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Hartwell Hills #2
Never Left You
After the death of her husband, Abi Hartwell Acosta poured her heart and soul into two things: her son and her family ranch. Hartwell Hills Ranch is her home, and Abi is the sunshine to everyone on it. With the responsibilities of the ranch falling to her more and more, she’s finding it harder to wear that happy face all the time, especially when an old ‘friend’ shows up, bringing way too many memories with him.
Cash Callahan is the epitome of the saying ‘when push comes to shove’. Everything in his life fell apart after his best friend died: his career, his marriage…the friendship he valued more than anything. He never thought he’d find himself back at Hartwell Hills Ranch, but when the opportunity pops up for him to use the training arena, he can’t say no. Even if that means he’d finally see Abi after assuming he’d lost her forever.
Tensions rise as Abi and Cash find themselves battling for the same space, one that isn’t big enough for all the feelings they’ve been bottling up over the past five years. Can they find a way back to each other? Or will they finally realize that neither of them ever truly left the other behind?
Cash Callahan is the epitome of the saying ‘when push comes to shove’. Everything in his life fell apart after his best friend died: his career, his marriage…the friendship he valued more than anything. He never thought he’d find himself back at Hartwell Hills Ranch, but when the opportunity pops up for him to use the training arena, he can’t say no. Even if that means he’d finally see Abi after assuming he’d lost her forever.
Tensions rise as Abi and Cash find themselves battling for the same space, one that isn’t big enough for all the feelings they’ve been bottling up over the past five years. Can they find a way back to each other? Or will they finally realize that neither of them ever truly left the other behind?
459 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 9, 2025
19 people are currently reading
219 people want to read
About the author
Stefanie K. Steck
9 books136 followersStefanie K. Steck is a self-published author of swoony contemporary romance novels. In her books, you can find all the emotions you need always with a happily ever after.
Stefanie lives in Salt Lake City, Utah with her husband Spencer, three kids, two dogs (whom she loves almost more than writing), and a newly adopted cat. She works as a full-time dental assistant, which she rather enjoys. When she’s not assisting with a root canal or cleaning her house; you can find her writing her new novels or cuddling with her dogs and kids. She enjoys reading, is an avid Pokémon GO player, and loves all the Marvel movies (Iron Man and Spiderman are her favorites, and she will never leave out Loki).
Stefanie lives in Salt Lake City, Utah with her husband Spencer, three kids, two dogs (whom she loves almost more than writing), and a newly adopted cat. She works as a full-time dental assistant, which she rather enjoys. When she’s not assisting with a root canal or cleaning her house; you can find her writing her new novels or cuddling with her dogs and kids. She enjoys reading, is an avid Pokémon GO player, and loves all the Marvel movies (Iron Man and Spiderman are her favorites, and she will never leave out Loki).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
April 6, 2025
Welcome to the heart-pounding, heart-healing world of rodeo, grief, and second chances.
Never Left You begins with a devastating tragedy that will leave you breathless. Abi is suddenly a single mother, doing her best to keep life moving forward at Hartwell Hills Ranch—the place that holds as much sorrow as it does comfort. With her family by her side, she’s navigating the kind of loss that leaves lasting scars.
Then comes Cash Callahan—Sylas’ best friend and a man whose life hasn’t exactly gone to plan. Once a rising rodeo star, Cash’s world crumbled after a career-ending accident and a toxic marriage that ended in divorce.
His client, Quinn, suffers an injury just shy of her big break, and with her determination to keep going, recovery leads them to Hartwell Hills Ranch.
Abi isn’t thrilled to see Cash—far from it. Their painful past is tangled in everything she lost, and the wounds feel just as raw as they did all those years ago. She doesn’t hold back her resentment, and Cash isn’t sure if they’ll ever find common ground again.
But as weeks go by, buried emotions resurface. Forced proximity turns into quiet moments, shared pain becomes mutual understanding, and somewhere between the dust of the arena and the quiet of the stables, something shifts. Forgiveness. Healing.
Stephanie K. Steck delivers a deeply moving, slow-burn romance full of grit, grief, and grace. Never Left You is packed with tear-jerking moments, unforgettable characters, and a second-chance love that feels as hard-won as it is heartwarming.
This is the kind of book that sneaks up on you and stays with you—raw, real, and full of feels. Grab the tissues. You’re in for a beautiful ride.
Disclaimer: I received an Advance Reader Copy (ARC) of this book, and this is my honest and unbiased review.
Never Left You begins with a devastating tragedy that will leave you breathless. Abi is suddenly a single mother, doing her best to keep life moving forward at Hartwell Hills Ranch—the place that holds as much sorrow as it does comfort. With her family by her side, she’s navigating the kind of loss that leaves lasting scars.
Then comes Cash Callahan—Sylas’ best friend and a man whose life hasn’t exactly gone to plan. Once a rising rodeo star, Cash’s world crumbled after a career-ending accident and a toxic marriage that ended in divorce.
His client, Quinn, suffers an injury just shy of her big break, and with her determination to keep going, recovery leads them to Hartwell Hills Ranch.
Abi isn’t thrilled to see Cash—far from it. Their painful past is tangled in everything she lost, and the wounds feel just as raw as they did all those years ago. She doesn’t hold back her resentment, and Cash isn’t sure if they’ll ever find common ground again.
But as weeks go by, buried emotions resurface. Forced proximity turns into quiet moments, shared pain becomes mutual understanding, and somewhere between the dust of the arena and the quiet of the stables, something shifts. Forgiveness. Healing.
Stephanie K. Steck delivers a deeply moving, slow-burn romance full of grit, grief, and grace. Never Left You is packed with tear-jerking moments, unforgettable characters, and a second-chance love that feels as hard-won as it is heartwarming.
This is the kind of book that sneaks up on you and stays with you—raw, real, and full of feels. Grab the tissues. You’re in for a beautiful ride.
Disclaimer: I received an Advance Reader Copy (ARC) of this book, and this is my honest and unbiased review.
April 13, 2025
This is my favorite book of Steck’s yet!
Cash + Abi was the slow burn I adore! 🤭 There was so much banter and depth to the books and I truly enjoyed that aspect!!!
Abi was so strong and fully capable of it, but finally has a PARTNER again 😘
Cash learning his worth!!!
Sweet baby Stetson!!! Loveeee how he was written to realistically! He added to the story without taking away from the main romance!!!
Rhett + Kyla being added it —gosh dang I love them and how they are still a part of the story!!!
The family dynamic really shined brightly in this book!!!
Thanks again for the eARC!
Cash + Abi was the slow burn I adore! 🤭 There was so much banter and depth to the books and I truly enjoyed that aspect!!!
Abi was so strong and fully capable of it, but finally has a PARTNER again 😘
Cash learning his worth!!!
Sweet baby Stetson!!! Loveeee how he was written to realistically! He added to the story without taking away from the main romance!!!
Rhett + Kyla being added it —gosh dang I love them and how they are still a part of the story!!!
The family dynamic really shined brightly in this book!!!
Thanks again for the eARC!
August 1, 2025
⚠️‼️not a spoiler, but a note that reader discretion is advised‼️⚠️
This book advertises…
“Though it is fade-to-black, and sexual acts are implied, there are no explicit details on page.” Those are the exact words from the author’s note.
There’s a grandiose amount of language, 23 of which are f-bombs. After searching to figure out how many of those there were (I’d come across 4 and wondered how many more there would be), I then decided to search other words, including slang words used for private parts during sex. Imagine my surprise when I discovered that there is a scene where both MCs are naked, in bed and “I felt his **** touch my most sensitive area” and then further down that page you have “I begged, my hand tickling down his chest to his length, finally guiding him to me.” It then colorfully explains that there was mutual pleasure.
Y’all, THAT IS EXPLICIT. Sure, it could be more explicit. But that’s still explicit. That doesn’t fit on the closed door or fade to black diagram according to the writing gals.
Google Rachel Rowlands or the writing gals to find this chart.
And that ain’t the only scene! The other one isn’t as descriptive, but it’s over the line to be considered fade to black.
🚨This book would be better marketed as sensual romance, or steamy romance, or cracked door, or just plain spicy 🚨
Cash and Abi have fantastic chemistry. Obviously, cause… ya know.
And cash’s relationship with Stetson is amazing. And the way Abi understands and comforts Cash when he discovers some skeletons from the past is heartwarming.
But the fact that I was mislead about the intimacy level of this book detracted from all of the sweetness and the journey of love and healing that Cash and Abi went on.
I love a good romance. I love a good PG-13 movie. But when it comes to labeling a book as fade to black, private body parts shouldn’t be named in that way. There are plenty of ways to allude to all of what happened without going into the detail that the author did. Fade to black doesn’t have sex on page. I’m not a part of that relationship, therefore I don’t belong in that bedroom.
This book advertises…
“Though it is fade-to-black, and sexual acts are implied, there are no explicit details on page.” Those are the exact words from the author’s note.
There’s a grandiose amount of language, 23 of which are f-bombs. After searching to figure out how many of those there were (I’d come across 4 and wondered how many more there would be), I then decided to search other words, including slang words used for private parts during sex. Imagine my surprise when I discovered that there is a scene where both MCs are naked, in bed and “I felt his **** touch my most sensitive area” and then further down that page you have “I begged, my hand tickling down his chest to his length, finally guiding him to me.” It then colorfully explains that there was mutual pleasure.
Y’all, THAT IS EXPLICIT. Sure, it could be more explicit. But that’s still explicit. That doesn’t fit on the closed door or fade to black diagram according to the writing gals.
Google Rachel Rowlands or the writing gals to find this chart.
And that ain’t the only scene! The other one isn’t as descriptive, but it’s over the line to be considered fade to black.
🚨This book would be better marketed as sensual romance, or steamy romance, or cracked door, or just plain spicy 🚨
Cash and Abi have fantastic chemistry. Obviously, cause… ya know.
And cash’s relationship with Stetson is amazing. And the way Abi understands and comforts Cash when he discovers some skeletons from the past is heartwarming.
But the fact that I was mislead about the intimacy level of this book detracted from all of the sweetness and the journey of love and healing that Cash and Abi went on.
I love a good romance. I love a good PG-13 movie. But when it comes to labeling a book as fade to black, private body parts shouldn’t be named in that way. There are plenty of ways to allude to all of what happened without going into the detail that the author did. Fade to black doesn’t have sex on page. I’m not a part of that relationship, therefore I don’t belong in that bedroom.
Read
June 19, 2025DNF 11%
SPOILERS‼️
I was looking forward to this one because we have a widowed FMC who lost the love of her life five years ago! I love when the FMC had a great marriage and a sweet little family before the MMC (it’s a chef’s kiss for me). I even felt heartbreak when the husband died (on-page) in the first chapter and he only showed up in one short scene! He truly loved the FMC and was thinking about her even as he was dying. I probably would’ve been more invested if the story was actually about him and the FMC.
The MMC is the late husband’s best friend and someone who was so close to him & the FMC and very much part of their lives. He was married to another woman who hated the FMC all because the MMC once drunkenly told her that he’d flirted with the FMC once before she even got with his friend. And since then the wife was just a total witch to the FMC every single time.
After the husband died the MMC completely disappeared from the FMC’s life for almost five years! not even checking in on her. She held a grudge because he was supposed to be her friend and be there for her during the worst time of her life.
And 10 months later (after his friend passed) his wife filed for divorce and left him because he got injured and couldn’t ride again, guess he didn’t “fit” her lifestyle anymore.
Anyway this just didn’t work for me! I was bored plus I searched the ex-wife’s name and got 104 matches! The MMC talks about her, not because he loved or missed her but to say how miserable he was in that marriage even though he tried to fix things and it just never worked. I think she’ll show up again and bring some drama with her? But I’m not completely sure though! I didn’t dig too deep.
SPOILERS‼️
I was looking forward to this one because we have a widowed FMC who lost the love of her life five years ago! I love when the FMC had a great marriage and a sweet little family before the MMC (it’s a chef’s kiss for me). I even felt heartbreak when the husband died (on-page) in the first chapter and he only showed up in one short scene! He truly loved the FMC and was thinking about her even as he was dying. I probably would’ve been more invested if the story was actually about him and the FMC.
no matter how much pain he was feeling, his mind was still focused on me
“You’re okay,” he repeated softly. “Mi Alma…”
My Soul.
The MMC is the late husband’s best friend and someone who was so close to him & the FMC and very much part of their lives. He was married to another woman who hated the FMC all because the MMC once drunkenly told her that he’d flirted with the FMC once before she even got with his friend. And since then the wife was just a total witch to the FMC every single time.
After the husband died the MMC completely disappeared from the FMC’s life for almost five years! not even checking in on her. She held a grudge because he was supposed to be her friend and be there for her during the worst time of her life.
And 10 months later (after his friend passed) his wife filed for divorce and left him because he got injured and couldn’t ride again, guess he didn’t “fit” her lifestyle anymore.
Anyway this just didn’t work for me! I was bored plus I searched the ex-wife’s name and got 104 matches! The MMC talks about her, not because he loved or missed her but to say how miserable he was in that marriage even though he tried to fix things and it just never worked. I think she’ll show up again and bring some drama with her? But I’m not completely sure though! I didn’t dig too deep.
May 9, 2025
What a delightful mix of a cowboy and single mom/widow romance, healing from grief and finding love again when you least expected it. From the prologue to the epilogue, Abi and Cash’s story seriously gave me the whole gamut of feels. Their slow-burn, fade-to-black romance showcased vulnerability, healing, honest conversations and second chances in such a sweet and beautiful way. This Hartwell Family sure is something special, and all things good. 4.5 stars
Thanks to the author for an eARC!
Thanks to the author for an eARC!
May 7, 2025
Okay Stefanie, way to rip my heart right out of my chest 😭 “Youd uproot your life for me?” “Abi… you are my life. Im not uprooting anything. Im planting myself where I belong” 🩷 I loved Rhett and Kylas story and quickly fell in love with Abi and Cash too 😍 Stefanie sure knows how to write a love story! This one follows two old friends who find their way back to each other and help each other grieve/heal. It was perfectly written and I loved every minute of it! 5 stars ⭐️
April 11, 2025
***ARC Review***
"For those who thought they would never smile again. You smiled, you loved, you lived."
This was such a raw, sweet, wholesome and loving book. It was full of lose, grief, heartache, second chances, friends to lovers and the most soft and sweet romance that was full of so much emotion. The connection between Cash & Abbie was so beautiful and it was so sweet to see them come back together. First as friends and then those feelings developed so quickly from there. Then you add the addition of Stetson and their shared bond from the their seperate relationships with Sylas. They both handled the loss of Sylas in such different ways and I don't think either of them could truly move past it without the other.
If you enjoy a romance with a heck of a lot of raw, pure emotion thrown in the mix, then definitely pick this one up. The author definitely doesn't hold back in making you feel everything the characters go through. Not only from the hurt of them loosing their husband & first love as well as their best friend, but you also got the pain of needing that one other person whom you could lean on through it all and them not being there. Then having them finally come back together years later and hashing through all the pain and hurt they had been feeling.
Thank you to Stefanie for sending me an ARC copy of this book to review. I will definitely be going back to read book 1 in this series now!
"For those who thought they would never smile again. You smiled, you loved, you lived."
This was such a raw, sweet, wholesome and loving book. It was full of lose, grief, heartache, second chances, friends to lovers and the most soft and sweet romance that was full of so much emotion. The connection between Cash & Abbie was so beautiful and it was so sweet to see them come back together. First as friends and then those feelings developed so quickly from there. Then you add the addition of Stetson and their shared bond from the their seperate relationships with Sylas. They both handled the loss of Sylas in such different ways and I don't think either of them could truly move past it without the other.
If you enjoy a romance with a heck of a lot of raw, pure emotion thrown in the mix, then definitely pick this one up. The author definitely doesn't hold back in making you feel everything the characters go through. Not only from the hurt of them loosing their husband & first love as well as their best friend, but you also got the pain of needing that one other person whom you could lean on through it all and them not being there. Then having them finally come back together years later and hashing through all the pain and hurt they had been feeling.
Thank you to Stefanie for sending me an ARC copy of this book to review. I will definitely be going back to read book 1 in this series now!
April 18, 2025
I'm so excited to share ** My first ARC review **
A good cowboy story is my favorite kind of story.
✔️Small town
✔️Found family
✔️Second chance
✔️Slow burn
✔️Single mom
This was a wholesome and heartwarming romance full of raw and pure emotion.
The beautiful connection that Abi and Cash form alongside with Stetson's connection with Cash just heals both and makes their bond stronger.
I love Abi for the way she supports and truly sees Cash – making him realize he is not broken as his ex made him believe, and I love Cash for how he helps Abi see she deserves to be happy again and have her own dreams.
This book made me laugh and cry and feel all kinds of emotions – and that’s the best kind of book to read.
Thank you, Stefanie, for sending me an ARC copy!!
A good cowboy story is my favorite kind of story.
✔️Small town
✔️Found family
✔️Second chance
✔️Slow burn
✔️Single mom
This was a wholesome and heartwarming romance full of raw and pure emotion.
The beautiful connection that Abi and Cash form alongside with Stetson's connection with Cash just heals both and makes their bond stronger.
I love Abi for the way she supports and truly sees Cash – making him realize he is not broken as his ex made him believe, and I love Cash for how he helps Abi see she deserves to be happy again and have her own dreams.
This book made me laugh and cry and feel all kinds of emotions – and that’s the best kind of book to read.
Thank you, Stefanie, for sending me an ARC copy!!
April 7, 2025
I loved it. So much. Not sure if it was the pregnancy hormones, or just Stef’s beautiful writing, but this book had me smiling & laughing & crying & wanting to snuggle my husband & babies.
It was so well done in regard to grief, family, love & parenthood. It was fun & flirty & the perfect amount of a little cheesy cowboy romcom thrown in.
I cannot recommend Stef’s work enough!!! I have loved every title by her & cannot wait for what’s next!
It was so well done in regard to grief, family, love & parenthood. It was fun & flirty & the perfect amount of a little cheesy cowboy romcom thrown in.
I cannot recommend Stef’s work enough!!! I have loved every title by her & cannot wait for what’s next!
October 26, 2025
Never Left You
Stefanie K. Steck
Hartwell Hills Book 2
“I could get lost in her. No matter what was happening, this right here would bring me back.”
I really enjoyed this read! On one hand I want to say that this book was fun, because I truly enjoyed watching Abi and Cash fall in love. Watching the interactions between the family was fun and lighthearted. You can tell just how much family means to all of them and how close they truly are to each other. I had a few laugh out loud moments.
“You skipped."
"I ran enthusiastically."
On the other hand the pain that they had to endure is heart wrenching! I loved feeling all the emotions.
“Without my best friend, without the one person who would listen to me no matter what I needed to say, I had never felt more alone.”
Abi and Cash both lost the person that they loved, in different ways, but the loss of course changed them. To watch them grieve separately and see how they moved on with their lives after loss was so beautifully done, but to watch them come back together and be able to mourn the man they loved and be able to move forward was just amazing to read.
What to expect in Never Left You:
🐴 Love after Loss
🐴 Estranged Friends to Lovers
🐴 Single Mom
🐴 Small Town/Ranch Vibes
🐴 Former Rodeo Star
🐴 Fade to Black - with all the steamy moments
This can be read as a standalone but I suggest you read Book 1 (Somebody Like Me) first. Meeting the family in book one just makes you comfortable and more connected to them when you read this book.
Available for Preorder Now!
Coming May 9th!
I want to say Thank You to Stefanie K. Steck for allowing me to receive an ARC for this book. Since I am a new account this was the first ARC and I appreciate you giving me a chance to review your book. I will add, I am very excited to read Book 3 and can’t wait to find out who it will be. 🤗💙
Stefanie K. Steck
Hartwell Hills Book 2
“I could get lost in her. No matter what was happening, this right here would bring me back.”
I really enjoyed this read! On one hand I want to say that this book was fun, because I truly enjoyed watching Abi and Cash fall in love. Watching the interactions between the family was fun and lighthearted. You can tell just how much family means to all of them and how close they truly are to each other. I had a few laugh out loud moments.
“You skipped."
"I ran enthusiastically."
On the other hand the pain that they had to endure is heart wrenching! I loved feeling all the emotions.
“Without my best friend, without the one person who would listen to me no matter what I needed to say, I had never felt more alone.”
Abi and Cash both lost the person that they loved, in different ways, but the loss of course changed them. To watch them grieve separately and see how they moved on with their lives after loss was so beautifully done, but to watch them come back together and be able to mourn the man they loved and be able to move forward was just amazing to read.
What to expect in Never Left You:
🐴 Love after Loss
🐴 Estranged Friends to Lovers
🐴 Single Mom
🐴 Small Town/Ranch Vibes
🐴 Former Rodeo Star
🐴 Fade to Black - with all the steamy moments
This can be read as a standalone but I suggest you read Book 1 (Somebody Like Me) first. Meeting the family in book one just makes you comfortable and more connected to them when you read this book.
Available for Preorder Now!
Coming May 9th!
I want to say Thank You to Stefanie K. Steck for allowing me to receive an ARC for this book. Since I am a new account this was the first ARC and I appreciate you giving me a chance to review your book. I will add, I am very excited to read Book 3 and can’t wait to find out who it will be. 🤗💙
May 8, 2025
4.5⭐/5
🇸🇰Kovbojská-rodeo romanca z malého mesta, ktorá vás emočne vyžmýka. Už od prvej kapitoly zistíte, že vás čaká kniha so všetkými tými surovými, pravými emóciami. Krásne zachytáva podstatu lásky, straty, viny, smútku, liečenie z traumy a uzdravenie. Kniha, ktorá ma rozosmiala aj rozplakala. Hlavný hrdinovia si zaslúžili šťastný koniec. Taký, ktorý vo vás zanechá hrejivý pocit a ktorý vám pripomenie, že láska môže zvíťaziť aj po najtemnejších časoch.
Príbeh je o Abi a Cash, dávnych priateľoch, ktorých cesty sa po tragickej udalosti rozišli. Hanba, smútok, úzkosť a nedorozumenia ich na dlhý čas od seba odlúčia a Cash zmizne práve vtedy, keď ho Abi najviac potrebuje. Obaja však bojujú s vlastnými démonmi, ktoré im komplikujú vzťahy. O päť rokov sa ich cesty znova spoja a postupne, pomaly si k sebe nachádzajú cestu. Chémia medzi nimi bola doslova hmatateľná, skvelo napísané. Vedľajšie postavy úžasné. Odporúčam každému, kto verí v druhé šance a silu lásky.
Pripravte sa na emotívnu jazdu.
- Nútená blízkosť,
- kovbojský románik,
- friends to lovers,
- slobodný rodič
- nájdená rodina
- druhá šanca na lásku
----------------------------
🇬🇧A small-town cowboy-rodeo romance that will leave you emotionally drained. From the very first chapter, you know you're in for a book with all the raw, real emotions. It beautifully captures the essence of love, loss, guilt, grief, trauma healing, and recovery. A book that made me laugh and cry. The main characters deserved a happy ending. One that will leave you feeling warm and remind you that love can prevail even after the darkest of times.
The story is about Abi and Cash, longtime friends whose paths diverged after a tragic event. Shame, sadness, anxiety, and misunderstandings separate them for a long time, and Cash disappears just when Abi needs him most. However, both of them are battling their own demons that complicate their relationships. Five years later, their paths reconnect and gradually, slowly, find their way back to each other. The chemistry between them was literally palpable, brilliantly written. The supporting characters were amazing. I recommend it to anyone who believes in second chances and the power of love.
Get ready for an emotional ride.
- Forced proximity,
- cowboy romance,
- friends to lovers,
- single parent
- found family
- Second chance at love
🇸🇰Kovbojská-rodeo romanca z malého mesta, ktorá vás emočne vyžmýka. Už od prvej kapitoly zistíte, že vás čaká kniha so všetkými tými surovými, pravými emóciami. Krásne zachytáva podstatu lásky, straty, viny, smútku, liečenie z traumy a uzdravenie. Kniha, ktorá ma rozosmiala aj rozplakala. Hlavný hrdinovia si zaslúžili šťastný koniec. Taký, ktorý vo vás zanechá hrejivý pocit a ktorý vám pripomenie, že láska môže zvíťaziť aj po najtemnejších časoch.
Príbeh je o Abi a Cash, dávnych priateľoch, ktorých cesty sa po tragickej udalosti rozišli. Hanba, smútok, úzkosť a nedorozumenia ich na dlhý čas od seba odlúčia a Cash zmizne práve vtedy, keď ho Abi najviac potrebuje. Obaja však bojujú s vlastnými démonmi, ktoré im komplikujú vzťahy. O päť rokov sa ich cesty znova spoja a postupne, pomaly si k sebe nachádzajú cestu. Chémia medzi nimi bola doslova hmatateľná, skvelo napísané. Vedľajšie postavy úžasné. Odporúčam každému, kto verí v druhé šance a silu lásky.
Pripravte sa na emotívnu jazdu.
- Nútená blízkosť,
- kovbojský románik,
- friends to lovers,
- slobodný rodič
- nájdená rodina
- druhá šanca na lásku
----------------------------
🇬🇧A small-town cowboy-rodeo romance that will leave you emotionally drained. From the very first chapter, you know you're in for a book with all the raw, real emotions. It beautifully captures the essence of love, loss, guilt, grief, trauma healing, and recovery. A book that made me laugh and cry. The main characters deserved a happy ending. One that will leave you feeling warm and remind you that love can prevail even after the darkest of times.
The story is about Abi and Cash, longtime friends whose paths diverged after a tragic event. Shame, sadness, anxiety, and misunderstandings separate them for a long time, and Cash disappears just when Abi needs him most. However, both of them are battling their own demons that complicate their relationships. Five years later, their paths reconnect and gradually, slowly, find their way back to each other. The chemistry between them was literally palpable, brilliantly written. The supporting characters were amazing. I recommend it to anyone who believes in second chances and the power of love.
Get ready for an emotional ride.
- Forced proximity,
- cowboy romance,
- friends to lovers,
- single parent
- found family
- Second chance at love
May 15, 2025
I just finished this book today. It is the second book in the series.
I haven’t read a cowboy/cowgirl themed book in quite awhile and this had all the feels. It has the cowboys, the rodeo, the horses, the little boy who wants to be right in the middle of all of it.
Just as a precursor, this does have strong language, has themes of death of a spouse, divorce, and is fade to black but at the same time has some slightly more open door scenes in it.
Cash is such a stellar guy who is trying to redirect his life after several big life changes and losses. He needs a place to go to have someone he works with train as she recovers from an injury. The Hartwell arena and ranch is the perfect solution. He is also able to reconnect with friends he had not seen for 5 years.
Abi is a single mom to a lively 7 year old. She is juggling all the responsibilities and duties of helping to run the ranch and being a mom. She feels a lot of weight from missing her husband and the life she had before he passed.
When Cash shows up, Abi is angry with him and hurt that he disappeared when her husband died. She didn’t just loose her husband, she also lost a close friend. Her hard exterior and walls she put up takes awhile to tear down. There is a lot of hurt to have to heal. Her son instantly becomes attached to Cash though.
I’m impressed by the patience, the care, and the love that Cash continues to give. He has his own demons he’s fighting, but to see them grow and come together is just…sigh.
This is a slow burn, single mom, cowboy/rodeo, he falls first, healing, and again slightly more than fade to black.
I haven’t read a cowboy/cowgirl themed book in quite awhile and this had all the feels. It has the cowboys, the rodeo, the horses, the little boy who wants to be right in the middle of all of it.
Just as a precursor, this does have strong language, has themes of death of a spouse, divorce, and is fade to black but at the same time has some slightly more open door scenes in it.
Cash is such a stellar guy who is trying to redirect his life after several big life changes and losses. He needs a place to go to have someone he works with train as she recovers from an injury. The Hartwell arena and ranch is the perfect solution. He is also able to reconnect with friends he had not seen for 5 years.
Abi is a single mom to a lively 7 year old. She is juggling all the responsibilities and duties of helping to run the ranch and being a mom. She feels a lot of weight from missing her husband and the life she had before he passed.
When Cash shows up, Abi is angry with him and hurt that he disappeared when her husband died. She didn’t just loose her husband, she also lost a close friend. Her hard exterior and walls she put up takes awhile to tear down. There is a lot of hurt to have to heal. Her son instantly becomes attached to Cash though.
I’m impressed by the patience, the care, and the love that Cash continues to give. He has his own demons he’s fighting, but to see them grow and come together is just…sigh.
This is a slow burn, single mom, cowboy/rodeo, he falls first, healing, and again slightly more than fade to black.
May 5, 2025
I don’t even know where to start with this book—it is absolute perfection in book form. I may be biased, but I don’t care—Stefanie is my favorite person ever, and I’ve loved every book she’s written. I will forever be her biggest fan!
I honestly didn’t think Somebody Like Me (Rhett and Kyla’s story) could be topped—I adored them so much—but oh my gosh, Cash and Abi were chef’s kiss! I was feeling all the feels, and of course, little Stetson completely stole the show.
From page one, Never Left You delivers an emotional, tender, and unforgettable second-chance romance. Abi is navigating the impossible—grief, motherhood, and keeping the family ranch running after the tragic loss of her husband. She’s sunshine on the outside, but inside, she’s breaking.
Then comes Cash Callahan—her late husband’s best friend, a once-rising rodeo star whose own life has crumbled. When life brings him back to Hartwell Hills Ranch, all the unresolved feelings between them come rushing back, and the tension is palpable. Their chemistry? Undeniable. Their story? One that sneaks up on you and stays with you.
That brush scene in the barn? I’m still smiling.
Stefanie did such a beautiful job balancing grief and hope, loss and love. It’s raw, real, and so full of heart. Cash and Abi’s story was one I didn’t even realize I needed—but it hit me hard and deep. Even though I haven’t walked through what they have, I felt every emotion right alongside them.
🔥 Fade-to-black romance with a steamy lead-in
⚠️ Language (including multiple f-words) and sensitive topics—be sure to read the author’s note for content guidance.
This series just keeps getting better, and I already want to move into Hartwell Hills permanently. Stef’s storytelling is so vivid, it feels like home.
ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
I honestly didn’t think Somebody Like Me (Rhett and Kyla’s story) could be topped—I adored them so much—but oh my gosh, Cash and Abi were chef’s kiss! I was feeling all the feels, and of course, little Stetson completely stole the show.
From page one, Never Left You delivers an emotional, tender, and unforgettable second-chance romance. Abi is navigating the impossible—grief, motherhood, and keeping the family ranch running after the tragic loss of her husband. She’s sunshine on the outside, but inside, she’s breaking.
Then comes Cash Callahan—her late husband’s best friend, a once-rising rodeo star whose own life has crumbled. When life brings him back to Hartwell Hills Ranch, all the unresolved feelings between them come rushing back, and the tension is palpable. Their chemistry? Undeniable. Their story? One that sneaks up on you and stays with you.
That brush scene in the barn? I’m still smiling.
Stefanie did such a beautiful job balancing grief and hope, loss and love. It’s raw, real, and so full of heart. Cash and Abi’s story was one I didn’t even realize I needed—but it hit me hard and deep. Even though I haven’t walked through what they have, I felt every emotion right alongside them.
🔥 Fade-to-black romance with a steamy lead-in
⚠️ Language (including multiple f-words) and sensitive topics—be sure to read the author’s note for content guidance.
This series just keeps getting better, and I already want to move into Hartwell Hills permanently. Stef’s storytelling is so vivid, it feels like home.
ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
April 22, 2025
Cash and Abi!!! YES YES YES! I absolutely loveddd book 2 in the Hartwell Hills series by Stefanie Steck!!
Any book that makes me cry within the first few pages is 5 stars 🙈😅 I was instantly invested in Abi’s story. I was rooting for her happy ending and wanted her to find love again!
This book is based on a heavy topic, love after losing a spouse. And while I do not have personal experience with that, I thought Stefanie did an amazing job at writing all the hard feelings that come with that. Happiness and grief can both be present at the same time!
Overall, a beautiful story!!! The characters are relatable. This book made me laugh and cry, kick my feet and giggle! I am sooo ready for Wyatt and Lach’s happily ever after now!❤️❤️
Any book that makes me cry within the first few pages is 5 stars 🙈😅 I was instantly invested in Abi’s story. I was rooting for her happy ending and wanted her to find love again!
This book is based on a heavy topic, love after losing a spouse. And while I do not have personal experience with that, I thought Stefanie did an amazing job at writing all the hard feelings that come with that. Happiness and grief can both be present at the same time!
Overall, a beautiful story!!! The characters are relatable. This book made me laugh and cry, kick my feet and giggle! I am sooo ready for Wyatt and Lach’s happily ever after now!❤️❤️
April 9, 2025
Well I didn't think it could happen...but it did! This sequel was better than the first! My first ARC read and I loved it!
Abi and Cash were everything! Their story lines went way deeper and covered some topics that I'm glad were brought into the light. They had some rough patches to get through and it paid off in the end!
There is a death scene in the very first chapter. You get to see Abi learn and grow and I appreciated how much love and care was put into this by the author. This made the book all the more heartwarming and really made you want to hold your loved ones close. I felt so much love and compassion for Abi and what she went through.
I absolutely loved little Stetson in this one and his moments in the book were my favorite. If you loved the first book...I guarantee you'll love this one more!
Abi and Cash were everything! Their story lines went way deeper and covered some topics that I'm glad were brought into the light. They had some rough patches to get through and it paid off in the end!
There is a death scene in the very first chapter. You get to see Abi learn and grow and I appreciated how much love and care was put into this by the author. This made the book all the more heartwarming and really made you want to hold your loved ones close. I felt so much love and compassion for Abi and what she went through.
I absolutely loved little Stetson in this one and his moments in the book were my favorite. If you loved the first book...I guarantee you'll love this one more!
April 11, 2025
***ARC review***
I’m always a sucker for a good cowboy romance, and this story completely stole my heart. It’s such a wholesome, heartwarming read that had me feeling everything. Stefanie does an incredible job of pulling you into the characters’ journey — the heartache, the loss, the love, and the growth. If you love a romance that’s packed with raw emotion, healing, and a whole lot of heart, this one needs to be on your TBR.
“For those who thought they would never smile again. You smiled, you loved, you lived.”
I’m always a sucker for a good cowboy romance, and this story completely stole my heart. It’s such a wholesome, heartwarming read that had me feeling everything. Stefanie does an incredible job of pulling you into the characters’ journey — the heartache, the loss, the love, and the growth. If you love a romance that’s packed with raw emotion, healing, and a whole lot of heart, this one needs to be on your TBR.
“For those who thought they would never smile again. You smiled, you loved, you lived.”
April 7, 2025
This book is everything!!
If you’re looking for a cowboy/rodeo romance book with a broody yet charming cowboy, and a single parent trope, this is the one!
I loved the first book in this series, and honestly this one did not disappoint. The characters were lovable and fun, and the connection between the MCs was beautiful to watch unfold. I enjoyed it so much, I read this book in nearly one day. Highly, highly recommend!
**I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review
If you’re looking for a cowboy/rodeo romance book with a broody yet charming cowboy, and a single parent trope, this is the one!
I loved the first book in this series, and honestly this one did not disappoint. The characters were lovable and fun, and the connection between the MCs was beautiful to watch unfold. I enjoyed it so much, I read this book in nearly one day. Highly, highly recommend!
**I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review
January 18, 2025
Beta read: it was amazing! I adore the characters and the storyline. I was so excited to be back in Hartwell Hills!!
May 8, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
🌶️.5
ARC REVIEW — Pub Date 5/9/2025
𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒔𝒏’𝒕 𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒚 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆. 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒂𝒍𝒎𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝒔𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒔𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒅𝒔 𝑰 𝒍𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒐𝒏 𝒂 𝒃𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒉𝒐𝒓𝒔𝒆… 𝒐𝒓 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑨𝒃𝒊 𝒊𝒏 𝒎𝒚 𝒂𝒓𝒎𝒔 𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏.
Welcome back to Hartwell Hills! This family is officially one of my absolute favorites.
Never Left You follows Abi Hartwell, who is a single mom and was widowed 5 years ago. And at the same time she also lost touch with her husband's best friend. Now he's back and they are reconnecting.
I loved this story. It felt so fresh and unique. The relationship that develops between Abi and Cash is so gentle and soft. They have such a profound love for each other that's backed by friendship but also their mutual love of Sylas. They go on both individual and a joint grief journey throughout this story and are forced to confront things they had pushed aside. Through that their relationship only grows stronger. I thought Stefanie handled the development of this relationship so well. It feels natural but still leaves so much respect for the relationship that Abi and Sylas had.
I also really love the relationship between Cash and Abi's son Stetson. They are so sweet together. I feel like Single Mom romances are so rare and this one is such a great entry in that category.
Of course the rest of the Hartwell family is fantastic and I can't wait to go back and visit them again. This book set up Wyatt's story so we'll and I just know that when we get to Lachlan's book it will have me in a chokehold. This book also has some sneak peaks into a secret project Stef is working on (and I've already read it and it's SO GOOD!)
Head back to Hartwell Hills for this wonderful story of love after loss and finding yourself after grief.
𝑻𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈.
𝑯𝒊𝒎. 𝑴𝒆. 𝑼𝒔.
𝑵𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒍𝒆𝒇𝒕 𝒃𝒆𝒕𝒘𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒖𝒔 𝒂𝒔 𝒃𝒐𝒕𝒉 𝒐𝒇 𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒘𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒔 𝒄𝒂𝒎𝒆 𝒄𝒓𝒂𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒅𝒐𝒘𝒏.
Read May 5-6, 2025
🌶️.5
ARC REVIEW — Pub Date 5/9/2025
𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒔𝒏’𝒕 𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒚 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆. 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒂𝒍𝒎𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝒔𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒔𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒅𝒔 𝑰 𝒍𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒐𝒏 𝒂 𝒃𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒉𝒐𝒓𝒔𝒆… 𝒐𝒓 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑨𝒃𝒊 𝒊𝒏 𝒎𝒚 𝒂𝒓𝒎𝒔 𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏.
Welcome back to Hartwell Hills! This family is officially one of my absolute favorites.
Never Left You follows Abi Hartwell, who is a single mom and was widowed 5 years ago. And at the same time she also lost touch with her husband's best friend. Now he's back and they are reconnecting.
I loved this story. It felt so fresh and unique. The relationship that develops between Abi and Cash is so gentle and soft. They have such a profound love for each other that's backed by friendship but also their mutual love of Sylas. They go on both individual and a joint grief journey throughout this story and are forced to confront things they had pushed aside. Through that their relationship only grows stronger. I thought Stefanie handled the development of this relationship so well. It feels natural but still leaves so much respect for the relationship that Abi and Sylas had.
I also really love the relationship between Cash and Abi's son Stetson. They are so sweet together. I feel like Single Mom romances are so rare and this one is such a great entry in that category.
Of course the rest of the Hartwell family is fantastic and I can't wait to go back and visit them again. This book set up Wyatt's story so we'll and I just know that when we get to Lachlan's book it will have me in a chokehold. This book also has some sneak peaks into a secret project Stef is working on (and I've already read it and it's SO GOOD!)
Head back to Hartwell Hills for this wonderful story of love after loss and finding yourself after grief.
𝑻𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈.
𝑯𝒊𝒎. 𝑴𝒆. 𝑼𝒔.
𝑵𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒍𝒆𝒇𝒕 𝒃𝒆𝒕𝒘𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒖𝒔 𝒂𝒔 𝒃𝒐𝒕𝒉 𝒐𝒇 𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒘𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒔 𝒄𝒂𝒎𝒆 𝒄𝒓𝒂𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒅𝒐𝒘𝒏.
Read May 5-6, 2025
May 6, 2025
I just ADORED this story! It was everything and anything I was expecting and at the same time surprised for living it eve more.
It made me laugh and even shed a few tears. We have so many amazing characters, that it is impossible not to fall in live with each of them. All have their own personality and tecnicalities, but it maked them even better and adorably relatable.
Our main characters have a heavy shared history. Abi's dead husband was Cash's best friend. After his death they got stranded and appart and grief, shame, anguer and some miscommunication made them stay appart for a long time.
When Cash has need to go into Hartwell's ranch to help his trainee heal and recover and train he expects to meet Abi again, but what he doesn’t expect is to be so overwealmed by it! He meets a strong and determined woman, who has been in pain and grieving for some time, and even neglecting herself in other's behalf.
Abi never expectet to see Cash again after he ghosted her years before. But then there he was. In her home, as charming and caring as ever, and so avaialable to be there for her.
They are forced to work together (although there is avoidance at first), but his persistence kind of melts away her resolve to stay away, and little by littler they finnaly admit what was there for a long time. He was a softie and a gentleman.
I really liked the found family vive, and all the intractions were just what I needed.
I really want to get into Lachlan's story. I can't wayt to see what woman breaks him and mends him with love!
It made me laugh and even shed a few tears. We have so many amazing characters, that it is impossible not to fall in live with each of them. All have their own personality and tecnicalities, but it maked them even better and adorably relatable.
Our main characters have a heavy shared history. Abi's dead husband was Cash's best friend. After his death they got stranded and appart and grief, shame, anguer and some miscommunication made them stay appart for a long time.
When Cash has need to go into Hartwell's ranch to help his trainee heal and recover and train he expects to meet Abi again, but what he doesn’t expect is to be so overwealmed by it! He meets a strong and determined woman, who has been in pain and grieving for some time, and even neglecting herself in other's behalf.
Abi never expectet to see Cash again after he ghosted her years before. But then there he was. In her home, as charming and caring as ever, and so avaialable to be there for her.
They are forced to work together (although there is avoidance at first), but his persistence kind of melts away her resolve to stay away, and little by littler they finnaly admit what was there for a long time. He was a softie and a gentleman.
I really liked the found family vive, and all the intractions were just what I needed.
I really want to get into Lachlan's story. I can't wayt to see what woman breaks him and mends him with love!
May 7, 2025
Never Left You is the second book in the Hartwell Hills series. It's a sweet, heartwarming, cowboy romance. This book is Abi and Cash's story.
Abi is a grieving, single mom who helps run her family's ranch. She tragically lost her husband, Sylas, in a bull riding accident. After the accident, she devoted her life to taking care of her son, Stetson and taking care of Hartwell Hills ranch. Throughout the book, Abi is trying to figure out what she truly wants and what makes her happy.
Cash is Sylas' best friend. He is training a barrel racer named Quinn, and they are renting the stables and arena at the Hartwell Hills ranch. Throughout the book, Cash is trying to move on through the grief of losing his best friend, through the pain and recovery of his accident as a saddle bronc, and through his painful divorce. Cash has always had feelings for Abi.
Will they figure out what they truly want in life and what makes them happy?
Never Left You is such a beautiful, heartwarming story about these two estranged friends. I love getting to know these characters. I also love reading more about Rhett and Kyla's story from the first book, Somebody Like Me. I hope there will be more books in this series! I would love to know Lachlan's and Wyatt's stories.
Thank you Stefanie for including me as an ARC reader!
Abi is a grieving, single mom who helps run her family's ranch. She tragically lost her husband, Sylas, in a bull riding accident. After the accident, she devoted her life to taking care of her son, Stetson and taking care of Hartwell Hills ranch. Throughout the book, Abi is trying to figure out what she truly wants and what makes her happy.
Cash is Sylas' best friend. He is training a barrel racer named Quinn, and they are renting the stables and arena at the Hartwell Hills ranch. Throughout the book, Cash is trying to move on through the grief of losing his best friend, through the pain and recovery of his accident as a saddle bronc, and through his painful divorce. Cash has always had feelings for Abi.
Will they figure out what they truly want in life and what makes them happy?
Never Left You is such a beautiful, heartwarming story about these two estranged friends. I love getting to know these characters. I also love reading more about Rhett and Kyla's story from the first book, Somebody Like Me. I hope there will be more books in this series! I would love to know Lachlan's and Wyatt's stories.
Thank you Stefanie for including me as an ARC reader!
May 15, 2025
Never Left You is a heartwarming and poignant small town cowboy romance that captures the essence of love, loss, and redemption. The story revolves around Abi and Cash, two old friends whose paths diverged after a tragic event that took both of their lives in unexpected directions. Abi's husband, Sylas, who was also Cash's best friend, lost his life in a tragic accident, leaving a void in both their hearts.
The narrative beautifully explores the complexities of grief and healing. Cash's disappearance when Abi needed him most adds a layer of emotional depth, showcasing how personal demons can complicate relationships. Five years later, when Cash returns to train a rodeo client, fate brings him back to Abi’s arena, igniting a slow burn romance that feels both natural and inevitable.
The chemistry between Abi and Cash is palpable, and their journey of rediscovery is portrayed with sincerity and tenderness. The author skillfully weaves in side characters, including a large family of cowboys, Abi's son Stet and the horses on the ranch, enriching the story and providing a sense of community that is both comforting and relatable.
Prepare for an emotional ride, this book will have you laughing, crying, and rooting for Abi and Cash as they navigate their way back to each other. The happy ending is well earned and leaves you with a warm glow, reminding us that love can prevail even after the darkest of times. Never Left You is a must read for anyone who believes in second chances and the enduring power of love.
The narrative beautifully explores the complexities of grief and healing. Cash's disappearance when Abi needed him most adds a layer of emotional depth, showcasing how personal demons can complicate relationships. Five years later, when Cash returns to train a rodeo client, fate brings him back to Abi’s arena, igniting a slow burn romance that feels both natural and inevitable.
The chemistry between Abi and Cash is palpable, and their journey of rediscovery is portrayed with sincerity and tenderness. The author skillfully weaves in side characters, including a large family of cowboys, Abi's son Stet and the horses on the ranch, enriching the story and providing a sense of community that is both comforting and relatable.
Prepare for an emotional ride, this book will have you laughing, crying, and rooting for Abi and Cash as they navigate their way back to each other. The happy ending is well earned and leaves you with a warm glow, reminding us that love can prevail even after the darkest of times. Never Left You is a must read for anyone who believes in second chances and the enduring power of love.
May 19, 2025
This was just as cute as the first. I love how the author handled this with such love and care in terms of Stet wanting Cash to be his dad and adopted but not replacing his dad. I thought it was so well done.
July 9, 2025
I can’t wait to read more from this author! Her books are comfort food!
April 28, 2025
Stefanie Steck writes these AMAZING stories and creates this world that I just fell in love with. The town, the people, the animals, it’s all part of this wonderful series she has created and I cannot get enough of it. Never Left You is book two in the Hartwell Hills series and picks up practically right where the first one left off. But, it can be read as a standalone.
This second book features Abi Acosta in her journey to not only find love but to find herself and to heal after the death of her husband. 5 years after the unthinkable happens, Abi is forced to deal with her past when her husband's best friend, none other than the Cash Callahan, arrives in town.
They are both forced to confront their past and the mistakes that have haunted them for the last 5 years. The story is definitely emotional and downright heartbreaking but was just what was needed.
Not only do we get to see both Abi and Cash grow and heal, but we catch up with the entire Hartwell Hills family and learn more about each of them and get a more in depth look into the ranch and rodeo life.
This story is a 5 star read for me and I loved every single bit of it. I am impatiently waiting for what’s next because this entire series is just that good. Stefanie could write a how-to on how to wear slippers and I think I would read it.
This second book features Abi Acosta in her journey to not only find love but to find herself and to heal after the death of her husband. 5 years after the unthinkable happens, Abi is forced to deal with her past when her husband's best friend, none other than the Cash Callahan, arrives in town.
They are both forced to confront their past and the mistakes that have haunted them for the last 5 years. The story is definitely emotional and downright heartbreaking but was just what was needed.
Not only do we get to see both Abi and Cash grow and heal, but we catch up with the entire Hartwell Hills family and learn more about each of them and get a more in depth look into the ranch and rodeo life.
This story is a 5 star read for me and I loved every single bit of it. I am impatiently waiting for what’s next because this entire series is just that good. Stefanie could write a how-to on how to wear slippers and I think I would read it.
April 27, 2025
One of the best parts about ARC reading so far….is finding new authors that I may not have found otherwise. Thank you, Stefanie Steck, for allowing me to be a part of your ARC team. You just gained another loyal reader! No joke.
Abi & Cash’s story had me hooked from the very first chapter. There are just no words. The story has its fair share of trials and hardships and tragedies for both of them. The author does such a fabulous job describing what her and FMC and MMC are going through to the point where you could feel their grief and pain and the struggle to cope with it. Then there are scenes where you can just feel the excitement jump of the page and you find yourself excited with them. Their journey to try and figure out how to move on with life after much less love again was simple and sweet and inspirational/motivational. You get so immersed in the story that you find yourself shedding a tear, saying something out loud, or laughing at something out loud….or at least I did. I really liked the characters and their personalities. Even the side characters. I appreciated Abi’s strength. I adored (and swooned) over Chase’s vulnerability. I loved the whole found family feel. The slow burn was…perfection. The spark and banter and sass between the two was…everything. I like my romances with a little extra personality!
Again, I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I cannot wait to look into more books by Stefanie Steck!
Abi & Cash’s story had me hooked from the very first chapter. There are just no words. The story has its fair share of trials and hardships and tragedies for both of them. The author does such a fabulous job describing what her and FMC and MMC are going through to the point where you could feel their grief and pain and the struggle to cope with it. Then there are scenes where you can just feel the excitement jump of the page and you find yourself excited with them. Their journey to try and figure out how to move on with life after much less love again was simple and sweet and inspirational/motivational. You get so immersed in the story that you find yourself shedding a tear, saying something out loud, or laughing at something out loud….or at least I did. I really liked the characters and their personalities. Even the side characters. I appreciated Abi’s strength. I adored (and swooned) over Chase’s vulnerability. I loved the whole found family feel. The slow burn was…perfection. The spark and banter and sass between the two was…everything. I like my romances with a little extra personality!
Again, I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I cannot wait to look into more books by Stefanie Steck!
May 18, 2025
ARC REVIEW
Never Left Your by Stefanie K Steck
A book emotionally fueled with second-chances, and heartwarming through out. Excellent character up and tension amongst them. A perfect standalone but also a great continuation of the Hartwell Hills series perfectly. Family, friends and competition.
Never Left Your by Stefanie K Steck
A book emotionally fueled with second-chances, and heartwarming through out. Excellent character up and tension amongst them. A perfect standalone but also a great continuation of the Hartwell Hills series perfectly. Family, friends and competition.
April 11, 2025
You hear people talk about a tug to the person they love the most. A magnetic feeling that guides you to them and keeps you there, grounds you, and makes everything whole. With the way she was looking at me now, the way I knew I was looking at her… it was there. That pull. And it was strong.
Never Left You picks up where Somebody Like Me left off and tells us the story of Abi, the widow sister of Rhett. I don’t know if it’s because I read the first book and flowed right into this one, but I was already crying in chapter one. You learn of how Abi lost her husband, Sylas, but also lost her friend and husband’s best friend, Cash, at the same time. But what happens when Cash walks back into her life? The man who abandoned her and her son when she needed them the most.
I couldn’t put this second chance romance down from the start. The chemistry between Cash and Abi was so good, but the emotional depth they shared with each other was beautiful. They both had their fair share of trauma without the other by their side. Between meddling exes and a past they have to overcome, their path to each other was one I loved reading.
While this was pretty predictable, I didn’t mind at all. The characters were well developed and ones you could easily connect with. I cannot wait to read the next book that Stefanie puts out in this series!
Thank you Stefanie K. Steck for the complimentary ARC of Never Left You. All opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 13, 2025
ARC Review
This was such a great second chance romance! The chemistry and emotion were so good, and I was in tears by the end of chapter one. Even though I already knew that Abi was widowed from book one, Somebody Like Me, it still hit me so hard. (I don’t think her husband’s death 5 years earlier is a spoiler for either book, but there are flashbacks and detailed discussions of his accident which may be triggering to some readers.) I loved how patient Cash was with Abi through her grief, and how he bonded with Stetson. The ending was just so good!
•Love after loss
•Single mom
•Ranching family
•Estranged friends to lovers
•Semi-open-door spice (I wouldn’t consider this one fade to black or completely closed door)
Thank you to Stephanie K. Steck for the advance copy of Never Left You. All opinions are my own.
This was such a great second chance romance! The chemistry and emotion were so good, and I was in tears by the end of chapter one. Even though I already knew that Abi was widowed from book one, Somebody Like Me, it still hit me so hard. (I don’t think her husband’s death 5 years earlier is a spoiler for either book, but there are flashbacks and detailed discussions of his accident which may be triggering to some readers.) I loved how patient Cash was with Abi through her grief, and how he bonded with Stetson. The ending was just so good!
•Love after loss
•Single mom
•Ranching family
•Estranged friends to lovers
•Semi-open-door spice (I wouldn’t consider this one fade to black or completely closed door)
Thank you to Stephanie K. Steck for the advance copy of Never Left You. All opinions are my own.
May 8, 2025
Never Left You is the second book in the Hartwell Hills series and follows Abi Hartwell Acosta and Cash Callahan. This is a story of grief, healing, and love.
Abi looses her husband in a tragic accident while Cash loses his best friend. Not being able to cope with the loss Cash all but disappears from Abi’s life just when she needs him the most.
Years later through a series of unfortunate or maybe fortunate events, Abi and Cash are thrust back together at Hartwell Hills. What ensues is an emotional and comical reunion, where there may or may not be a brush thrown at Cash’s head.
I found myself laughing and tearing up while I read. This one for sure was emotional but full of healing and love. One of the best parts was the return of the characters I fell in love with while reading the first book in the Hartwell Hills series, Somebody Like Me.
I cannot wait for the third book. Thank you for letting me be apart of your ARC team.
Abi looses her husband in a tragic accident while Cash loses his best friend. Not being able to cope with the loss Cash all but disappears from Abi’s life just when she needs him the most.
Years later through a series of unfortunate or maybe fortunate events, Abi and Cash are thrust back together at Hartwell Hills. What ensues is an emotional and comical reunion, where there may or may not be a brush thrown at Cash’s head.
I found myself laughing and tearing up while I read. This one for sure was emotional but full of healing and love. One of the best parts was the return of the characters I fell in love with while reading the first book in the Hartwell Hills series, Somebody Like Me.
I cannot wait for the third book. Thank you for letting me be apart of your ARC team.
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