spoilers unless warned.
- Read the summary above; it will tell you what the book is about. I will not reiterate.
- This is a standalone but part of a series. I suspect it’s best enjoyed in order but (suspect) it is not necessary.
- No errors that I caught as far as editing.
- The author was new to me (and I’m looking up others by her)
BOOK:
- Contemporary romance/friends to lovers
- 1st person with dual POV
Other characters from the series:
-- other characters from the first books make appearances with slight involvement of a supporting, move the story along
-- main characters’ story is concluded
Star Ratings - 1 (poor) - 5(READ THIS BOOK)
· Writing Quality: 5 stars with just enough detail
· Story ingredient: 5 stars with much emotion
· Ease of reading/Pace: 5 stars, hooked from page one
· Plot strength: 5 stars as two people finding their way back to each other
· Steam Level: 3-4 stars; romance but not explicit
· Uniqueness Factor: 5 stars
Notes/Opinion (personal):
This was a new series to me; one that I will go back and read prior books. I enjoyed Dawson and Bristol’s story back to each other. It was a sweet, steamy romance of Dawson helping Bristol find her worth and place in the world after a difficult upbringing.
RECOMMENDED FOR: those that like a bit of angst and drama before the Happily Ever After in the wild west
First my usual points:
- I do not do spoilers unless warned.
- Read the summary above; it will tell you what the book is about. I will not reiterate.
- This is a standalone but part of a series. I suspect it’s best enjoyed in order but (suspect) it is not necessary.
- No errors that I caught as far as editing.
- The author was new to me (and I’m looking up others by her)
BOOK:
- Contemporary romance/friends to lovers
- 1st person with dual POV
Other characters from the series:
-- other characters from the first books make appearances with slight involvement of a supporting, move the story along
-- main characters’ story is concluded
Star Ratings - 1 (poor) - 5(READ THIS BOOK)
· Writing Quality: 5 stars with just enough detail
· Story ingredient: 5 stars with much emotion
· Ease of reading/Pace: 5 stars, hooked from page one
· Plot strength: 5 stars as two people finding their way back to each other
· Steam Level: 3-4 stars; romance but not explicit
· Uniqueness Factor: 5 stars
Notes/Opinion (personal):
This was a new series to me; one that I will go back and read prior books. I enjoyed Dawson and Bristol’s story back to each other. It was a sweet, steamy romance of Dawson helping Bristol find her worth and place in the world after a difficult upbringing.
August 30, 2022
I listened to the audiobook and I'm certain that Chloe Ryan and Tyler Darby's performance allowed me to enjoy the story more. The narration kept me engaged and I especially liked Chloe Ryan's accent.
The story itself does stand alone in the series. I've personally listened to book 1 and book 4 and was able to follow the story easily. I'm interested in listening to the other books in the series. I don't feel like there were any big spoilers in this book beyond the usual expected outcome of stand alone contemporary romance. Even though one of the characters was wealthy, it didn't have the feel of a billionaire romance. Many issues faced by the characters were very relatable to an average life (less than perfect family members, being challenged to look at things from another person's perspective, general self confidence challenges, etc.). I would recommend this audiobook to listeners who like contemporary romance stories with some substance to the content and relatively little relationship drama.
Narration: 5 stars
Story: 4.5 stars
I received a copy of this audiobook at my request, and the opinions here are my own.
The story itself does stand alone in the series. I've personally listened to book 1 and book 4 and was able to follow the story easily. I'm interested in listening to the other books in the series. I don't feel like there were any big spoilers in this book beyond the usual expected outcome of stand alone contemporary romance. Even though one of the characters was wealthy, it didn't have the feel of a billionaire romance. Many issues faced by the characters were very relatable to an average life (less than perfect family members, being challenged to look at things from another person's perspective, general self confidence challenges, etc.). I would recommend this audiobook to listeners who like contemporary romance stories with some substance to the content and relatively little relationship drama.
Narration: 5 stars
Story: 4.5 stars
I received a copy of this audiobook at my request, and the opinions here are my own.
August 14, 2022
loved the dual narration of Chloe Ryan and Tyler Darby perfect.
I think if the town could blame Bristol for breathing they would. She just can’t get a break! Her father was a drunk, and the people in the town never gave Bristol a chance, so she grew to hate the town and everyone in it!
Dawson is hardworking cowboy, he loves being a rancher, what he doesn’t need or want is his neighbour from hell! He’d give anything for her to just disappear.
Fate has her ways, Dawson finds Bristol one wintery night, injured and he takes her back to his ranch. Needing to stay until she heals is going to be a nightmare for both of them!
But they weren’t always bitter enemies, as kids they would hang out together, and Dawson would walk her home. All changed when a horrible accident took the King’s mother from them
When Dawson sees how the town treats her, he’s ashamed that they took their leaf from his family! It was never Bristol’s fault, but her daddy was a drunk.
Loved
I think if the town could blame Bristol for breathing they would. She just can’t get a break! Her father was a drunk, and the people in the town never gave Bristol a chance, so she grew to hate the town and everyone in it!
Dawson is hardworking cowboy, he loves being a rancher, what he doesn’t need or want is his neighbour from hell! He’d give anything for her to just disappear.
Fate has her ways, Dawson finds Bristol one wintery night, injured and he takes her back to his ranch. Needing to stay until she heals is going to be a nightmare for both of them!
But they weren’t always bitter enemies, as kids they would hang out together, and Dawson would walk her home. All changed when a horrible accident took the King’s mother from them
When Dawson sees how the town treats her, he’s ashamed that they took their leaf from his family! It was never Bristol’s fault, but her daddy was a drunk.
Loved
August 29, 2022
This book was so much fun; I enjoyed the enemies to lovers theme! The narrators and the author did a great job. Chloe Ryan and Tyler Darby's dual narration made this book more enjoyable. I got lost in the book as both narrators differentiated between various characters’ voices in the dialogue. The accents the narrators used and other vocal characteristics added to the listening experience. The narrators and the author made me feel invested in this story. I adored the characters in this book and the challenges they had. This audiobook is the first I have listened to in this series, and I will listen to more of them in the future. If you like the trope enemies to lovers, you will like this book. I was sent a free book, and I am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
June 16, 2021
An enticing blurb caught my attention and I chose to read this book based on it. It was even better than I imagined. The scenes were laced with chemistry. The characters were well crafted and very intriguing - especially her character. I enjoyed reading this book.
I requested a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I requested a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 26, 2022
I had high hopes for this book having loved the heroine, Bristol, in earlier volumes. Dawson is all cowboy in all the best ways. The forced proximity that moved the two from enemies to lovers was beautifully executed.
May 23, 2021
You'll love Bristol and Dawson's story. Fate brings them together when he rescues her from the snow after breaking her leg. Knowing that she's in no condition he takes her to his ranch. Needless to say she's not thrilled. She a fiery independent red head who's been forced to learn to take care of herself. Their families been enemies and Bristol's father was the town drunk which forced her to grow a thick shell. This is an enemy to lovers romance with a slow burn. The more they're together the more they realize their misconceptions of each other. The story was well written with strong, interesting characters and an engaging story line. I read a free arc via Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.
May 24, 2021
This is the first book from Marie Johnston I've read and I was thoroughly impressed! Even though King's Country is the fourth book in a series, I had no problems reading it as a stand-alone. The dynamics between Bristol and Dawson made me think hours and days after reading their story and That is what makes a 5 star read in my book! Now I need to go read the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 25, 2021
This book was great! I loved Bristol and Dawson. The characters connection developed so naturally. Although I skipped the first books in the series I did not feel like I was left behind or missing information. I felt several emotions as I read this book for laughing out loud to being so angry I could punch a little old lady. Such a great story and I cannot wait to see what happens next.
May 22, 2021
Bristol always seems to be the one disliked by everyone. With her father being the town drunk, her clothes being less than new, and her finances lower than dirt, still she holds her head high and doesn't take crap from anyone. But when she is lost and alone, badly hurt, with no one to call, Dawson steps up and takes no refusals. Will his attraction to her become more than just wishes? Will she convince him that she doesn't need a saviour? Will the secrets the King family holds be revealed and tear apart their fledgling romance?
June 7, 2021
Wow! By far my favorite King brother! Dawson was so sweet and conflicted in book 4 of the Oil Kings series. Fats brought Dawson and Bristol together when she fell and broke her leg after several years of animosity. Bristol had a chip on her shoulder the size of Mt. Rushmore after growing up being shunned by the town and her former childhood friend, Dawson. Will they be able to overcome two separate ranches? Will Grams interfere?
I can’t wait for Aiden and Kate’s story!
I can’t wait for Aiden and Kate’s story!
May 17, 2021
Dawson’s grandparents screwed over Bristol’s grandparents, Dawson’s mom was killed by a man working with Bristol’s father also put money in a trust for the boys but had to marry before they were 29 and married a year or the money went to Bristol.. Her was an alcoholic plus to he town wanted nothing to do with them. Bristol was thrown from her horse but her dog went for help, Dawson took her to the hospital. She stayed at Dawson’s place and he do her ranch since couldn’t with crutches. The trust caused problems again but they got/it worked out! Love what she doing with money from the trust fund. Great book!
May 17, 2021
I’ve been waiting for Dawson and Bristol’s story in this series, the trouble is Dawson is in between a rock and a hard place when he reconnects with Bristol and the trust that his mother set up is an explosion waiting to happen. I would have given this 5* but too much swearing for my taste.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 16, 2021
Bristol has suffered many hardships in her life, and is a very strong woman. Dawson helps her when there's no one else. An inheritance gets in the way of true love. Love this book!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 23, 2022
Awesome Story & Narration🎧 A Gripping & Emotional Ride!
King’s Country
Oil Kings, Book 4
By: Marie Johnston, Scott Rose
Narrated by: Chloe Ryan, Tyler Darby
Marie Johnston wows me with another amazing novel, it is the fourth set in her “Oil Kings” series and I jumped in without having read the first three and had no problem following everything that was going on in the world she created. The author included everything you need to know in the descriptive details so you never feel lost or like you missed something. I will definitely check out the first three books because I loved this book and want to spend more time in this intriguing world the author created. A feud over property, oil rights and money has turned the King and Cartwright family into enemies. The feud has been going on for years, handed down from the grandparents to the parents and now the children. The King family, the clear winners, have done well for themselves over the years and are sitting pretty. But the Cartwrights have not and now the only one left is Bristol, her father passed away leaving her a mess to clean up, financially and on the ranch and home front. He was the town drunk and always looked down upon by those in the town, so Bristol never stood a chance, they treated her the same way, causing Bristol to be a loner most of her life. Bristol is a hard worker and not afraid to get her hands dirty and she will do everything she can to prevent from going under and losing the property to the Kings. Searching for one of her lost cattle during the storm is almost her undoing, but Daisy, her rescue dog, went and got help from her neighbor, Daisy did not know he was the enemy. Dawson King was just warming up when he heard the barking, he followed her and found Bristol, who was in a bad way, and brought her to the hospital. It was an eye-opening experience to see she was treated differently, and it did not stop there, it was just the first of many incidents and he will see after, something he never realized. Because she had no one to help her, Dawson convinced her to stay with him. It was great to watch these two navigate around each other, Dawson showing her kindness, her not wanting it but he gets to her after a while and there is something special between them. But Dawson is not being up front with her about everything and he does not know how to tell her. I loved how everything played out in this book, it is a beautifully plotted story with plenty of drama, heartfelt emotions, a touch of angst, and a slow burn romance. Marie Johnston, thank you for another amazing story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 And for the fabulous narration, Chloe Ryan and Tyler Darby are talented narrators and versatile voice artists. They have a complete understanding of the characters they are portraying, giving each a voice that fits that character’s persona, sounding believable and just as I picture the characters to sound. Chloe Ryan played Bristol with perfection, grasping her strength and determination and her caring side, Tyler Darby plays the perfect Dawson too. Both are great performing the roles of the secondary characters as well. They set the perfect tone for the story, capture all the character’s emotions and project them into their performance and have you feeling every single one. These entertaining storytellers are a pleasure to listen to, and their narration enhances an already amazing story to another level. Thank you for another exceptional listen.
King’s Country
Oil Kings, Book 4
By: Marie Johnston, Scott Rose
Narrated by: Chloe Ryan, Tyler Darby
Marie Johnston wows me with another amazing novel, it is the fourth set in her “Oil Kings” series and I jumped in without having read the first three and had no problem following everything that was going on in the world she created. The author included everything you need to know in the descriptive details so you never feel lost or like you missed something. I will definitely check out the first three books because I loved this book and want to spend more time in this intriguing world the author created. A feud over property, oil rights and money has turned the King and Cartwright family into enemies. The feud has been going on for years, handed down from the grandparents to the parents and now the children. The King family, the clear winners, have done well for themselves over the years and are sitting pretty. But the Cartwrights have not and now the only one left is Bristol, her father passed away leaving her a mess to clean up, financially and on the ranch and home front. He was the town drunk and always looked down upon by those in the town, so Bristol never stood a chance, they treated her the same way, causing Bristol to be a loner most of her life. Bristol is a hard worker and not afraid to get her hands dirty and she will do everything she can to prevent from going under and losing the property to the Kings. Searching for one of her lost cattle during the storm is almost her undoing, but Daisy, her rescue dog, went and got help from her neighbor, Daisy did not know he was the enemy. Dawson King was just warming up when he heard the barking, he followed her and found Bristol, who was in a bad way, and brought her to the hospital. It was an eye-opening experience to see she was treated differently, and it did not stop there, it was just the first of many incidents and he will see after, something he never realized. Because she had no one to help her, Dawson convinced her to stay with him. It was great to watch these two navigate around each other, Dawson showing her kindness, her not wanting it but he gets to her after a while and there is something special between them. But Dawson is not being up front with her about everything and he does not know how to tell her. I loved how everything played out in this book, it is a beautifully plotted story with plenty of drama, heartfelt emotions, a touch of angst, and a slow burn romance. Marie Johnston, thank you for another amazing story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 And for the fabulous narration, Chloe Ryan and Tyler Darby are talented narrators and versatile voice artists. They have a complete understanding of the characters they are portraying, giving each a voice that fits that character’s persona, sounding believable and just as I picture the characters to sound. Chloe Ryan played Bristol with perfection, grasping her strength and determination and her caring side, Tyler Darby plays the perfect Dawson too. Both are great performing the roles of the secondary characters as well. They set the perfect tone for the story, capture all the character’s emotions and project them into their performance and have you feeling every single one. These entertaining storytellers are a pleasure to listen to, and their narration enhances an already amazing story to another level. Thank you for another exceptional listen.
June 13, 2021
Dawson is a good guy, living off of his family’s reputation. A hardworking cowboy, he loves being a rancher, what he doesn’t love is the neighbour from hell! He’d give anything for her to just disappear.
Bristol just can’t get a break! All her life she’s had people look down at her! Her father was a drunk, and the people in the town never gave Bristol a chance, so she grew to hate the town and everyone in it!
Including the self righteous King’s!
A wintery night brings these two together, he finds and rescues her, and she has to be bad if she doesn’t snap at him like she usually does.
And then to make matters worse, she has to stay with him whilst her leg heals!
This is going to be a nightmare for both of them!
But they weren’t always bitter enemies, as kids they would hang out together, and Dawson would walk her home.
But all that changed when a horrible accident took the King’s mother from them. It left the boys without a mother, a husband without a wife and a young girl without a role model…..
There is a lot going on in the background, a family feud that’s been going on for generations.
And a secret that if exposed will crush Bristol!!
Dawson and Bristol are drawn to one another, neither of them really want that, but fate has a habit of putting them in awkward situations.
And temptation can only last for so long until you give into it!
And when Dawson sees how the town treat her, he’s ashamed that they took their leaf from his family! It was never Bristol’s fault, but her daddy was a drunk, so Bristol had to defend the only person in her life.
But to never get a break. To never get anyone smile and be nice to her, no wonder she was always mean as a snake! Who would blame her?!
So can Dawson change his families opinion on her? Can he make the town see the woman he is falling for is a good person?
And what happens when Bristol finds out about the family secret m? Will it finally kill if the love she has for Dawson?
I loved this story, it’s my favourite in the series.
It finally brings to light about the family feud between Bristol’s family and the King’s.
The town was just full of nasty people, but when Bristol gives a few people a chance, she’s surprised to find out she can make friends.
But with The King’s grandmother lurking in the background, you know it’s not going to be long before she breaks this couple up.
All the stories were brilliantly written. The descriptions made the places we visit just jump off the page.
It’s jam packed with emotions, it’s overflowing with chemistry. And the humour was on point.
You can’t help but root for the characters in this book.
I’d highly recommended this book and the whole series.
Bristol just can’t get a break! All her life she’s had people look down at her! Her father was a drunk, and the people in the town never gave Bristol a chance, so she grew to hate the town and everyone in it!
Including the self righteous King’s!
A wintery night brings these two together, he finds and rescues her, and she has to be bad if she doesn’t snap at him like she usually does.
And then to make matters worse, she has to stay with him whilst her leg heals!
This is going to be a nightmare for both of them!
But they weren’t always bitter enemies, as kids they would hang out together, and Dawson would walk her home.
But all that changed when a horrible accident took the King’s mother from them. It left the boys without a mother, a husband without a wife and a young girl without a role model…..
There is a lot going on in the background, a family feud that’s been going on for generations.
And a secret that if exposed will crush Bristol!!
Dawson and Bristol are drawn to one another, neither of them really want that, but fate has a habit of putting them in awkward situations.
And temptation can only last for so long until you give into it!
And when Dawson sees how the town treat her, he’s ashamed that they took their leaf from his family! It was never Bristol’s fault, but her daddy was a drunk, so Bristol had to defend the only person in her life.
But to never get a break. To never get anyone smile and be nice to her, no wonder she was always mean as a snake! Who would blame her?!
So can Dawson change his families opinion on her? Can he make the town see the woman he is falling for is a good person?
And what happens when Bristol finds out about the family secret m? Will it finally kill if the love she has for Dawson?
I loved this story, it’s my favourite in the series.
It finally brings to light about the family feud between Bristol’s family and the King’s.
The town was just full of nasty people, but when Bristol gives a few people a chance, she’s surprised to find out she can make friends.
But with The King’s grandmother lurking in the background, you know it’s not going to be long before she breaks this couple up.
All the stories were brilliantly written. The descriptions made the places we visit just jump off the page.
It’s jam packed with emotions, it’s overflowing with chemistry. And the humour was on point.
You can’t help but root for the characters in this book.
I’d highly recommended this book and the whole series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 7, 2021
This is book 4 in the series and easily stands alone. This is Dawson and Bristol's story and its an enemies to love storyline that I absolutely loved. It is also a small town romance that takes place in King's Creek.
This story revolves around the town of King's Creek where both Dawson and Bristol grew up. At one time Bristol was beloved by Dawson's mother, Sarah even though the two families had hated each other over a bad land deal between the grandparents. However when Dawson's mother Sarah is murdered by a man who worked for Bristol's drunk of father, she also became the most hated woman in King's Creek, yes at age 8.
Sarah in her will created a trust fund for each of her sons. They each have to marry by age 29 and if they stay married for one year on their 30th birthday they will receive a million dollars. But if they don't the money will go to Bristol or her father. Meanwhile all the sons up to Dawson have married by age 29 and so now the pressure is on him.
Meanwhile things for Bristol have been pretty awful. Her father was a drunk and a very sick man and he lived in squalor while she stayed in an RV. They lived with no money and ranched but had pretty much no money coming in. In addition the entire town hated her father and her as well and blamed her for the death of Sarah.
In the story Bristol is two years younger than Dawson. Which means when she was 8, he was ten when his mother was murdered. Now at age 28, she is 26 and her father has just died. So she pretty much has a cow, a dog, a horse and thats it, the entire town hates her. Until one night she has an accident and her dog saves her and Dawson ends up feeling like he has to help her until she recovers.
And thats when these two start learning who the other is and face both of their pasts. I honestly felt the hate to love for each other happened a bit fast but I also liked they both could look past what happened in the past that they both had no part in.
But Dawson has an evil grandmother and so he has some big decisions to make about his future and Bristol's. I loved seeing the King family help out both Dawson and Bristol. It was also great to see Bristol start to open her heart up to both Dawson and also make some friends in the town.
This was a wonderful story and I loved that we saw a bit more of Kate and Aiden in this story and I cannot wait for their story next.
I received a complimentary early release copy of this e-book from the author prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story revolves around the town of King's Creek where both Dawson and Bristol grew up. At one time Bristol was beloved by Dawson's mother, Sarah even though the two families had hated each other over a bad land deal between the grandparents. However when Dawson's mother Sarah is murdered by a man who worked for Bristol's drunk of father, she also became the most hated woman in King's Creek, yes at age 8.
Sarah in her will created a trust fund for each of her sons. They each have to marry by age 29 and if they stay married for one year on their 30th birthday they will receive a million dollars. But if they don't the money will go to Bristol or her father. Meanwhile all the sons up to Dawson have married by age 29 and so now the pressure is on him.
Meanwhile things for Bristol have been pretty awful. Her father was a drunk and a very sick man and he lived in squalor while she stayed in an RV. They lived with no money and ranched but had pretty much no money coming in. In addition the entire town hated her father and her as well and blamed her for the death of Sarah.
In the story Bristol is two years younger than Dawson. Which means when she was 8, he was ten when his mother was murdered. Now at age 28, she is 26 and her father has just died. So she pretty much has a cow, a dog, a horse and thats it, the entire town hates her. Until one night she has an accident and her dog saves her and Dawson ends up feeling like he has to help her until she recovers.
And thats when these two start learning who the other is and face both of their pasts. I honestly felt the hate to love for each other happened a bit fast but I also liked they both could look past what happened in the past that they both had no part in.
But Dawson has an evil grandmother and so he has some big decisions to make about his future and Bristol's. I loved seeing the King family help out both Dawson and Bristol. It was also great to see Bristol start to open her heart up to both Dawson and also make some friends in the town.
This was a wonderful story and I loved that we saw a bit more of Kate and Aiden in this story and I cannot wait for their story next.
I received a complimentary early release copy of this e-book from the author prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 7, 2021
Dawson is the youngest brother and son of the King clan. Just like his brothers, he must be married by his twenty-ninth birthday or lose his trust of $100 million which would then go to his neighbour. With his birthday fast approaching, he has no girlfriend or any woman in mind to marry, though his Grams is determined to change that. Dawson is living on and managing the family ranch, a multi million or billion dollar operation. He doesn’t care if he gets the trust or not, especially as he and his stubborn and gorgeous neighbour are forced into much closer proximity. An accident on her ranch leaves Bristol with a broken leg and no way to look after her ranch. Even living in her RV is impossible. She never expected her handsome, rich and charming neighbour rescue her and to insist that she stay with him while she heals. Unable to refuse, but wary of his intentions, Bristol takes up residence on the King ranch.
Both Bristol and Dawson discover that the other is more than they had thought. Yes Bristol can be rude, caustic and in your face, but that is a defence mechanism she has put in place after being mistreated by her Dad and the townspeople who judged her to be trouble just like her drunken father. Dawson learns just how much she has been doing by herself on the ranch, the poor conditions she has been living in and the derogatory and prejudiced treatment she has suffered with for years. Bristol finds Dawson to be compassionate, conciliatory and generous. He is also a surprisingly good cook and likes her taste in movies. They were friends when they were very young, but that changed after his mother as murdered and the feud between their families strengthened. Close proximity serves to heighten their awareness of each other and their attraction builds to a fever pitch. They can’t resist each other, and Dawson begins to think that she could be his future. But his hovering Grams, his doubtful family, and the secret trust could dissolve every ounce of trust and love he has been building with Bristol. Read this gripping and fascinating book to find out how things develop between Dawson and Bristol.
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Both Bristol and Dawson discover that the other is more than they had thought. Yes Bristol can be rude, caustic and in your face, but that is a defence mechanism she has put in place after being mistreated by her Dad and the townspeople who judged her to be trouble just like her drunken father. Dawson learns just how much she has been doing by herself on the ranch, the poor conditions she has been living in and the derogatory and prejudiced treatment she has suffered with for years. Bristol finds Dawson to be compassionate, conciliatory and generous. He is also a surprisingly good cook and likes her taste in movies. They were friends when they were very young, but that changed after his mother as murdered and the feud between their families strengthened. Close proximity serves to heighten their awareness of each other and their attraction builds to a fever pitch. They can’t resist each other, and Dawson begins to think that she could be his future. But his hovering Grams, his doubtful family, and the secret trust could dissolve every ounce of trust and love he has been building with Bristol. Read this gripping and fascinating book to find out how things develop between Dawson and Bristol.
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
June 15, 2021
I have never been disappointed by this series. You know what you will get because the structure remains the same for each character. I reckon Kate and Aiden might be the anomaly.
I love Bristol. All I wanted was more Bristol. Her sharp tongue and insecurities were perfectly written. I felt her struggle and her decision to hold her head high in a town that has thought less of her all her life.
I loved how she navigated King's Creek and its residents. Even the out of towners.
However, it's not that I have anything against their relationship but where did it begin?
I, unfortunately, can not remember what Dawson's interaction with Bristol was like but it seemed as if this decades-long feud was a figment of our imagination instead of the fuel for this series.
Was it her near-death experience or boredom that made Dawson decide he wants to have a relationship with the girl he has known all his life? And why did everyone think the Trust was that big of an issue for their budding relationship?
Yes, what his family did was shitty but it's also their family money and not everyone was rich or self-made. Also, do people just get married after dating one month? Especially with their history that split a small town.
To be honest, I expected the biggest struggle to be them having a relationship. They have been "enemies" since they were 8.
The one sex scene was nothing to write home about and I enjoyed the small-town life from Bristol's POV more than anything else.
I don't know Dawson outside of what everyone else reiterated in previous books in the series. He is the jovial true North. Where everyone comes when life gets to be too much but who is Dawson King? Even with his POV, I still don't know.
I felt like their relationship fell on the back burner. They kind of just started and then things got serious real fast and I don't know why.
I wanted to see them farm the land, build a bond, share stories. The whole shebang. We never got that.
In all honesty, the story was best when Grams came knocking or Bristol was preparing to face the town or Marshall.
It's not a bad story it's just not much of a story. Which is sad because it had all the elements to be a memorable one.
I love Bristol. All I wanted was more Bristol. Her sharp tongue and insecurities were perfectly written. I felt her struggle and her decision to hold her head high in a town that has thought less of her all her life.
I loved how she navigated King's Creek and its residents. Even the out of towners.
However, it's not that I have anything against their relationship but where did it begin?
I, unfortunately, can not remember what Dawson's interaction with Bristol was like but it seemed as if this decades-long feud was a figment of our imagination instead of the fuel for this series.
Was it her near-death experience or boredom that made Dawson decide he wants to have a relationship with the girl he has known all his life? And why did everyone think the Trust was that big of an issue for their budding relationship?
Yes, what his family did was shitty but it's also their family money and not everyone was rich or self-made. Also, do people just get married after dating one month? Especially with their history that split a small town.
To be honest, I expected the biggest struggle to be them having a relationship. They have been "enemies" since they were 8.
The one sex scene was nothing to write home about and I enjoyed the small-town life from Bristol's POV more than anything else.
I don't know Dawson outside of what everyone else reiterated in previous books in the series. He is the jovial true North. Where everyone comes when life gets to be too much but who is Dawson King? Even with his POV, I still don't know.
I felt like their relationship fell on the back burner. They kind of just started and then things got serious real fast and I don't know why.
I wanted to see them farm the land, build a bond, share stories. The whole shebang. We never got that.
In all honesty, the story was best when Grams came knocking or Bristol was preparing to face the town or Marshall.
It's not a bad story it's just not much of a story. Which is sad because it had all the elements to be a memorable one.
August 29, 2022
Book 4 in series and you can tell there are more stories but you don't need to have read any of them to enjoy this one. It will make you want to go back and explore all the other stories in the family... but you can start here and get addicted just fine.
Bristol and Dawson own neighboring ranches. They've lived next door to each other all their lives. There is family drama and complexities that go way way back and neither of them have the full story.
Bristol is all prickles. She's never been given a chance or a break at anything in life thanks to her father's way of living, but now that he's gone and she has to run her ranch solo, it's even harder to be looked down on by everyone in town. She won't take crap from anyone and she won't take charity or pity either.
Dawson wants to help Bristol. He remembers his childhood friend, before the armor got so hard and thick that no one could get through. A broken leg is hard enough in the best of circumstances, but when it's winter and you need to work a ranch, it's so much worse. He offers to help, letting her stay at his home, have him and his guys help with her ranch, just until she can get back on her feet. But as they spend time together and her truths come to light, he realizes there is so much more to her life than he ever knew, saw or could possibly understand.
They really are complete opposites in a lot of ways, Golden Boy vs. Town Outcast, rich and wanting for nothing vs. dirt poor and struggling to survive... but they also have so much in common and spending so much time together while she recovers shows how in sync they really are.
The Audio for this one was performed by Tyler Darby and Chloe Ryan. They both were fantastic to listen to. The depth they brought to these characters was gripping. I didn't want to stop listening and would heave an aggravated sigh anytime I had to pause and deal with life. Every time a new element was exposed, every time an emotional breakthrough or lightbulb moment happened, I just had to stop my multitasking and just listen. It was a great story and more than a few tears were shed towards the end. I will definitely relisten to this one.
I requested and was generously provided with a copy of the audiobook. These are my honest thoughts.
Bristol and Dawson own neighboring ranches. They've lived next door to each other all their lives. There is family drama and complexities that go way way back and neither of them have the full story.
Bristol is all prickles. She's never been given a chance or a break at anything in life thanks to her father's way of living, but now that he's gone and she has to run her ranch solo, it's even harder to be looked down on by everyone in town. She won't take crap from anyone and she won't take charity or pity either.
Dawson wants to help Bristol. He remembers his childhood friend, before the armor got so hard and thick that no one could get through. A broken leg is hard enough in the best of circumstances, but when it's winter and you need to work a ranch, it's so much worse. He offers to help, letting her stay at his home, have him and his guys help with her ranch, just until she can get back on her feet. But as they spend time together and her truths come to light, he realizes there is so much more to her life than he ever knew, saw or could possibly understand.
They really are complete opposites in a lot of ways, Golden Boy vs. Town Outcast, rich and wanting for nothing vs. dirt poor and struggling to survive... but they also have so much in common and spending so much time together while she recovers shows how in sync they really are.
The Audio for this one was performed by Tyler Darby and Chloe Ryan. They both were fantastic to listen to. The depth they brought to these characters was gripping. I didn't want to stop listening and would heave an aggravated sigh anytime I had to pause and deal with life. Every time a new element was exposed, every time an emotional breakthrough or lightbulb moment happened, I just had to stop my multitasking and just listen. It was a great story and more than a few tears were shed towards the end. I will definitely relisten to this one.
I requested and was generously provided with a copy of the audiobook. These are my honest thoughts.
August 31, 2022
King’s Country is the fourth book in the Oil Kings series and is the enemies to lovers romance of Dawson and Bristol.
Dawson and Bristol were friends growing up, Dawson’s family treated her like she was one of them but when his mother was murdered their friendship came to an unceremonious end which was hard for Bristol as her Mum has left long ago and her dad was a nasty drunk who as the years went by got worse and more nasty and bitter. This caused not only neighbours the Kings to turn their backs on them but also the entire town.
After Bristol’s dad passes away and leaves her a farm that he pretty much ran into the ground she’s working around the clock to keep the farm going when she has an accident that leaves her with a broken leg and finds help from the most unlikely place her neighbour and enemy Dawson who won’t take no for an answer.
Dawson is the epitome of a knight in shining armour. Having grown up in the same town as Bristol, his experience of small-town life was the complete opposite. He was well liked and respected in the community. He see’s right through Bristol’s tough exterior to the sweet, vulnerable, misunderstood woman she is. He has his eyes opened to the double standards of his small town and the way they treat Bristol, his family included, however, the way in which he fights not only for her but to change people’s perceptions of her will have you swooning and wanting to climb him like a tree.
Chloe Ryan and Tyler Darby take Marie Johnstons words from page to audio and my goodness, what a fantastic duo they are. Chloe’s performance as the tough on the outside soft on the inside misunderstood, vulnerable Bristol was superb. She never missed a beat and conveyed every emotion perfectly. Tylers portrayal as the strong, protective knight in shining armour Dawson was amazing, he had me going feeling every emotion on the spectrum. I loved them together.
King’s Country was the perfect slow burn enemies to lovers romance, it will have you laughing, crying, angry but mostly you will swoon at how protective and caring Dawson is and how he stands up not only to his family but the entire town for the woman he loves, gah…blooming amazing!!!
Dawson and Bristol were friends growing up, Dawson’s family treated her like she was one of them but when his mother was murdered their friendship came to an unceremonious end which was hard for Bristol as her Mum has left long ago and her dad was a nasty drunk who as the years went by got worse and more nasty and bitter. This caused not only neighbours the Kings to turn their backs on them but also the entire town.
After Bristol’s dad passes away and leaves her a farm that he pretty much ran into the ground she’s working around the clock to keep the farm going when she has an accident that leaves her with a broken leg and finds help from the most unlikely place her neighbour and enemy Dawson who won’t take no for an answer.
Dawson is the epitome of a knight in shining armour. Having grown up in the same town as Bristol, his experience of small-town life was the complete opposite. He was well liked and respected in the community. He see’s right through Bristol’s tough exterior to the sweet, vulnerable, misunderstood woman she is. He has his eyes opened to the double standards of his small town and the way they treat Bristol, his family included, however, the way in which he fights not only for her but to change people’s perceptions of her will have you swooning and wanting to climb him like a tree.
Chloe Ryan and Tyler Darby take Marie Johnstons words from page to audio and my goodness, what a fantastic duo they are. Chloe’s performance as the tough on the outside soft on the inside misunderstood, vulnerable Bristol was superb. She never missed a beat and conveyed every emotion perfectly. Tylers portrayal as the strong, protective knight in shining armour Dawson was amazing, he had me going feeling every emotion on the spectrum. I loved them together.
King’s Country was the perfect slow burn enemies to lovers romance, it will have you laughing, crying, angry but mostly you will swoon at how protective and caring Dawson is and how he stands up not only to his family but the entire town for the woman he loves, gah…blooming amazing!!!
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