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Inheriting Harmony: A Small Town, Ranch Hand, Single Mom Romance
Her estranged grandmother left her a ranch... and a shot at happily ever after.
Ash Gilbert and her 10-year-old son Josh are looking for a fresh start when they inherit her grandmother's estate in the charming town of Harmony Falls. What Ash doesn't expect is the immediate spark she feels with Dexter Woodward, the ruggedly handsome ranch hand who's been managing the property.
As Ash navigates single motherhood in a new town, she finds herself drawn deeper into the close-knit community and Dexter's strong, comforting arms. But small towns have big secrets, and Harmony Falls is no exception.
When her ex-husband's sudden interest in the estate threatens her newfound peace, Ash must decide who to trust. Can she overcome her past hurts and open her heart to love again? Or will the weight of family history and small-town politics drive her away?
"Inheriting Harmony" is a heartwarming small-town romance about second chances, family bonds, and finding love when you least expect it. Fall in love with Harmony Falls – and the man who calls it home.
**This is book 1 in the Harmony Falls Series. It can be read as a standalone. Each book in this steamy series has a HEA!**
Ash Gilbert and her 10-year-old son Josh are looking for a fresh start when they inherit her grandmother's estate in the charming town of Harmony Falls. What Ash doesn't expect is the immediate spark she feels with Dexter Woodward, the ruggedly handsome ranch hand who's been managing the property.
As Ash navigates single motherhood in a new town, she finds herself drawn deeper into the close-knit community and Dexter's strong, comforting arms. But small towns have big secrets, and Harmony Falls is no exception.
When her ex-husband's sudden interest in the estate threatens her newfound peace, Ash must decide who to trust. Can she overcome her past hurts and open her heart to love again? Or will the weight of family history and small-town politics drive her away?
"Inheriting Harmony" is a heartwarming small-town romance about second chances, family bonds, and finding love when you least expect it. Fall in love with Harmony Falls – and the man who calls it home.
**This is book 1 in the Harmony Falls Series. It can be read as a standalone. Each book in this steamy series has a HEA!**
336 pages, Paperback
Published October 14, 2024
45 people are currently reading
26 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
November 10, 2024
A new author, a fun easy read, with a story to keep me interested.
Ash has returned to her hometown, Harmony Falls, with her son. She has inherited her grandmother's estate. Harmony has many fond memories for Ash; there is one sore spot, her ex-husband, who is causing his own kind of discomfort for her.
We have a mystery to solve. A ranch foreman who is causing all kinds of distractions, personally, not professionally. An ex who will not go away. Ash is trying to adjust to her new life, being a good mom, and maybe opening her heart to another.
What sold me was the town of Harmony Falls, the charm, and the neighbors, who are a bit too nosy.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Ash has returned to her hometown, Harmony Falls, with her son. She has inherited her grandmother's estate. Harmony has many fond memories for Ash; there is one sore spot, her ex-husband, who is causing his own kind of discomfort for her.
We have a mystery to solve. A ranch foreman who is causing all kinds of distractions, personally, not professionally. An ex who will not go away. Ash is trying to adjust to her new life, being a good mom, and maybe opening her heart to another.
What sold me was the town of Harmony Falls, the charm, and the neighbors, who are a bit too nosy.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
November 12, 2024
In this charming novel, Ava Hawthorne crafts a compelling narrative that weaves together classic romance tropes with surprising depth and authenticity. Set in the picturesque town of Harmony Falls, "Inheriting Harmony" delivers a heartfelt story about second chances, family legacy, and the courage to confront the past.
Plot Overview
When Ash inherits her grandmother's estate, she reluctantly returns to her hometown with her young son in tow. The inheritance comes with strings attached – not just the practical responsibilities of managing the estate, but the emotional baggage of confronting her past. Enter Dexter, the steady and attractive ranch foreman whose presence complicates Ash's carefully planned life, especially when her son develops an enthusiasm for the horses under Dexter's care.
Strengths
Setting: Harmony Falls emerges as more than just a backdrop; it's a living, breathing character with nosy neighbors and small-town charm that feels authentic rather than cliché
Character Development: Ash's journey from reluctant inheritor to someone who might finally be ready to put down roots feels genuine and earned
Supporting Cast: The local community adds color and depth to the narrative, creating a rich tapestry of small-town life
Family Dynamics: The exploration of generational ties and family history adds meaningful weight to the romance plot
Areas for Improvement
Romance Pacing: The relationship between Ash and Dexter occasionally feels rushed, missing opportunities for deeper emotional development
Intimate Moments: While the chemistry is evident, more scenes showing the couple's growing emotional connection would strengthen their bond's credibility
Notable Elements
Complex Ex-Husband subplot: Rather than serving as a mere antagonist, the ex-husband's presence adds realistic complications to Ash's journey
Mystery Component: The underlying secrets threatening the town add tension and stakes beyond the romantic plot
Single Parent Dynamic: The integration of Ash's role as a mother feels natural and adds depth to her character
Writing Style
Hawthorne's prose is accessible and engaging, making for an easy read without sacrificing emotional impact. The balance between romance, family drama, and small-town politics is well-maintained throughout the narrative.
Series Potential
With its rich setting and intriguing supporting characters, "Inheriting Harmony" shows strong potential as the foundation for a contemporary romance series. The town of Harmony Falls contains enough unexplored stories to support multiple compelling narratives.
Final Verdict
"Inheriting Harmony" is a solid debut that will appeal to readers who enjoy:
Small-town romance with authentic community dynamics
Second-chance stories with meaningful character growth
Single-parent narratives that balance romance with family responsibility
Cowboys with depth beyond the stereotype
Romance mixed with elements of mystery and family drama
While there's room for deeper emotional development in the central romance, the overall package delivers a satisfying reading experience that promises good things to come from this new author.
Plot Overview
When Ash inherits her grandmother's estate, she reluctantly returns to her hometown with her young son in tow. The inheritance comes with strings attached – not just the practical responsibilities of managing the estate, but the emotional baggage of confronting her past. Enter Dexter, the steady and attractive ranch foreman whose presence complicates Ash's carefully planned life, especially when her son develops an enthusiasm for the horses under Dexter's care.
Strengths
Setting: Harmony Falls emerges as more than just a backdrop; it's a living, breathing character with nosy neighbors and small-town charm that feels authentic rather than cliché
Character Development: Ash's journey from reluctant inheritor to someone who might finally be ready to put down roots feels genuine and earned
Supporting Cast: The local community adds color and depth to the narrative, creating a rich tapestry of small-town life
Family Dynamics: The exploration of generational ties and family history adds meaningful weight to the romance plot
Areas for Improvement
Romance Pacing: The relationship between Ash and Dexter occasionally feels rushed, missing opportunities for deeper emotional development
Intimate Moments: While the chemistry is evident, more scenes showing the couple's growing emotional connection would strengthen their bond's credibility
Notable Elements
Complex Ex-Husband subplot: Rather than serving as a mere antagonist, the ex-husband's presence adds realistic complications to Ash's journey
Mystery Component: The underlying secrets threatening the town add tension and stakes beyond the romantic plot
Single Parent Dynamic: The integration of Ash's role as a mother feels natural and adds depth to her character
Writing Style
Hawthorne's prose is accessible and engaging, making for an easy read without sacrificing emotional impact. The balance between romance, family drama, and small-town politics is well-maintained throughout the narrative.
Series Potential
With its rich setting and intriguing supporting characters, "Inheriting Harmony" shows strong potential as the foundation for a contemporary romance series. The town of Harmony Falls contains enough unexplored stories to support multiple compelling narratives.
Final Verdict
"Inheriting Harmony" is a solid debut that will appeal to readers who enjoy:
Small-town romance with authentic community dynamics
Second-chance stories with meaningful character growth
Single-parent narratives that balance romance with family responsibility
Cowboys with depth beyond the stereotype
Romance mixed with elements of mystery and family drama
While there's room for deeper emotional development in the central romance, the overall package delivers a satisfying reading experience that promises good things to come from this new author.
October 25, 2024
Inheriting Harmony by Ava Hawthorne is the perfect small-town romance if you're into second chances and rediscovering yourself. The story centers around Ash, a single mom who returns to her hometown after inheriting her grandmother’s estate. Harmony isn’t just full of sweet memories, though there's also her not-so-great ex-husband lurking around, making her life a bit more complicated.
But then there’s Dexter the Ranch Foreman yeah, you know the type. The sparks between them are REAL. Ash’s juggling a lot, being a mom, figuring out her new inheritance, and maybe, just maybe, opening up her heart again.
One thing I will say though: the relationship between Ash and Dexter, the Ranch Foreman, felt a bit rushed at times. Like, there’s definite chemistry, but I wanted more moments where they’re really getting to know each other. The slow burn starts, but it kind of jumps ahead too fast without giving us those deeper, intimate scenes (not sex intimate scenes but the getting to know each other intimate scenes) that make you really feel the buildup. It would’ve been nice if the story had slowed down and added a bit more meat to their relationship, especially considering Ash’s past and everything she’s been through. Their connection was cute, but I wanted more tension and growth before they finally got together.
Now, Ash’s ex is still hanging around being the absolute worst. He’s there to remind you of what she’s been through and why she’s so hesitant to trust anyone again. But it’s not over-the-top drama. Ava Hawthorne keeps it real, and you actually feel like you know these people, like they could be your neighbors or someone you grew up with.
And let me tell you, the town of Harmony? Total small-town charm. You’ve got the nosy neighbors, the local diners, and all that cute, cozy stuff, but it’s not too cheesy. The town itself almost feels like a character in the story because so much of Ash’s growth and healing is tied to being back there. It’s like coming home, even though home isn’t all sunshine and rainbows.
What really hits hard are the themes of forgiveness and starting over. Ash’s not just inheriting a house. She’s inheriting all this emotional weight and history with her family, she’s got to decide what the hell she’s going to do with it all...run away again or finally deal with it and maybe find a way to move forward.
Honestly, if you’re into semi-slow burn romances with characters who’ve got real issues to work through, this is definitely worth reading. The romance is sweet without being too sugary, and the drama keeps you hooked without being annoying. Plus, that the Ranch Foreman? Total book boyfriend material if you like the sweet and thoughtful kind man. If you want something that’s heartwarming but still has a little bit of bite, Inheriting Harmony should definitely be on your list.
My star Rating :
3 1/2 to 4 stars. Has the potential to be a great series for Contemporary Romance
But then there’s Dexter the Ranch Foreman yeah, you know the type. The sparks between them are REAL. Ash’s juggling a lot, being a mom, figuring out her new inheritance, and maybe, just maybe, opening up her heart again.
One thing I will say though: the relationship between Ash and Dexter, the Ranch Foreman, felt a bit rushed at times. Like, there’s definite chemistry, but I wanted more moments where they’re really getting to know each other. The slow burn starts, but it kind of jumps ahead too fast without giving us those deeper, intimate scenes (not sex intimate scenes but the getting to know each other intimate scenes) that make you really feel the buildup. It would’ve been nice if the story had slowed down and added a bit more meat to their relationship, especially considering Ash’s past and everything she’s been through. Their connection was cute, but I wanted more tension and growth before they finally got together.
Now, Ash’s ex is still hanging around being the absolute worst. He’s there to remind you of what she’s been through and why she’s so hesitant to trust anyone again. But it’s not over-the-top drama. Ava Hawthorne keeps it real, and you actually feel like you know these people, like they could be your neighbors or someone you grew up with.
And let me tell you, the town of Harmony? Total small-town charm. You’ve got the nosy neighbors, the local diners, and all that cute, cozy stuff, but it’s not too cheesy. The town itself almost feels like a character in the story because so much of Ash’s growth and healing is tied to being back there. It’s like coming home, even though home isn’t all sunshine and rainbows.
What really hits hard are the themes of forgiveness and starting over. Ash’s not just inheriting a house. She’s inheriting all this emotional weight and history with her family, she’s got to decide what the hell she’s going to do with it all...run away again or finally deal with it and maybe find a way to move forward.
Honestly, if you’re into semi-slow burn romances with characters who’ve got real issues to work through, this is definitely worth reading. The romance is sweet without being too sugary, and the drama keeps you hooked without being annoying. Plus, that the Ranch Foreman? Total book boyfriend material if you like the sweet and thoughtful kind man. If you want something that’s heartwarming but still has a little bit of bite, Inheriting Harmony should definitely be on your list.
My star Rating :
3 1/2 to 4 stars. Has the potential to be a great series for Contemporary Romance
October 23, 2024
Such a wonderful read.
This is the first book I have read by this author but it was great.
Tropes:
• Single mom
• Small town
• Cowboy
• Corruptions
• Inheritance
• Secrets
After her grandmother passed away, Ash finds out that she has inherited the entire estate, an estate she didn’t want because it brought back so many painful memories for her but because it was left to her, she still had responsibilities to uphold.
Dexter, not knowing what the new owner’s plans are for the estate kept doing his job just as he always did. Meeting Ash one day and seeing her son excited about horses, he knew he was in trouble.
Secrets and lies are never a good thing to discover but when these things can destroy your lives and/or the town you have always been a part of, you have to uncover it all and let the pieces fall where they will and hope the town can survive.
This was a great story and I can’t wait to read Fiona’s next!!
This is the first book I have read by this author but it was great.
Tropes:
• Single mom
• Small town
• Cowboy
• Corruptions
• Inheritance
• Secrets
After her grandmother passed away, Ash finds out that she has inherited the entire estate, an estate she didn’t want because it brought back so many painful memories for her but because it was left to her, she still had responsibilities to uphold.
Dexter, not knowing what the new owner’s plans are for the estate kept doing his job just as he always did. Meeting Ash one day and seeing her son excited about horses, he knew he was in trouble.
Secrets and lies are never a good thing to discover but when these things can destroy your lives and/or the town you have always been a part of, you have to uncover it all and let the pieces fall where they will and hope the town can survive.
This was a great story and I can’t wait to read Fiona’s next!!
October 28, 2024
Overall this was an enjoyable novel. There is a lot happening and I really felt like there was more mystery than romance for this novel. So much of it focused on unraveling the towns past that I feel like it caused the development between Ash and Dexter to fall short. Don’t get me wrong, there is definitely chemistry between the two, it just felt like it was starting off slow burn and then things all of a sudden were happening without much development so things didn’t feel natural.
The novel itself is 223 pages long on my kindle plus another 7 pages for an epilogue. I do feel like it could have stood to be longer to work on some development within the characters. Building the mystery of what is happening in the town as well as the characters felt cramped.
The novel itself is 223 pages long on my kindle plus another 7 pages for an epilogue. I do feel like it could have stood to be longer to work on some development within the characters. Building the mystery of what is happening in the town as well as the characters felt cramped.
November 12, 2024
Inheriting harmony gives Hallmark movie vibes, which isn't a bad thing. I did enjoy many things about this book, and it was an enjoyable read. I do feel that the character building was lacking and their relationship was very rushed. The mystery aspect was very fun and made for an exciting adventure, which continues into the second book. The spice level was enjoyable as it wasn't too much but just enough to give the warm and fuzzies. Overall, I did like the story itself and will be adding the second book to my tbr to see what happens next with this mystery.
February 16, 2025
This book was super addictve as I'm sucker for a small town romance who isn't? FMC Ash, she returned to her hometown in Harmony Falls with her son aswell as she did inherited her grandma's estate... There have been so many fond memories in Harmony Falls for Ash.... She has one problem that her ex husband is causing alot of his own kind of discomfort for her . I love how there is mystery in this story which was very intriguing... Cant forget there is a ranch former that has his own way of causing distraction.. Couldnt get enough of the story.
October 30, 2024
An enjoyable read.
I would say it's more of a Mystery book than a Romance but It was an intriguing read with a lot going on in it.
There is a Romance between Dexter and Ash that develops within the book but the town of Harmony Falls and the towns people who founded it are the main story of the book.
Throw in a really horrible Ex husband who is adamant to make Ash and their son's life hell and you have a great book to read.
I would say it's more of a Mystery book than a Romance but It was an intriguing read with a lot going on in it.
There is a Romance between Dexter and Ash that develops within the book but the town of Harmony Falls and the towns people who founded it are the main story of the book.
Throw in a really horrible Ex husband who is adamant to make Ash and their son's life hell and you have a great book to read.
November 11, 2024
What a book finished in a day there's so much to this book the story lime just pulls u in and ur wanting to know more and more as you read it. I thoroughly enjoyed it there's such a great story line to it I excited to read the other so will be reading the next one soon. Can't wait what else is to come. Low spice but wow it really is an amazing book defo worth the read if u like country small town romances the little boy is my fav.
October 16, 2024
This author was new to me, but I genuinely enjoyed this book. A single mom has to return to her hometown to receive her life changing inheritance. Issue: her trouble making her ex-husband resides there.
Add in her best friend and a cowboy...plus a mystery attached to her inheritance...
ARC reviewer
Add in her best friend and a cowboy...plus a mystery attached to her inheritance...
ARC reviewer
November 10, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Wow this book had me hooked line and sinker from page one. I absolutely loved the journey that ash, and Dexter went on throughout this whole book. If your looking for a book with a town story, small town romance this book is definitely for you
Tropes:
Single mum
Small town
Cowboy
Secrets
Inheritance
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Wow this book had me hooked line and sinker from page one. I absolutely loved the journey that ash, and Dexter went on throughout this whole book. If your looking for a book with a town story, small town romance this book is definitely for you
Tropes:
Single mum
Small town
Cowboy
Secrets
Inheritance
December 2, 2024
This is an entertaining cowboy second chance close proximity romance book that holds your attention from beginning to end. The storyline is intriguing and dramatic as the elements unfold. The characters are well written with depth to their personalities and steamy chemistry together. I enjoyed 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.
November 4, 2024
I enjoyed this story, although I struggled a bit to finish it, it just seemed to lack substance and background, and didn't have the character development I'm used to.
Thanks Ava, I received an ARC for an honest review
Thanks Ava, I received an ARC for an honest review
November 10, 2024
ARC read and first by this author! This was a really awesome read! Fast paced and engaging. Small town Romance with mystery, corruption and secrets! Definitely look forward to book 2 to see what else will happen!!
November 21, 2024
Great for a quick book club filler! Just maybe not with grandma.
It’s like a spicy hallmark mystery! The small town feel and looming family mystery shrouded in danger makes it a great weekend or rainy day read!
3/5 spice
There are some TRIGGERS:
Divorce, alcoholism, gaslighting
It’s like a spicy hallmark mystery! The small town feel and looming family mystery shrouded in danger makes it a great weekend or rainy day read!
3/5 spice
There are some TRIGGERS:
Divorce, alcoholism, gaslighting
November 28, 2024
Ash and Dexter
Oh the mystery! The relationship between Dexter and Ash was so sweet but the mystery of the estate is what immediately hooked me! The relationship between Dexter and Josh was so precious. That Epilogue has me excited for book 2 because I need more mystery!
Oh the mystery! The relationship between Dexter and Ash was so sweet but the mystery of the estate is what immediately hooked me! The relationship between Dexter and Josh was so precious. That Epilogue has me excited for book 2 because I need more mystery!
November 29, 2024
Ash and Dexter's characters have a bumpy road and help bring the mystery together. This book is a cute, romantic, steamy mystery all rolled into one. It leaves you wanting more and to find out the truth about the town's history.
December 16, 2024
Found this to be a breath of fresh air compare to some of the books I've read lately. Small town romance with secrets and mystery. Unravels the secret only for there to be another one. Really loved the characters and can't wait to read Flora's story!
November 1, 2024
This story is full of mystery and generations of town secrets. While there is some romance I don't feel like there was enough about the MCs relationship, the build up and (no physical) intimacy. As well as not enough history explained about the MMC, hints and bits and pieces, but would have liked more explained.
November 3, 2024
I found myself turning pages so quickly to see what was going on! The ending sets up the next book so well I'm excited to see the story continue.
November 5, 2024
Cute romance with small town vibes. Dexter and Ash find more than just the town secrets, they find each other.
November 14, 2024
Such a charming quick read. Love the small town charm. I recommend reading this wonderful book.
November 23, 2024
Mystery? Romance? Suspense?
This was everything I was hoping for. This was amazing. The story behind it was well written and meaningful. It was beautiful.
This was everything I was hoping for. This was amazing. The story behind it was well written and meaningful. It was beautiful.
December 1, 2024
Not a bad book at all. Just more hallmark like then I expected.
I did enjoy the book and would say it’s deff worth the read!
I did enjoy the book and would say it’s deff worth the read!
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews