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Second Chance Ranch #2
Keep You Safe
What happens at the swimming hole, stays at the swimming hole…
When Adler arrives at Second Chance Ranch, I know he’s trouble. Adler gets under my skin like no
one else and threatens my quiet, orderly, ranch foreman life.
In fact, my body’s reaction to his presence is something of a surprise. When I have the chance to
explore the chemistry between us while secretly skinny dipping, I go for it because I know all too
well that city slickers never stay long.
Except Adler comes back…
And I’m tasked with training him to be a ranch hand. No matter how tempting Adler’s easy smiles
are, I can’t risk a repeat encounter for several
I’m his boss.
I hate gossip, especially when I’m the subject.
And doing my job right will always be my top priority.
Adler challenges all of that with chaos, rescue dogs, and an attraction that refuses to quit. As the
weeks pass, our connection deepens into a secret fling. My rodeo days taught me how to handle a
rough ride, but Adler has me falling fast.
Landing in the dirt is going to hurt, but I can’t bring myself to end things. Alder’s everything I never
knew I wanted, but he won’t be content with staying in the shadows forever. Can I be the cowboy he
needs and deserves before he’s gone for good?
Keep You Safe is book two in beloved author Annabeth Albert’s small-town Colorado cowboy romance
series with Yellowstone meets Schitt’s Creek vibes. This return to the ranch features a stoic foreman
and a younger city slicker turned ranch hand. Grumpy/sunshine, fish out of water, age gap with
mature main characters, reluctant coworkers, sensual exploration, hurt/comfort, found family, and
big feels with a standalone HEA guaranteed!
When Adler arrives at Second Chance Ranch, I know he’s trouble. Adler gets under my skin like no
one else and threatens my quiet, orderly, ranch foreman life.
In fact, my body’s reaction to his presence is something of a surprise. When I have the chance to
explore the chemistry between us while secretly skinny dipping, I go for it because I know all too
well that city slickers never stay long.
Except Adler comes back…
And I’m tasked with training him to be a ranch hand. No matter how tempting Adler’s easy smiles
are, I can’t risk a repeat encounter for several
I’m his boss.
I hate gossip, especially when I’m the subject.
And doing my job right will always be my top priority.
Adler challenges all of that with chaos, rescue dogs, and an attraction that refuses to quit. As the
weeks pass, our connection deepens into a secret fling. My rodeo days taught me how to handle a
rough ride, but Adler has me falling fast.
Landing in the dirt is going to hurt, but I can’t bring myself to end things. Alder’s everything I never
knew I wanted, but he won’t be content with staying in the shadows forever. Can I be the cowboy he
needs and deserves before he’s gone for good?
Keep You Safe is book two in beloved author Annabeth Albert’s small-town Colorado cowboy romance
series with Yellowstone meets Schitt’s Creek vibes. This return to the ranch features a stoic foreman
and a younger city slicker turned ranch hand. Grumpy/sunshine, fish out of water, age gap with
mature main characters, reluctant coworkers, sensual exploration, hurt/comfort, found family, and
big feels with a standalone HEA guaranteed!
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 7, 2025
186 people are currently reading
204 people want to read
About the author
Annabeth Albert
106 books3,760 followersFrequent tweeter, professional grammar nerd, and obsessive reader, Annabeth Albert is also a Pacific Northwest romance writer in a variety of subgenres.
Emotionally complex, sexy, and funny stories are her favorites both to read and to write. In between searching out dark heroes to redeem, she works a rewarding day job and wrangles two toddlers.
Emotionally complex, sexy, and funny stories are her favorites both to read and to write. In between searching out dark heroes to redeem, she works a rewarding day job and wrangles two toddlers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
August 11, 2025
Massive snoozefest.
Why was Grayson such a gigantic asshat? Nothing about his past or present gelled as a reason to be hateful and cruel toward Adler while playing big, bad daddy on the side.
I refuse to believe an emotionally stunted 46-year-old man would be so chill about his bisexuality while also being the most insufferable boomer of all time. Gray's personality was so schizophrenic as to be utterly unbelievable
Adler was a people pleaser and a doormat.
The relationship was one-dimensional and boring. Throwing in some spanking does not a sexual dynamic make.
The secondary characters, including the MCs from book 1, were wooden, like puppets acting out a script.
I liked the two rescue pups, but even they felt like filler, an idea, nothing more.
Who even is this author anymore?
The inflated high ratings for a subpar story aren't doing Albert any favors. Her books don't have the audience they used to because she's recycling the same old shit.
Why was Grayson such a gigantic asshat? Nothing about his past or present gelled as a reason to be hateful and cruel toward Adler while playing big, bad daddy on the side.
I refuse to believe an emotionally stunted 46-year-old man would be so chill about his bisexuality while also being the most insufferable boomer of all time. Gray's personality was so schizophrenic as to be utterly unbelievable
Adler was a people pleaser and a doormat.
The relationship was one-dimensional and boring. Throwing in some spanking does not a sexual dynamic make.
The secondary characters, including the MCs from book 1, were wooden, like puppets acting out a script.
I liked the two rescue pups, but even they felt like filler, an idea, nothing more.
Who even is this author anymore?
The inflated high ratings for a subpar story aren't doing Albert any favors. Her books don't have the audience they used to because she's recycling the same old shit.
July 30, 2025
I enjoyed this one more than the opening book in the series and I think a lot of that was because it just felt like a no added sub-genre romance.
Essentially, it was just two men, with baggage, falling in love, there's no overly dramatic secondary plotline and the tension is earned throughout simply because of the past experiences of Adler and Grayson
I liked both characters a lot too, Adler's a recovering addict, he's worked hard to turn his back on the career in hospitality that enabled his situation, and he's finally feeling like he's got a settled home.
Grayson's got chips on his shoulders that, while they make total sense, are also somewhat frustrating when he constantly fails to give Adler any credit for being different than he'd expected.
The UST is clear from the start, and while there's a sort of playing around with an element of kink, it never really seems to go in one direction or not over the whole Dom/brat dynamics.
I didn't actually mind that, though, as it does work for how the two men behave at times, neither is truly a dom or brat, although they experiment with a spanking session that's rather spicy!
While there were occasions where I'd wish they'd just had a conversation, we never drop into irritating situations of misunderstandings or miscommunication, and eventually they both open up a bit more about their vulnerabilities and fears.
There's some lovely moments which come as an unexpected surprise from Adler's family later on in the book that I really liked, it gave me some fuzzy feelings of happiness.
Maverick and Colt are only really on the periphery of this one, but we do get to see who'll be the MCs for book three and I'm intrigued.
#ARC kindly received from the author, I am voluntarily leaving a review
Essentially, it was just two men, with baggage, falling in love, there's no overly dramatic secondary plotline and the tension is earned throughout simply because of the past experiences of Adler and Grayson
I liked both characters a lot too, Adler's a recovering addict, he's worked hard to turn his back on the career in hospitality that enabled his situation, and he's finally feeling like he's got a settled home.
Grayson's got chips on his shoulders that, while they make total sense, are also somewhat frustrating when he constantly fails to give Adler any credit for being different than he'd expected.
The UST is clear from the start, and while there's a sort of playing around with an element of kink, it never really seems to go in one direction or not over the whole Dom/brat dynamics.
I didn't actually mind that, though, as it does work for how the two men behave at times, neither is truly a dom or brat, although they experiment with a spanking session that's rather spicy!
While there were occasions where I'd wish they'd just had a conversation, we never drop into irritating situations of misunderstandings or miscommunication, and eventually they both open up a bit more about their vulnerabilities and fears.
There's some lovely moments which come as an unexpected surprise from Adler's family later on in the book that I really liked, it gave me some fuzzy feelings of happiness.
Maverick and Colt are only really on the periphery of this one, but we do get to see who'll be the MCs for book three and I'm intrigued.
#ARC kindly received from the author, I am voluntarily leaving a review
August 19, 2025
3.75 stars
This was far from perfect but I enjoyed it so much more than book one. I really liked Adler, he was looking for happiness and didn’t even know he could find it on the ranch. He worked hard for what he wanted and was caring and loving. He is supposed to be “too much” for a lot of people to take but I didn’t feel that from him at all. He is a recovering addict but we don’t see any part of this side to him. His family is mentioned multiple times and are even in the book a tiny bit but for as much as this absence has shaped him it wasn’t delved into enough. We were told and not shown his scars.
Grayson was your typical rancher, the tough type who doesn’t need anyone or anything. He doesn’t want to be tied down to Adler or let anyone know they’re involved because he doesn’t like ranch gossip and that was a pretty crappy excuse. He’s also still reeling from his parents divorce many years beforehand but I didn’t buy into his reasons. This is the same reasoning over and over again we get in books and it’s very boring.
I didn’t buy the attraction between Adler and Grayson at first. I understood why Adler was attracted to Grayson but I wish they hadn’t hooked up before Adler started working on the ranch. This book needed that build up and to show Grayson becoming attracted to Adler for who he was. It was a bit too much Adler chasing Grayson when Adler deserved more.
I loved the camaraderie of the ranch hands. The secondary characters were a huge part of this story. The horses on the ranch were also a very big part of the story and I loved how Adler was in love with learning to ride. The ranch in general, and Adler finding himself and where he’s meant to be, is what made this story for me.
This was far from perfect but I enjoyed it so much more than book one. I really liked Adler, he was looking for happiness and didn’t even know he could find it on the ranch. He worked hard for what he wanted and was caring and loving. He is supposed to be “too much” for a lot of people to take but I didn’t feel that from him at all. He is a recovering addict but we don’t see any part of this side to him. His family is mentioned multiple times and are even in the book a tiny bit but for as much as this absence has shaped him it wasn’t delved into enough. We were told and not shown his scars.
Grayson was your typical rancher, the tough type who doesn’t need anyone or anything. He doesn’t want to be tied down to Adler or let anyone know they’re involved because he doesn’t like ranch gossip and that was a pretty crappy excuse. He’s also still reeling from his parents divorce many years beforehand but I didn’t buy into his reasons. This is the same reasoning over and over again we get in books and it’s very boring.
I didn’t buy the attraction between Adler and Grayson at first. I understood why Adler was attracted to Grayson but I wish they hadn’t hooked up before Adler started working on the ranch. This book needed that build up and to show Grayson becoming attracted to Adler for who he was. It was a bit too much Adler chasing Grayson when Adler deserved more.
I loved the camaraderie of the ranch hands. The secondary characters were a huge part of this story. The horses on the ranch were also a very big part of the story and I loved how Adler was in love with learning to ride. The ranch in general, and Adler finding himself and where he’s meant to be, is what made this story for me.
September 8, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up.
Keep You Safe is the second book in Annabeth Albert’s Second Chance Ranch series, and returns readers to the Colorado property owned by Maverick Lovelorn, who has decided to stick around and turn the failing business he inherited into a dude ranch / holiday destination. I enjoyed this one more than the first book ( Want You Back ) which was too low-angst and uneventful for my taste, and although the angst level is still fairly low here, the very different personalities, backgrounds and outlooks of the two leads provide a degree of tension and romantic conflict that was missing from the previous book.
We met both leads – Adler and Grayson – in Want You Back, where it was very clear that the sparks were flying between them, no matter that Grayson didn’t want them to. Adler is one of Maverick’s closest friends, whose experience running hotels and hospitality venues proves invaluable to Maverick as he starts to plan out his new venture. Adler is a bit of a firecracker; he’s bubbly and charming and funny and likes to see the best in everybody, although sometimes being a people pleaser comes at the expense of his own needs and wants. He comes from a very large family – the middle child of nine – and grew up frequently being told he was too dramatic, ‘too much’ or ‘a lot’ – something that has stayed with him into adulthood and continues to bother him even though he’s nearly thirty. He’s a genuinely good person who made some poor decisions that took him down the path into addiction, but he worked hard to get sober and has no intention of backsliding.
Adler was strongly attracted to ranch foreman Grayson – whom he’s dubbed Foreman Foxy – from the first time he laid eyes on him, but the stern, laconic cowboy doesn’t say much or respond to any of Adler’s flirty looks or comments. Thing is, Grayson isn’t quite sure how to act around Adler; he’s never met anyone quite so vibrant and full of life before, or met anyone – and certainly not a guy – who has got so far under his skin so quickly. The fact that Adler is male doesn’t bother him especially, but Grayson is a very private person who likes to keep his personal life to himself and abhors the idea of being the subject of gossip, where Adler is clearly the type to be at the centre of it. Which is a big no-no for Grayson.
But one hot afternoon towards the end of Adler’s stay, Grayson allows himself to give in to the attraction that’s thrumming between them, figuring that as the other man will be leaving shortly, it’ll be a one-and-done and there’s no risk of either of them getting attached or wanting anything more. A passionate encounter while skinny-dipping at the swimming hole has Adler unleashing his bratty side, Grayson being more than willing to tame it - and leads to the hottest sex either of them has had for quite some time.
But then Adler doesn’t leave the ranch as planned. He’d initially been going to stay a week or so, but then Maverick asks him to stay for a few months to help him get his dude ranch project started. Adler agrees to work as a ranch hand so he can learn as much as he can about ranch life and then work out what ‘authentic ranch experiences’ they can offer to their guests. This throws up all sorts of complications for Grayson; he isn’t Adler’s boss, but he’s the one who’s going to be showing him the ropes, from mucking out stalls to grooming to fence-riding, and being constantly around the attractive younger man - who turns out to be so different to the lazy city-slicker Grayson had expected him to be - is really going to test his resolve.
Even though the story opens with a bang (literally!), the emotional connection and intimacy between Adler and Grayson takes longer to develop, giving the romance the feel of a slow-burn. Adler is a great character; he’s kind and warm and endearing, and very much the sunshine to Grayson’s grump, but despite his sunny disposition, his life hasn’t been a bed of roses. He’s overcome a lot, and as we get to know him better, the picture emerges of someone trying to find his place in the world – and the longer he stays at the ranch, the more he feels like he’s finally found somewhere to call home. All he needs to do now is to get the stubborn cowboy he’s falling for to stop pushing him away and to admit that they’re building something worth having.
Grayson is harder to like, mostly because he is so focused on keeping Adler at arm’s length emotionally while also being unable to completely resist him physically, that he can start to seem just a bit cruel in his refusal to even consider the possibility of their having a real relationship. Yes, Grayson is a decade older, he’s very set in his ways and, as a result of the way his parents’ marriage imploded, absolutely refuses to provide, even unintentionally, fodder for the rumour mill. That’s the excuse he trots out to Adler a few times, but Adler isn’t stupid, and knows full well that it’s because Grayson doesn’t trust him to not get bored with ranch life and leave.
The characters are, as always, well-drawn and relateable, even though Grayson’s continual push-pull is frustrating, especially when he can see how his behaviour is pulling Adler down but still refuses to admit how he really feels. And while I liked that he doesn’t have any second thoughts about being attracted to and having sex with a man for the first time in his life, I did find it a bit odd that he goes with it so easily considering how regimented he seems to be in other aspects of his life. Still, the sex scenes are plentiful and well-written and have a little bit of a Dom/brat dynamic, although it’s more of a vibe than full-on kink.
Keep You Safe is a heartfelt romance about finding your place and your people, about learning to accept love and to overcome your fears to reach for what you really want. I enjoyed it and will be back for the next instalment in the series.
Keep You Safe is the second book in Annabeth Albert’s Second Chance Ranch series, and returns readers to the Colorado property owned by Maverick Lovelorn, who has decided to stick around and turn the failing business he inherited into a dude ranch / holiday destination. I enjoyed this one more than the first book ( Want You Back ) which was too low-angst and uneventful for my taste, and although the angst level is still fairly low here, the very different personalities, backgrounds and outlooks of the two leads provide a degree of tension and romantic conflict that was missing from the previous book.
We met both leads – Adler and Grayson – in Want You Back, where it was very clear that the sparks were flying between them, no matter that Grayson didn’t want them to. Adler is one of Maverick’s closest friends, whose experience running hotels and hospitality venues proves invaluable to Maverick as he starts to plan out his new venture. Adler is a bit of a firecracker; he’s bubbly and charming and funny and likes to see the best in everybody, although sometimes being a people pleaser comes at the expense of his own needs and wants. He comes from a very large family – the middle child of nine – and grew up frequently being told he was too dramatic, ‘too much’ or ‘a lot’ – something that has stayed with him into adulthood and continues to bother him even though he’s nearly thirty. He’s a genuinely good person who made some poor decisions that took him down the path into addiction, but he worked hard to get sober and has no intention of backsliding.
Adler was strongly attracted to ranch foreman Grayson – whom he’s dubbed Foreman Foxy – from the first time he laid eyes on him, but the stern, laconic cowboy doesn’t say much or respond to any of Adler’s flirty looks or comments. Thing is, Grayson isn’t quite sure how to act around Adler; he’s never met anyone quite so vibrant and full of life before, or met anyone – and certainly not a guy – who has got so far under his skin so quickly. The fact that Adler is male doesn’t bother him especially, but Grayson is a very private person who likes to keep his personal life to himself and abhors the idea of being the subject of gossip, where Adler is clearly the type to be at the centre of it. Which is a big no-no for Grayson.
But one hot afternoon towards the end of Adler’s stay, Grayson allows himself to give in to the attraction that’s thrumming between them, figuring that as the other man will be leaving shortly, it’ll be a one-and-done and there’s no risk of either of them getting attached or wanting anything more. A passionate encounter while skinny-dipping at the swimming hole has Adler unleashing his bratty side, Grayson being more than willing to tame it - and leads to the hottest sex either of them has had for quite some time.
But then Adler doesn’t leave the ranch as planned. He’d initially been going to stay a week or so, but then Maverick asks him to stay for a few months to help him get his dude ranch project started. Adler agrees to work as a ranch hand so he can learn as much as he can about ranch life and then work out what ‘authentic ranch experiences’ they can offer to their guests. This throws up all sorts of complications for Grayson; he isn’t Adler’s boss, but he’s the one who’s going to be showing him the ropes, from mucking out stalls to grooming to fence-riding, and being constantly around the attractive younger man - who turns out to be so different to the lazy city-slicker Grayson had expected him to be - is really going to test his resolve.
Even though the story opens with a bang (literally!), the emotional connection and intimacy between Adler and Grayson takes longer to develop, giving the romance the feel of a slow-burn. Adler is a great character; he’s kind and warm and endearing, and very much the sunshine to Grayson’s grump, but despite his sunny disposition, his life hasn’t been a bed of roses. He’s overcome a lot, and as we get to know him better, the picture emerges of someone trying to find his place in the world – and the longer he stays at the ranch, the more he feels like he’s finally found somewhere to call home. All he needs to do now is to get the stubborn cowboy he’s falling for to stop pushing him away and to admit that they’re building something worth having.
Grayson is harder to like, mostly because he is so focused on keeping Adler at arm’s length emotionally while also being unable to completely resist him physically, that he can start to seem just a bit cruel in his refusal to even consider the possibility of their having a real relationship. Yes, Grayson is a decade older, he’s very set in his ways and, as a result of the way his parents’ marriage imploded, absolutely refuses to provide, even unintentionally, fodder for the rumour mill. That’s the excuse he trots out to Adler a few times, but Adler isn’t stupid, and knows full well that it’s because Grayson doesn’t trust him to not get bored with ranch life and leave.
The characters are, as always, well-drawn and relateable, even though Grayson’s continual push-pull is frustrating, especially when he can see how his behaviour is pulling Adler down but still refuses to admit how he really feels. And while I liked that he doesn’t have any second thoughts about being attracted to and having sex with a man for the first time in his life, I did find it a bit odd that he goes with it so easily considering how regimented he seems to be in other aspects of his life. Still, the sex scenes are plentiful and well-written and have a little bit of a Dom/brat dynamic, although it’s more of a vibe than full-on kink.
Keep You Safe is a heartfelt romance about finding your place and your people, about learning to accept love and to overcome your fears to reach for what you really want. I enjoyed it and will be back for the next instalment in the series.
August 3, 2025
This book is a prime example of why I like the teope grumpy x sunshine. Grayson is weary, grumpy and jaded against both romance and city people, while Adler is trying to see the good in everything and everyone, sometimes at the cost of himself. And I really loved to see how they could open themselves to each other's lives and learn a bit from each other, with Grayson learning to hope for better and Adler that he doesn't have to be sunny all the time because he has a safe place to land. It was a delight
August 5, 2025
Keep You Safe is the second book in the Second Chance Ranch series, each can be read as a standalone. This is a hurt/comfort, opposites attract, age gap, sexual awakening read about Grayson and Adler. I loved this storyline and all the wonderful characters at the ranch. I can't wait read the next one.
August 10, 2025
Very character driven story with a grumpy ranchhand and the extreme sunshine city boy who sweeps him off his feet. There's a lot of push pull in this one, Grayson is the most guarded, but eventually Adler is able to break through his walls and there is a very sweet HEA with both men truly becoming themselves as well! Sweet, and pretty spicy too!
July 29, 2025
KEEP YOU SAFE is the second in Annabeth Albert’s Second Chance Ranch series, set in fictional smalltown Lovelorn, Colorado. Gruff ranch foreman Grayson Campbell and hospitality professional turned novice hand Adler Kelly don’t seem to have much in common besides an urgent chemistry and a deeply rooted sense of kindness and respect for hard work. When circumstances bring Adler to his best friend Maverick's ranch and extend his stay, it turns out this might be what he hadn't known he'd been looking for all this time.
Annabeth Albert's Keep You Safe is a warm hug of a read, and Grayson and Adler are surrounded by the loving support of family and friends, whether or not they are at a place where they are able to recognize that. Grayson and Adler are able to grow their connection and relationship, and also become more the people they want to be for themselves and for each other. I loved this visit to Second Chance Ranch and cannot wait for more.
Annabeth Albert's Keep You Safe is a warm hug of a read, and Grayson and Adler are surrounded by the loving support of family and friends, whether or not they are at a place where they are able to recognize that. Grayson and Adler are able to grow their connection and relationship, and also become more the people they want to be for themselves and for each other. I loved this visit to Second Chance Ranch and cannot wait for more.
August 16, 2025
Sweet story with a good ending but did not love it. Story did not ring true. Not sure what Adler saw in Grayson. He was such a grump.
October 3, 2025
1.5 Stars
October 8, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in the series, which established the whole idea of found family, one of my favourite tropes. I'm pleased to say that this theme is carried on in Keep You Safe, with Adler and Grayson's story.
At the heart of the story is the tension between the two main characters, Adler and Grayson. Grayson is the stoic, experienced ranch manager deeply rooted in tradition and hard work. Alder is a townie, looking for a new life, and eager to prove his worth. After an explosive first meeting, the two guys find that they're working together on Second Chance Ranch.
Grayson is sceptical at first, doubting that Adler has the grit and determination needed for a demanding ranch life. I loved their dynamic it was incredibly satisfying to watch it unfold. Grayson is reluctant to praise Adler, even though he's doing a fantastic job, and Adler proving his staying power time and time again, working hard to be accepted. I do have to say that Grayson's constant doubt of Alder's commitment to the ranch and his unwillingness to accept that he was there to stay did wear me down a little. I just wanted to clip him round the ear and shout at him to give credit where it was due! Adler is such a star. I love that there's no great misunderstanding in the story, which causes them to break up. I liked that Adler realises his self worth, and decides that it's all or nothing from Grayson. He steps back from the relationship, putting no pressure on Grayson.
Annabeth does an excellent job of building the romance gradually. The relationship comes to blossom from both mutual respect and admiration. Adler totally proves himself on the ranch and also gently breaks down Grayson's walls. The scenes of them working together, mending fences, tending to animals, and facing the challenges of ranch life, are beautifully written and feel incredibly authentic.
It was also lovely to meet up with Maverick and Colt from the previous book and to be introduced to the peeps, whose story will be told in the next book. Can't wait.
At the heart of the story is the tension between the two main characters, Adler and Grayson. Grayson is the stoic, experienced ranch manager deeply rooted in tradition and hard work. Alder is a townie, looking for a new life, and eager to prove his worth. After an explosive first meeting, the two guys find that they're working together on Second Chance Ranch.
Grayson is sceptical at first, doubting that Adler has the grit and determination needed for a demanding ranch life. I loved their dynamic it was incredibly satisfying to watch it unfold. Grayson is reluctant to praise Adler, even though he's doing a fantastic job, and Adler proving his staying power time and time again, working hard to be accepted. I do have to say that Grayson's constant doubt of Alder's commitment to the ranch and his unwillingness to accept that he was there to stay did wear me down a little. I just wanted to clip him round the ear and shout at him to give credit where it was due! Adler is such a star. I love that there's no great misunderstanding in the story, which causes them to break up. I liked that Adler realises his self worth, and decides that it's all or nothing from Grayson. He steps back from the relationship, putting no pressure on Grayson.
Annabeth does an excellent job of building the romance gradually. The relationship comes to blossom from both mutual respect and admiration. Adler totally proves himself on the ranch and also gently breaks down Grayson's walls. The scenes of them working together, mending fences, tending to animals, and facing the challenges of ranch life, are beautifully written and feel incredibly authentic.
It was also lovely to meet up with Maverick and Colt from the previous book and to be introduced to the peeps, whose story will be told in the next book. Can't wait.
August 24, 2025
This was a fine read. It took me ages to get through it, which I think is mostly due to my heads pace right now, but I do think partially because this book wasn't especially engaging... intrigued by the next one though!
September 28, 2025
Grey and Adler…
Adler has come to the ranch to help get the place ready for the guests that will descend on the new “dude” experience. Adler encounters Grey, a sexy cowboy, who will be showing him the work to be done. Adler will get a first hand look at what the guests may enjoy.
Grey is tough, but Adler is feisty and they have some sexy times, edging and more. As the story moves forward, emotions kick in, but closeted Grey is stubborn.
Time is flying by.
The characters are lively, fun and work is there every day, and birthdays celebrated plus a wedding. Adler gets to bake his goodies and he is loving the ranch.
Time goes forward, Grey and Adler have talks and Grey shows how much Adler means to him.
You will love the wrap up.
ENJOY !
======
Adler has come to the ranch to help get the place ready for the guests that will descend on the new “dude” experience. Adler encounters Grey, a sexy cowboy, who will be showing him the work to be done. Adler will get a first hand look at what the guests may enjoy.
Grey is tough, but Adler is feisty and they have some sexy times, edging and more. As the story moves forward, emotions kick in, but closeted Grey is stubborn.
Time is flying by.
The characters are lively, fun and work is there every day, and birthdays celebrated plus a wedding. Adler gets to bake his goodies and he is loving the ranch.
Time goes forward, Grey and Adler have talks and Grey shows how much Adler means to him.
You will love the wrap up.
ENJOY !
======
August 8, 2025
i hope your pillow is cool on both sides when you sleep at night annabeth albert for writing this masterpiece
August 10, 2025
Such a nice story about growing together. Sweet and funny.
Want to read
October 1, 2025DNF @ 9%
I just can't with books where a grown, adult man (early 30s) acts like a brat, needing to be spanked or whatever the hell. Just cringe and creepy AF.
I just can't with books where a grown, adult man (early 30s) acts like a brat, needing to be spanked or whatever the hell. Just cringe and creepy AF.
November 5, 2025
I really love this series.
October 20, 2025
the ending was kinda rushed, but I enjoyed the book very much. I will read the first one, and I'm so excited for the next to come.
August 9, 2025
I've been trying to figure out what it is with the books in this series. I absolutely adore Annabeth Albert and her books, so finding this whole series "meh" so far and not being able to pin down why has actually been really baffling and frustrating. I think what it's settled on now that I've read both books is that there's something off with the pacing. The writing is excellent as usual, but I think there might have been a bit too much "tell" and not enough "show". At a certain point, I was finding the blocks of text with no dialogue to be a bit overwhelming.
Overall, I would say it's a good book with a good storyline, but I think this one just wasn't my favourite of hers. I will happily try reading the next one though!
Overall, I would say it's a good book with a good storyline, but I think this one just wasn't my favourite of hers. I will happily try reading the next one though!
August 13, 2025
I think I just expected more from this. I generally liked the couple together, but Grayson felt unreasonably reticent and I don't think we saw Adler enough around other people to explain why he liked being around Grayson as much.
A few other thoughts:
-I counted three uses of city-slicker (up from the first book), but fortunately still no chortle
-The dogs Lorelai and Rory were inspired
-Gonna feel a little weird the next time I watch Jeopardy
Want You Back - 3.75 stars
Keep You Safe - 3.25 stars
A few other thoughts:
-I counted three uses of city-slicker (up from the first book), but fortunately still no chortle
-The dogs Lorelai and Rory were inspired
-Gonna feel a little weird the next time I watch Jeopardy
Want You Back - 3.75 stars
Keep You Safe - 3.25 stars
January 6, 2026
I hadn't wanted to slap some sense into a fictional character in so long, but here came Grayson and my slapping mood came back as strong as ever. I heard his reasons, tried to understand, and decided Adler needs to ne given an award for his patience.
Adler was the sweetest angel ever; past of substance abuse, he left his past behind to start anew doing things his city boy past self thought was just a dream, a cowboy dream. But he gets his cowboy boots, his cowboy hat, some horse riding lessons, lots of poop cleaned, now he just needs to get that grumpy cowboy he is having steamy times with to leave his uncertainties behind and admit they're building something great together, that they might have a future if only he allows his heart and brain to want it as well.
I was very frustrated with Grayson because I saw how his behaviour was dimming the light of Adler sunny soul; I loved he didn't think twice about hooking up with a man for the first time, but I was not a fan of the waiting. This was a slow burn of the acknowledgement of the feelings with a heavy side of stubbornness, and a fast burn in the smut department. Who knew watching Jeopardy would bring such fun nights?
I came to appreciate ranch life now that I know exactly just how much goes on behind the scenes Do I ever want to ride a horse? Well, no, they're very tall, but I wouldn't say no to watching someone else ride them. Maybe they won't save a horse and ride the cowboy, but they will ride the horse recreationally THEN ride the cowboy sexily. And you know what? That's not bad at all.
Adler was the sweetest angel ever; past of substance abuse, he left his past behind to start anew doing things his city boy past self thought was just a dream, a cowboy dream. But he gets his cowboy boots, his cowboy hat, some horse riding lessons, lots of poop cleaned, now he just needs to get that grumpy cowboy he is having steamy times with to leave his uncertainties behind and admit they're building something great together, that they might have a future if only he allows his heart and brain to want it as well.
I was very frustrated with Grayson because I saw how his behaviour was dimming the light of Adler sunny soul; I loved he didn't think twice about hooking up with a man for the first time, but I was not a fan of the waiting. This was a slow burn of the acknowledgement of the feelings with a heavy side of stubbornness, and a fast burn in the smut department. Who knew watching Jeopardy would bring such fun nights?
I came to appreciate ranch life now that I know exactly just how much goes on behind the scenes Do I ever want to ride a horse? Well, no, they're very tall, but I wouldn't say no to watching someone else ride them. Maybe they won't save a horse and ride the cowboy, but they will ride the horse recreationally THEN ride the cowboy sexily. And you know what? That's not bad at all.
July 30, 2025
4.5 stars
I was excited about this one when there was little teases in the first book. Grayson is the mature, stoic, stern, and stubborn ranch foreman. And Adler came to the ranch to visit his best friend, Maverick, who is the new ranch owner. Adler is a recovering addict from LA who has always worked in the hospitality industry. He is charming, friendly, eager, impulsive, and a people pleaser.
A little unexpected secret tryst at the swimming hole was supposed to be a one-and-done. It’s not something that Grayson has ever done, but Adler wasn’t supposed to be coming back. Spoiler alert--he does. Now, Adler is working with Maverick on ways to make the ranch more of a vacation destination and learning the ranch under Grayson's watchful eye. And Adler is having a great time needling Foreman Foxy. Adler gets under Gray's skin like no one else, and they bring out this kind of bratty-stern daddy banter and flirtation. And that temptation leads to more of a secret fling.
But Grayson has guards and walls up. He’s always said they can’t be more and has set boundaries. But Adler has been realizing that he does deserve more.
Will Grayson find a way to be open and brave enough to let down his guards and consider challenging everything he thought he knew about himself and his life? And is Adler just temporary on the ranch, or is there enough there to make him feel at home and actually want to stay?
I really loved these two together, especially seeing how affected Grayson was even when he didn’t want to be. Those little moments when his mask would slip and he would be entertained by Adler. I loved that the ranch gave Adler a new purpose and how determined he was to do a good job.
This is an age-gap, hurt-comfort, opposites-attract, grumpy-sunshine, cityboy-cowboy, bi-awakening, secret fling turned romance set on a working ranch. It's about trust, overcoming fears, accepting love, finding your place, purpose, and people. It brings back the characters we met in the first book and teases a bit about the next book.
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I was excited about this one when there was little teases in the first book. Grayson is the mature, stoic, stern, and stubborn ranch foreman. And Adler came to the ranch to visit his best friend, Maverick, who is the new ranch owner. Adler is a recovering addict from LA who has always worked in the hospitality industry. He is charming, friendly, eager, impulsive, and a people pleaser.
A little unexpected secret tryst at the swimming hole was supposed to be a one-and-done. It’s not something that Grayson has ever done, but Adler wasn’t supposed to be coming back. Spoiler alert--he does. Now, Adler is working with Maverick on ways to make the ranch more of a vacation destination and learning the ranch under Grayson's watchful eye. And Adler is having a great time needling Foreman Foxy. Adler gets under Gray's skin like no one else, and they bring out this kind of bratty-stern daddy banter and flirtation. And that temptation leads to more of a secret fling.
But Grayson has guards and walls up. He’s always said they can’t be more and has set boundaries. But Adler has been realizing that he does deserve more.
Will Grayson find a way to be open and brave enough to let down his guards and consider challenging everything he thought he knew about himself and his life? And is Adler just temporary on the ranch, or is there enough there to make him feel at home and actually want to stay?
I really loved these two together, especially seeing how affected Grayson was even when he didn’t want to be. Those little moments when his mask would slip and he would be entertained by Adler. I loved that the ranch gave Adler a new purpose and how determined he was to do a good job.
This is an age-gap, hurt-comfort, opposites-attract, grumpy-sunshine, cityboy-cowboy, bi-awakening, secret fling turned romance set on a working ranch. It's about trust, overcoming fears, accepting love, finding your place, purpose, and people. It brings back the characters we met in the first book and teases a bit about the next book.
August 7, 2025
[I received the digital arc for an honest review]
Keep You Safe by Annabeth Albert is the next standalone in her Second Chance Ranch series . I adored Alder and Grayson. I loved their grumpy sunshine dynamic especially the fact that Alder is able to drop his sunshine and be real when he's around Grayson . Grayson was a safe space for Alder , in and out of the bedroom. The kink aspects of their intimacy were done wonderfully including edging and praise kink with a "Good boy" when the moment called for it . The HEA was one I was patiently waiting for and it didn't disappoint.
A hurt/comfort romance between older grumpy/sunshine MCs that includes ranch hand duties, , a bratty city boy , cookies , riding lessons, Jeopardy , A+ steam, edging and praise , not giving up on what you want , and a HEA 🐎
.
.
Favorite Qoutes:
“Look at you.” There it was. The fondness Grayson’s gaze had held right before I came. He was staring right at me, seeing me, really seeing, and lord, I wanted more of his attention.
A strange and undeniable urge came over me. I needed to kiss him. Not wanted. Needed. Like ice water on an August day, like I might burn to a crisp if I didn’t kiss him right now.
wanted to kiss that grin away, make him whimper and moan like he had on my lap, reduce him to the same burning need coursing through me.
“Wait for me,” he ordered as I’d known he would. Holding his gaze, I nodded. “Always.” As with outside in the snow, a moment passed between us. I meant it. I’d wait for him. If he gave me the least bit of encouragement that he might someday be ready, I’d wait and wait and wait because he was worth it. This thing between us was worth waiting for, and we both knew it.
My heart pounded. My hands sweat. I had no clue how to be the person Adler needed and deserved, and I had no clue what kind of difference hitting that button would make. All I knew was that some fences were made to come down.
“And I’m glad I’m staying too. This feels like where I belong.” “You do belong here.” Maverick made his voice Grayson- levels of stern. “Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.” “I won’t.”
“Quit underselling yourself, Gray. You’re what I want, need, and deserve.” He snorted. “Ha. You deserve what Maverick and Colt have. Romance. I don’t got a romantic bone anywhere in my body.”
“I don’t need you to change who you are, Gray.” Adler’s eyes were soft pools of blue. “I just need you.” “You’ve got me.”
“Wanted to be close in case you needed me,” he said gruffly. “I’ll always need you.” I stepped away from Cupid to catch Gray in a tight hug. “Good.” He kissed the top of my head.
Keep You Safe by Annabeth Albert is the next standalone in her Second Chance Ranch series . I adored Alder and Grayson. I loved their grumpy sunshine dynamic especially the fact that Alder is able to drop his sunshine and be real when he's around Grayson . Grayson was a safe space for Alder , in and out of the bedroom. The kink aspects of their intimacy were done wonderfully including edging and praise kink with a "Good boy" when the moment called for it . The HEA was one I was patiently waiting for and it didn't disappoint.
A hurt/comfort romance between older grumpy/sunshine MCs that includes ranch hand duties, , a bratty city boy , cookies , riding lessons, Jeopardy , A+ steam, edging and praise , not giving up on what you want , and a HEA 🐎
.
.
Favorite Qoutes:
“Look at you.” There it was. The fondness Grayson’s gaze had held right before I came. He was staring right at me, seeing me, really seeing, and lord, I wanted more of his attention.
A strange and undeniable urge came over me. I needed to kiss him. Not wanted. Needed. Like ice water on an August day, like I might burn to a crisp if I didn’t kiss him right now.
wanted to kiss that grin away, make him whimper and moan like he had on my lap, reduce him to the same burning need coursing through me.
“Wait for me,” he ordered as I’d known he would. Holding his gaze, I nodded. “Always.” As with outside in the snow, a moment passed between us. I meant it. I’d wait for him. If he gave me the least bit of encouragement that he might someday be ready, I’d wait and wait and wait because he was worth it. This thing between us was worth waiting for, and we both knew it.
My heart pounded. My hands sweat. I had no clue how to be the person Adler needed and deserved, and I had no clue what kind of difference hitting that button would make. All I knew was that some fences were made to come down.
“And I’m glad I’m staying too. This feels like where I belong.” “You do belong here.” Maverick made his voice Grayson- levels of stern. “Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.” “I won’t.”
“Quit underselling yourself, Gray. You’re what I want, need, and deserve.” He snorted. “Ha. You deserve what Maverick and Colt have. Romance. I don’t got a romantic bone anywhere in my body.”
“I don’t need you to change who you are, Gray.” Adler’s eyes were soft pools of blue. “I just need you.” “You’ve got me.”
“Wanted to be close in case you needed me,” he said gruffly. “I’ll always need you.” I stepped away from Cupid to catch Gray in a tight hug. “Good.” He kissed the top of my head.
August 27, 2025
This is the second book in the Second Chance Ranch series. We once again are transported to Colorado and the property owned by Maverick Lovelorn. Maverick has decided to save the failing business he inherited by turning it into a dude ranch or holiday destination. This is the story of Alder and Grayson. Alder is a close friend of Maverick and has the experience in hospitality to be a big asset to him while he converts the property. Alder is charming and bubbly. A ray of sunshine to all that he meets. He is also a recovering addict and has taken his recovery seriously. Alder's worst fault is that he is a "people pleaser". He will put the needs of others ahead of his own if there is a choice to be made. Grayson is the ranch foreman. Grayson is a firm and stern cowboy who doesn't use 15 words when one will do. There is an immediate spark between them when they first meet. Adler gives him the nickname Foreman Foxy but his flirting is lost on Grayson. He doesn't respond. Grayson is a very private person and the idea that he would be the center of attention and gossip helps him keep his walls up and firmly reinforced. Then towards the end of Adler's time at the ranch, they both give into their attraction. Grayson figures it is safe to engage as Adler is leaving shortly. No risk of feeling becoming involved. Or at least that is what he thinks. This is their story. The book is written well and is easy to read. I liked watching how Adler slowly gained more confidence in himself and started to put himself first. I have to say it really grated on me how Grayson didn't acknowledge everything that Alder was doing nor how well he was doing it. I was happy when Alder pulled back from Grayson, realizing that he deserves better. This put the ball into Grayson's court and he had some decisions to make. I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review. I enjoyed this book and I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
August 10, 2025
FR- Alors alors.... alors j'avais eu un coup de coeur pour le premier tome, aussi j'avais hâte de retrouver cet univers.
J'avais été intriguée par le personnage d'Adler dans le premier tome et j'avais hâte de découvrir son histoire.
Annabeth Albert ne m'a pas déçue.
Keep You Safe est un age gap entre deux personnages qu'à priori tout oppose mais qui vont trouver l'un dans l'autre, une deuxieme chance et un nouveau départ.
Une fois de plus, les sujets abordés le sont avec douceur et justesse.
Si les thèmes abordés sont un peu plus léger que dans le premier tome, on reste quand même sur des sujets difficiles comme une ancienne addiction. La place de la famille est aussi très important, que ça soit la famille de sang ou de coeur.
La relation entre Adler et Grayson est adorable. Il s'agit d'un first time gay mais j'ai aimé que ça ne soit pas vraiment un sujet tout en étant quand même présent. Les deux personnages s'apportent énormément l'un à l'autre et j'ai adoré rertouver les autres membres de la communauté.
Avec Keep You Safe, Annabeth Albert nous livre tous les éléments que l'on adore dans une romance de cowboys et j'ai super hâte de lire la suite
En résumé, encore un très très bon roman d'une auteure qui ne me déçoit jamais
ENG-So well well well...well I had a crush on the first volume, so I was eager to return to this universe.
I was intrigued by Adler's character in the first volume and was eager to discover his story.
Annabeth Albert did not disappoint.
Keep You Safe is an age gap between two characters who, at first glance, seem completely opposite, but who find in each other a second chance and a new beginning.
Once again, the topics addressed are gentle and accurate.
While the themes are a little lighter than in the first volume, we still touch on difficult subjects like a past addiction. The place of family is also very important, whether it's blood or family.
The relationship between Adler and Grayson is adorable. This is a gay first time, but I liked that it wasn't really a topic while still being present. The two characters bring so much to each other, and I loved reconnecting with the other members of the community.
With Keep You Safe, Annabeth Albert delivers all the elements we love in a cowboy romance, and I can't wait to read the next one.
In short, another very, very good novel from an author who never disappoints me.
J'avais été intriguée par le personnage d'Adler dans le premier tome et j'avais hâte de découvrir son histoire.
Annabeth Albert ne m'a pas déçue.
Keep You Safe est un age gap entre deux personnages qu'à priori tout oppose mais qui vont trouver l'un dans l'autre, une deuxieme chance et un nouveau départ.
Une fois de plus, les sujets abordés le sont avec douceur et justesse.
Si les thèmes abordés sont un peu plus léger que dans le premier tome, on reste quand même sur des sujets difficiles comme une ancienne addiction. La place de la famille est aussi très important, que ça soit la famille de sang ou de coeur.
La relation entre Adler et Grayson est adorable. Il s'agit d'un first time gay mais j'ai aimé que ça ne soit pas vraiment un sujet tout en étant quand même présent. Les deux personnages s'apportent énormément l'un à l'autre et j'ai adoré rertouver les autres membres de la communauté.
Avec Keep You Safe, Annabeth Albert nous livre tous les éléments que l'on adore dans une romance de cowboys et j'ai super hâte de lire la suite
En résumé, encore un très très bon roman d'une auteure qui ne me déçoit jamais
ENG-So well well well...well I had a crush on the first volume, so I was eager to return to this universe.
I was intrigued by Adler's character in the first volume and was eager to discover his story.
Annabeth Albert did not disappoint.
Keep You Safe is an age gap between two characters who, at first glance, seem completely opposite, but who find in each other a second chance and a new beginning.
Once again, the topics addressed are gentle and accurate.
While the themes are a little lighter than in the first volume, we still touch on difficult subjects like a past addiction. The place of family is also very important, whether it's blood or family.
The relationship between Adler and Grayson is adorable. This is a gay first time, but I liked that it wasn't really a topic while still being present. The two characters bring so much to each other, and I loved reconnecting with the other members of the community.
With Keep You Safe, Annabeth Albert delivers all the elements we love in a cowboy romance, and I can't wait to read the next one.
In short, another very, very good novel from an author who never disappoints me.
August 8, 2025
Adler never meant to fall in love when he packed up his city life and headed to Lovelorn, Colorado. Fresh off a career burnout and seeking space to heal, he takes refuge at his old friend Maverick’s sprawling horse ranch. What he didn’t count on was Grayson—the impossibly handsome, perpetually grumpy ranch foreman with arms like fence posts and eyes that don’t miss a thing.
Keep You Safe is a medium-burn MM romance with emotional depth, crackling chemistry, and the kind of small-town charm that wraps around your heart like a warm blanket on a snowy morning. Adler is refreshingly vulnerable without being weak, carrying his past with quiet dignity. Grayson, on the other hand, is all guarded strength and gritted teeth—until Adler starts to uncover the soft-hearted man beneath the stoic scowl.
The author does a wonderful job building the relationship between these two men with rich, believable tension. Their banter is sharp, and their silences are even sharper—pregnant with longing and unspoken understanding. The Colorado setting is vividly drawn, and the ranch life adds texture and rhythm to the story, anchoring the emotional growth in a rugged, beautiful world.
Grayson’s slow thaw is particularly satisfying. Watching him wrestle with his feelings, his past, and his place in a world that hasn’t always been kind, makes the payoff—when he finally lets Adler in—feel earned and deeply romantic.
While the story hits familiar beats in the best way (grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity, hurt/comfort), it never feels formulaic. The characters breathe with their own unique quirks, and the emotional arcs are handled with care and realism.
If you’re a fan of found family, slow-burn tension, and brooding cowboys who melt when touched by the right person, Keep You Safe will leave you smiling and swooning in equal measure.
Keep You Safe is a medium-burn MM romance with emotional depth, crackling chemistry, and the kind of small-town charm that wraps around your heart like a warm blanket on a snowy morning. Adler is refreshingly vulnerable without being weak, carrying his past with quiet dignity. Grayson, on the other hand, is all guarded strength and gritted teeth—until Adler starts to uncover the soft-hearted man beneath the stoic scowl.
The author does a wonderful job building the relationship between these two men with rich, believable tension. Their banter is sharp, and their silences are even sharper—pregnant with longing and unspoken understanding. The Colorado setting is vividly drawn, and the ranch life adds texture and rhythm to the story, anchoring the emotional growth in a rugged, beautiful world.
Grayson’s slow thaw is particularly satisfying. Watching him wrestle with his feelings, his past, and his place in a world that hasn’t always been kind, makes the payoff—when he finally lets Adler in—feel earned and deeply romantic.
While the story hits familiar beats in the best way (grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity, hurt/comfort), it never feels formulaic. The characters breathe with their own unique quirks, and the emotional arcs are handled with care and realism.
If you’re a fan of found family, slow-burn tension, and brooding cowboys who melt when touched by the right person, Keep You Safe will leave you smiling and swooning in equal measure.
October 22, 2025
I loved this story. It's not too long or too short, not too angsty and definitely not too sweet, the bad boy is not too bad as he's now in recovery and finding happiness in his best friend Maverick's world, and the older straight cowboy is not too mean as we learn by sneak peeks into his soft spots that he holds for Alder.
I'm so happy I continued this series. I didn't care for the flip flop of present and past in book one. It kept me from being sold on Maverick and Colt. However, we see a lot of them in this story and it's evident that their love is strong. Alder comes to help Maverick with planning his wedding and it evolves into a plan to makeover their failing ranch into a dude ranch to supplement their other income. Alder, with his background in event planning, is the perfect choice to stay and manage the operations. As such, he's assigned to work as a cowboy to get a feel for ranch life. And his new boss, Grayson, is quite a bit older and quite set in his ways, and very not interested in pursuing anything with Alder-- not his training, not his ideas for the ranch, and certainly not a relationship.
How this all comes together is so smooth and so well done! It's classic Annabeth Albert at her best. This brought me to all the feels I had in reading her earlier series. The plot was well thought out and the execution exemplary. Alder and Grayson did indeed ultimately get together but their journey was along a bumpy road. I loved how the author handled Alder's recovery from his addiction and I loved how Grayson was allowed to evolve over the course of the fall and winter months to be ready to accept Alder's love and to be brave enough to allow himself to publicly acknowledge his man.
Gah. It was better than a slice of chocolate cake and an ice cream sundae rolled together. Highly recommended!
I'm so happy I continued this series. I didn't care for the flip flop of present and past in book one. It kept me from being sold on Maverick and Colt. However, we see a lot of them in this story and it's evident that their love is strong. Alder comes to help Maverick with planning his wedding and it evolves into a plan to makeover their failing ranch into a dude ranch to supplement their other income. Alder, with his background in event planning, is the perfect choice to stay and manage the operations. As such, he's assigned to work as a cowboy to get a feel for ranch life. And his new boss, Grayson, is quite a bit older and quite set in his ways, and very not interested in pursuing anything with Alder-- not his training, not his ideas for the ranch, and certainly not a relationship.
How this all comes together is so smooth and so well done! It's classic Annabeth Albert at her best. This brought me to all the feels I had in reading her earlier series. The plot was well thought out and the execution exemplary. Alder and Grayson did indeed ultimately get together but their journey was along a bumpy road. I loved how the author handled Alder's recovery from his addiction and I loved how Grayson was allowed to evolve over the course of the fall and winter months to be ready to accept Alder's love and to be brave enough to allow himself to publicly acknowledge his man.
Gah. It was better than a slice of chocolate cake and an ice cream sundae rolled together. Highly recommended!
August 9, 2025
We're moseying back to Colorado with Annabeth Albert's second novel in her Second Chance Ranch series. It would be easy to slap the grumpy/sunshine romance label on Keep You Safe, but as always, there's more to the main characters and their story than meets the eye. It was pretty obvious in the series starter, Want You Back, that the ranch foreman, Grayson, and the hospitality expert from California, Adler, were hyper aware of each other. The thirty-two-year-old didn't mind pushing every single button he could push when it came to the grump of an older man he called Foreman Foxy; on the other hand, the forty-six-year-old is trying his darnedest to resist giving in to his baser instincts and his desire to see what it would be like to get up close and personal with the guy who felt like he brought all of that California sunshine to Colorado. (FYI, I'm basing Gray's age off of him mentioning he had his father by his side for forty years and that it had been six years since he lost him, quickly followed by his father's beloved dog.) Experience has taught Gray to not expect people to stay, but Adler is hellbent to convince Gray that Adler wasn't going anywhere, and that they would be much better together than apart.
Keep You Safe surprised the heck out of me, but when I gave myself to really think about it, I shouldn't have been all that surprised. After all, this isn't my first Annabeth Albert book, and I know just how good she is at creating layers when it comes to her characters--both the main and supporting ones--and that while there's a guaranteed happily-ever-after for those MCs, they had a story to tell, and Albert doesn't shortchange her readers. In the beginning, we see Adler prodding Grayson, hoping just enough will push the latter over the edge and give in to what they both want. And yes, at the onset, it seems like nothing more than a physical thing, and keeping things under wraps is both convenient and necessary, what with Gray not being out and him being Adler's boss while Adler is working as a ranch hand. These two have nothing in common. Right? Once we learn more about their back stories, it becomes increasingly clear that they're not as different as they may have originally seemed. And goodness, once they start to fall, you just want to smack them--okay, mostly Gray--so that they'll come to their senses sooner rather than later. But Albert makes the wait worthwhile, because their journey is just as good as their HEA. 4.5 stars!
Keep You Safe surprised the heck out of me, but when I gave myself to really think about it, I shouldn't have been all that surprised. After all, this isn't my first Annabeth Albert book, and I know just how good she is at creating layers when it comes to her characters--both the main and supporting ones--and that while there's a guaranteed happily-ever-after for those MCs, they had a story to tell, and Albert doesn't shortchange her readers. In the beginning, we see Adler prodding Grayson, hoping just enough will push the latter over the edge and give in to what they both want. And yes, at the onset, it seems like nothing more than a physical thing, and keeping things under wraps is both convenient and necessary, what with Gray not being out and him being Adler's boss while Adler is working as a ranch hand. These two have nothing in common. Right? Once we learn more about their back stories, it becomes increasingly clear that they're not as different as they may have originally seemed. And goodness, once they start to fall, you just want to smack them--okay, mostly Gray--so that they'll come to their senses sooner rather than later. But Albert makes the wait worthwhile, because their journey is just as good as their HEA. 4.5 stars!
August 6, 2025
Book 2 of the series-which is usually a book I really enjoy when I "know" the two new main characters. And we met both Grayson and Adler in book 1 so I was excited for their story.
I kind of love the "huh, I guess I'm not straight" thing with slightly older characters. This time- Grayson. And he just goes with it. No big crisis of self identity at all. His problem was more with things that happened in the past that he is afraid will be problems again.
And Adler. I LOVE Adler. Especially when he actually started to figure out that being a people pleaser is fine, but it also masks your true self. And also, the book didn't make a caricature out of him- which could easily have happened. Even though he was born and raised in NJ, no NJ stereotype (as a Jersey girl, thank you!). He isn't even a stereotype of California. The author could have leaned into Adler's propensity for color, sequins and fun clothes as a gay stereotype. But she didn't. When Adler started training as a ranch hand it was never about him not being able to do it because he was gay. There was some hesitation on Gray's part because he was a "city boy". But Adler is tough as nails and jumped right in.
Through it all Adler and Grayson develop a relationship of sorts. One that only happens when Gray decides it's ok and one that is kept secret with no promises. But Adler is hard to deny in any way, shape or form.
I loved their story and how nicely it flowed. For 2 men who seemed so opposite each other, they were two puzzle pieces who just fit together perfectly.
Great story and I absolutely cannot wait for book 3!
I kind of love the "huh, I guess I'm not straight" thing with slightly older characters. This time- Grayson. And he just goes with it. No big crisis of self identity at all. His problem was more with things that happened in the past that he is afraid will be problems again.
And Adler. I LOVE Adler. Especially when he actually started to figure out that being a people pleaser is fine, but it also masks your true self. And also, the book didn't make a caricature out of him- which could easily have happened. Even though he was born and raised in NJ, no NJ stereotype (as a Jersey girl, thank you!). He isn't even a stereotype of California. The author could have leaned into Adler's propensity for color, sequins and fun clothes as a gay stereotype. But she didn't. When Adler started training as a ranch hand it was never about him not being able to do it because he was gay. There was some hesitation on Gray's part because he was a "city boy". But Adler is tough as nails and jumped right in.
Through it all Adler and Grayson develop a relationship of sorts. One that only happens when Gray decides it's ok and one that is kept secret with no promises. But Adler is hard to deny in any way, shape or form.
I loved their story and how nicely it flowed. For 2 men who seemed so opposite each other, they were two puzzle pieces who just fit together perfectly.
Great story and I absolutely cannot wait for book 3!
November 2, 2025
I was surpriaed and impressed by how easily Grayson accepted his lack of straightness, but that level of self-awareness did not mesh with him being such a grumpy asshole. Ohhh, he worried about gossip and didn't think he was good enough for Adler? Man ran a damned ranch. He knew he had abilities and strengths.
No, his misuse of Adler was shitty. I am not keen on boss/employee relations, but either shit or get off the pot. Plus, he wasn't actually Adler's damned boss.
Holding himself away from Adler for weeks ar a time doling out sexual scenes when GRAYSON reached a breaking point, never worrying about Adler's breaking point, that crap was shitty and manipulative. Then when Adler reached his own point, Grayson just started being a dick to everyone, not just Adler. It did not match with his easy going sexuality.
I do find it funny that in romance novels, whenever an older "real cowboy" gets a city boy, he is always a master-edger.
Anyway, I liked Grayson except for his crappy he was to Adler. I gave this 4 instead of 3 stars because Grayson did at least notice when Adler was reaching his own breaking points a few times and stepped in. He also showed growth. And most of all, my love of romance novels with chatacters over 40 years of age that aren't age gap. My guess is that Grayson was in his late 40s since he was several years older than Colt and Mad.
Also, I just peeked ahead at the desceiprion doe the still unpublished book 3, and I totally called it on who the next book would be about. They sure did give all the hints!
No, his misuse of Adler was shitty. I am not keen on boss/employee relations, but either shit or get off the pot. Plus, he wasn't actually Adler's damned boss.
Holding himself away from Adler for weeks ar a time doling out sexual scenes when GRAYSON reached a breaking point, never worrying about Adler's breaking point, that crap was shitty and manipulative. Then when Adler reached his own point, Grayson just started being a dick to everyone, not just Adler. It did not match with his easy going sexuality.
I do find it funny that in romance novels, whenever an older "real cowboy" gets a city boy, he is always a master-edger.
Anyway, I liked Grayson except for his crappy he was to Adler. I gave this 4 instead of 3 stars because Grayson did at least notice when Adler was reaching his own breaking points a few times and stepped in. He also showed growth. And most of all, my love of romance novels with chatacters over 40 years of age that aren't age gap. My guess is that Grayson was in his late 40s since he was several years older than Colt and Mad.
Also, I just peeked ahead at the desceiprion doe the still unpublished book 3, and I totally called it on who the next book would be about. They sure did give all the hints!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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