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Coal Haven #2
Make Me Shiver
I haven’t seen my husband for a year and a half before he shows up on my family’s ranch asking for an annulment.
Archer’s a corporate guy with the condo in the city, the expensive car, and the snooty friends I was never good enough for. And I’m not the girl he thought I was—polished, refined, and classy. I’ve got dirt on my boots—and in my hair, dusting my face, and covering my old truck. Our marriage was never going to work. I should just sign the papers.
But I don’t. I ignore him like he’s done to me for the last 18 months.
Then one day, he rescues a calf from the mud, claims he’s a simple country boy at heart, and he wants to work things out. But it’s really hard to concentrate on what he’s saying when he’s undressed on my porch to keep from getting the house dirty.
True to his word, he doesn’t give up. Next thing I know, he’s cutting hay, getting to know his long lost relatives—the ones who are really surprised to find out I’m married and to a Barron. Did I mention I didn’t tell anyone I’d gotten married?
Well, the secret’s out, and my husband isn’t hiding. But in the end, the job he’s so proud of is across the country and I can’t leave my parents with a failing ranch and no help. I won’t trade my identity like I did last time, but the husband I’m finally getting to know might decide he’s a city guy after all.
Archer’s a corporate guy with the condo in the city, the expensive car, and the snooty friends I was never good enough for. And I’m not the girl he thought I was—polished, refined, and classy. I’ve got dirt on my boots—and in my hair, dusting my face, and covering my old truck. Our marriage was never going to work. I should just sign the papers.
But I don’t. I ignore him like he’s done to me for the last 18 months.
Then one day, he rescues a calf from the mud, claims he’s a simple country boy at heart, and he wants to work things out. But it’s really hard to concentrate on what he’s saying when he’s undressed on my porch to keep from getting the house dirty.
True to his word, he doesn’t give up. Next thing I know, he’s cutting hay, getting to know his long lost relatives—the ones who are really surprised to find out I’m married and to a Barron. Did I mention I didn’t tell anyone I’d gotten married?
Well, the secret’s out, and my husband isn’t hiding. But in the end, the job he’s so proud of is across the country and I can’t leave my parents with a failing ranch and no help. I won’t trade my identity like I did last time, but the husband I’m finally getting to know might decide he’s a city guy after all.
Paperback
Published April 1, 2025
About the author
Marie Johnston
103 books1,072 followersMarie Johnston is an award-winning, best-selling paranormal and contemporary romance writer. She grew up in the upper Midwest and planned to go to college for English. Didn't happen. She started college in accounting and was awful! Grabbing her inner science geek by the pocket protector, she changed to microbiology and medical technology where her only writing involved scientific articles and procedures.
Eventually, she left full-time work for full-time baby raising but kept thinking, "one day, I'd like to write a book." Finally, before any more time passed, Marie decided to buckle down and write. She loves it!
Eventually, she left full-time work for full-time baby raising but kept thinking, "one day, I'd like to write a book." Finally, before any more time passed, Marie decided to buckle down and write. She loves it!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
June 5, 2022
First of all, I have to note that marriage-in-crisis and second chance romance is never my favourite trope, in fact the latter is my least favourite trope of all.
However there are times when I really enjoyed them, with stipulations and this book is the best example. I like it when we have the trope and additional plot to support the story. In this case, a couple with a broken marriage wanted to reconcile despite all their differences but in the same time, they were also trying to manage a ranch and reviving the business. Now, that's more interesting for me to read than just dealing with their relationship drama alone.
Onto this book, I love reading about this couple, they wanted to be together but it seemed that their priorities were never aligned and it was nice to see how they finally decided that maybe relationship should go both ways and to set your ego aside and just grab the chance.
So obviously I enjoyed it. If you like this trope, I highly recommend this book. Also the descriptions of the places here, so serene and makes me want to pick up another cowboy or historical western romance here.
However there are times when I really enjoyed them, with stipulations and this book is the best example. I like it when we have the trope and additional plot to support the story. In this case, a couple with a broken marriage wanted to reconcile despite all their differences but in the same time, they were also trying to manage a ranch and reviving the business. Now, that's more interesting for me to read than just dealing with their relationship drama alone.
Onto this book, I love reading about this couple, they wanted to be together but it seemed that their priorities were never aligned and it was nice to see how they finally decided that maybe relationship should go both ways and to set your ego aside and just grab the chance.
So obviously I enjoyed it. If you like this trope, I highly recommend this book. Also the descriptions of the places here, so serene and makes me want to pick up another cowboy or historical western romance here.
May 8, 2022
You know what we don’t read enough of? Couples who go through a rough phase but work on their issues to salvage their marriage. As it happens, this author is the queen of the genre, and she reach another level with this book.
Okay, the premise is a bit wonky: Delaney and Archer married each other while basically knowing nothing about each other, and basically lying for more than a year before Delaney leaves her husband. Sure, it’s explained extensively that Archer’s shallow side was cultivated at his workplace, and that Delaney feared Archer wouldn’t love her if he knew the real Laney. We don’t get many glimpses at their marriage, but it doesn’t sound good.
After Laney’s brother tried to kill himself, she comes back to her family, and that’s where Archer finds her, three years after their wedding, to ask for an annulment. It’s soon clear though that neither of them really wants that, and they decide to repare their broken relationship. That’s what I loved the most. They don’t give up. They loved each other, and they’re ready to discover who the other really is and fall in love again. Absolutely beautiful.
To be honest, the efforts come mostly from Archer. The well dressed businessman puts on jeans and cowboy boots to help Laney at her family ranch, while he meets with his father’s side of the family. Oh yeah, of course, Archer is an estranged Barron, the rival family of Laney’s. It makes things more difficult with Laney’s mother, but it also gives Archer some perspective and options. Also, I don’t know about you, but I’m always ready for a sexy cowboy.
If Laney’s efforts are limited to fighting her reluctance to fall in love with her husband once again, she still has some growing up to do. Basically unwanted by her family, rejected by her high school boyfriend–another Barron–she was ready to hide who she was in order to be accepted into Archer’s life. Until she chose to go where she’s needed. It’s only thanks to Archer that she realizes the difference between being needed and being wanted.
And wanted she is! Laney and Archer are explosive once they fall in bed together. And outside of the bed, they share beautiful moments where they can show how much they accept each other even though they aren’t quite the persons they thought they were.
The whole Barron clan makes an appearance, as well as Laney’s circle of friends and some more side characters. So of course, family is a big element of the plot. The one you’re born into, the one you choose for yourself–be it a good one or a toxic one–and even the one that rejects you. The more we learn about Archer’s and Delaney’s past, the more similitudes appear. It confirms they were made for each other.
Quickie
- Series: Oil Barrons #2 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #small town romance #estranged couple #family feud
- Triggers: bullying, mention of death, mention of alcoholism, mention of suicide attempt
- Main couple: Delaney Granger & Archer Barron
- Hotness: 4/5
- Romance: 5/5
- + how Laney and Archer fall in love all over again
- – why did they wait so long before they reconnected?
Okay, the premise is a bit wonky: Delaney and Archer married each other while basically knowing nothing about each other, and basically lying for more than a year before Delaney leaves her husband. Sure, it’s explained extensively that Archer’s shallow side was cultivated at his workplace, and that Delaney feared Archer wouldn’t love her if he knew the real Laney. We don’t get many glimpses at their marriage, but it doesn’t sound good.
After Laney’s brother tried to kill himself, she comes back to her family, and that’s where Archer finds her, three years after their wedding, to ask for an annulment. It’s soon clear though that neither of them really wants that, and they decide to repare their broken relationship. That’s what I loved the most. They don’t give up. They loved each other, and they’re ready to discover who the other really is and fall in love again. Absolutely beautiful.
To be honest, the efforts come mostly from Archer. The well dressed businessman puts on jeans and cowboy boots to help Laney at her family ranch, while he meets with his father’s side of the family. Oh yeah, of course, Archer is an estranged Barron, the rival family of Laney’s. It makes things more difficult with Laney’s mother, but it also gives Archer some perspective and options. Also, I don’t know about you, but I’m always ready for a sexy cowboy.
If Laney’s efforts are limited to fighting her reluctance to fall in love with her husband once again, she still has some growing up to do. Basically unwanted by her family, rejected by her high school boyfriend–another Barron–she was ready to hide who she was in order to be accepted into Archer’s life. Until she chose to go where she’s needed. It’s only thanks to Archer that she realizes the difference between being needed and being wanted.
And wanted she is! Laney and Archer are explosive once they fall in bed together. And outside of the bed, they share beautiful moments where they can show how much they accept each other even though they aren’t quite the persons they thought they were.
The whole Barron clan makes an appearance, as well as Laney’s circle of friends and some more side characters. So of course, family is a big element of the plot. The one you’re born into, the one you choose for yourself–be it a good one or a toxic one–and even the one that rejects you. The more we learn about Archer’s and Delaney’s past, the more similitudes appear. It confirms they were made for each other.
Quickie
- Series: Oil Barrons #2 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #small town romance #estranged couple #family feud
- Triggers: bullying, mention of death, mention of alcoholism, mention of suicide attempt
- Main couple: Delaney Granger & Archer Barron
- Hotness: 4/5
- Romance: 5/5
- + how Laney and Archer fall in love all over again
- – why did they wait so long before they reconnected?
May 18, 2022
"Did he enunciate enough for ya?"
You go girl!!
Laney had tried being someone else.
Tried to be everything she thought he needed.
But when her family needed her and he and his world made no move to acknowledge her pain
She had to walk away
Sometimes love just isn't enough
"If I'd thought I died a little inside earlier, now my heart was disintegrating into ash and blowing away. "
It should be easy enough - An annulment
Just to make sure though he was going to do it face to face
Maybe even get some answers while he was there
Only Archer didn't foresee his past sneaking up behind him
He also had never envisioned the beauty standing before him
His wife
How had he never truly seen her?
These two together ❤️ *sigh*
This was a complete melt my heart journey of discovery
They loved each other - that wasn't the issue
The problem was their lack of communication - transparency
They both had futures planned - ones that seemed to be opposing -
They couldn't find that middle ground that would allow them to move forward together
But neither could they deny the chemistry between them?
The way they fit together
Off the charts scorching hot 🔥
Mr boss man - maybe you should have thought before you acted?
Mr and Mrs fancy pants - the world sees through your act
Laney - it's not your fault and it's not your responsibility. Live your life girl.
Asher - open your eyes 👀
Love this town - Love the families
Love this series <3
You go girl!!
Laney had tried being someone else.
Tried to be everything she thought he needed.
But when her family needed her and he and his world made no move to acknowledge her pain
She had to walk away
Sometimes love just isn't enough
"If I'd thought I died a little inside earlier, now my heart was disintegrating into ash and blowing away. "
It should be easy enough - An annulment
Just to make sure though he was going to do it face to face
Maybe even get some answers while he was there
Only Archer didn't foresee his past sneaking up behind him
He also had never envisioned the beauty standing before him
His wife
How had he never truly seen her?
These two together ❤️ *sigh*
This was a complete melt my heart journey of discovery
They loved each other - that wasn't the issue
The problem was their lack of communication - transparency
They both had futures planned - ones that seemed to be opposing -
They couldn't find that middle ground that would allow them to move forward together
But neither could they deny the chemistry between them?
The way they fit together
Off the charts scorching hot 🔥
Mr boss man - maybe you should have thought before you acted?
Mr and Mrs fancy pants - the world sees through your act
Laney - it's not your fault and it's not your responsibility. Live your life girl.
Asher - open your eyes 👀
Love this town - Love the families
Love this series <3
August 26, 2022
This was a fab second chance romance that had layers to the story to grab and keep my attention. So much going on, with the lack of authenticity they each offered the other, matched up with the family drama, well, it was a page turner and I love that they both worked hard to try and reconcile. This made it a very satisfying read for me and I'm looking forward to the next book.
August 3, 2022
I really enjoyed this second instalment in the Oil Barron’s series. Laney leaves her husband and moves back to support her family and the family farm after her brother tries to commit suicide. The issue of mental health and suicide was treated carefully the author and you could feel everyone’s pain and guilt. A year and a half later, Laney’s husband, Archer, decides that he wants an annulment and shows up at Laney’s door. Archer is also a Barron and his father is originally from Coal Haven but is estranged from the rest of the Barron clan. There is more family and family drama. I enjoy reading how Archer realized how his happiness was ranching and being with Laney and his family instead of being alone as a high powered Land Agent. I also enjoyed the journey as these two struggled to align their priorities and achieve happiness. I received an ARC for an honest review.
September 14, 2022
This is book 2 in Johnston’s Oil Barron series, a spin off from her Oil Kings.
Let me begin by saying how much I enjoy her stories. They are rich in detail, complex characters and plot development, with plenty of steamy moments.
Allen Barron was the brother who took the money and ran, to Texas. He married, raised two boys and ultimately lost it all. His oldest son, Archer, resented his dad and the life he was forced to live. The boy in thrift store finds, never able to play sports and working the farm as payment for his father’s debt. Winning a college scholarship changed the course of his life, which led him to Delaney.
Delaney Granger fled ND after graduating HS. She wanted to attend college far away where she could lick her wounds. Being dumped by her boyfriend was bad enough, she had family troubles of her own too and that made staying impossible. She meets Archer Barron at a job fair and sparks fly. A vacation in Vegas leads to an impulsive wedding. They were crazy about each other and keeping secrets. Laney receives a phone call at Archer’s work party/ meeting and his reaction leaves her running again back home.
After many months apart he is there. Will they call it quits or will they fight to save their relationship and find forever love?
I’m really loving this series. Will be interesting to see which one in the Barron family is next.
Let me begin by saying how much I enjoy her stories. They are rich in detail, complex characters and plot development, with plenty of steamy moments.
Allen Barron was the brother who took the money and ran, to Texas. He married, raised two boys and ultimately lost it all. His oldest son, Archer, resented his dad and the life he was forced to live. The boy in thrift store finds, never able to play sports and working the farm as payment for his father’s debt. Winning a college scholarship changed the course of his life, which led him to Delaney.
Delaney Granger fled ND after graduating HS. She wanted to attend college far away where she could lick her wounds. Being dumped by her boyfriend was bad enough, she had family troubles of her own too and that made staying impossible. She meets Archer Barron at a job fair and sparks fly. A vacation in Vegas leads to an impulsive wedding. They were crazy about each other and keeping secrets. Laney receives a phone call at Archer’s work party/ meeting and his reaction leaves her running again back home.
After many months apart he is there. Will they call it quits or will they fight to save their relationship and find forever love?
I’m really loving this series. Will be interesting to see which one in the Barron family is next.
October 12, 2023
Rating: (4/5)
Spice (3.5/5)
This is book 2 in the Oil Barron Series however, these books can be read as standalone. I would recommend reading the series though because it’s so good! Laney is introduced in the first book and this is her story.
This book is a second chance love, marriage in trouble and I just feel like we don’t get enough of this trope to read. If we are honest marriage isn’t always easy, it can be really hard. Marie Johnston captures this struggling marriage and its story beautifully. Laney and Archer fight the good fight for each other in this story and you just absolutely fall in love with both of them.
This story grabs your attention and keeps you needing more of their story! There are a lot of details and moments that just tie the story of struggle and love together. The spicy scenes are in fact spicy and make us love Archer even more than we did just as a husband 🥵. You’ll be glad these two fought it out and didn’t give up.
#romancereader #romance #mariejohnston #bookstagram #booklover #oilbarronseries #spicyreads #secondchancemarriage #elope #secondchanceromance #smut
This is book 2 in the Oil Barron Series however, these books can be read as standalone. I would recommend reading the series though because it’s so good! Laney is introduced in the first book and this is her story.
This book is a second chance love, marriage in trouble and I just feel like we don’t get enough of this trope to read. If we are honest marriage isn’t always easy, it can be really hard. Marie Johnston captures this struggling marriage and its story beautifully. Laney and Archer fight the good fight for each other in this story and you just absolutely fall in love with both of them.
This story grabs your attention and keeps you needing more of their story! There are a lot of details and moments that just tie the story of struggle and love together. The spicy scenes are in fact spicy and make us love Archer even more than we did just as a husband 🥵. You’ll be glad these two fought it out and didn’t give up.
#romancereader #romance #mariejohnston #bookstagram #booklover #oilbarronseries #spicyreads #secondchancemarriage #elope #secondchanceromance #smut
May 15, 2022
This is the second book in the Oil Barrons Series and can be read as a standalone. It is more enjoyable if you read the first book because of the interconnecting characters and it's beginning of Delaney and Archer's story. They married after only knowing each other for a short time and chose to keep their marriage secret. When her family needs her she leaves suddenly. Eighteen months later he tracks her down to ask for an annulment. Their passion returns and they work to save their marriage. Secrets are revealed and families exposed. Wow the Barron men are gorgeous and might just be my new book boyfriends. This is a a great book that is well written with strong, likable characters and an engaging story line. Hard to put down once you start reading. I read a free advance copy via Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.
May 16, 2022
This is book two in The Oil Barron's series and it is Archer and Laney's story and omg it is definitely a must read. I absolutely love Archer and Laney's story with all the twists and turns along the way and how they worked so hard side by side to try and repair there marriage and watch them get to know each other for real and not what they expect each other to be and then throw in the family drama, secrets, surprises and difficult and emotional situations are what have you turning the pages to see what would happen next and the storyline pulled you in and just wouldn't let you go as it was so addictive. The chemistry between Archer and Laney was really strong but it takes more than that to make a good marriage work as it also takes trust, commitment, love, caring, give and take me being there for each other through the good and bad times and I am so glad that they got there second chance because they are so perfect for each other and I can't wait to read the next book in this series. Marie Johnston is an amazing author and writer and she certainly knows how to keep her reader's attention and I definitely recommend you read this book and other's by her and you will not be disappointed.
I Voluntarily Reviewed a Copy of This Book.
I Voluntarily Reviewed a Copy of This Book.
May 17, 2022
We caught a glimpse of Laney in the previous Oil Barrons book when she befriends Kennedy (the main female character in Book 1 -Make Me Whole). What we didn’t know initially was that Delaney has been hiding a secret. She’s married!
But Laney has left her husband Archer in Dallas and returned to help her family on the farm, because her brother has other plans after being released from hospital. She felt she didn’t belong in Dallas and wasn’t being her true self, and Archer’s friends were focused on him being a part of a social scene she wasn’t comfortable with. Archer comes to town to finalise their marriage - but in seeing Laney again, Archer is more in love with her than ever. And their relationship all of a sudden has a chance to grow in a different environment.
What was great about this book is the perspective of the married couple coming from different backgrounds, different social scenes, but wanting enough to make things work. The dynamics surrounding them in the town added another layer of complexity and it was interesting to see how they navigated these in order to move forward.
Laney and Archer were individually great characters who were a good match as a couple.
Definitely recommend this series!
But Laney has left her husband Archer in Dallas and returned to help her family on the farm, because her brother has other plans after being released from hospital. She felt she didn’t belong in Dallas and wasn’t being her true self, and Archer’s friends were focused on him being a part of a social scene she wasn’t comfortable with. Archer comes to town to finalise their marriage - but in seeing Laney again, Archer is more in love with her than ever. And their relationship all of a sudden has a chance to grow in a different environment.
What was great about this book is the perspective of the married couple coming from different backgrounds, different social scenes, but wanting enough to make things work. The dynamics surrounding them in the town added another layer of complexity and it was interesting to see how they navigated these in order to move forward.
Laney and Archer were individually great characters who were a good match as a couple.
Definitely recommend this series!
August 14, 2022
I really liked both Archer and Laney. I guess this book would fall in the second chance romance category, but what I really liked about it was their struggles.
There was an element of reality that wasn't overly angsty, or dramatic. They each had individual family baggage, personal demons, and career issues. Together, they had to try and figure out the marriage thing. Delaney had somewhat of a head start on Archer in figuring out things, but by the time he showed up, she had hit her brick wall.
I think if Archer had not come to town that the blinders may never have fallen from his eyes. I was glad to see relationships were loosening up with some of the Barrons.
This book was surprisingly thought provoking, sweet, romantic, with a little heat. I am not sure what it was about this book, but it hit differently. It turned out to be a very enjoyable read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book.
There was an element of reality that wasn't overly angsty, or dramatic. They each had individual family baggage, personal demons, and career issues. Together, they had to try and figure out the marriage thing. Delaney had somewhat of a head start on Archer in figuring out things, but by the time he showed up, she had hit her brick wall.
I think if Archer had not come to town that the blinders may never have fallen from his eyes. I was glad to see relationships were loosening up with some of the Barrons.
This book was surprisingly thought provoking, sweet, romantic, with a little heat. I am not sure what it was about this book, but it hit differently. It turned out to be a very enjoyable read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book.
September 20, 2023
Loved Archer and Delaney’s relationship. (Made my heart swoon that he always called her Delaney when everyone else only ever calls her Laney.) One of my favorite couples in this series!
May 17, 2022
Marriage in Crisis is a trope that not a lot of authors attempt. But Marie Johnston does and does it well. Archer and Laney have been married for years, but Laney left him because she always felt as though she was second to everything. She was becoming a person she didn’t recognize or like, and when there was a traumatic event back in her hometown, Archer blew her off. So, she took charge of her life and left. It has been a year and a half, and Archer comes into town to ask for an annulment. However, being in Laney’s town and seeing her in a different light brings some hard truths front and center for him. Archer never had money growing up, and now that he has his, his ideals and wants are a lot different. The perfect life he has created for himself has left him a little jaded and with a large case of rose-colored glasses. Those glasses are slowly broken each day that he spends in Laney’s presence away from the chaos of their old lives.
Laney comes across in not the best ways at times, but when you delve into her home life and the way in which she reacts to things makes more sense. She, herself, talks about how far she has come from the stuck-up girl from high school. She has realized that the person she was then, as well as the person she was in Dallas with Archer is not the person she wants to be. So, she made changes. It wasn’t about changing for anyone, except herself. She realizes what she truly wants I life and isn’t going to let anyone stand in her way. But she isn’t going to get those things by acting out the way she used to.
Archer shows a lot of growth and understanding in the way he views things once he is back in Laney’s view. There are some truths that she shows to him, that she has tried to show him before, but he wasn’t willing to see them before. I love the growth of these two characters. Not together, but apart. IT shows that while they needed to have this growth for their relationship to work, they didn’t need to do it together. I am loving this new series and am excited for the rest of the Barrons.
POV: Dual 1st Person
PoP: 73%
Laney comes across in not the best ways at times, but when you delve into her home life and the way in which she reacts to things makes more sense. She, herself, talks about how far she has come from the stuck-up girl from high school. She has realized that the person she was then, as well as the person she was in Dallas with Archer is not the person she wants to be. So, she made changes. It wasn’t about changing for anyone, except herself. She realizes what she truly wants I life and isn’t going to let anyone stand in her way. But she isn’t going to get those things by acting out the way she used to.
Archer shows a lot of growth and understanding in the way he views things once he is back in Laney’s view. There are some truths that she shows to him, that she has tried to show him before, but he wasn’t willing to see them before. I love the growth of these two characters. Not together, but apart. IT shows that while they needed to have this growth for their relationship to work, they didn’t need to do it together. I am loving this new series and am excited for the rest of the Barrons.
POV: Dual 1st Person
PoP: 73%
May 23, 2022
Was SOOOO Looking Forward to Laney’s Story!!!
After being introduced to Laney in the first title in Marie Johnston’s Oil Barrons series of small-town contemporary romances, I was so, so excited to see if and when she’d get her own story. “Make Me Shiver” (Book 2) gives us just that, and it’s one of my favorite stories in Johnston’s body of work! Laney is smart, beautiful, and hardworking. She’s from the wrong side of the tracks, the girl who went off to college and reinvented herself. Much to everyone’s shock, she’s been hiding a huge secret - one that shows up on her doorstep when she least expects it. Archer Barron is handsome and driven to succeed, and he’s completely in love with his wife despite the fact that she left him more than a year ago. There is so much more to him than the designer clothes and expensive car, and Laney is in for one hell of a surprise. Determined to tie up loose ends, this couple puts their blood, sweat, and tears into Laney’s family farm while they try to decide what their future will hold, and it honestly makes their rocky journey to Happily Ever After very special. Nobody writes marriages in crisis like Marie Johnston, and I’m so very much in love with this tale and with this series. The chemistry is palpable, and the awww moments and sexy bits are so friggin’ amazing. We get to see more of the Barron clan - particularly those in the younger generation who aren’t a**holes - and I cannot wait to see who is next in this series. Such great work, Marie Johnston!
After being introduced to Laney in the first title in Marie Johnston’s Oil Barrons series of small-town contemporary romances, I was so, so excited to see if and when she’d get her own story. “Make Me Shiver” (Book 2) gives us just that, and it’s one of my favorite stories in Johnston’s body of work! Laney is smart, beautiful, and hardworking. She’s from the wrong side of the tracks, the girl who went off to college and reinvented herself. Much to everyone’s shock, she’s been hiding a huge secret - one that shows up on her doorstep when she least expects it. Archer Barron is handsome and driven to succeed, and he’s completely in love with his wife despite the fact that she left him more than a year ago. There is so much more to him than the designer clothes and expensive car, and Laney is in for one hell of a surprise. Determined to tie up loose ends, this couple puts their blood, sweat, and tears into Laney’s family farm while they try to decide what their future will hold, and it honestly makes their rocky journey to Happily Ever After very special. Nobody writes marriages in crisis like Marie Johnston, and I’m so very much in love with this tale and with this series. The chemistry is palpable, and the awww moments and sexy bits are so friggin’ amazing. We get to see more of the Barron clan - particularly those in the younger generation who aren’t a**holes - and I cannot wait to see who is next in this series. Such great work, Marie Johnston!
May 17, 2022
While this book does include a wonderful, complicated romance, it also highlights dysfunctional family relationships, the impossible standards people put on themselves and others, and the difficult decisions that can be necessary in relationships. Delaney and Archer definitely have a complicated history. A not so chance meeting, a quick courtship, an elopement, a time of almost bliss with many moments of insecurity and then a complete break when she has no choice but to leave. Now, after eighteen months apart, Archer finally seeks out to Delaney to ask for an annulment, not a divorce. Delaney has all but given up on her marriage and the husband who couldn’t even be bothered to find out why she needed to leave on the night he was trying to close a big business deal. The fact that he never came to her family home to see for himself that she was okay or to work things about between them before now tells her heart that he doesn’t love her, doesn’t care. An annulment, rather than a divorce says he wants to erase her from his life like she was never there at all. But she soon discovers that Archer isn’t going to leave quickly, especially after discovering the reason why she left so abruptly. He not only regrets his behaviour that night, he is ashamed of his reaction and behaviour in the past eighteen months. He is determined to find out if he and Delaney can try again, if they can rebuild their marriage. The attraction and the love is still very present, but both discover they don’t really know each other, or each other’s histories, dreams and insecurities. Both have been heavily influenced and even manipulated by others in the past. Will they be brave enough to show their authentic selves to each other? Can they forge a new future together? Do they even want to have a future together? You will need to read this wonderful and captivating book to discover the answers to these questions.
I love the strong, well-developed characters in this book. Delaney and Archer are fascinating, complicated characters that have let their pasts, their family dysfunction and their own insecurities overpower the love they have for each other. The disapproval and manipulation of others has also damaged their relationship, and caused them to hide their authentic selves. Finding the courage to show each other who they really are and reveal their pain and insecurities as well as their dreams for the future, is the only way they can move forward. It’s a lesson we all have to learn. I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I love the strong, well-developed characters in this book. Delaney and Archer are fascinating, complicated characters that have let their pasts, their family dysfunction and their own insecurities overpower the love they have for each other. The disapproval and manipulation of others has also damaged their relationship, and caused them to hide their authentic selves. Finding the courage to show each other who they really are and reveal their pain and insecurities as well as their dreams for the future, is the only way they can move forward. It’s a lesson we all have to learn. I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
June 22, 2023
More Oil Barrons Greatness! Fabulous Story & Listen🎧
Make Me Shiver
Oil Barrons, Book 2
By: Marie Johnston
Narrated by: Avery Caris, Jack Maverick
Marie Johnston continues to wow me with another wonderful romance novel that not only captivated my attention the entire time, but tugged on my heartstrings too. I love how much heart and soul she puts into her stories and how realistic and relatable they are, and the same goes for the characters. She makes it real easy to care about her characters, root for them and even fall for them. Delaney “Laney” Granger grew up on a ranch in North Dakota, and could not leave her troubles behind fast enough and went to go college in Texas. She has a whirlwind romance with Archer Barron, and they wind up marrying, but his career ambitions start to get in their way and ruin what they had. Then she gets a call to come home and she tries to tell him, but he is so caught up with work things she does not get the chance. He gets it all wrong and the two do not see each other until he comes to ND to have her sign annulment papers. Archer starts to see things in a new light and realizes he may have lost his way, and he is not too quick to have her sign those papers. I loved how everything played out in this beautifully written and plotted story, it has the perfect balance of drama, both family and relationship, angst, heartfelt emotions and steamy romance. Marie Johnston, thank you for another amazing and fabulously entertaining story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧And for the wonderful narration, Avery Caris and Jack Maverick were the perfect cast to bring these characters to life and do so with a complete understanding of who they are portraying, giving each a voice that suits that character and was believable in every role they played. Avery Caris’ Laney was perfection, grasping every side of her personality, her fierceness and her strength, and Jack Maverick did the same for Archer. Both were great at performing the roles of the secondary characters as well. They set the perfect tone for the story, captured all the character’s emotions and had you feeling every single one. These entertaining storytellers are versatile voice artists and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for this fabulous listen.
Make Me Shiver
Oil Barrons, Book 2
By: Marie Johnston
Narrated by: Avery Caris, Jack Maverick
Marie Johnston continues to wow me with another wonderful romance novel that not only captivated my attention the entire time, but tugged on my heartstrings too. I love how much heart and soul she puts into her stories and how realistic and relatable they are, and the same goes for the characters. She makes it real easy to care about her characters, root for them and even fall for them. Delaney “Laney” Granger grew up on a ranch in North Dakota, and could not leave her troubles behind fast enough and went to go college in Texas. She has a whirlwind romance with Archer Barron, and they wind up marrying, but his career ambitions start to get in their way and ruin what they had. Then she gets a call to come home and she tries to tell him, but he is so caught up with work things she does not get the chance. He gets it all wrong and the two do not see each other until he comes to ND to have her sign annulment papers. Archer starts to see things in a new light and realizes he may have lost his way, and he is not too quick to have her sign those papers. I loved how everything played out in this beautifully written and plotted story, it has the perfect balance of drama, both family and relationship, angst, heartfelt emotions and steamy romance. Marie Johnston, thank you for another amazing and fabulously entertaining story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧And for the wonderful narration, Avery Caris and Jack Maverick were the perfect cast to bring these characters to life and do so with a complete understanding of who they are portraying, giving each a voice that suits that character and was believable in every role they played. Avery Caris’ Laney was perfection, grasping every side of her personality, her fierceness and her strength, and Jack Maverick did the same for Archer. Both were great at performing the roles of the secondary characters as well. They set the perfect tone for the story, captured all the character’s emotions and had you feeling every single one. These entertaining storytellers are versatile voice artists and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for this fabulous listen.
July 27, 2023
A satisfying Western romance with family issues
Audiobook version: 5 stars overall, 5 stars story, 5 stars narration
This is the first book by Marie Johnston that I have read, and I was enchanted and hooked by this contemporary Western romance set in small-town North Dakota. I listened to this second audiobook out of order, which was fine, but now I am going to immediately buy Book #1 to enjoy soon. This romance is a slow burn that eventually becomes moderately steamy. Trigger Warning: mentions of a minor character’s previous attempted suicide; brief verbal bullying by other minor characters.
The eight-hour length is the perfect length to fully explore the couple’s past secrets and the impediments to their marriage. I love how the story is not superficial. It’s not a simple choice of career versus wife or family versus husband. The author delves into the complex subconscious motivations and the psychological effects of difficult childhoods. The large cast of characters all have distinctive personalities and feel like real people. This small town and its people feel so real. The story has some family drama, but the sense of humor in the dialogue wonderfully tempers the moderate angst. I also love how the story presents the realistic problems of a cattle rancher. I grew up cattle-farming in South Carolina, so I can attest to how knowledgeable the author is on this subject.
The pair of narrators were extraordinary with their nuanced delivery, versatile voices, and deft comic timing. I am extremely pleased with the performances of Avery Caris and Jack Maverick. I will definitely look for more of their work.
I requested and received a free audio copy, and I voluntarily wrote this honest review. #PFPAudio #PinkFlamingoProductions #TheFlockVIPReviewTeam
Audiobook version: 5 stars overall, 5 stars story, 5 stars narration
This is the first book by Marie Johnston that I have read, and I was enchanted and hooked by this contemporary Western romance set in small-town North Dakota. I listened to this second audiobook out of order, which was fine, but now I am going to immediately buy Book #1 to enjoy soon. This romance is a slow burn that eventually becomes moderately steamy. Trigger Warning: mentions of a minor character’s previous attempted suicide; brief verbal bullying by other minor characters.
The eight-hour length is the perfect length to fully explore the couple’s past secrets and the impediments to their marriage. I love how the story is not superficial. It’s not a simple choice of career versus wife or family versus husband. The author delves into the complex subconscious motivations and the psychological effects of difficult childhoods. The large cast of characters all have distinctive personalities and feel like real people. This small town and its people feel so real. The story has some family drama, but the sense of humor in the dialogue wonderfully tempers the moderate angst. I also love how the story presents the realistic problems of a cattle rancher. I grew up cattle-farming in South Carolina, so I can attest to how knowledgeable the author is on this subject.
The pair of narrators were extraordinary with their nuanced delivery, versatile voices, and deft comic timing. I am extremely pleased with the performances of Avery Caris and Jack Maverick. I will definitely look for more of their work.
I requested and received a free audio copy, and I voluntarily wrote this honest review. #PFPAudio #PinkFlamingoProductions #TheFlockVIPReviewTeam
October 7, 2023
Second chance romance with a couple who don’t want to give up but can’t see how they can make it work when their dreams feel like they’re going to keep them apart.
Asher and Laney eloped in Vegas, head over heels in love and thinking nothing would get in the way. Turns out success and family absolutely got in the way. One disastrous night for Asher’s career and a devastating emergency in Laney’s family made Laney realize it wasn’t working and she left. Here they are a year and a half later with Asher showing up in her hometown with annulment papers and a plan to start moving on. But face to face it’s not as easy to say they’re done. As they start talking, as they both see that maybe they weren’t as open and honest with each other as they could have been, they realize that maybe what was so different about their dreams and who they wanted to be isn’t as different as they thought.
Sweet and thoughtful is the first thing I think of to describe this book. Asher shows up all fired up to be done but he never wanted to be done, he loves Laney. And Laney didn’t leave because she didn’t love him, she left because she didn’t feel seen. As they start seeing each other in the light of her hometown and see that they had similar upbringings, it starts to look more like the people they were trying to be when they first got married were the lie, and the people they really are in this moment are more in love, more understanding, and put so much more into their marriage. I love that they both really looked at themselves, the things they had not really lied about but tried to hide, and saw that those were the things keeping it from working. Once they were showing each other who they really were, flaws, bad childhoods and all, is when it just clicked that they already had exactly what they needed in each other.
Asher and Laney eloped in Vegas, head over heels in love and thinking nothing would get in the way. Turns out success and family absolutely got in the way. One disastrous night for Asher’s career and a devastating emergency in Laney’s family made Laney realize it wasn’t working and she left. Here they are a year and a half later with Asher showing up in her hometown with annulment papers and a plan to start moving on. But face to face it’s not as easy to say they’re done. As they start talking, as they both see that maybe they weren’t as open and honest with each other as they could have been, they realize that maybe what was so different about their dreams and who they wanted to be isn’t as different as they thought.
Sweet and thoughtful is the first thing I think of to describe this book. Asher shows up all fired up to be done but he never wanted to be done, he loves Laney. And Laney didn’t leave because she didn’t love him, she left because she didn’t feel seen. As they start seeing each other in the light of her hometown and see that they had similar upbringings, it starts to look more like the people they were trying to be when they first got married were the lie, and the people they really are in this moment are more in love, more understanding, and put so much more into their marriage. I love that they both really looked at themselves, the things they had not really lied about but tried to hide, and saw that those were the things keeping it from working. Once they were showing each other who they really were, flaws, bad childhoods and all, is when it just clicked that they already had exactly what they needed in each other.
May 17, 2022
RECOMMENDED FOR: lovers of small town, secret marriage, separated married couple, rich vs. poor backgrounds and lifestyles
First my usual points:
- I do not do spoilers unless warned.
- Read the summary above; it will tell you what the book is about. I will not reiterate.
- This is a standalone but part of a series
- No errors that I caught as far as editing.
- The author was not new to me
BOOK:
- Cover adequately reflects the story (and I love that)
- Genre/troupe: contemporary romance
- 1st person, alternating POV
Star Ratings - 1 (poor) - 5(READ THIS BOOK)
• Writing Quality: 5 stars
• Story ingredient: 5 stars
• Ease of reading/Pace: 5 stars
• Plot strength: 5 stars
• Steam Level 4 and high on romance; there are open door scenes
Notes/Opinion (personal):
This is what I would consider a ‘unicorn’ book. As another reviewer stated, there aren’t enough books that reflect a married couple going through a rough patch. But this is one. And it is beautiful. It is a beautiful reflection of a marriage – what a marriage is – reflections and compromises. I love that their beginning is shown and how they struggle and their fears.
This series is becoming a favorite of mine, mostly due to the ‘normality’ of the characters. They have lives, they go to work, they struggle. But the author also shows the beauty of the setting as well as the struggles of her characters in such a setting. This reader has farmers for grandparents; farming and ranching is hard and it’s sometimes a 24/7 thankless job. Those that do it should be admired. I love to see that reflected in these books. Definitely looking forward to more.
First my usual points:
- I do not do spoilers unless warned.
- Read the summary above; it will tell you what the book is about. I will not reiterate.
- This is a standalone but part of a series
- No errors that I caught as far as editing.
- The author was not new to me
BOOK:
- Cover adequately reflects the story (and I love that)
- Genre/troupe: contemporary romance
- 1st person, alternating POV
Star Ratings - 1 (poor) - 5(READ THIS BOOK)
• Writing Quality: 5 stars
• Story ingredient: 5 stars
• Ease of reading/Pace: 5 stars
• Plot strength: 5 stars
• Steam Level 4 and high on romance; there are open door scenes
Notes/Opinion (personal):
This is what I would consider a ‘unicorn’ book. As another reviewer stated, there aren’t enough books that reflect a married couple going through a rough patch. But this is one. And it is beautiful. It is a beautiful reflection of a marriage – what a marriage is – reflections and compromises. I love that their beginning is shown and how they struggle and their fears.
This series is becoming a favorite of mine, mostly due to the ‘normality’ of the characters. They have lives, they go to work, they struggle. But the author also shows the beauty of the setting as well as the struggles of her characters in such a setting. This reader has farmers for grandparents; farming and ranching is hard and it’s sometimes a 24/7 thankless job. Those that do it should be admired. I love to see that reflected in these books. Definitely looking forward to more.
May 18, 2022
First of all, this is a five star read for me. Did I expect that going in? Not really. I knew from the preview I liked the story and writing style but by the time I finished the book, five stars! Second of all, I LOVE how the story plays out. This book showcases how sometimes you can be wrapped up in others expectations and not really see the true nature of those around you. It also has family estrangement, family feuding that goes back generations, and amazing friendships.
Laney had a family emergency occur and her husband wouldn’t listen. She decided to head home for the emergency and ended up staying. She didn’t take Archers calls and only responded to a message once. Her family is dealing with a lot of stressors and she feels like she needs to be the glue holding it all together.
Archer is told he should go to his wife after being apart 18 months and ask for an annulment. So he heads to her and does just that. The woman he finds isn’t the same one he knew in Texas, so which version is the real her? If he finds out, will he change his mind about the annulment? Archer also discovers his Dads side of the family lives in the same area and gets to meet them. He doesn’t have the best relationship with his Dad and brother so will meeting that family make him see them in another light?
Laney and Archer both realize that they don’t really know who the other person is without outside influences playing a part. They decide to take a little time and see how it goes. Will their love for each other be enough?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Laney had a family emergency occur and her husband wouldn’t listen. She decided to head home for the emergency and ended up staying. She didn’t take Archers calls and only responded to a message once. Her family is dealing with a lot of stressors and she feels like she needs to be the glue holding it all together.
Archer is told he should go to his wife after being apart 18 months and ask for an annulment. So he heads to her and does just that. The woman he finds isn’t the same one he knew in Texas, so which version is the real her? If he finds out, will he change his mind about the annulment? Archer also discovers his Dads side of the family lives in the same area and gets to meet them. He doesn’t have the best relationship with his Dad and brother so will meeting that family make him see them in another light?
Laney and Archer both realize that they don’t really know who the other person is without outside influences playing a part. They decide to take a little time and see how it goes. Will their love for each other be enough?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 12, 2023
Make Me Shiver
Oil Barrons, Book 2
By: Marie Johnston
Narrated by: Avery Caris, Jack Maverick
What do you do when your husband that you haven't seen in several years, shows up in your hometown? That is what Laney Granger is trying to figure out. She left her husband, Archer Barron when she realized she didn't come first in his life. Home she went to run her family ranch. It's something she loves and is good at and is content in her life. Now things are about to change. Archer came to get an annulment. Quick and easy, right? No. He knew the minute he saw Laney, he just wanted her back. Will he not only win back her heart, but get her to move from the ranch? Marie Johnston knows how to write a good story. Not only do we get a glimpse at relevant issues, but a story to sink our teeth into. Laney is full of layers and slowly but surely Archer begins to peel them away. I love her resilience, and ability to spring back no matter what is thrown at her. Archer is a tougher one. While I love him and his warmth, it does take some time for him to win me over. And no doubt he does! Plus we get quick visits with the cousins which is always a fun time. Getting to know the Barrons is wonderful and it's always a pleasure to give them a visit.
Avery Caris and Jack Maverick are our storytellers for this wonderful book, and they give it their all. Caris keeps Laney's heart safe as she starts in the muddy waters with Archer. She is full of the emotions, and I could feel each one. Maverick is a sweet talker, and he has a charming voice. Archer is good at his job, and that charisma in Maverick's voice shined through. This is a great listen and I cannot wait for the next one!
Oil Barrons, Book 2
By: Marie Johnston
Narrated by: Avery Caris, Jack Maverick
What do you do when your husband that you haven't seen in several years, shows up in your hometown? That is what Laney Granger is trying to figure out. She left her husband, Archer Barron when she realized she didn't come first in his life. Home she went to run her family ranch. It's something she loves and is good at and is content in her life. Now things are about to change. Archer came to get an annulment. Quick and easy, right? No. He knew the minute he saw Laney, he just wanted her back. Will he not only win back her heart, but get her to move from the ranch? Marie Johnston knows how to write a good story. Not only do we get a glimpse at relevant issues, but a story to sink our teeth into. Laney is full of layers and slowly but surely Archer begins to peel them away. I love her resilience, and ability to spring back no matter what is thrown at her. Archer is a tougher one. While I love him and his warmth, it does take some time for him to win me over. And no doubt he does! Plus we get quick visits with the cousins which is always a fun time. Getting to know the Barrons is wonderful and it's always a pleasure to give them a visit.
Avery Caris and Jack Maverick are our storytellers for this wonderful book, and they give it their all. Caris keeps Laney's heart safe as she starts in the muddy waters with Archer. She is full of the emotions, and I could feel each one. Maverick is a sweet talker, and he has a charming voice. Archer is good at his job, and that charisma in Maverick's voice shined through. This is a great listen and I cannot wait for the next one!
May 7, 2022
This is book 2 in a new series and while I enjoyed the first book in the series, this book I loved so much more. This was an awesome second chance at romance with a married couple, Delaney Granger and Archer Barron. There are secrets, lost family members and fun in a small town.
Delaney has been married to Archer for several years but they lived in Texas and she has some big secrets from her husband she has been keeping when she leaves him 18 months before this book begins. The story takes place in North Dakota where Laney grew up and where Laney has been hiding from her husband. He comes to town hoping to figure out their future and thats when all her secrets come out.
Archer loves his wife and so he decides to fight for her. Laney meanwhile has to let Archer in and show him who she really is minus all the secrets she has been holding back. Its a time for Archer to also learn who the Barron family is and I really enjoyed going with him on this journey.
The author did a wonderful job with this story and giving us an inside look into the Barron family, the different characters and their family drama. If you adore second chance romances then this was an awesome story. I really adored Laney, her family and Archer and the Barron family. I loved how hard he fights for his wives heart and I was so happy that Laney gives him this shot to learn who she is.
I received a complimentary early release copy of this e-book from the author prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Delaney has been married to Archer for several years but they lived in Texas and she has some big secrets from her husband she has been keeping when she leaves him 18 months before this book begins. The story takes place in North Dakota where Laney grew up and where Laney has been hiding from her husband. He comes to town hoping to figure out their future and thats when all her secrets come out.
Archer loves his wife and so he decides to fight for her. Laney meanwhile has to let Archer in and show him who she really is minus all the secrets she has been holding back. Its a time for Archer to also learn who the Barron family is and I really enjoyed going with him on this journey.
The author did a wonderful job with this story and giving us an inside look into the Barron family, the different characters and their family drama. If you adore second chance romances then this was an awesome story. I really adored Laney, her family and Archer and the Barron family. I loved how hard he fights for his wives heart and I was so happy that Laney gives him this shot to learn who she is.
I received a complimentary early release copy of this e-book from the author prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 28, 2023
**Audiobook Review**
I was so excited this story has finally been released in audio and loved listening to every minute of it. “Make Me Shiver” is an emotional, sweet and relatable marriage in crisis romance that I loved.
Estranged from her husband for more than a year, Laney is back home in Texas working on her family’s ranch. She’s surprised when one day her husband, Archer, shows up. Archer might have annulment papers with him but neither is ready to make that jump to ending their marriage.
I just loved the plot of this story so much. It was a quickie marriage in the beginning, both coming from similar roots, and then having outer interferences during their marriage. So many factors and so relatable. Archer is definitely the leading person in trying to save their marriage but he needed to be. Laney has some things with her family that were keeping her from being able to focus on herself or her marriage. She needed the gentle push and patience from Archer, he was truly her rock. The two truly had a connection and I loved listening to them finding each other again and how they were meant to be. They had some things to work through and did it in the most healthy way which was so refreshing, nothing toxic here.
Avery Caris and Jack Maverick did a wonderful job bringing Laney and Archer to life. They both were the perfect choice to bring such a relatable story to life.
I was so excited this story has finally been released in audio and loved listening to every minute of it. “Make Me Shiver” is an emotional, sweet and relatable marriage in crisis romance that I loved.
Estranged from her husband for more than a year, Laney is back home in Texas working on her family’s ranch. She’s surprised when one day her husband, Archer, shows up. Archer might have annulment papers with him but neither is ready to make that jump to ending their marriage.
I just loved the plot of this story so much. It was a quickie marriage in the beginning, both coming from similar roots, and then having outer interferences during their marriage. So many factors and so relatable. Archer is definitely the leading person in trying to save their marriage but he needed to be. Laney has some things with her family that were keeping her from being able to focus on herself or her marriage. She needed the gentle push and patience from Archer, he was truly her rock. The two truly had a connection and I loved listening to them finding each other again and how they were meant to be. They had some things to work through and did it in the most healthy way which was so refreshing, nothing toxic here.
Avery Caris and Jack Maverick did a wonderful job bringing Laney and Archer to life. They both were the perfect choice to bring such a relatable story to life.
May 25, 2022
This story has so much depth of character and motivation, I read it in record time. The teaser – that Laney, the sometime-villain of the town, has actually been married to a Barron all along – did not do justice to her story or Archer’s. They have been married, but she left him to come back and save her family. He arrives looking for an annulment. There’s a bit of forced proximity as Archer decides to stay and help Laney on the family ranch, recalcitrant relatives, hurt feelings and ancient grudges, but mostly pride. Both Laney and Archer have complex histories and totally believable motivations for their actions, but they can’t seem to get out of their own way no matter how hard they try. They both have to figure out what’s really important and learn to work as a team, and that process was totally believable, in that I felt the same frustration as they did over their apparent inability to see a solution to their problem.
As I always expect from Marie, the women are strong and independent. Laney is an equal partner to Archer, even if she didn’t realize it when they were in Dallas. She is clear on her values and goals. They both have history that they need to come to grips with, but don’t we all? I guess my favorite part i that they do struggle and work hard for their HEA. I received an advance copy in return for my honest review.
As I always expect from Marie, the women are strong and independent. Laney is an equal partner to Archer, even if she didn’t realize it when they were in Dallas. She is clear on her values and goals. They both have history that they need to come to grips with, but don’t we all? I guess my favorite part i that they do struggle and work hard for their HEA. I received an advance copy in return for my honest review.
October 12, 2023
Laney Granger has been hiding her marriage to one of her family’s rivals, Archer Barron, from everyone back home until the city boy shows up at her family’s ranch with the paperwork to undo it all the way now that they’ve been apart for so long. But after being back in each other’s orbit, they both quickly realize neither is ready for their relationship to be over and Archer is the first to step up and show he’s here to stay. Archer hadn’t expected the version of Laney he found when he pulled up that day, and she was equally surprised to find the cowboy underneath the designer labels ready to get to work.
The premise of this story was so different from what anything I’ve read lately and I devoured it! My favorite thing about this story is how little Laney and Archer really knew about each other going into their marriage and getting to witness them discovering who the other really was and that those two people were much more compatible than the people they had been in Texas. Laney and Archer both have so much character growth throughout the story and I loved what that did for their relationship. I was most definitely rooting for these two to get their happily ever after.
You’ll Find —
Small Town
Marriage in Crisis
Undercover Cowboy
Family Drama
Thankful for the opportunity to read a gifted digital review copy!
The premise of this story was so different from what anything I’ve read lately and I devoured it! My favorite thing about this story is how little Laney and Archer really knew about each other going into their marriage and getting to witness them discovering who the other really was and that those two people were much more compatible than the people they had been in Texas. Laney and Archer both have so much character growth throughout the story and I loved what that did for their relationship. I was most definitely rooting for these two to get their happily ever after.
You’ll Find —
Small Town
Marriage in Crisis
Undercover Cowboy
Family Drama
Thankful for the opportunity to read a gifted digital review copy!
October 14, 2023
🐚 𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖 🐚
4.5 ⭐
𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀: second chance, marriage in crisis, small town, forced proximity, found family
𝗧𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗴𝗲𝗿𝘀: mention on s*icide attempt
This book is so so good!!
Now we learn Laney and the mysterious Archer's story. We know that they are married, but how their relationship was in the past and how it will be, we find out in this book.
Laney returned home after her brother's accident to take care of him and the family ranch, leaving Archer in Texas.
For Archer, work is his priority, but when someone suggested to him to annul his marriage to Laney, he acted on it. When he gets there and sees Laney in a different pose than the one he knew her, he is amazed. He came with the annulment, but she doesn't want to give it to him easily.
This makes Archer stay there longer to either get the signature or get his woman back. He works hard to win her back, and along the course of his stay he begins to meet the real Laney, and indirectly she gets to meet the real Archer.
Laney doesn't give in easily, but Archer doesn't give up until he gets what he wants. When finally both are ready to give everything, they become explosive, only time is not really on their side.
How they solve all their problems and finally find their HEA, I leave it to you to discover.
4.5 ⭐
𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀: second chance, marriage in crisis, small town, forced proximity, found family
𝗧𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗴𝗲𝗿𝘀: mention on s*icide attempt
This book is so so good!!
Now we learn Laney and the mysterious Archer's story. We know that they are married, but how their relationship was in the past and how it will be, we find out in this book.
Laney returned home after her brother's accident to take care of him and the family ranch, leaving Archer in Texas.
For Archer, work is his priority, but when someone suggested to him to annul his marriage to Laney, he acted on it. When he gets there and sees Laney in a different pose than the one he knew her, he is amazed. He came with the annulment, but she doesn't want to give it to him easily.
This makes Archer stay there longer to either get the signature or get his woman back. He works hard to win her back, and along the course of his stay he begins to meet the real Laney, and indirectly she gets to meet the real Archer.
Laney doesn't give in easily, but Archer doesn't give up until he gets what he wants. When finally both are ready to give everything, they become explosive, only time is not really on their side.
How they solve all their problems and finally find their HEA, I leave it to you to discover.
October 13, 2025
I read the first book in the series, and it was good. There were a lot of characters, which got a bit overwhelming at times, but I still enjoyed it. I actually felt pity for the characters I understood them and connected with their struggles.
This second book, though, was terrible. I honestly had no idea what was going on. There were so many characters that I completely lost track. I couldn’t even tell who was in love with who anymore. Every time a new name came up, I had to stop and try to remember who they were. It got to the point where I didn’t care about anyone — the characters were just boring, and I couldn’t relate to anything happening to them.
The emotions felt fake, and the conversations were painfully dull. These are supposed to be adults, yet they talk like children. The female lead especially annoyed me — I disliked her throughout the entire book. Honestly, I just wished a trailer would hit her. The male lead’s POV wasn’t any better; it felt immature and flat.
There were simply too many characters, too many confusing situations, and nothing made sense. I was completely lost. The writing itself also felt strange and disorganized. Overall, this book was a disappointment after how much I liked the first one.
This second book, though, was terrible. I honestly had no idea what was going on. There were so many characters that I completely lost track. I couldn’t even tell who was in love with who anymore. Every time a new name came up, I had to stop and try to remember who they were. It got to the point where I didn’t care about anyone — the characters were just boring, and I couldn’t relate to anything happening to them.
The emotions felt fake, and the conversations were painfully dull. These are supposed to be adults, yet they talk like children. The female lead especially annoyed me — I disliked her throughout the entire book. Honestly, I just wished a trailer would hit her. The male lead’s POV wasn’t any better; it felt immature and flat.
There were simply too many characters, too many confusing situations, and nothing made sense. I was completely lost. The writing itself also felt strange and disorganized. Overall, this book was a disappointment after how much I liked the first one.
May 15, 2022
Delaney's husband, Archer Barron finally after a year and a half comes after her. He originally thought he wanted to end the marriage, but when he learned no one in Coal Haven knew she was married, he felt that decision needed reevaluated. He decided to stay in town for a while to get to know this side of his wife. Neither one had fully disclosed their background growing up. Plus, Archer had the rest of the Barron family there in town if he wished to see them. One of their biggest issues was the control that Archer's boss played in his life. Even on the first time off Archer had taken in three years he was still expected to be doing reports and answering emails. Delaney thought his boss was a user and would never make him a partner. His boss only wanted him to make money, and his boss only offered the talk of partnership to make Archer work harder. All Archer could see his boss had helped him get to where he was at now. A fantastic story of family, commitment to spouse/family, communication and love.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 11, 2022
I was so excited for this book and it did not disappoint. The bits and pieces we got about Laney in book one had me intrigued and trying to guess just what she was hiding. Enter Archer Barron her husband that she had told no one about. Laney has been keeping some pretty big secrets from her husband trying to mold herself into what she thought he wanted. When a family emergency forces her back home she leaves her husband behind during a critical work event thinking he cared more about his job then her. Over a year later when Archer seeks her out to ask for an annulment he is surprised to find a very different woman than the one he married. Archer begins to fight for his marriage and sets out to prove to Laney that they can work. As pressure from his job and people who don’t have his best interests at heart, Archer has to decide what truly matters. I loved the first book in the series but this one was even better. The last chapter with the setup for book three, I can not wait to see what happens with Stetson.
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