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Can tattoos induce a sexual awakening?

Heath

I met this guy, Marko. He has the best tattoos.

We hang out all the time and he even loves the farm animals as much as I do. He’s Croatian and he kisses me on the cheek sometimes, too. That’s such a kind gesture and I really like it when he does that.

He speaks another language and even likes to paint on paper, not just the skin of his tattoo clients.

I can’t imagine not having our weekly coffee meetings. Or missing the rides on his motorbike.

The guys on the ranch tell me we’re dating, but I’d know if we were.

Wouldn’t I?

Marko

Heath is the quintessential boy next door. He’s all sunshine energy and a smile that makes my heart stop.

And I’m the tattooed son of a criminal. I keep to myself and prefer the company of my motorcycle and the open road over people.

But Heath isn’t like most people. He has a pet peacock for one thing, and he’s beyond thoughtful.

He makes me wish for more.

Now that we’ve grown close, I want to take our relationship further, but there’s a problem. He doesn’t know we’ve been dating and I’m already half in love with him.



This story contains an insatiable Heath once he gets a taste, a peacock who interrupts, and all the men of the Broken Horn Ranch quietly waiting for Heath to figure out he’s never really been straight. Swoony dates and gestures galore, and a heartfelt trip to Croatia. Low angst, adorable discoveries and the babble that can only come from Heath and his golden retriever energy.


301 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 5, 2024

63 people are currently reading
108 people want to read

About the author

R.M. Neill

27 books216 followers

RM is an introverted Canadian author who likes to write about love while freezing in the winter.

Her mission is to always make you swoon and snort laugh, sometimes even in public.

She talks to her cat, Moon, and sometimes people. She married her prince charming, who often inspires her characters, but still can't place dirty clothes in the hamper.

When she's not writing swoony men to fall in love with, she's in her garden providing mosquitoes with an alternative food source. She can also be found inventing new swear words on the golf course.


You can find her on facebook or visit her website rmneillauthor.com

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
Profile Image for Kaje Harper.
Author 92 books2,730 followers
December 26, 2024
This book stands alone just fine (despite cameos from previous characters.) Heath is a total sunshine character, sweet and warm, dedicated to the animals he cares for on the ranch, and not prone to self-pity despite a rough past. He can be naive and oblivious, but that adds to the fun of the story. He's devoted to his pet peacock, a rescue who has imprinted on him, and the spectacle of Heath sharing a treat with the bird brings him to Marko's notice.

Marko is the son of a man who committed significant financial crimes and stole money from a lot of people. In fact, he was an inadvertent part of those crimes, and only escaped prison by informing on his father. He has changed his name, taken his love of art as his new profession in a tattoo parlor, and has escaped from his past. But he's hunkered down, always afraid of being recognized and having folks who lost money to his father hound him. He's got no personal life, until he spots a gorgeous young man and his peacock, and something clicks for Marko.

This is somewhat slow burn, in part because of Heath's lack of self-awareness. It's lighter than it might have been, sweet and warm, and sometimes funny. It was also cool to see the Croatian diaspora community represented here, and I liked Marko's mother, a strong woman.

If you are looking for low angst warm reading, this may suit you well.
Profile Image for Demian Grimm.
271 reviews3 followers
November 30, 2024
Heath is a sweet and uplifting story full of hope, charm and also humour. It is also the final book in The Broken Horn Ranch series. As I haven’t read any other books in the series, I’m confident to say it can be enjoyed as a standalone. Although readers familiar with the series will enjoy the familiar ranch characters.

The story of the book centres on Heath, the youngest member of the ranch crew, who is a walking ray of sunshine. Although he had some rough patches in his past, his unshakable positivity and boyish energy make him lovable to everyone around him.
Second main character is Marko, who immigrated from Croatia as a teen and now owns a tattoo studio. He first notices Heath from his shop window and is intrigued. When they meet at a local community event, they hit it off quickly. Marko is drawn to Heath's carefree personality, while Heath thinks they're simply becoming good friends. Of course, this leads to some amusing moments as Heath eventually realises (with help) that they are dating.

The characters are what make this book such a joy. Heath is ridiculously lovable with his big heart, boundless energy, and total openness, sometimes bordering on unrealistically so. He’s a little naïve and oblivious, but it only adds to his charm. Meanwhile, Marko is quieter and a little broody at first. He is understandably guarded due to his past. But spending more time with Heath, he starts to shows a softer, more vulnerable side. Their opposites work so well together and their dynamics feels natural as their relationship deepens.

Heath and Marko’s love grows in such a tender and genuine way. And the way they support each other through tough moments feels real and relatable. There are also great side characters from Heath’s ranch family, who genuinely adore him. I loved how their individual moments with him add so much warmth to the story. Oh, and Jeff! Heath’s moody but lovable pet peacock, who’s as much a part of the story as the main characters.

I loved that the author avoids heavy drama or angst, but still explores the emotional struggles both Heath and Marko face.

As a Croatian, I particularly appreciated the representation of the Croatian diaspora. It’s not something I often come across in books, so it was interesting to see how certain customs and traditions carried over through migration to a new land and culture. And how/if they changed. However, I do have to point out that a lamb sandwich isn’t something you’d find in Croatia. Unless you make it at home with leftovers, but even that is not likely.
While spit-roast lamb is indeed a beloved delicacy and a traditional dish in many parts of Croatia, on the island of Hvar lamb is more commonly prepared under peka (a method of slow-cooking under a bell-shaped lid). That said, the portrayal of spit-roast lamb as a dish for gatherings and special occasions is accurate. Otherwise, in coastal regions like Hvar, fish and seafood typically dominate the menu.
Fun fact, in the not-so-distant past, Hvar was famous for lavender (and its essential oil), which was produced in large quantities, as much as 10% of the total world production.

In short, Heath is a delightful read for those seeking a light, cheerful story with lovable characters. It’s a journey of healing, love, and growth, wrapped up in a warm, sunny package.

I received a copy of this book from the author, and this is my unbiased review.
Profile Image for Monica.
555 reviews32 followers
December 23, 2024
I've loved this series so much. Every single book has been amazing and this one didn't disappoint. Actually, I think this book is the sweetest and most heartwarming of them all.
I knew Heath was going to be the cutest MC in the series. His relationship with Jeff, his pet peacock, is adorable. How he treats the animal as one more in the family was touching, but Heath is just this caring and animal-lover guy and I understood how Marko couldn't help but to fall in love with him.
Marko was a surprising character. I thought he was going to be this tough guy who rides a bike and keeps his feelings for himself, but it turned out he was a softie inside. He fell for Heath (because, who wouldn't?) and just did anything the rancher asked him.
This book was one of those reads that you enjoy so much from beginning to end. I just couldn't stop laughing at times because Heath was so oblivious to everything that happened around him. Marko was this patient man, willing to wait and see if a relationship could develop between them. It was beautiful to see them go out on dates, share time together and how Marko respected Heath.
I had to laugh when Heath realised his feelings for the tattoo artist. Once he did it was great to see he accepted it and jumped into it head first. They made a lovely couple and the way Heath handled Marko's past made the latter see he could be something else, other than his father's son.
The author did it again and created a story full of love, laughs and true emotions that touched my heart. It was a lovely, low angst read that had everything that I loved in romance novels.
697 reviews85 followers
December 6, 2024
Such a great book, Marko sees Heath for the first time when we spot him from his tattoo shop window. Heath is with a peacock. Heath works for a local ranch and Marco is quite taken with him and eventually introduces himself. Heath shows Marco a lot of the local sights, but they were not exactly on the same page at first. Marco thought they were dating but Heath did not, just that they were good friends. Besides Heath is straight, right? Well maybe not.
I loved Marko and Heath, they're so perfect together, and like the other books from this series, everybody supports everybody.
Profile Image for Andrea Jones.
214 reviews13 followers
March 13, 2025
I didn't read any others in the series because how could I not pick up a book about a man and his pet peacock falling for a mobster's son. Oh and there's a queer awakening too? Sign me up.

One of my fav things is when one MC doesn't realize they're dating the other one. IDK why I love obliviousness like that so much but I do.

This also fit my mood for cowboys. yeehaw.
Profile Image for Cynthia M Brow.
1,310 reviews18 followers
November 30, 2024
Heath is the 4th book in The Broken Horn Ranch series. It can be read as a stand alone, but in my opinion it's best to read the series in order. This is Heath and Marko's story. Heath is a bright and sunny character while Marko is more broody and quiet. I'm so happy we finally got Heath's book. I loved all the humor and the way these two worked to be the person for each other. I loved the pet peacock Jeff. The relationship between these two just felt so real. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
Profile Image for LC.
776 reviews9 followers
November 30, 2024
Heath's story has been a long time coming. As the author says in her acknowledgements, the story took some unexpected turns and was difficult to start at first.

I have loved each and every Broken Horn Ranch book. Each story was a couple that met on the ranch or in the surrounding area. I had hopes for Heath's story, that he find a love like his friends found, that he stayed on the ranch, and that Jeff became better behaved. Two out of the three happened. One in an unexpected and emotional way and the other in a surprisingly funny to me way. I mentioned to the author that I was laughing through the book and I think she was perplexed. However, Heath is adorable, the way he speaks his mind is funny to me although not in a bad way. He makes me smile, he is sunshine and happiness incarnate. He's also a bit oblivious and that brought some giggles and oh no moments as well.

Marko is a tall, olive skinned, tatted motorcycle rider. He owns Dark Horse tattoo studio and is new to town. Dark Horse is right across the street from Screaming Bean and he gets a birds eye view of Heath and Jeff on their morning coffee break. Now Screaming Bean is from another RM series, Sheltered Connections, and if you haven't read it, it is a definite must read in my humble opinion. In fact, I think Finding the Right Forever was my first RM book. It has been a long time so I could be wrong. Either way, it is a great series and it helps set up Broken Horn Ranch. So, Marko gets kind of the low down on Heath and ends up meeting him at the petting zoo at a community event. They become fast friends, but Marko wants more than friendship with Heath.

I think Heath reminds me a bit of Parker from Finding the Right Forever. He really is sunshine happy and Marko isn't a grump not like Owen was at first. He's just quiet and unsure of himself due to his past. I love to read and I love to read fast and get as many stories in as I can, but some books just need to be savored. Heath is that book. He needed to be savored, his relationship with Marko needed to be a slow bloomer. Heath is the baby of the ranch. He's grown up there and lived there and those guys are his family. This really is an emotional book and it was worth every minute of the wait. It was worth every false start she said she had, because RM wrote the perfect story for Heath and Marko. I love it!
Profile Image for Vinnie.
243 reviews3 followers
March 9, 2025
And so, another cute series about cowboys falling in love closes. Heath was no exception to the sweet, feel-good vibes you'd expect from The Broken Horn Ranch series, and I devoured it in about 2 sittings.

Heath was exactly the delightful ray of sunshine he was in all of the books leading up to now, and I'm happy I continued with the series to get a peek inside his pretty 'lil head. Endlessly optimistic and honest, his POV was cotton candy. While he was half=oblivious for the first third of the story, I knew I would want to stick around for the ride as he learned more about his attraction/sexuality.

Marko didn't disappoint either! His German Shepherd outwardly appearance was a great compliment to our Golden Retriever, Heath. The bad boy x boy next door trope never fails! That being said, he was honestly a sweetheart who bore his soul to just about everyone who mattered in Heath's life. The way he was so comfortable with Heath from early enough on that he shared his love of sketching flowers during a picnic (sort-of) date and offered to give him motorcycle rides everywhere was about the swooniest thing ever.

Plot-wise, this was a comfortable read. Adorable "conflict" about bi-awakenings and mostly negligible threats of evil family members made the romance an easy one to focus on. I'll be honest though, I'm still not convinced about the author's pacing after 4 books. Most difficulties that characters experience are resolved within a chapter or 2, which leaves a reader like me guessing why the books in this series continue after the romantic plot finishes about halfway through the story. Not that this makes the books bad, but the latter half of each book feels a little lost-at-sea as they focus on sex scenes for quite a bit, then toss the external conflict into the last 3 or 4 chapters.

As it stands, this whole series (this book in particular) was a nice, easy read. Anyone who wants a low-stakes (apart from book 1) series about sweet cowboys falling in love will have a good time reading these books. Heath was the crowning jewel, in my opinion, and I'm glad I stuck it out to see his HEA. This book somehow even got me to shed a few tears about a damn peacock (he's alive and well), which is not an easy feat.
Profile Image for Marion.
1,819 reviews
December 10, 2024
This book is part of the Broken Horn Ranch series and while it can be enjoyed as a standalone read; I think you would enjoy it more if you read the series in order. This is the story of Marko and Heath. Marco is new to town and owns the newest Tattoo Studio, Dark Horse. Marco is trying to start his life anew. He has been trying to overcome the sins of his father for years without success. Perhaps he can finally make friends and have a normal life. But then he sees a guys walking to the Screaming Bean coffee shop with a peacock following behind him. As he says in the book, "there's weird and then there's coffee with peacock kind of weird". That quote alone lets you know that you are in for a fun read. Heath works at the animal rescue Broken Horn Ranch and spends his days taking care of animals. He also is in a relationship with the rogue peacock that he calls Jeff. While it is more on Jeff's side than Heaths, Jeff is still important to him. This is their story. Marko is closed off and has walls up 10 feet high. Heath is a walking ray of sunshine with an endlessly upbeat attitude. But when Marko brings a treat for Jeff as well as Heath, Heath believes that he has made a new friend. And each time that they get together, their friendship grows. But the problem is that Marko believes that they are going on actual dates. Thankfully Heath's brain catches up before serious damage is done to the relationship. This is a well written book and is easy to read. I loved how the two were open and honest with each other. I also liked how everyone at the ranch kept an eye on Heath to make sure he wasn't getting in over his head. This is is a cute and fun read that I enjoyed very much.

I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
169 reviews1 follower
November 24, 2024
I received a free copy. This review is submitted voluntarily.

Marco immigrated from Croatia as a teen and now owns a tattoo shop. While looking out the window of his shop, he sees a guy with a peacock. Turns out, the guy is Heath, and he works on a ranch. Marco is quite taken with him and eventually introduces himself. Heath shows Marco a lot of the local sights, but they were not exactly on the same wavelength at first. Marco thought they were dating but Heath did not, just that they were good friends given that he always thought he was straight. He finally consults one of his colleagues on the ranch and finally figures out they were in fact dating. At that point they landed in the same hymnal. Both have backstories that they eventually share and work through them to arrive at a happy ending.

I haven’t read any other books in the series. The reason that I commented above that the MCs strained credulity a bit is that Heath is just a bit too good to be true and a touch too keen on the sexual side even if he has never been with a guy before. He loves people, animals, etc., and is mostly in a great mood. Marco is kind of grumpy but changes personality almost immediately upon meeting Heath. Notwithstanding this, I still really enjoyed reading the book. Except for a brief appearance of Marco’s criminal father, the other secondary characters great. They all love Heath and care a lot about his welfare, not to mention his peacock. They all (including the father) contribute substantially to plot development. The storyline is one I enjoy since there is not too much angst.

Overall, I would recommend this book.
Profile Image for Alix .
1,235 reviews43 followers
December 5, 2024
This is my first book by this author and it was simply a joy to read! I've added pretty much all the back catalog to my TBR now, haha, as I want to read the stories of all the side characters/cameos mentioned in this book.

First, I loved Marko - such a delicious inked up, motorcycling, accent=having MC with some broken parts....he seems like a bad boy on the outside, but he's really super sweet, kind, and artistic. I love how thoughtful he is and how willing he is to take a chance and approach Heath. Heath - I am utterly charmed by this sunshine boy! He is so compassionate to animals and has such a big heart, despite his harsh childhood and dark moments in his past. He takes such great care of Jeff, his peacock, as well as all the other animals at the ranch. He has such a big personality and there is just so much to love about him as Marko finds out. Although Heath is completely oblivious to the fact that he has basically been dating Marko for sometime (or that he is even attracted to men), he plans beautiful, romantic non-date dates with him. I really loved, though, how he just went all in in every possible way once he realized what was happening - with his feelings, with the sexy times, with Marko's Croatian culture, with Marko's grandmother, with accepting some dark elements in Marko's past, with...what's best for Jeff....Heath is just a walking green flag.

Overall, this book was sweet and spicy goodness! The epilogue was just lovely and in the last chapter we also get a hint about a future series and I can't wait for that. And yeah, I had plenty of teary moments while reading.

I received a complimentary copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.
1,681 reviews11 followers
December 10, 2024
This was a thoroughly enjoyable book to read with Heath, Marko and Jeff the peacock. Heath is a delightful character, like sunshine and rainbows, always positive and upbeat, bringing smiles wherever he goes. Marko was darker to me, weighed down by his father’s crimes and his part in the conviction, always expecting to be deserted whenever someone found out about his past. When Marko noticed Heath and Jeff, and was definitely interested in Heath as more than a friend, it was fun to see Heath go from clueless about the not-date dates to his realization that he was attracted to men, and specifically Marko. Heath was so obviously unaware and naive, I couldn’t help smiling as I read about his thoughts on these outings. Both men were so thoughtful and caring with each other and those around them. Heath’s attachment to Jeff was touching, and his concern for his unusual companion just demonstrated how compassionate and caring he was with animals in general and Jeff in particular. A peacock does not seem like the most amiable pet, and is one that could inflict quite a bit of damage if provoked.

Characters came across as realistic, the slowly developing relationship between Heath and Marco was realistic and relatable, and the references to Croatian culture were informative and interesting. This was an entertaining read set in a well developed environment at the ranch, loved the animal rescue part of it and the emphasis on animal welfare as a high priority, no matter the type of animal. I will need to check out the other books in the series to catch up with the other supporting characters at the ranch.
510 reviews5 followers
December 7, 2024
So happy to finally read Heath’s story and if you need a little sunshine on a cold day, Heath’s story is just the ticket. Having read the prior books in the series, I’ve been introduced to Heath and Jeff. He’s been a great side character, sweet, maybe a little naive but always willing to help out. In this book, he meets the new resident tattoo artist of the town, Marko, and new discoveries are made.

Hands down, I absolutely love how RM Neill crafts her characters. I always get such a good feel for them while reading. I love how Marko is just so taken by Heath’s personality and finally opens up about things in his past that he’s kept hidden and run from. Heath changes as well over the course of the story and I enjoyed seeing him grow into his own and accept that change doesn’t mean forgetting about things that are important to you.

I think I’m probably one of those expressive readers who face shows what is happening in the book and I’m pretty sure that for most of the story, I probably had a grin on my face and maybe a little tears here and there because who knew Heath and Jeff would make my eyes leak. Seeing that side of this sunshine character wasn’t something I was prepared for but made his character so much more than I anticipated.

And Jeff-I don’t think I’ve usually discussed animal characters in my reviews but he gets an honorable mention with how big of a part he plays in Heath’s life and how Marko and him meet. Happy that frisky bird got his HEA too.
Profile Image for Sheena.
814 reviews14 followers
December 2, 2024
- series
- bisexual awakening
- low angst

This was an unexpected treat. I was sure the Broken Horn series ended with the last book, so when I found out Heath was getting his story, I was all in. I loved this series and the men in it and this was the perfect ending. While this is Heath and Marko's story, it's also Heath and Jeff's story. There's no cheating - Jeff is Heath's peacock and an integral part of this story. Without spoilers, it made me almost cry at points too, I was sad but it was done so well I didn't stay sad for long.

I loved Marko and Heath, they're so utterly perfect together and I loved how completely oblivious Heath was to the fact they were dating at the start. Marko was so remarkably patient and willing to wait in the hopes Heath would realise, and when he did, oh boy did the heat ramp up. Once Heath realised he was attracted to Marko and that he might not be all that straight, he was all in and I was here for it. I liked how connected Marko was to his family and Croatian heritage, and there was a satisfying closure to his story with his dad, too. The cast of characters at the ranch are integral to the story too, and I enjoyed seeing them again in the course of the story.

If this truly is the end for the boys at Broken Horn, it's more than fitting.

I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Julia Toth.
437 reviews8 followers
December 5, 2024
This was soooooo good!!! It was sweet, cute and funny! Heath is so oblivious and that was so cute and endearing. I really loved Heath and his sunshine personality. I feel like he'd be such a great and fun friend to have. I loved how big of a crush Marko had on Heath. I also really loved their non-date dates, they were really cute and quite romantic, even if Heath was oblivious. Jeff, the peacock was a great side character, but I also really liked all of the other side characters.
Marko and Heath are quite different people, but I love how they fit together. I loved the freedom Heath brought to Marko's life and the happiness they got from being together. I really enjoyed how their relationship progressed, how they went from friends to more. I especially loved how all in and uninhibited Heath was, even if it was a new thing for him. I loved how honest they were with each other and I really enjoyed the lightheartedness of the story. I really love found families and this book had a great found family, it was so heartwarming to see them together. Towards the end I shed a couple happy tears, because everything that was happening was just so great. Loved the pacing of the story and writing as well.

If you're in the mood for a lighthearted story about a Croatian tattoo artist and a ranch hand with a pet peacock and found family vibes, then this is the book for you.
Profile Image for Lia.
196 reviews5 followers
November 29, 2024
Heath is the last book in The Broken Horn Ranch series, and I think Heath well deserved his own book. Even though he’s almost 30, he has always been a baby of the ranch with his sunshine energy and boyish actions. He always had other men of the ranch looking out for him and he joked that he had three dads 😄 Despite having some bad memories of the part, his positivity was never tarnished, and this is what attracted Marko, a new tattoo artist of town, to him. Well, actually Marko saw a beautiful peacock first and the cheerful man seemed to be attached to him at all times 😂 Jeff the bird not only has a name, but he’s also an essential part of Heath’s story. Never mind cats or dogs! Peacocks rule! Quite literally rule one man’s life 😄

It’s a feel good novel filled with contagious positive energy from Heath and hopes of better, happier life despite all the shitty cards these men have been dealt in the past. Motorcycle rides, star gazing, grandmother’s cooking, stern advice from a father figure, horses, ducks and a moody peacock. It has it all. Don’t we all need a bit of Heath in our lives?! ☺️
Profile Image for abookwithacupoftea.
544 reviews1 follower
December 6, 2024
I loved this book, it's sweet, hopeful, fun, and steamy.
Heath is a hand ranch, and he is a pure (and usually naive) soul and a true sunshine. Marko is a tattoo artist, with a good heart, who has been running from his past for more than 10 years and struggles to connect with people. Marko first notices Heath, as the gorgeous man with a peacock and after observing him for some time, decided to ask him out. They go on several dates, but Heath who has always identified as straight, doesn't realise it, he thinks they are only going out as friends. But he starts to realise he is attracted to Marko.
Both characters are so sweet, and they work well together. I particularly enjoyed that there are no misunderstandings and both characters are quite straightforward, and also to have a few chapters as an established couple without couple drama.

Heath is the 4th and last book in The Broken Horn Ranch series. It can be read as a standalone, but there are many mentions of characters from previous books, and I think the enjoyment would be enhanced by reading the books in order.

I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Robert West.
92 reviews4 followers
December 8, 2024
Heath is the fourth book in the Broken Horn Ranch series and like the other three books before it, it does not disappoint.

Heath is your typical golden retriever type guy. Well, maybe not typical. He does have a pet peacock. But he is super sweet, always loving, sees the best in everyone, and is just a wee bit clueless.

Marko is the new guy in town. He’s tall, dark and sexy, and covered in tattoos. He’s also very interested in getting to know the adorable blonde he sees going for walks and getting coffee with his peacock. As the guys get to know each other and go on multiple romantic “non dates”, Heath starts to question what he is to Marko and what Marko means to him.

This book is packed full of fun adventures while hugged up on the back of a motorcycle. It’s so much fun seeing sweet innocent Heath turn into a fiend once he gets a taste of vitamin D, and how it drives him crazy not to get his daily dose.

I know you will love Heath and the men of Broken Horn Ranch as much as I do. With this installation in the series, R.M. Neill has once again proven why she is such a prolific writer of sweet, engaging, and spicy MM romance
Profile Image for ❀ Jess ( Semi hiatus ).
877 reviews99 followers
December 6, 2024
2.5 rounded up 🤷🏻‍♀️


My thoughts while reading:

•Really enjoyed being in Marko's POV. He was so smitten.
•MCs from other books are present very frequently.
•I don't understand why there wasn't any attempt to at least hold hands since they've been on so many 'dates'?
•Apparently I got annoyed being in Heath's POV so I started skimming.
•Really lost all the enjoyment once Heath 'realized' he was queer and into Marko. How are you going to go from 0 experience with a guy to almost climbing into his lap during the FIRST KISS out in public that leads to sex stuff once they get back to the house. Literally 0 to 100. •Every interaction now has Heath begging for Marko's cock and being ALL over him.
•The rest of the book is all sex and then some family/pet drama.
•Didn't even show us Marko asking Heath to move in, we're just told.
• The second half was awful for me and I forced myself to finish.

Overall thoughts: Enjoyed it when they were 'dating' but once sex got involved that's all it was and the second half felt disconnected from the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
1,057 reviews13 followers
January 5, 2025
(3.5)

When I saw Heath was getting his own story I was so excited, his character always intrigued me in previous books. While I still enjoyed his character in this story, a long with his bond with Jeff, I just couldn't get into this story like I hoped I would. The pacing of the story felt off to me, and the writing didn't flow as smoothly as it has in prior books.

Despite not fully being able to get into this story, I still enjoyed the characters themselves. I adore Heath, he cares so passionately about animals and while he is a bit oblivious at times, it just adds to his charm. Marko and Heath are great together, they really help balance each other out. I liked that Marko was a tattoo artist and was so open about experiencing new things, and doing them because they were what Heath loved. I just thought that was special.

Overall a decent story, I can see where the author was going with this, I get the concept. I can see why so many people enjoyed this, it just unfortunately didn't blow me away.
736 reviews2 followers
November 30, 2024
This book is an absolute gem! Heath stole my heart with his openness, honesty, and beautiful soul. And seriously, a peacock? That detail alone had me smiling, but it's Heath's huge heart that truly shines throughout the story.

The plot is light on drama, focusing instead on the feel-good moments that leave you smiling long after you've turned the last page. Sometimes, you just need a story like this—one that warms your heart and restores your faith in the goodness of people.

While you don't need to read the previous books in the series to enjoy this one, I highly recommend starting from the beginning. Every character is as amazing and memorable as Heath, making the entire series a must-read. If you're looking for a story that feels like a warm hug, this is it!

I received an  review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Traci S.
2,047 reviews12 followers
December 5, 2024
Gosh, this was the loveliest book I’ve read this year- the whole way through no needless drama for Marko and Heath. I’m not generally prone to fuzzy feelings but these two had me smiling a lot - getting to see them fall for each was an absolute delight. The world building is excellent and I loved getting to check in with Jacob and Matts, they are a personal favorite of mine. The characters in this series (really in all of RM Neill’s books) are so layered, kind, and immensely lovable. I’ve loved spending time at the Broken Horn Ranch. I loved that Heath is so filled with joy and light despite having plenty of reasons to be hardened by his childhood. I also adored how Marko just can’t stop himself from spilling romance all over the place when Heath is around. Gorgeous, a perfect reading experience for me!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book
Profile Image for Dinoh (Akari).
454 reviews5 followers
December 5, 2024
Well, I think this was the sweetest story in the whole series. As with almost all of her books, this author gives us a place to relax and seek refuge after a sh*tty day in life, so if you were expecting a lot of drama or angst in this one, well, that's not going to happen.

Heath is a character that shined throughout the series, for his sweetness and his kindness and his obliviousness, so he deserved an ending that gave him everything that Marko was capable of giving him.

Marko was a little f*cked up due to a certain situation with his father in the past, but the warmth that Heath surrounded him with allowed him to leave that past behind and shine on his own.

I'm a little sad about the end of the series, but at the same time, a little excited to see what RM Neill is going to give us next.

I was given an advanced copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
Profile Image for DMCechak.
1,792 reviews24 followers
December 6, 2024
Heath - Fuzzy Happiness

‘I can’t explain it, but as soon as I wrapped my arms around him, I felt… aware. Aware of him in a way that was new. And when he shifted gears… whoa. It was heady to sort of feel him channel the confidence of riding this machine through me. Like I said, I was very aware of Marko.’

What an adorably sensational romantic story!

RM Neill brings so much to her writing. She tumbles the joy of love with newfound awareness, humor, and the adoration of animals.

Animal Rescuer Heath becomes aware of tattoo artist Marko, when he goes for his daily coffee and ice water with Jeff, his peacock sidekick.

The joy in the premise of this story alone wants to make me smile, but the exquisite crafting of a wonderful story of self discovery and dear friendships take this romance to another level!

You Be You, Heath!
Profile Image for Grace Mitchell.
88 reviews2 followers
November 25, 2024
I have been waiting for Heath's story and to see more of Jeff the Peacock. What I wasn't prepared for was all the sweet, caring moments from Alec, Blaze, Colby, Dan, Dante and Zane. I loved having their special relationship with Heath shown individually.

I don't even know what to say about Marko, an incredible person who captures Heath's heart and deserves so much love. While trying to overcome his hardships from his past, he has hidden himself and tried to start over. It takes a special cowboy, who has a heart bigger than I can describe, to teach Marko that he is deserving. To read how both were so eager to accept and embrace the others culture and lifestyle was wonderful.

I am sad to see the end of this series but this was a great way to finish.
Profile Image for Heather Duff.
1,864 reviews40 followers
December 6, 2024
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This may be my favourite of the series. Heath is absolutely precious and you can totally see why everyone on the ranch adores him, and his open acceptance of people makes him the perfect partner for Marko.

Marko is struggling with the choices of his father, as well as his own, and he needs someone who can see him for himself and who he’s become. But Heath does more than just see him. He takes care of him.

It’s such a sweet story full of adorable dates and so much love.

I definitely won’t look at a peacock the same again!
Profile Image for Joy Hintz.
342 reviews
December 7, 2024
OK, I GOTTA ASK.... DID THE LAST LINE OF THE BOOK IN THE EPILOGUE KILL YOU TOO?? 😭 I mean, I was already in tears, and then she went and wrote the ending like THAT??!! Just absolute perfection!!! ❤️ Love love love!!!

This was the sweetest book for the sweetest character in the series! Heath is the best, and his golden retriever personality is addictive and so easy and fun to read!! I loved every single thing about this book, and Marko was perfect for him! This book had me laughing, crying, swooning, smiling, blushing, a little annoyed or angry in a couple parts, and just overall happy!! THIS BOOK WILL DEFINITELY BE IN MY TOP READS FOR 2024!!

I'm so sad this series is over, but I'm looking forward to this new rodeo series!
Profile Image for Steph.
741 reviews17 followers
December 13, 2024
Heath is such a special character, he is like a breath of fresh air. To talk about Heath, I need to talk about Jeff. Almost a love triangle, but fear not, Jeff is a peacock who is just very attached to Heath. The patience and understanding Heath shows all of the animals, gives you all the info you need. He makes friends easily, but misses the social cues. Marko watches Heath from his shop window everyday, until he decides to approach him. Their story goes from there and with some time together confusions are ironed out and Heath gets clarity with his sexuality. A slow burn, but it wouldn't work as a story otherwise. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving this review
Profile Image for RomanceLand65.
486 reviews
November 29, 2024
Wow. If you want to fall head over heels for a book guy Heath and Marko are your couple goals. Heath is incredibly lovable and has a heart that is as big as the grand canyon. Heath makes every mom want their son to be him. He's amazing loveable and naive. This Author gave the reader the most likeable character ever. Heath and Marko will stay with you for a long time. All it took was one disturbed peacock for Marko to see heath. Then Heath was so nice he never realized he was dating Marko. This book is filled with funny times from an attack peacock to tears when heath faces life. This book clued me in on the mating of a peacock. Go figure it was sweet and educational
Profile Image for Mandy.
1,014 reviews
December 4, 2024
I’ve just finished reading this last book in the Broken Horn Ranch series, and Heath and Marko are still making me swoon. These two men are adorable, with a side of cute naivety for Heath. I love how he speaks his mind and is open about his feelings, and Marko is kind, gentle, so patient and perfect for him. I’ve been waiting for Heath to find his man, and this instant-attraction story was everything I’d hoped for. It’s also full of animals and wonderful secondary characters, who have played a significant role in Heath’s journey.
This is a sweet, heartwarming, fun, low-angst story with heat, and I loved every second of reading this fabulous book. I can’t recommend it highly enough.
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