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Rowe Ranch #1
Stray
"She’s a firestorm in scrubs, and I’m about to get burned."
Ozzy
Taking a job as a private nurse on a family ranch in Virginia was supposed to be a temporary fix—a way to disappear, lay low, and keep my past where it belongs. My patient? A grumpy old man with one foot in the grave and a foul mouth to match my own. Easy enough. His family? A whole different story. Jackson Rowe is a problem I don’t need. A rugged cowboy with a sharp stare, a sharper tongue, and a body carved by hard work and bad decisions. He’s watching me too closely, peeling back my layers with nothing but silence and those storm-cloud eyes. He wants to know my secrets. But trust isn’t something I give, and getting close to me comes with consequences.
Jackson
My father is dying, and my family is barely holding it together. The last thing we need is a sarcastic, guarded-as-hell nurse stirring up trouble. But Ozzy Davenport isn’t just trouble—she’s a goddamn hurricane in eight inch heels. She pushes, I push back, and somehow, that friction turns into something neither of us saw coming. She acts like she’s untouchable, like she’s already halfway out the door. But I see her. I see the fight in her, the fire. And I know one thing for sure—whatever she’s running from is catching up. And this time, I won’t let her run alone.
Ozzy
Taking a job as a private nurse on a family ranch in Virginia was supposed to be a temporary fix—a way to disappear, lay low, and keep my past where it belongs. My patient? A grumpy old man with one foot in the grave and a foul mouth to match my own. Easy enough. His family? A whole different story. Jackson Rowe is a problem I don’t need. A rugged cowboy with a sharp stare, a sharper tongue, and a body carved by hard work and bad decisions. He’s watching me too closely, peeling back my layers with nothing but silence and those storm-cloud eyes. He wants to know my secrets. But trust isn’t something I give, and getting close to me comes with consequences.
Jackson
My father is dying, and my family is barely holding it together. The last thing we need is a sarcastic, guarded-as-hell nurse stirring up trouble. But Ozzy Davenport isn’t just trouble—she’s a goddamn hurricane in eight inch heels. She pushes, I push back, and somehow, that friction turns into something neither of us saw coming. She acts like she’s untouchable, like she’s already halfway out the door. But I see her. I see the fight in her, the fire. And I know one thing for sure—whatever she’s running from is catching up. And this time, I won’t let her run alone.
440 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 10, 2023
188 people are currently reading
1205 people want to read
About the author
D.J. Krimmer
29 books1,183 followersInternational Best Selling Author
Crowned the Queen of Banter, DJ Krimmer is known through the community for her witty, smart mouthed characters.
In her books, representations of the imperfect sides of life are not hidden in the shadows, they're front and center, a reminder that everyone deserves to be a princess and have their happily ever after.
Crowned the Queen of Banter, DJ Krimmer is known through the community for her witty, smart mouthed characters.
In her books, representations of the imperfect sides of life are not hidden in the shadows, they're front and center, a reminder that everyone deserves to be a princess and have their happily ever after.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 431 reviews
August 9, 2024
4💘🤠👩⚕️💘⭐️s❣️
This was a wonderful romance read with some heartbreaking moments.
It was very well written and gave me all the feels.
I loved Ozzy and Jackson, their characters, the development of their relationship, their connection. 🤩
It wasn’t an easy read. Some scenes were devastating and a few brought tears to my eyes.
If you would like to give it a chance, check out the trigger warnings.
This was a wonderful romance read with some heartbreaking moments.
It was very well written and gave me all the feels.
I loved Ozzy and Jackson, their characters, the development of their relationship, their connection. 🤩
It wasn’t an easy read. Some scenes were devastating and a few brought tears to my eyes.
If you would like to give it a chance, check out the trigger warnings.
January 18, 2024
4.5*
This, here, is one of my favorite couples from all the books I read this year, until now. Despite all the triggers, this was somehow an easy read. It was easy for me to connect to these characters and their story.
This book gave me all the feels. I laughed, I almost cried a few times, and I fell in love with the Rowe family.
I wanted to hug Ozzy so many times. I want her as my bff! Despite what she went through, she tried to be strong, and I loved all those small moments when Jackson observed she's actually not ok.
He was just perfect for her. Exactly what she needed in her healing journey.
He annoyed me a few times, but once he understood how precious Ozzy was, he grew on me and became the perfect book boyfriend 🥹.
Can't wait for the next books in the series. I think I'm addicted to DJ's books 😂.
* Check triggers before reading
!! This is the start of a new series, but Jackson, the MMC, is Derek's brother and Oz, the FMC, is Indy's best friend. You do not have to read Derek's book before, but the story lines intersect here and there. Hel's Ink is a great series, so I recommend it for a more complete picture.
This, here, is one of my favorite couples from all the books I read this year, until now. Despite all the triggers, this was somehow an easy read. It was easy for me to connect to these characters and their story.
This book gave me all the feels. I laughed, I almost cried a few times, and I fell in love with the Rowe family.
I wanted to hug Ozzy so many times. I want her as my bff! Despite what she went through, she tried to be strong, and I loved all those small moments when Jackson observed she's actually not ok.
He was just perfect for her. Exactly what she needed in her healing journey.
He annoyed me a few times, but once he understood how precious Ozzy was, he grew on me and became the perfect book boyfriend 🥹.
Can't wait for the next books in the series. I think I'm addicted to DJ's books 😂.
* Check triggers before reading
!! This is the start of a new series, but Jackson, the MMC, is Derek's brother and Oz, the FMC, is Indy's best friend. You do not have to read Derek's book before, but the story lines intersect here and there. Hel's Ink is a great series, so I recommend it for a more complete picture.
September 10, 2023
This book, y'all!!! This book right here... it's a masterpiece. I have put off writing this review for 8 hours because I needed time to process it. After I finished it, I was in a daze for an hour. There is no possible way that I can write a review for this book that will give it the justice it deserves. I'm basically going to fangirl and gush over the book and DJ for the next little bit and it deserves more than that.
Stray and The Rowe Brothers Ranch Series is a spinoff of DJ's Hel's Ink Series. In the fourth book of Hels Ink "Derek" we met Jackson and Ozzy. Jackson is Derek's younger brother and Ozzy is a friend of Indy's. Derek flew back home to Rowe Ranch in Virginia because his dad was diagnosed with terminal cancer. They need a live in nurse that can handle all those ornery men, and Indy thinks Ozzy will be perfect for the job. Stray starts when Ozzy is on her way to the ranch.
I want to add a list of tropes and trigger warnings for this book. It's heavy, y'all, but gosh, it's so freaking beautiful.
⬇️ Tropes ⬇️
🤠 Small town
🤠 grumpy cowboy meets sassy nurse
🤠 Age Gap
🤠 Found family
🤠 hurt/comfort
🤠 Slow burn
🤠 Forced proximity
🤠 Curvy FMC
🤠 No 3rd act breakup
⚠️ Trigger warnings ⚠️
⚠️ SA flashbacks
⚠️ Death of a parent
⚠️ PTSD
⚠️ S*x trafficking
⚠️ Abu$e & A$sault
⚠️ Graphic v!olence
⚠️ Anxiety & Depression
*DJ lists all of this and more in the beginning of the book*
I immediately knew that I was going to love Ozzy. I can say with 100% certainty that Ozzy is my favorite FMC from any book that I have read. She is sassy, feisty, can banter for days, has cool hair, curvy, has tattoos and piercings, has a cool sense of style, is honest, vulnerable, and so freaking strong. This girl has been through hell and back. Watching her start to let her walls down with the Rowe family was truly beautiful. She has had to fight for so long. I don't know if her emotional wounds will ever fully heal, but I do know that taking that job to take care of Morris Rowe was the best decision she ever made.
Jackson... oh, that sweet man 😍 I'm getting teary-eyed just thinking about him. He is such an a$$, but his heart is pure gold. My weaknesses is a grumpy man and Jackson fit that description in every way possible, lol. He is all about the ranch. From sun up to sun down, that ranch is his number one priority. You can imagine how Ozzy turns his simple world upside down. Not only that, but she makes him face his denial about Morris. As a kid, your Daddy is Superman and seeing that man be anything but a super hero is very hard.
Morris has a very strong presence in Stray. He helps Ozzy and becomes so much more than her patient/job. He becomes a father figure to her. Morris had me cracking up! He is a hard man who is very proud... and is having a hard time coming to terms with the hand he's been dealt. I won't go into too much detail, but DJ did his story so well. I really loved where it went.
Watching Ozzy and Jackson fall in love was beautiful. Jackson is so patient with her. The trauma that Ozzy has had to go through.... I can't imagine it. She is so freaking strong. She doesn't realize how strong she is. Even in moments when she thought she was weak, I admired her strength. DJ did an amazing job telling her story.
DJ writes found family like no one else! I can't wait to read the rest of the Rowe brother's books. I'm crossing my fingers for a FF book for Theo 😁🤞🏻
I had every emotion reading this book. I laughed out load, I sobbed, my stomach hurt reading some scenes, I was giddy, I swooned so dang hard, I was angry, happy and sad. When I tell you this book gave me allllllll the feels, I truly mean it. Stray is heavy and it deals with very traumatic things, but DJ wrote it in such a way that it worked. We had light to balance out the dark. We had happy to balance out the sad. Trust her process.
Stray is in my top 10 books of the year and it's my favorite DJ Krimmer book, which is saying a lot because I'm obsessed with her Hel's Ink Series. Ozzy's story will stick with me forever. I know this is fiction, but I feel proud for "knowing" her. DJ, this is a masterpiece and I hope everyone loves this book as much as I do ❤️
Stars- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️♾️
Spice- 🌶🌶½
🤠 Stray releases on 9/10/23 🤠
Here are some of my favorite quotes.
⚠️Some quotes may be spoilers⚠️
It’s funny, honestly, how two humans can take up the same space, and one can be drowning while the other has no idea.
“What the fuck was that,”I mutter, and my Mom sighs. “That is a soul that’s been shattered.”I snap my gaze from the stairs to my mother and raise a brow. “How so?”She shrugs her slim shoulders. “I saw it when I first saw her yesterday. But just now... someone hurt that girl. They left her broken, and she’s had to put herself back together.”My face softens as I look back at the rope on the wall. “No one, human or animal, deserves to be yanked around by a fucking chain.”What in the fuck happened to you, Tink?
After I escaped, I got a tattoo to cover up each scar they left on me.”I get halfway out the door before he asks. “How many tattoos did you get?”I turn back to him and force out a dry laugh. “I didn’t have a single tattoo before they took me. Now, relax and watch TV.”
“What am I going to do?” Carter groans, looking at the sleeping boy in my arms. “I don’t know what to do with kids. Does he still need breast milk? I’m not lactating!”
“If you’re stopping because you need consent, baby, I’m telling you right now, your pretty ass has the consent to do anything, always.”
“No, Tink, they didn’t break you. I’m just a fucking cocksucker, and I’m scared. I’m scared because I’m losing my dad… and because I’m feeling something for you.”“Jackson… don’t,” she pleads, unable to take a steady breath as her eyes begin to water. “Don’t say things like that.”“Why? It’s true.”“Because, when you say that, it makes it hard for me to remember why I should put the distance between us.” I press my lips in a hard line as I stare at her, and it’s like I’m staring into her beautifully tragic soul. It’s then that I see it. I feel it. She wants me to kiss her. “You know what,” I let out a small breath , “Fuck it.” I close the space, and she gasps when I capture her soft lips with mine .
You’ve got to be kidding me… NO! But it’s too late. I feel my body stiffen and then shudder as I lean against her. Oh my god , I just came from dry-humping like a teenager.
“Will you kiss me?” I whisper and watch the crooked grin appear beneath his beard. “Always,” he cups the side of my face,
“Just… I’m going to feel different,” I warn, and he kisses me. “I love the way you’ve felt so far. Every inch you’ve allowed me to touch has been a gift I don’t deserve.” If this asshole makes me cry while fingering me, I’m kicking him in the balls.
“This is actually the best date I’ve ever been on. I’m just… I can’t believe you did all of this for me.”“Tink,” he pulls my face toward his, and I feel my heart quickening. “Baby, there isn’t a fucking thing I wouldn’t do for you. Ask it, and it’s yours,”“Why?” I manage out over the lump growing in my throat. “I’m noth–”“Stop that,” he snaps, though his tone stays soft. “Ozzy, I would burn this fucking world to the ground for you, so don’t you dare say something hurtful about yourself.”
*DJ Krimmer kindly gave me an ARC of Stary. My review is my honest opinion*
Stray and The Rowe Brothers Ranch Series is a spinoff of DJ's Hel's Ink Series. In the fourth book of Hels Ink "Derek" we met Jackson and Ozzy. Jackson is Derek's younger brother and Ozzy is a friend of Indy's. Derek flew back home to Rowe Ranch in Virginia because his dad was diagnosed with terminal cancer. They need a live in nurse that can handle all those ornery men, and Indy thinks Ozzy will be perfect for the job. Stray starts when Ozzy is on her way to the ranch.
I want to add a list of tropes and trigger warnings for this book. It's heavy, y'all, but gosh, it's so freaking beautiful.
⬇️ Tropes ⬇️
🤠 Small town
🤠 grumpy cowboy meets sassy nurse
🤠 Age Gap
🤠 Found family
🤠 hurt/comfort
🤠 Slow burn
🤠 Forced proximity
🤠 Curvy FMC
🤠 No 3rd act breakup
⚠️ Trigger warnings ⚠️
⚠️ SA flashbacks
⚠️ Death of a parent
⚠️ PTSD
⚠️ S*x trafficking
⚠️ Abu$e & A$sault
⚠️ Graphic v!olence
⚠️ Anxiety & Depression
*DJ lists all of this and more in the beginning of the book*
I immediately knew that I was going to love Ozzy. I can say with 100% certainty that Ozzy is my favorite FMC from any book that I have read. She is sassy, feisty, can banter for days, has cool hair, curvy, has tattoos and piercings, has a cool sense of style, is honest, vulnerable, and so freaking strong. This girl has been through hell and back. Watching her start to let her walls down with the Rowe family was truly beautiful. She has had to fight for so long. I don't know if her emotional wounds will ever fully heal, but I do know that taking that job to take care of Morris Rowe was the best decision she ever made.
Jackson... oh, that sweet man 😍 I'm getting teary-eyed just thinking about him. He is such an a$$, but his heart is pure gold. My weaknesses is a grumpy man and Jackson fit that description in every way possible, lol. He is all about the ranch. From sun up to sun down, that ranch is his number one priority. You can imagine how Ozzy turns his simple world upside down. Not only that, but she makes him face his denial about Morris. As a kid, your Daddy is Superman and seeing that man be anything but a super hero is very hard.
Morris has a very strong presence in Stray. He helps Ozzy and becomes so much more than her patient/job. He becomes a father figure to her. Morris had me cracking up! He is a hard man who is very proud... and is having a hard time coming to terms with the hand he's been dealt. I won't go into too much detail, but DJ did his story so well. I really loved where it went.
Watching Ozzy and Jackson fall in love was beautiful. Jackson is so patient with her. The trauma that Ozzy has had to go through.... I can't imagine it. She is so freaking strong. She doesn't realize how strong she is. Even in moments when she thought she was weak, I admired her strength. DJ did an amazing job telling her story.
DJ writes found family like no one else! I can't wait to read the rest of the Rowe brother's books. I'm crossing my fingers for a FF book for Theo 😁🤞🏻
I had every emotion reading this book. I laughed out load, I sobbed, my stomach hurt reading some scenes, I was giddy, I swooned so dang hard, I was angry, happy and sad. When I tell you this book gave me allllllll the feels, I truly mean it. Stray is heavy and it deals with very traumatic things, but DJ wrote it in such a way that it worked. We had light to balance out the dark. We had happy to balance out the sad. Trust her process.
Stray is in my top 10 books of the year and it's my favorite DJ Krimmer book, which is saying a lot because I'm obsessed with her Hel's Ink Series. Ozzy's story will stick with me forever. I know this is fiction, but I feel proud for "knowing" her. DJ, this is a masterpiece and I hope everyone loves this book as much as I do ❤️
Stars- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️♾️
Spice- 🌶🌶½
🤠 Stray releases on 9/10/23 🤠
Here are some of my favorite quotes.
⚠️Some quotes may be spoilers⚠️
It’s funny, honestly, how two humans can take up the same space, and one can be drowning while the other has no idea.
“What the fuck was that,”I mutter, and my Mom sighs. “That is a soul that’s been shattered.”I snap my gaze from the stairs to my mother and raise a brow. “How so?”She shrugs her slim shoulders. “I saw it when I first saw her yesterday. But just now... someone hurt that girl. They left her broken, and she’s had to put herself back together.”My face softens as I look back at the rope on the wall. “No one, human or animal, deserves to be yanked around by a fucking chain.”What in the fuck happened to you, Tink?
After I escaped, I got a tattoo to cover up each scar they left on me.”I get halfway out the door before he asks. “How many tattoos did you get?”I turn back to him and force out a dry laugh. “I didn’t have a single tattoo before they took me. Now, relax and watch TV.”
“What am I going to do?” Carter groans, looking at the sleeping boy in my arms. “I don’t know what to do with kids. Does he still need breast milk? I’m not lactating!”
“If you’re stopping because you need consent, baby, I’m telling you right now, your pretty ass has the consent to do anything, always.”
“No, Tink, they didn’t break you. I’m just a fucking cocksucker, and I’m scared. I’m scared because I’m losing my dad… and because I’m feeling something for you.”“Jackson… don’t,” she pleads, unable to take a steady breath as her eyes begin to water. “Don’t say things like that.”“Why? It’s true.”“Because, when you say that, it makes it hard for me to remember why I should put the distance between us.” I press my lips in a hard line as I stare at her, and it’s like I’m staring into her beautifully tragic soul. It’s then that I see it. I feel it. She wants me to kiss her. “You know what,” I let out a small breath , “Fuck it.” I close the space, and she gasps when I capture her soft lips with mine .
You’ve got to be kidding me… NO! But it’s too late. I feel my body stiffen and then shudder as I lean against her. Oh my god , I just came from dry-humping like a teenager.
“Will you kiss me?” I whisper and watch the crooked grin appear beneath his beard. “Always,” he cups the side of my face,
“Just… I’m going to feel different,” I warn, and he kisses me. “I love the way you’ve felt so far. Every inch you’ve allowed me to touch has been a gift I don’t deserve.” If this asshole makes me cry while fingering me, I’m kicking him in the balls.
“This is actually the best date I’ve ever been on. I’m just… I can’t believe you did all of this for me.”“Tink,” he pulls my face toward his, and I feel my heart quickening. “Baby, there isn’t a fucking thing I wouldn’t do for you. Ask it, and it’s yours,”“Why?” I manage out over the lump growing in my throat. “I’m noth–”“Stop that,” he snaps, though his tone stays soft. “Ozzy, I would burn this fucking world to the ground for you, so don’t you dare say something hurtful about yourself.”
*DJ Krimmer kindly gave me an ARC of Stary. My review is my honest opinion*
February 15, 2026
Ozzy has been through hell and came out swinging. She’s full of piss and vinegar, has a lot of baggage and unresolved trauma, and Jackson sees that and loves her for the amazing, resilient, tough as nails bitch that she is.
Stray has been on my TBR for so long that I honestly forgot what it was about, so it felt like I went into this blind and I’m so glad I did. It made me laugh, it made me sob, it made me want to reach through the pages and love on Ozzy, and swoon so hard of the man that Jackson is.
𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧:
- grumpy cowboy + snarky alt baddie
- opposites attract
- age gap
- hurt x comfort
- C-PTSD rep
- trauma healing
- found family
🚨 CHECK YOUR TRIGGERS 🚨
Stray has been on my TBR for so long that I honestly forgot what it was about, so it felt like I went into this blind and I’m so glad I did. It made me laugh, it made me sob, it made me want to reach through the pages and love on Ozzy, and swoon so hard of the man that Jackson is.
𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧:
- grumpy cowboy + snarky alt baddie
- opposites attract
- age gap
- hurt x comfort
- C-PTSD rep
- trauma healing
- found family
🚨 CHECK YOUR TRIGGERS 🚨
November 19, 2025
Story:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Voice Acting:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Ok, I am absolutely convinced that DJ Krimmer does sprinkle crack in her books because I am addicted and I will read and listen to everything this woman writes! This audiobook was the perfect storm, DJ Krimmer, Maxine Mitchell, and Sean Masters! Say less!
I just loved this story so much! Ozzy our MFC has been through hell and back, she has C-TPSD. She lives in a constant state of fear but she is also a very strong woman. Ozzy has her walls up and is very closed off until she comes to Jackson's ranch to care for his father, who is in the end stages of his illness. Ozzy and Jackson’s dad bond almost immediately, which is crazy because this man is tough, grumpy, and doesn’t act this way with anyone else. They build a beautiful friendship, they laugh, they bust each other’s chop’s and they become family.
From the first day, Jackson and Ozzy cannot stand each other, true enemies to lovers! Quickly this changes and they fall into one another. The way that Jackson this big, strong, rough, rancher can be so soft and gentle for Ozzy had me swooning and kicking my feet! 🫠 This truly is a beautiful story about trauma, healing, love, and found family.
The voice acting in this was incredible, two of my favorites! Maxine Mitchell as Ozzy. The way she does both strong, sexy, and vulnerable is so great! Sean Masters as Jackson, this man's voice does something to me! 🫠 The balance of strength and tenderness was just beautiful. Maxine and Sean had great chemistry and they brought this story to life.
-Enemies to lovers
-Spicy Cowboy Romance
-Found Family
-Age Gap
-Banter
-Gruff Rancher x Black cat alt.
-C-PTSD Rep
⚠️PLEASE check ⚠️TW ⚠️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Voice Acting:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Ok, I am absolutely convinced that DJ Krimmer does sprinkle crack in her books because I am addicted and I will read and listen to everything this woman writes! This audiobook was the perfect storm, DJ Krimmer, Maxine Mitchell, and Sean Masters! Say less!
I just loved this story so much! Ozzy our MFC has been through hell and back, she has C-TPSD. She lives in a constant state of fear but she is also a very strong woman. Ozzy has her walls up and is very closed off until she comes to Jackson's ranch to care for his father, who is in the end stages of his illness. Ozzy and Jackson’s dad bond almost immediately, which is crazy because this man is tough, grumpy, and doesn’t act this way with anyone else. They build a beautiful friendship, they laugh, they bust each other’s chop’s and they become family.
From the first day, Jackson and Ozzy cannot stand each other, true enemies to lovers! Quickly this changes and they fall into one another. The way that Jackson this big, strong, rough, rancher can be so soft and gentle for Ozzy had me swooning and kicking my feet! 🫠 This truly is a beautiful story about trauma, healing, love, and found family.
The voice acting in this was incredible, two of my favorites! Maxine Mitchell as Ozzy. The way she does both strong, sexy, and vulnerable is so great! Sean Masters as Jackson, this man's voice does something to me! 🫠 The balance of strength and tenderness was just beautiful. Maxine and Sean had great chemistry and they brought this story to life.
-Enemies to lovers
-Spicy Cowboy Romance
-Found Family
-Age Gap
-Banter
-Gruff Rancher x Black cat alt.
-C-PTSD Rep
⚠️PLEASE check ⚠️TW ⚠️
November 11, 2025
Stars 5⭐️
Spice 2 🌶️
Audiobook 5⭐️
Stray by DJ Krimmer is the first book in Rowe Ranch. This is a spin off from Hel’s ink series more exactly from fourth book Derek, as the MMC is Derek’s brother, Jackson. This is my first cowboy dark romance and boy, oh boy did DJ Krimmer deliver.
This book is probably her darkest book so far, for this reason please read you TW. The FMC of this story is Ozzy, she is a sassy, badassy nurse with a baggage of very dark trauma and PTSD. Preformed by Maxine Mitchell, who went above and beyond. She brought all Ozzy’s emotions and vulnerabilities to light in a perfect cadence and deliverance. Maxine has a honey voice that will draw you in and make everything sound so sexy when it needs to be.
Jackson, our MMC, he is a rancher, broody, angry, and grumpy. Sean Master delivered a finger licking goooooood performance. The tenderness that Sean has given us for Jackson is one of a kind and I believe he fit like a glove. This man not only helps Ozzy heal, but blossom into an even more beautiful persona.
The chemistry between the characters is tangible and the voices just make it even more so. Their relationship is from an employer/ employee to the most protective, comforting teddy bear.
There is one particular character that touched my heart and I thought would touch yours too which is Derek and Jackson’s dad. The banter and fun him and Ozzy have is unmatched.
Thank you Blue Nose for giving us another masterpiece. Under your direction, guidance and editing all these voices blossom and create unforgettable performances.
Spice 2 🌶️
Audiobook 5⭐️
Stray by DJ Krimmer is the first book in Rowe Ranch. This is a spin off from Hel’s ink series more exactly from fourth book Derek, as the MMC is Derek’s brother, Jackson. This is my first cowboy dark romance and boy, oh boy did DJ Krimmer deliver.
This book is probably her darkest book so far, for this reason please read you TW. The FMC of this story is Ozzy, she is a sassy, badassy nurse with a baggage of very dark trauma and PTSD. Preformed by Maxine Mitchell, who went above and beyond. She brought all Ozzy’s emotions and vulnerabilities to light in a perfect cadence and deliverance. Maxine has a honey voice that will draw you in and make everything sound so sexy when it needs to be.
Jackson, our MMC, he is a rancher, broody, angry, and grumpy. Sean Master delivered a finger licking goooooood performance. The tenderness that Sean has given us for Jackson is one of a kind and I believe he fit like a glove. This man not only helps Ozzy heal, but blossom into an even more beautiful persona.
The chemistry between the characters is tangible and the voices just make it even more so. Their relationship is from an employer/ employee to the most protective, comforting teddy bear.
There is one particular character that touched my heart and I thought would touch yours too which is Derek and Jackson’s dad. The banter and fun him and Ozzy have is unmatched.
Thank you Blue Nose for giving us another masterpiece. Under your direction, guidance and editing all these voices blossom and create unforgettable performances.
September 2, 2023
Check tw)
I loved the banter and tension between the mmc and fmc.
Ozzy went through something really traumatic and was trying to heal and be on her own. Dj krimmer portrayed Ozzy’s character amazingly and made her, her own character and not depending on her trauma. A few things in her personality and characteristics was because of the horrible things she went through but she was more than just a girl that went through something awful, she was her own person.
I loved how Jackson was portrayed, how it showed that it isn’t easy to help someone with their trauma and that you can’t always know how to act in some situations. He was amazing!!
This couple has amazing chemistry and has great communication!
Thank you for this arc, the book was amazing!!
I loved the banter and tension between the mmc and fmc.
Ozzy went through something really traumatic and was trying to heal and be on her own. Dj krimmer portrayed Ozzy’s character amazingly and made her, her own character and not depending on her trauma. A few things in her personality and characteristics was because of the horrible things she went through but she was more than just a girl that went through something awful, she was her own person.
I loved how Jackson was portrayed, how it showed that it isn’t easy to help someone with their trauma and that you can’t always know how to act in some situations. He was amazing!!
This couple has amazing chemistry and has great communication!
Thank you for this arc, the book was amazing!!
November 20, 2025
4.5⭐️- if Chestnut Springs and Trails of Sin had a baby it would be this book. Small town cowboy Romance with trauma healing (horrible SA) found family, and amazing banter and yet deeply emotional. I was hooked from the first sentence of the first page.
This is spinoff of Hells Ink (Derek’s family Ranch). Ozzy was an amazing FMC and Jackson was the perfect grumpy patient cowboy…. The King of consent. The way her and Jackson had to navigate intimacy after her SA made this an atypical romance❤️ I also loved the main characters were 32 & 40.
This is spinoff of Hells Ink (Derek’s family Ranch). Ozzy was an amazing FMC and Jackson was the perfect grumpy patient cowboy…. The King of consent. The way her and Jackson had to navigate intimacy after her SA made this an atypical romance❤️ I also loved the main characters were 32 & 40.
December 26, 2025
OMG this book! I finished it and had to wait a while to process before I wrote this review because I had to get my emotions back in check 😂 Ozzy was a trauma nurse that was kidnapped and has been through an unfathomable traumatic ordeal. It’s been 5 years now and she is still dealing with ptsd, trust issues, and hates being touched. She’s starting a new job as a live in nurse taking care of an elderly man dying of cancer. When she arrives, she meets the sons which are all skeptical of this tattooed goth chick taking care of their dad. She instantly bonds with the dad and is decidedly there for the long hall after that.
Jackson is the main son that takes care of their ranch, and his grumpiness pairs well with Ozzy’s sass. But he sees the haunted look in her eyes and knows she’s got secrets. Big gruff Jackson becomes everything Ozzy needs to heal and to learn how to love. His patience, dedication, protectiveness, and willingness to learn how to be what she needs was perfection! I loved how this book didn’t have a third act break up like most do, but instead they are open and honest with each other and their needs and the understanding through it all was so mature and refreshing! Ozzy finds the home and family she’s always needed and a love that she thought she’d never be able to have 🖤
Now this book does have a lot of dark content and I would recommend checking out the trigger warnings. I listened to the audiobook and it was soooo incredibly good! The narrators were spectacular and their portrayal of the emotions these characters were going through had me sobbing through a few parts. This book broke me, put me back together, and then repeated the process 😂 This was my first book from DJ Krimmer and I can tell you now it won’t be my last 😂
Jackson is the main son that takes care of their ranch, and his grumpiness pairs well with Ozzy’s sass. But he sees the haunted look in her eyes and knows she’s got secrets. Big gruff Jackson becomes everything Ozzy needs to heal and to learn how to love. His patience, dedication, protectiveness, and willingness to learn how to be what she needs was perfection! I loved how this book didn’t have a third act break up like most do, but instead they are open and honest with each other and their needs and the understanding through it all was so mature and refreshing! Ozzy finds the home and family she’s always needed and a love that she thought she’d never be able to have 🖤
Now this book does have a lot of dark content and I would recommend checking out the trigger warnings. I listened to the audiobook and it was soooo incredibly good! The narrators were spectacular and their portrayal of the emotions these characters were going through had me sobbing through a few parts. This book broke me, put me back together, and then repeated the process 😂 This was my first book from DJ Krimmer and I can tell you now it won’t be my last 😂
November 6, 2025
6 ⭐️-Huge thank you to Bluenose Audio for the ALC. audio preorders open 11/5 and the release is 11/11, so mark your calendars because you need this in your life.
Let’s start with the narration. Sean Masters is Jackson. Exactly how you’d picture him: rugged, warm, and grounding. He nailed every emotional beat and side character with ease. And Maxine Mitchell… come on. The range, the emotion, the delivery she’s one of the queens of narration for a reason. Together, they made this story hit even harder.
Now let’s talk about the book itself CRIMINALLY underhyped. Why is no one screaming about this one? There wasn’t a single thing I disliked. Jackson is the ultimate book boyfriend hot rancher, protective, gentle, and so emotionally in tune. Ozzy is a strong, witty FMC with so much depth. Ozzy’s witty comments had me laughing out loud.
And don’t even get me started on the side characters!!! Leroy, Theo, Carter, Jensen, Derek, Morris… every single one added heart and personality.
This story is beautiful, healing, emotional… an absolute masterpiece that deserves all the hype and then some.
Let’s start with the narration. Sean Masters is Jackson. Exactly how you’d picture him: rugged, warm, and grounding. He nailed every emotional beat and side character with ease. And Maxine Mitchell… come on. The range, the emotion, the delivery she’s one of the queens of narration for a reason. Together, they made this story hit even harder.
Now let’s talk about the book itself CRIMINALLY underhyped. Why is no one screaming about this one? There wasn’t a single thing I disliked. Jackson is the ultimate book boyfriend hot rancher, protective, gentle, and so emotionally in tune. Ozzy is a strong, witty FMC with so much depth. Ozzy’s witty comments had me laughing out loud.
And don’t even get me started on the side characters!!! Leroy, Theo, Carter, Jensen, Derek, Morris… every single one added heart and personality.
This story is beautiful, healing, emotional… an absolute masterpiece that deserves all the hype and then some.
August 4, 2025
Ozzy and Jackson were perfection… just absolutely perfect. The amount of patience and love that Jackson had and showed Ozzy even though he was infuriated with her at times was so beautiful to see after everything she’s been through. This couples story was an emotional ride of two very broken souls healing and coming together as one. Dj krimmer has yet to do me wrong with a book she’s written I have absolutely devoured and loved immensely each and every story she’s written. I can’t wait for the next book and hope to see Indy and Derek make more appearances.
February 19, 2026
Wow…. I went into this one blind and I was so surprised. This was filled with so much pain, healing, grief, and tension. This was incredibly written. From the painful flashbacks to the terrifying present moments that Ozzy endured. She was always on edge, always stepping on egg shells with the hanging past that she went through. Only her employment brought her to Jackson. The man who eases her dark and horrifying past. The man that is so sympathetic, gentle, caring, and the love he is able to pour into Ozzy is indescribable. The family dynamic was so incredible and I really loved that Ozzy found her family. This will be one I remember for a long time.
September 2, 2023
Wow! I loved it! This book is incredible. It’s an absolutely heart wrenching, beautiful story of strength and survival. About being able to move forward in life and learning to live again, after the unthinkable happens to you. I love everything DJ writes but this quickly became my favorite. Ozzy and Jackson’s story will stick with me for a long time. Definitely one of my top reads of the year.
February 18, 2026
IF I COULD GIVE THIS INFINITY STARS I WOULD. its dark check your triggers but dear lord idk if ive ever felt so healed by a book while it hurt. hall of fame. the audio is beyond amazing too. and that part we all knew was coming in ch 27? sobbed...hysterically...dj really just doesnt miss
November 19, 2025
Story:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Voice Acting:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Ok, I am absolutely convinced that DJ Krimmer does sprinkle crack in her books because I am @ddicted and I will read and listen to everything this woman writes! This audiobook was the perfect storm, DJ Krimmer, Maxine Mitchell, and Sean Masters! Say less!
I just loved this story so much! Ozzy our MFC has been through hell and back, she has C-TPSD. She lives in a constant state of fear but she is also a very strong woman. Ozzy has her walls up and is very closed off until she comes to Jackson's ranch to care for his father, who is in the end stages of his illness. Ozzy and Jackson’s dad bond almost immediately, which is crazy because this man is tough, grumpy, and doesn’t act this way with anyone else. They build a beautiful friendship, they laugh, they bust each other’s chop’s and they become family.
From the first day, Jackson and Ozzy cannot stand each other, true enemies to lovers! Quickly this changes and they fall into one another. The way that Jackson this big, strong, rough, rancher can be so soft and gentle for Ozzy had me swooning and kicking my feet! 🫠 This truly is a beautiful story about tr@uma, healing, love, and found family.
The voice acting in this was incredible, two of my favorites! Maxine Mitchell as Ozzy. The way she does both strong, sexy, and vulnerable is so great! Sean Masters as Jackson, this man's voice does something to me! 🫠 The balance of strength and tenderness was just beautiful. Maxine and Sean had great chemistry and they brought this story to life.
-Enemies to lovers
-Spicy Cowboy Romance
-Found Family
-Age Gap
-Banter
-Gruff Rancher x Black cat alt.
-C-PTSD Rep
⚠️PLEASE check ⚠️TW ⚠️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Voice Acting:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Ok, I am absolutely convinced that DJ Krimmer does sprinkle crack in her books because I am @ddicted and I will read and listen to everything this woman writes! This audiobook was the perfect storm, DJ Krimmer, Maxine Mitchell, and Sean Masters! Say less!
I just loved this story so much! Ozzy our MFC has been through hell and back, she has C-TPSD. She lives in a constant state of fear but she is also a very strong woman. Ozzy has her walls up and is very closed off until she comes to Jackson's ranch to care for his father, who is in the end stages of his illness. Ozzy and Jackson’s dad bond almost immediately, which is crazy because this man is tough, grumpy, and doesn’t act this way with anyone else. They build a beautiful friendship, they laugh, they bust each other’s chop’s and they become family.
From the first day, Jackson and Ozzy cannot stand each other, true enemies to lovers! Quickly this changes and they fall into one another. The way that Jackson this big, strong, rough, rancher can be so soft and gentle for Ozzy had me swooning and kicking my feet! 🫠 This truly is a beautiful story about tr@uma, healing, love, and found family.
The voice acting in this was incredible, two of my favorites! Maxine Mitchell as Ozzy. The way she does both strong, sexy, and vulnerable is so great! Sean Masters as Jackson, this man's voice does something to me! 🫠 The balance of strength and tenderness was just beautiful. Maxine and Sean had great chemistry and they brought this story to life.
-Enemies to lovers
-Spicy Cowboy Romance
-Found Family
-Age Gap
-Banter
-Gruff Rancher x Black cat alt.
-C-PTSD Rep
⚠️PLEASE check ⚠️TW ⚠️
November 20, 2025
I was an ARC reader for Stray when it first released, and it instantly became one of my top reads of 2025. But now that I’ve listened to the audiobook? It’s on an entirely different level.
This story was already heavy, raw, and deeply emotional on the page but hearing it performed by Maxine Mitchell and Sean Masters brought it to life in a way I didn’t think was possible.
Maxine as Ozzy? Absolutely flawless. No one else could’ve captured Ozzy’s strength, trauma, and vulnerability like she did. Ozzy has been through hell, yet she’s still so strong, so real, and so easy to love and Maxine felt every ounce of that in her voice.
And Sean Masters… wow. I’ve listened to plenty of his work, but this might be his best performance yet. He embodied Jackson… the gruff, guarded rancher with a heart that’s pure gold. His subtle emotion, quiet strength, and those vulnerable moments? Just breathtaking.
DJ Krimmer didn’t just write a love story she wrote a story about healing. The found family, the grief, the pain, and the hope, it’s all here. Ozzy and Morris’s bond will stay with me forever, and Ozzy and Jackson’s love story is one that truly earns every moment.
This audiobook was beyond five stars. It’s emotional, raw, and redemptive in all the best ways. For anyone who loves stories that hurt and heal, Stray is an absolute must-listen.
This story was already heavy, raw, and deeply emotional on the page but hearing it performed by Maxine Mitchell and Sean Masters brought it to life in a way I didn’t think was possible.
Maxine as Ozzy? Absolutely flawless. No one else could’ve captured Ozzy’s strength, trauma, and vulnerability like she did. Ozzy has been through hell, yet she’s still so strong, so real, and so easy to love and Maxine felt every ounce of that in her voice.
And Sean Masters… wow. I’ve listened to plenty of his work, but this might be his best performance yet. He embodied Jackson… the gruff, guarded rancher with a heart that’s pure gold. His subtle emotion, quiet strength, and those vulnerable moments? Just breathtaking.
DJ Krimmer didn’t just write a love story she wrote a story about healing. The found family, the grief, the pain, and the hope, it’s all here. Ozzy and Morris’s bond will stay with me forever, and Ozzy and Jackson’s love story is one that truly earns every moment.
This audiobook was beyond five stars. It’s emotional, raw, and redemptive in all the best ways. For anyone who loves stories that hurt and heal, Stray is an absolute must-listen.
November 11, 2025
I got this title in the mail and I was surprised how it pulled me in. I knew from the warning list that this story would be intense but thats usually what draws me to a book. The story about Ozzy and Jackson was so beautiful to follow. Dont be mistaken that this is a juicy romance without the troubles of life. The trauma that our Ozzy carries is not to take lightly and most def check those triggers. This is my first story from D.J. Krimmer but it will not be my last as her writing style is something i can appreciate.
The story follows Ozzy who has a heavy traumatic past. She gets hired as a private nurse for Morris Rowe on a ranch in Virginia. A temporary solution for her to disappear from her past. She doesnt expect to care for the family she meets there. Jackson Rowe was not on her list of plans. A cowboy with a grumpy attitude who wants to discover all her secrets but trust is not given lately for her.
This story will capture your heart and take you with you in their journey of healing. The narration combination we got was perfect for this writing. As an audiobook listener I knew Maxine would be amazing as a female character. I love her work and she nailed this role. Dealing with the trauma but also healing and staying through to herself was perfectly brought out by Maxine. Sean as Jackson was well played. This grumpy cowboy who like a girl with intense bagage and having to deal with his own emotions and feelings was felt through his narration. I went through the emotions while listening to this story and if you are looking for a journey that will touch your heart and maybe even give you healing along with it, this story is def for you.
The story follows Ozzy who has a heavy traumatic past. She gets hired as a private nurse for Morris Rowe on a ranch in Virginia. A temporary solution for her to disappear from her past. She doesnt expect to care for the family she meets there. Jackson Rowe was not on her list of plans. A cowboy with a grumpy attitude who wants to discover all her secrets but trust is not given lately for her.
This story will capture your heart and take you with you in their journey of healing. The narration combination we got was perfect for this writing. As an audiobook listener I knew Maxine would be amazing as a female character. I love her work and she nailed this role. Dealing with the trauma but also healing and staying through to herself was perfectly brought out by Maxine. Sean as Jackson was well played. This grumpy cowboy who like a girl with intense bagage and having to deal with his own emotions and feelings was felt through his narration. I went through the emotions while listening to this story and if you are looking for a journey that will touch your heart and maybe even give you healing along with it, this story is def for you.
November 2, 2025
~Arc Review~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
~Stray~Rowe Ranch Book 1~DJ Krimmer~
“I want you, Ozzy. Not just like this. All of you. Every version. The angry one, the terrified one, the one moaning my name like she needs me to breathe.”
♡This book was absolute perfection & had me 100% in my feelings from beginning to end! I laughed, I cried(SO MUCH), & I feel like a part of myself was also healed after I finished this book.
This book follows Ozzy our sassy nurse with a broken past & Jackson our broody Rancher hanging on by a thread. If you are a Hel's Ink lover Jackson is Derek's brother & Ozzy is Indy's friend! When I tell you they are both perfect I mean it! Ozzy has 100% become one of my favorite FMCs! Ozzy & Jackson are two broken souls who would rather spend life alone than face the trauma they carry. Little did they know they were exactly what one another needed to heal.
DJ never fails to impress me with the way she incorporates mental & physical health into her writing! I'm now on my way to buy myself a Leroy!♡
~As Always Happy Reading!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~Alc Review~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
~Stray~Rowe Ranch Book 1~DJ Krimmer~
~Duet Narration~Maxine Mitchell & Sean Masters
~Production~Blue Nose Audio~
“I want you, Ozzy. Not just like this. All of you. Every version. The angry one, the terrified one, the one moaning my name like she needs me to breathe.”
♡I Arc read this book earlier this year & loved it but hearing it come to life in audio was absolute perfection & had me 100% even more in my feelings. I laughed, I cried(SO MUCH MORE) & I connected with each character on an even deeper level! DJ never fails to impress me with the way she incorporates mental & physical health into her writing!
The duet narration for this audiobook was a literal masterpiece! Maxine & Sean both did an impeccable job bringing each & every character in this phenomenal story to life with their performances! The emotional depth & attention to detail that went into this performance gave me chills & is Stray is100% going in my top audiobook performances of the year!♡
~As Always Happy Reading!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
~Stray~Rowe Ranch Book 1~DJ Krimmer~
“I want you, Ozzy. Not just like this. All of you. Every version. The angry one, the terrified one, the one moaning my name like she needs me to breathe.”
♡This book was absolute perfection & had me 100% in my feelings from beginning to end! I laughed, I cried(SO MUCH), & I feel like a part of myself was also healed after I finished this book.
This book follows Ozzy our sassy nurse with a broken past & Jackson our broody Rancher hanging on by a thread. If you are a Hel's Ink lover Jackson is Derek's brother & Ozzy is Indy's friend! When I tell you they are both perfect I mean it! Ozzy has 100% become one of my favorite FMCs! Ozzy & Jackson are two broken souls who would rather spend life alone than face the trauma they carry. Little did they know they were exactly what one another needed to heal.
DJ never fails to impress me with the way she incorporates mental & physical health into her writing! I'm now on my way to buy myself a Leroy!♡
~As Always Happy Reading!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~Alc Review~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
~Stray~Rowe Ranch Book 1~DJ Krimmer~
~Duet Narration~Maxine Mitchell & Sean Masters
~Production~Blue Nose Audio~
“I want you, Ozzy. Not just like this. All of you. Every version. The angry one, the terrified one, the one moaning my name like she needs me to breathe.”
♡I Arc read this book earlier this year & loved it but hearing it come to life in audio was absolute perfection & had me 100% even more in my feelings. I laughed, I cried(SO MUCH MORE) & I connected with each character on an even deeper level! DJ never fails to impress me with the way she incorporates mental & physical health into her writing!
The duet narration for this audiobook was a literal masterpiece! Maxine & Sean both did an impeccable job bringing each & every character in this phenomenal story to life with their performances! The emotional depth & attention to detail that went into this performance gave me chills & is Stray is100% going in my top audiobook performances of the year!♡
~As Always Happy Reading!
September 10, 2023
If I could give this book 10 stars, I would. DJ Krimmer is a one-click author for me, I will read EVERYTHING she writes!!
"She has the heart of a saint with the body of a sinner."
Stray is a book with so much emotion. There is found family, forced proximity, age gap, PTSD awareness, trauma healing, banter, and spice. **Please read all of the trigger warnings.**
*Potential spoilers ahead - but I do my best not to spoil too much!*
Ozzy is a nurse employed at Rowe Ranch to provide end of life care to the Rowe brothers' father. Ozzy has a significant amount of trauma in her past, which we read through flashbacks and memories. Ozzy comes to the rural Virginia ranch in a whirlwind of high heels, tattoos, and piercings. Jackson is the older brother at the ranch, doing everything he can to keep the ranch going for his parents. Jackson is immediately attracted to Ozzy, but doesn't want to be, because of all of his other responsibilities at the ranch. Ozzy has sworn off men, being touched, and most emotions. Ozzy is attracted to Jackson but doesn't know how to handle it due to her traumatic experiences. Ozzy's relationship with the Rowe brothers' father, not just providing his end-of-life care, but also bringing him laughter and smiles at the end of his life is incredible. Ozzy brings light to a very dark place for the Rowe family.
Jackson's love and patience with Ozzy is absolutely wonderful; he wants to help her but knowing he doesn't know the best way, he leaves everything in Ozzy's hands. He follows her lead and allows her to do things in her own time. His priority in making her feel safe is so heartwarming. He's not only hot and swoon worthy, he's empathetic and patient.
I absolutely *devoured* this book. I cried, I giggled at the banter, then sobbed. DJ broke my heart and then pieced it back together.
"She has the heart of a saint with the body of a sinner."
Stray is a book with so much emotion. There is found family, forced proximity, age gap, PTSD awareness, trauma healing, banter, and spice. **Please read all of the trigger warnings.**
*Potential spoilers ahead - but I do my best not to spoil too much!*
Ozzy is a nurse employed at Rowe Ranch to provide end of life care to the Rowe brothers' father. Ozzy has a significant amount of trauma in her past, which we read through flashbacks and memories. Ozzy comes to the rural Virginia ranch in a whirlwind of high heels, tattoos, and piercings. Jackson is the older brother at the ranch, doing everything he can to keep the ranch going for his parents. Jackson is immediately attracted to Ozzy, but doesn't want to be, because of all of his other responsibilities at the ranch. Ozzy has sworn off men, being touched, and most emotions. Ozzy is attracted to Jackson but doesn't know how to handle it due to her traumatic experiences. Ozzy's relationship with the Rowe brothers' father, not just providing his end-of-life care, but also bringing him laughter and smiles at the end of his life is incredible. Ozzy brings light to a very dark place for the Rowe family.
Jackson's love and patience with Ozzy is absolutely wonderful; he wants to help her but knowing he doesn't know the best way, he leaves everything in Ozzy's hands. He follows her lead and allows her to do things in her own time. His priority in making her feel safe is so heartwarming. He's not only hot and swoon worthy, he's empathetic and patient.
I absolutely *devoured* this book. I cried, I giggled at the banter, then sobbed. DJ broke my heart and then pieced it back together.
October 11, 2023
Another win for DJ. This book was full of love. The way Jackson loves and cares for Ozzy through every situation is perfection.
Definitely be sure to read trigger warnings before consuming this book as it deals with a lot of serious issues
This is a book of healing and acceptance. It is the perfect example of loving someone not despite their flaws but because of them.
A++ for DJ. DJ is my top “if she writes it, I’ll read it.” Well done love ❤️
This is the first book in a new series and I cannot wait for the rest.
Definitely be sure to read trigger warnings before consuming this book as it deals with a lot of serious issues
This is a book of healing and acceptance. It is the perfect example of loving someone not despite their flaws but because of them.
A++ for DJ. DJ is my top “if she writes it, I’ll read it.” Well done love ❤️
This is the first book in a new series and I cannot wait for the rest.
December 16, 2025
This was just meh. The first inclination that this had to potential to be cringy was the blurb, that includes a nurse in 8 inch heels. I looked it up...they are basically stripper shoes. It could only go down from there (literally).
Two days post reading and I don't really remember much except it had lots of trigger warnings and was more depressing/sad. I do remember the MMC was caring and wanted to help the FMC recover from her trauma, but it was not sunshine and happiness.
Two days post reading and I don't really remember much except it had lots of trigger warnings and was more depressing/sad. I do remember the MMC was caring and wanted to help the FMC recover from her trauma, but it was not sunshine and happiness.
August 28, 2025
This felt like Yellowstone vibes with a little bit of Virgin River sprinkled in, but make it darker.
I loved this! I thought that Ozzy was an incredible character. Her struggles really resonated with me because I’ve been there before (not to the same degree as Ozzy) and it was easy to understand where she was coming from. She was broken but also not at the same time. She became stronger in ways that helped to balance out the weaknesses she knew she had….and I got that completely. There’s nothing worse than being made to feel powerless in your own body and Ozzy did what she had to in order to survive, but surviving and living aren’t always the same thing, and it’s not always easy to switch from one mode to the other.
Enter the Rowe family.
I wanted to package them all up and keep them forever. The close knit vibes, the sibling banter and love, that family is family feeling…..Give it all to me! They had me laughing so much. Jensen, Carter, Theo, Derek, and Jackson had me falling in love many times over. I loved everything about their dynamic, but the one who really stole my heart…..Morris. He made me miss my dad big time. I actually had to put the book down at one point because I got hit with a wave of grief and couldn’t stop crying. Morris was the grumpy, smack-talking, all knowing smart-alec who fathered the Rowe children. He’s sick now and is in need of a home nurse which is why Ozzy ends up at the Ranch. She’s the perfect addition to the Rowe group too. All mouth and sass and 100% big hearted, something she had in common with more than few members of that family, especially Jackson. As different as they seemed, they were actually perfectly matched. I adored how he was with her. Gentle, kind, and understanding. Every bit of what she needed without forcing it on her and it made me love him even more.
Ugh! I could go on! This was just a beautiful story that broke my heart and healed it at the same time, had me laughing more times than I could count, made me blush, turned up the heat (and oh my was it good!!!), and now sits in my head rent free.
I loved this! I thought that Ozzy was an incredible character. Her struggles really resonated with me because I’ve been there before (not to the same degree as Ozzy) and it was easy to understand where she was coming from. She was broken but also not at the same time. She became stronger in ways that helped to balance out the weaknesses she knew she had….and I got that completely. There’s nothing worse than being made to feel powerless in your own body and Ozzy did what she had to in order to survive, but surviving and living aren’t always the same thing, and it’s not always easy to switch from one mode to the other.
Enter the Rowe family.
I wanted to package them all up and keep them forever. The close knit vibes, the sibling banter and love, that family is family feeling…..Give it all to me! They had me laughing so much. Jensen, Carter, Theo, Derek, and Jackson had me falling in love many times over. I loved everything about their dynamic, but the one who really stole my heart…..Morris. He made me miss my dad big time. I actually had to put the book down at one point because I got hit with a wave of grief and couldn’t stop crying. Morris was the grumpy, smack-talking, all knowing smart-alec who fathered the Rowe children. He’s sick now and is in need of a home nurse which is why Ozzy ends up at the Ranch. She’s the perfect addition to the Rowe group too. All mouth and sass and 100% big hearted, something she had in common with more than few members of that family, especially Jackson. As different as they seemed, they were actually perfectly matched. I adored how he was with her. Gentle, kind, and understanding. Every bit of what she needed without forcing it on her and it made me love him even more.
Ugh! I could go on! This was just a beautiful story that broke my heart and healed it at the same time, had me laughing more times than I could count, made me blush, turned up the heat (and oh my was it good!!!), and now sits in my head rent free.
February 25, 2026
What a freaking amazingly heart breaking story. I was obsessed. Jackson gives cowboy daddy vibes while poor Ozzy, she was so traumatized and put through the wringer. And Morris, chapter 27 wrecked me. Read this with at least 2 boxes of tissues. 1 for the tears from your 👀 … 1 for the tears from your 🐱
Spoilers⚠️⚠️⚠️
Ozzy is a 32 year old nurse recovering from a horrible past. In her mid twenties, she was nabbed and held for 5 months mainly by two men, Hugh and Patrick. She was brutalized along with another girl, Lolly. Ozzy is able to help Lolly escape but she does not. Patrick is mad and starts calling her his “brumby”. He brands that name into her pubic area.
Hugh’s son, Adam comes in and helps her escape, knowing the consequences, ☠️, he does it anyway.
She escapes and is able to find help and press charges. Five years later. She is covered in tattoos and piercings. Trying to cover up her scars and trauma.
She takes a job at a ranch caring for a man, Morris, dying of cancer. Her and Morris hit it off immediately with both of their dry sarcastic humor.
Jackson, one of 4 boys (Carter, Jensen, and Derek) all but runs the ranch with the help of Carter, and Jensen. Derek lives out of state with his wife, Indy.
Ozzy also has a huge aversion to touch in any way, especially with men. She still flinches and cowers at time but doesn’t hold back or shy away from running her mouth.
She becomes attached to Morris, his family, and most of all Jackson. They start a relationship and Jackson does his best to navigate he touch aversion. They struggle and her go to is always to run but she works on it.
Morris passes and it wrecks the family. Ozzy is afraid she will have to leave but before he passed, Morris told his boys to fix up the old house on the property and always take care of Ozzy.
Jackson looks up what happened to Ozzy and learns all of the atrocities committed against her and he can’t process it. Ozzy finds out and is upset he couldn’t wait til she was ready to tell him herself.
They make up and Jackson becomes her rock.
Spoilers⚠️⚠️⚠️
Ozzy is a 32 year old nurse recovering from a horrible past. In her mid twenties, she was nabbed and held for 5 months mainly by two men, Hugh and Patrick. She was brutalized along with another girl, Lolly. Ozzy is able to help Lolly escape but she does not. Patrick is mad and starts calling her his “brumby”. He brands that name into her pubic area.
Hugh’s son, Adam comes in and helps her escape, knowing the consequences, ☠️, he does it anyway.
She escapes and is able to find help and press charges. Five years later. She is covered in tattoos and piercings. Trying to cover up her scars and trauma.
She takes a job at a ranch caring for a man, Morris, dying of cancer. Her and Morris hit it off immediately with both of their dry sarcastic humor.
Jackson, one of 4 boys (Carter, Jensen, and Derek) all but runs the ranch with the help of Carter, and Jensen. Derek lives out of state with his wife, Indy.
Ozzy also has a huge aversion to touch in any way, especially with men. She still flinches and cowers at time but doesn’t hold back or shy away from running her mouth.
She becomes attached to Morris, his family, and most of all Jackson. They start a relationship and Jackson does his best to navigate he touch aversion. They struggle and her go to is always to run but she works on it.
Morris passes and it wrecks the family. Ozzy is afraid she will have to leave but before he passed, Morris told his boys to fix up the old house on the property and always take care of Ozzy.
Jackson looks up what happened to Ozzy and learns all of the atrocities committed against her and he can’t process it. Ozzy finds out and is upset he couldn’t wait til she was ready to tell him herself.
They make up and Jackson becomes her rock.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2025
Leave it to DJ Krimmer, to get me into cowboy romance now!! Stray is book one in DJ’s new series Rowe Ranch!! This book follows Ozzy, who is a sassy nurse with broken past and Jackson a rancher who just barely hanging on. Little do jackson and Ozzy know that rather than facing everything they have gone through alone, they needed each other to help them heal! This is another book where I say do take your trigger warnings very seriously there are some scenes in this book that are a little bit hard to read I will definitely bring some tears to your eyes, but overall DJ does such an amazing job with all of her books. I have never read a DJ Krimmer book that I did not like!!! if you were also a fan of DJ’s other series Hel’s Ink, then you will love spray because spray is actually a spin off of the fourth book Derek!! Jackson is Derek’s brother and Ozzy is Indy’s friend! And the best news is Stray is out on Kindle and physical books!!! So go get your copy today and experience this new series that DJ has created!!!
November 5, 2025
Absolutely loved this book! Ozzy, the FMC was such a strong and unique character. Jackson, the MMC was freakin fire and melted my heart with how he understood and cared for Ozzy. I loved all the characters in this story. Jackson’s dad and the connection he had with his family and Ozzy was great and the banter between him and Ozzy was too. I did not want to stop listening to this one. It had me kicking my feet swooning, giggling and crying. All the feels with this one! It was such a beautiful story and it was so beautifully written. DJ Krimmer is quickly becoming a favorite author for me. I love her writing, her stories and the characters she creates!
The audiobook was performed in duet by Maxine Mitchell and Sean Masters. As always they did an incredible job. The way they gave all the characters in this their own voices while bringing their personalities and emotions out really brought this story to life. Their narrating never disappoints.
Story 5 ⭐️’s
Narration 5 ⭐️’s
Spice 2 1/2 🌶️’s
Thank you Blue Nose Audio for the opportunity to listen to this ALC!!
The audiobook was performed in duet by Maxine Mitchell and Sean Masters. As always they did an incredible job. The way they gave all the characters in this their own voices while bringing their personalities and emotions out really brought this story to life. Their narrating never disappoints.
Story 5 ⭐️’s
Narration 5 ⭐️’s
Spice 2 1/2 🌶️’s
Thank you Blue Nose Audio for the opportunity to listen to this ALC!!
March 4, 2026
HELLO COWBOY ~ HELLO HELL RAISER
The narrators get a five star rating from me, the storyline itself absolutely a five star rating as well. The love between these two characters and the fact that he is so determined to like really get to know her, but doesn’t quite know how but like figures it out along the way was such a beautiful story for me, especially coming from a background where unwanted things happened. This story was just so beautiful to really watch the growth between Ozzy and Jackson.
The dedication that Jackson has for Oz out the bat is beyond so much more than what words can put into it and her willingness overtime to like keep trying into really grow from what happened to her is the type of grit I love to see from an FMC.
And not to mention their sarcasm and banter between the two made this the absolute best age gap relationship. I have read in a hot minute.
The narrators get a five star rating from me, the storyline itself absolutely a five star rating as well. The love between these two characters and the fact that he is so determined to like really get to know her, but doesn’t quite know how but like figures it out along the way was such a beautiful story for me, especially coming from a background where unwanted things happened. This story was just so beautiful to really watch the growth between Ozzy and Jackson.
The dedication that Jackson has for Oz out the bat is beyond so much more than what words can put into it and her willingness overtime to like keep trying into really grow from what happened to her is the type of grit I love to see from an FMC.
And not to mention their sarcasm and banter between the two made this the absolute best age gap relationship. I have read in a hot minute.
September 9, 2023
Ozzy is doing a friend a favor going to Rowe farm, and also trying to heal. She gets there and meets the Rowe boys Jackson, Carter, and Jensen. Jackson and Ozzy are attracted to each other and fighting it. Ozzy after what happened five years ago has her walls up high, but somehow Jackson is getting through. Can they be together? Great characters and storyline Highly recommended Amazing book. Love Ozzy and Jackson and their dynamic. Great supporting characters This book has all the feels humor, angst, and touches on some serious subjects. Check your trigger warnings. This is one of the best books I’ve read this year.
September 10, 2023
Emotional rollercoaster! This book will have you feeling all the feels!
Ozzy has a pretty traumatic incident and doesn’t like to be around people but mainly men. Her friend Indy helps her to get an in home nursing job out in the country on a ranch. She never mentioned the hot men working and living on the ranch. Jackson feels the pressure of running the ranch in his ailing dad’s absence and feels he doesn’t have time for love. Then this tattooed, pierced woman blows into his world.
DJ did it again! Another hit! I love all of her books and they just get better. I can’t wait to read Jensen and Carter’s books!
Ozzy has a pretty traumatic incident and doesn’t like to be around people but mainly men. Her friend Indy helps her to get an in home nursing job out in the country on a ranch. She never mentioned the hot men working and living on the ranch. Jackson feels the pressure of running the ranch in his ailing dad’s absence and feels he doesn’t have time for love. Then this tattooed, pierced woman blows into his world.
DJ did it again! Another hit! I love all of her books and they just get better. I can’t wait to read Jensen and Carter’s books!
Read
November 29, 2025⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️
🎧🎧🎧🎧
This book was so good!! DJ has become one of my favorite writers. The way she is able to take some of the heaviest traumas and build characters that conquer them in a way that heals something in all of us is beautiful. There were some really heavy things going on from Ozzy’s past and her healing to the Rowe family having to come to terms with Morris’ terminal cancer. Somehow DJ is able to bring the banter to help ease some of the emotional heaviness. I absolutely loved Ozzy and her relationship with Morris. He saw her before anyone else did. Then we have lovable Jackson. Watching the relationship between Ozzy and Jackson unfold was beautiful. They are probably one of my favorite couples I’ve read this year! Can’t wait to jump into more of DJ’s books..
🌶️🌶️
🎧🎧🎧🎧
This book was so good!! DJ has become one of my favorite writers. The way she is able to take some of the heaviest traumas and build characters that conquer them in a way that heals something in all of us is beautiful. There were some really heavy things going on from Ozzy’s past and her healing to the Rowe family having to come to terms with Morris’ terminal cancer. Somehow DJ is able to bring the banter to help ease some of the emotional heaviness. I absolutely loved Ozzy and her relationship with Morris. He saw her before anyone else did. Then we have lovable Jackson. Watching the relationship between Ozzy and Jackson unfold was beautiful. They are probably one of my favorite couples I’ve read this year! Can’t wait to jump into more of DJ’s books..
February 25, 2026
Stray is such as survival, self-discovery, and finding where you truly belong are handled with depth and sensitivity. The balance of emotional moments with steady pacing, keeping the story engaging without feeling rushed. The writing style is clear and expressive, making it easy to picture each scene.
The main character feels real and relatable, especially in the way they deal with loneliness, identity, and the desire to belong. Krimmer writes with honesty, allowing readers to see both the strengths and flaws of the characters without making them seem unrealistic.
The main character feels real and relatable, especially in the way they deal with loneliness, identity, and the desire to belong. Krimmer writes with honesty, allowing readers to see both the strengths and flaws of the characters without making them seem unrealistic.
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