Brett and Rowdy

Gomillion High Reunion

by B.A. Tortuga

Official blurb coming soon, but y'all know me. Cowboys and second chances are the name of Brett and Roedy's game.

Gomillion High Reunion series is a multi-author collaboration celebrating the 20th reunion of former classmates in a charming small town. From fake dating and long-held rivalries to first loves and second chances, anything can happen when the past and present collide. Don’t miss the reunion - RSVP today!

Genres: M M Romance, Romance, Westerns, Contemporary

236 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 2, 2025

About the author

Texan to the bone and an unrepentant Daddy's Girl, BA Tortuga spends her days with her hounds and her beloved wife, texting her grandbabies, and eating Mexican food. When she's not doing that, she's writing. She spends her days off watching rodeo, knitting, and surfing Pinterest in the name of research. Following their own personal joys, BA and Julia heard the call of the high desert and they now live in the New Mexico mountains. BA's personal saviors include her wife, her best friends, and coffee. Lots of coffee. Really good coffee.

Having written everything from fist-fighting rednecks to cowboy daddies to werewolves, BA does her damnedest to tell the stories of her heart, which is committed to giving everyone their happily ever after. With books ranging from hard-hitting BDSM, to fiery passions, to the most traditional of love stories, BA refuses to be pigeon-holed by anyone but the voices in her head.

Reviews

[Rachel Blomberg · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a second chance story about high school couple that split then meet again twenty years later at their high school reunion. So this is a slow burn of them getting to know each other as men.

Once meeting a lot of anger on Brett's side because he thought Rowdy cheated on him and had a baby girl. He soon learns the truth, and after an incident at the reunion, Rowdy had to leave town, and Brett goes back to New Mexico with Rowdy and his daughter. Brett soon learns he enjoys staying in New Mexico with Rowdy, but can they make a life together, and can he just move all his stuff from South Carolina to be with Rowdy on his ranch?

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Molly Otto · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brett has never ledt South Carolina but that doesn't mean he wants to deal with his past at his 20 year high school reunion, but when your best friend asks you go. Rowdy couldn't get out of South Carolina fast enough to return to where his heart belonged in New Mexico on his ranch. Now blind from an accident, his daughter and best friend encourage him to make a pot stop at the reunion. Past mistakes and misunderstandings come to light and give these to men a chance for something lasting. With the help of his daughter Madison, Rowdy convinces Brett to see the place that always had his heart. The ranch immediately owns Brett even if hes scared of being hurt again. together with time and patience these two learn to trust and love once again. Overall a compelling story of moving on from past mistakes and learning what it could have been if they made the big leap in their youth.

I received an early copy of this story for my honest review.

[Ashley Carrillo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ebbs and flows

So this book kind of ebbed and flowed for me. The first half was a bit hard to get into with all the names and things going on and it wasn't always clear who was talking and I had to re read and go back a few times but then I started to get into the story and the second half picked up more for me except I do wish we got more of the connection from Rowdy and Brett's past so I can feel the second chance hit harder and I liked their banter most of the time especially Rowdy's no nonsense that I feel kinda grounded Brett a bit and was something he needed as he's more of a worrier and doesn't trust things just like he stayed mad at Rowdy all these years more out of hurt and he didn't give them a full chance when they were young. He knew Rowdy always wanted to leave Gomillion and go back home. But they were both young and stupid like we all were then. But as adults they both knew being around each other again and meeting at the reunion was a chance they didn't think would help clear the air and maybe give them some peace as well as a new start if Brett was willing to take it. This book wasn't as much about the reunion as the other books I've read so far but that's the event that helped the book take place so I was good with that. I loved how the author had Brett go out and see everything Rowdy always talked about. The place he wanted to bring Brett to all those years ago. But it wasn't the right time back then but maybe it could be now. All they have to do is stop, think, and look into themselves and in the end, they ended up finding their way back to each other and they grew from those boys back in the day. This wasn't my favorite in the series so far but it was enjoyable and I loved the second half of the book the most and it made me happy that these two men found each other again.

[Fay MMBookworm]

DNF I couldnt get into this one because of how it was written.

[Lillian Francis · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5*

*sigh* This was fine, but something about just felt off. In the first half of the book (set around the reunion) I was annoyed that everyone acted like Brett was either an idiot or the bad guy for not knowing what had gone down between Rowdy and Ashley back when they were teenagers.
Then in the second half of the book I found time moved too quickly. There were massive time jumps with very little inbetween to show the development of the relationship or Brett settling in. I wanted him to gift Rowdy something special or Rowdy to be walking his office trailing his fingers over the tactile art that Brett had replaced the generic 'hotel' pictures with. Brett talks about doing it when he first gets to the house but we never see confirmation that he's done it.
The book felt like it had a word limit and so the author just hit the highlights. I'd have happily given up the sex scene in the forge for more relationship development.
Other issues:
I didn't like either Ashley or Madison. I thought they were both bitchy to Brett at certain points in the story.
People seemed angry at each other for no reason. Brett and Rowdy, certainly. Ashley to Brett. Madison to Brett. Rowdy's dad to Rowdy. Brett to the llama. It was exhausting.
Lack of dialogue tags. I didn't always know who was talking.
The blind rancher angle was done well for the most part. I think there was only one occasion where we were in Rowdy's pov and something was described that he had to have been able to see.
Ranch descriptions and surroundings always seem solid.
So I enjoyed it but I didn't love it like I normally do with this author.

[Mandy (MP Book Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a story of a second-chance romance between Rowdy Duran, a cowboy, and Brett Kilpatrick, a metal artist, whose paths cross again at their high school reunion after two decades. Rowdy returns to Gomillion for his daughter's graduation and the reunion, but a lot has changed: he is now blind due to a rodeo injury and is planning to return to New Mexico. Brett is shocked to see Rowdy, whom he believes betrayed him years ago by getting a girl pregnant and leaving without an explanation. Despite the bitterness and years of anger, the old chemistry immediately resurfaces. The story sets up a conflict where Brett must choose whether he can forgive Rowdy, learn the truth about the past, and leave his settled life behind to go with Rowdy this time.

I loved this story with the two men reconnecting and righting all of the misunderstandings in the past and getting another chance for a HEA. I loved the twist of the daughter and the love surrounding the crazy blended family. Lots of emotions and feelings as well as love and confusion as they reconnected and resolved all of the misunderstandings and issues of both the past and present so that they had the future that they deserved. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.

[E. · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars

“Brett and Rowdy” by BA Tortuga is part of the multi-author ‘Gormillion High School Reunion’ series, and features Rowdy, who left town and became a devoted father and former rodeo star, and Brett, who stayed in town but never forgot the man who broke his heart.

This adult contemporary gay romance is a celebration of family and love, and features the author’s trademark cast of quirky secondary characters, including a llama with a flock of churro sheep (no, not cinnamon-dusted ones) and a vocal floppy-eared puppy. I’m always amazed by the way this author presents characters with serious challenges who cope with their difficulties with grace and acceptance, and Rowdy is particularly inspiring. I loved the way things gradually unfolded and the celebration of love of family that is depicted in this story. This was a very fun way to look at the dreaded high school reunion, and, although I’m disappointed the villain didn’t get a more-substantial punishment, I really enjoyed watching Brett and Rowdy find their happy ever after (at last). I always look forward to reading a new story by this author, and this definitely did not disappoint.


A copy of this title was provided for review

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story of Rowdy's and Brett's broken friendship and their ultimate return to the love they'd both given up is interesting to read. Brett held a grudge against Rowdy for two decades based on his own impatience and impulsiveness, and Rowdy's savior complex and refusal to communicate. The reason for their breakup is false on both sides, and their high school reunion, which both of them are coerced into attending, is the beginning of their eventual reconciliation. While this story is sweet, and I really like Rowdy a lot--I love how the writer makes his experience as a blind man real--I found myself struggling to finish it. Too much of the plot rested on Brett's continued ignorance of the truth and Rowdy's refusal to explain. Additionally, I found the important secondary characters intrusive and mostly unhelpful, except for Rowdy's dad. The writer's style is meant to promote an authentic vibe, but it was sometimes confusing, and not helped by the down-home, southwestern vernacular, which began to wear on me after a while. There were only so many cutesy sayings that I could handle before I lost patience.

[Carol (§CoverLoverGirl§) · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars

Slowly working through this series with a couple of breaks (for variety) between each one. So far in Gomillion Series, this one, ‘Brett and Rowdy’ is in my top 3, maybe even No. 1, because I do love my cowboys. These two guys story will have you tearing at your hair in frustration for the first few chapters. From there on you’ll just be in love with them and the fabulous life Rowdy has on his New Mexico dream ranch.

I just loved how Rowdy just got on with his life following that accident that ended his career. After a few hours of their first meet at the Reunion, a few hurtful verbal digs and regrets, they realise that spark is still there. Brett is so talented and just doubted himself and the value of his work so much until he meets up with Rowdy again.

There’s a few other important characters featured here, Madison, Ashley, Dan and Crystal, and a decent hearted Gomillion Sheriff who smooths an escape route. Your mouth will be watering at the mention of all the fabulous Mexican food. Made me so hungry.

Yep, I love my cowboys and B.A. Tortuga is my favourite author when I need some R&R (Ranching and Rodeoing) Yeehaw.

[Jeanette Waters · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brett and Rowdy is BA Tortuga's contribution to the multiauthor Gomillion High series. There are some mandatory components in a BA story, cowboys, kids, and animals. And, of course, a bit of Mexican food snobbery. It usually makes for a cozy, entertaining read. All these things are there in Brett and Rowdy's story. It just didn't work, for me. This is a second chance at love tale. Twenty years ago, Rowdy left Gomillion, as soon as the graduation ceremony ended. He left behind his best friend with a baby everyone thinks was his. Browdy had asked Brett to come with him to New Mexico, Brett said no. A few months later, Ashley was pregnant. No attempts at explaining got through to him, Brett was convinced his boyfriend had cheated on him.
Twenty years later, Brett is still angry about the 'cheating'. And he's a little bit pissed that Rowdy isn't contrite, instead he's pretty chill over his life. This is where the story veered away from an enjoyable tale for me. I can handle high angst and scenery chewing. But, dude, it's been twenty years! Get over it. Yeah, yeah, underneath the anger is hurt. And Browdy should be applauded for his constraint and patience when dealing with the man. Even after the two get together, Brett was still looking over his shoulder, waiting for the other shoe to drop.
It was a quick read. In my opinion it wasn't one of BA's best (it didn't even make the top 1000), but she's still my go to writer for rodeo cowboys!
I received an advanced copy of this from GRR and this is my review.

[Sarah (missrelena) · Rating 5 out of 5]

The lack of communication leading to broken hearts trope is strong with this one. . . but in all the right ways. Back in high school, Brett was a homegrown boy while Brett was new(ish) and didn't have any intention in staying in Gormillion, SC. They were sweethearts, but then everything goes wrong - as it often does during that era in life. Brett is left feeling betrayed and Rowdy just leaves. But now that their 20 year reunion has brought them together, what kind of sparks will fly?

Rowdy's refusal to be pigeon-holed by his physical challenges was brilliantly written. Combine him with Madison, and they become a package deal that is sure to delight readers. Brett's difficulty in letting go of old wounds, while not admirable, is completely understandable. The leads in the story have quirks, shortcomings, and more than a bit of sass.

While the reunion really only serves as the reason to bring the star-crossed lovers back together, this book is an excellent addition to the series. This author never fails to give a full serving of delightful cowboy romance to their readers.

* I received a free eARC of this book via GRR in return for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own and written without compensation. *

[R · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rowdy and Brett were high school sweetheart’s. When Rowdy got a friend pregnant, Brett was betrayed and devastated. They went their separate ways. Brett stayed in his hometown, becoming an artist working with metal. Rowdy lost his sight in a rodeo accident. Between loving his daughter and working his ranch he thought his life was complete, then they reconnected at their twentieth reunion.

Lots of snark, (too much maybe), the spicy times were pretty spicy. The impetus for getting Brett to New Mexico was a bit convenient.

Other than Bret and Rowdy the relationships were already set in stone. Maybe that was the issue, it was like everything was an inside joke that I didn’t get. Even the dogs understood.

I liked the book but didn’t love it. The author has been a favorite for a while, but this book seemed off to me. And as I usually say, give the book a chance, my opinion is just that, mine.

I received an arc of this book.

[Anne Barwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Brett and Rowdy’s second chance story from their meeting up again twenty years later, to falling for each other all over again. The strong theme of family, friendship, and coming home left me a warm fuzzy feeling with a story I didn’t want to end.

I thought their miscommunication was years earlier was realistic given their age then, and how high school rumours fueled it. I loved how they deal with the bullies, and still not nice people in present day, especially the ex coach!

I loved Brett and Rowdy together, and how Rowdy doesn’t let his blindness define him. I loved that Brett’s art is perfect for him with it being so tactile. I enjoyed the descriptions based on feel rather than sight.

Their friendships and family are a highlight of the story. I particularly loved all the strong women, especially Ashley, Maddison, and Crystal. I enjoyed Rowdy’s relationship with his dad too.

The dogs are sweet, and I loved the weird Illamas who have their own sheep!

[Flick · Rating 5 out of 5]

BA does second chance romance like no other

I'm not usually a big fan of second chance romance (shocking I know lol). However, I am always willing to read BA's second chance stories because they are so, so good. There's a type of realism to them that I really enjoy; there's no outlandish stuff happening, no completely implausible reveal or bizarre turn of events. These are just people. Real people who make mistakes or aren't ready for something as big as a HEA, or are just too young and need to grow some more. They're good people who don't want to hurt others but also aren't perfect. They try to make things right if they mess up but also don't always know the magic words/actions to make things right. But they TALK, they communicate and (wouldn't you know) that is what matters. I love that BA's characters actually talk. Not necessarily straight away (they're not perfect people after all) but they actually make the effort and whilst I guess, the fact that the characters talk and make the effort (and tend to be surrounded by other genuinely good people) feels a bit unrealistic these days, it's soothing. The world is a pretty unpleasant place right now and remembering that there are good people (yes, I know these are fictional but they are representative too) is comforting. So that's why I love these second chance romances from BA; Brett and Rowdy aren't perfect, they don't have all the answers, but they try and they see when maybe there's something good to try to work towards and a HEA there if they are willing to try.

[Malia Winger]

I will never pass up a B A Tortuga story and I was curious to see what kind of spin she would put on this situation. Brett is a local farrier and artist that stuck close to home after graduating. Sadly for him he fell in love with Rowdy, an unwilling transplant from New Mexico, who couldn't wait to return to the ranch he grew up on. The fact that he left town after fathering a child only made the betrayal worse. Fast forward twenty years and Rowdy has returned to South Carolina to see his daughter graduate college and attend his reunion. It doesn't take long for the teenaged chemistry to reignite and Brett is faced with the choice of staying in familiar SC alone or taking a chance on finding happiness out west. This is a great story and I loved the unconventional but strong family the author put together.

[Jessica · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really wanted to love this one but there were just too many things that rubbed me the wrong way so to speak. The third person POV in this book left me often feeling confused and having to reread paragraphs to figure out what I was reading or what was going on, and all the random idioms just made things awkward to read. There also wasn’t very much of the reunion in this story. With that being said, I really did enjoy the second chance trope and how sweet and caring/supportive Brett and Rowdy were with each other as well as with Rowdy’s family. I also enjoyed their open communication and the banter between characters.

I received this book as an ARC from GRR and these are my honest opinions.

[Vols77 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love every book by this author and their ability to make me want to be a cowboy surprises me. The two men in this one, Rowdy and Brett, filled my heart and soul. This series about high school reunions works for me. In this case. Rowdy hightailed it out of town leaving Brett hurt and confused. Seems that Rowdy got a girl pregnant, left town with no explanation. Suddenly twenty years later, while both are no longer the same me (ie. Rowdy is blind from rodeo accident) they reconnect and while chemistry still there, they both have to work to overcome/forgive the past to find their future and love. Steamy with great dialogue, great supporting characters make this an essential must read book. I did receive an ARC and leave this honest review.

[CatOnABlueBackground · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is part of the Gomillion High Reunion series, but the reunion is really only used as a starting point for Brett & Rowdy to get back together. Rowdy comes back to town to go with his daughter's mother to the reunion (they never married). He runs into Brett (they were high school boyfriends who broke up) and sparks reignite. All these relationships are a bit complicated and it takes awhile for the whole thing to be explained.

It's second chances, and very light on reunion activities because they take off for Rowdy's ranch to avoid Rowdy getting arrested. Light to medium on spice, low drama. It's your typical Tortuga book with cowboys, animals and lots of good food.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

BA Tortuga has created another fun, light-hearted second chance romance with all the good feels. Rowdy and Brett were high school lovers who went their separate ways after graduation. An argument in their junior year split them up, but when Rowdy and his best friend got pregnant, Brett couldn't accept it.

Now, years later, at their high school reunion, they bump into each other. At first, old resentments resurface, but they quickly realize they are two totally different people - ones who still have feelings for each other. The only problem is that they live a continent apart. Can love find a way? This book has supportive friends and family, passion, some drama, and a beautiful HEA.

[Traci S · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you for the book, here is my honest opinion:
2.5-3⭐️This one was okay, the author does have an engaging writing style and writes with a ton of charm. The high school reunion is such an original idea, but I did wish the reunion was more heavily involved in the story. I found some of the plot a bit frustrating to be honest, especially Rowdy and Ashley acting like Brett was ridiculous for still caring hurt feelings from their break up and the pregnancy that came shortly after. When we get the whole story, I was mad for him, as well. The side characters were not my favorite and they just take up a lot of space in Rowdy and Brett’s second chance romance.

[b00ks_in_nature · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've really been enjoying this Gomillion High Reunion multi-author series. I've also never read a BA Tortuga book I didn't like, so I was excited to read this story. This is a second chance story of a former high school couple reuniting at the reunion. They didn't part under the best terms, because Brett thought Rowdy cheated. There was more to the story, of course. They slowly get to know each other again and realize the feelings they had for each other are still there. When Brett visits Rowdy's ranch, he falls in love with it. The guys built trust again and work towards the HEA they deserved all along. I adored Madison, Rowdy's daughter. A great story all around.

[Raven and Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this author’s books and her cowboys. Brett and Rowdy are given a second chance at the relationship they messed up in high school. Learning the truth and accepting that they were both to blame goes a long way in healing. They both look different than they did twenty years before. I loved Rowdy. He is such a giver and a good person down to the bone. Madison, his daughter, is also a hoot in this book. Like father, like daughter. Such a heartwarming book and definitely worth a read.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brett and Rowdy were a thing back in high school but when one of Rowdy's friends was in trouble he helped her out which lead to a grave misunderstanding between the two. Twenty years later they are reunited at their high school reunion and all the hurt and anguish comes to the front. The mend fences but due to Rowdy standing up to someone he has to leave town fast. Brett comes a long and finds the place he never knew he was missing...a place where he can be himself something he never knew was missing.

This was a beautiful story of second chances and find your person later in life.

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fourth book I’ve read from this multi author series called Gormillion High Reunion which is based around a twenty year high school reunion, this is Brett and Rowdy’s story a misunderstanding broke them apart but twenty years later their connection is still there. Rowdy is now blind after an accident and after a confrontation and to stop getting arrested he has to leave the reunion so Brett goes back to his ranch with him and we get a second chance story and a hea after they navigate how to work on a relationship when a continent separates them.

[Mandy Beyers · Rating 4 out of 5]

Communication between these two takes a while - there are a lot of past hurts and assumptions to get over, as well as one really big secret. However, the first love between them flares up brightly again, and as they start to trust and as truth comes out, they find their way to an even stronger relationship. This was really fun to read right after driving through New Mexico because I could clearly picture the landscape as they went to Rowdy's ranch!

I loved the secondary characters, especially as they go back to show the mean kids what they all are now made of as adults.

[Belinda Zamora · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great second chance romance with disability rep

I really enjoyed getting to know ROWDY and Brett.
They connected 20 years ago in high school when Rowdy was here for a year and a half.
Rowdy never wanted to stay and then he became a father which further pushed them apart.
Now blind, his college age daughter encourages him to go to their reunion.
They reconnect and discover the spark is still there between them.
The past falls away as they realize they're now different, mature men.
I loved Rowdy's daughter Madison, she was a riot.

[C.B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightful! Brett and Rowdy, were close in high school. Miscommunication and a misunderstanding led to the perception that they weren't close enough and Brett felt betrayed. Twenty years later, these two men reconnect and learn a few things. Great story of finally communicating and working through secrets and mysteries. Great characters, supportive family. BA, as usual creates great characters that grow and come out on the other side as better men. Well done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Denise H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brett and Rowdy, second chance…

Brett and Rowdy are both there for the class reunion. Now, however, Rowdy is blind, Brett is angry, and they both still care about each other.
Rowdy runs a big New Mexico ranch, Brett visits the ranch and finds himself happy to be a farrier and metal sculptor.
This is a wonderful story with deep characters and an amazing rekindle romance.
This is a beautiful read by a favorite author of mine, BA Tortuga. There is hurt, heart, deep thoughts and hot lovin’.
ENJOY !

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[Jack Harkness · Rating 4 out of 5]

squeaky wheel, fried pickles, Tarzan, chiweenie, demon sheep, old butthead, forge, white gown & cowboy boots

I'm disappointed with the abrupt ending. The story starts off great, and the book is compelling. Then, it just ends, and feels like something is lacking. I was enjoying Brett's and Rowdy's story, like I usually do with BA Tortuga's books. The ending isn't her usual style.

That Rowdy is a cowboy and blind mystified me initially. But the way it's written, it works out okay. It's really a good story. It's just the ending that's disappointing.

[Ana Silva · Rating 4 out of 5]

Second chance romance is just my favorite genre. There’s nothing like reconnecting with someone you loved when you were younger. And then mending whatever was broken that made you break up.

That’s exactly what happened with Brett & Rowdy. A misunderstanding broke them apart and 20 years later they find that that love and connection is still there.

Sometimes you find the right person but the timing isn’t right.