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Hunt Ranch #1

Night Rider

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'The perfect blend of suspense, heat, and heart – a beautiful portrayal of hard-won trust and healing. I couldn’t put this down!' BAILEY HANNAH⛰️⛰️⛰️

A hundred reasons to run. A cowboy to make her stay…

Hollywood starlet Nina Keller is searching for an escape. Arriving at Hunt Ranch after a terrifying assault, she only wants one to rediscover who she is.

Maverick Hunt was never a part of that plan. But with his kind heart and unwavering patience, Nina can’t help but feel safe around the strong – and undeniably handsome – cowboy. And that is worth more than he could ever know.

Enchanted by ranch life with Maverick and his young daughter, Poppy, Nina begins to imagine a future for herself in the country – in seeking an escape, she may have instead found a home.

But that dream is threatened when Nina’s past catches up with her. And when an unlikely predator strikes, she and Maverick must make a to let each other go or face the world together.

Featuring all your favourite 🤠 Big city actress x small town cowboy

💔 Complex characters healing together

💗 Slow burn romance

👨‍👧 Single dad

👪 Found family

🌶️ Spice

Early readers give 5 stars to Night Rider:‘This book is the perfect mix of high-stakes danger, heart-aching fear, and swoon-worthy cowboy romance’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

WOW. This book took my heart, shattered it, and then carefully put it back together in the most breathtaking way … stunning, emotional, and deeply heartfelt' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'This book simultaneously wrecked me and healed me all at the same time. I found Nina’s journey so raw and powerful – her story was so inspiring and written with such care’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Maverick is the ultimate green flag, he’s patient, thoughtful … all while being a rugged and tough cowboy. Oh, and did I mention he’s a single dad who owns a luxury ranch? Sign. Me. Up.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘With strong, relatable characters, a slow-burn romance that sizzles, and a beautifully atmospheric setting, this book delivers everything fans of the genre could want’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

399 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 29, 2026

52 people are currently reading
803 people want to read

About the author

Sloane Fletcher

6 books202 followers
Sloane is a (self-proclaimed) novice film critic, a middling yogi, and a pro smut enthusiast. She loves writing damaged heroes and heroines and isn’t above exploring topics that make you uncomfortable—but always with a happy ever after. Sloane lives with her husband, two dogs, and sixty-three houseplants in California’s Central Valley. When she’s not writing, she can be found day drinking with her friends, crying to sad songs by no-name artists on YouTube, and Googling the disturbing factoids she hears on true crime shows.

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5 stars
130 (48%)
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106 (39%)
3 stars
22 (8%)
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6 (2%)
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2 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 195 reviews
Profile Image for Bree.
145 reviews30 followers
July 20, 2025
Looking for the perfect cowboy… I found him!!

Maverick is the ultimate green flag, he’s patient, thoughtful, and the kind of man who gives you butterflies with how sweet he is… all while being a rugged & tough cowboy. Oh, and did I mention he’s a single dad who owns a luxury ranch? Sign. Me. Up.

This story follows Nina and Maverick. Nina is an actress working through fresh trauma and heads to Maverick’s ranch to run/heal. Their love story is so heartfelt and genuine. It is full of soft tender moments that made me melt and some hard painful moments. Nina’s story is a powerful healing journey. I loved watching her grow!

There’s some suspense, but it’s mainly about the emotional aftermath of SA. Sloane handled it with such care and sensitivity but didn’t shy around how ugly it can be! Definitely check triggers.

Also, I need to shout out Markus because everyone deserves a best friend like him. Honestly, all the side characters were amazing!

“Run” by George Strait. IYKYK 🥹
I loved how this song was incorporated.

Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Profile Image for Derrian Whetton.
50 reviews15 followers
March 15, 2025
My heart is so full after finishing Night Rider. What a beautiful story of overcoming trauma, heartbreak, grief, and PTSD. I’m fully in awe of Nina and her resilience, Mav with his patience and with Sloane for putting together the most beautiful story. Thank you, thank you, thank you for the opportunity to early read this book. It’s one that will stick with me for a while!
Profile Image for Angie.
117 reviews8 followers
March 30, 2025
Sloane crafts a captivating blend of emotional trauma, healing, spicy romance, and suspense in this passion-filled cowboy tale. Famous actress Nina is recovering from a devastating assault and seeks refuge at a luxury ranch where she meets Maverick—a rugged, heart-of-gold cowboy and the ideal single father. Scarred by his own trauma of love lost, Maverick’s trust in women is as rocky as a dry riverbed. Yet, despite his reservations, he’s drawn to Nina—her connection with the horses, and even more so, her way with his daughter. Soon, their chemistry sparks and crackles under the country night sky.

I loved the perfect mix of thrilling suspense and unexpected humor, thanks to Nina’s funny and fabulously witty best friend, who brings some much-needed levity to the emotional rollercoaster. The romance between Nina and Maverick is sizzling hot—Maverick is the kind of cowboy you dream about: strong enough to lift you with one hand, protective, and undeniably sexy (light eyes, dark hair, anyone?). I will say, for someone with trust issues, he sure fell hard and fast for our vulnerable lady ;) The sexual tension between them builds up beautifully, mixed with the emotional weight of their pasts and the challenges they face together, making this an unforgettable ride with a handsome night rider. The ranch setting, with its wide-open skies and rugged charm, provides the perfect backdrop to their heated connection, making it the kind of sexy, heartwarming story you can’t put down. Maverick’s deep passion for the horses and his way of life truly tugged at my heartstrings.

Thank you Sloane for the ARC. <333Cannot wait for the next installment!
Profile Image for Ashley.
125 reviews6 followers
October 27, 2025
Sloane Fletcher took my heart on a wild, emotional ride with Night Rider. This book is the perfect mix of high-stakes danger, heart-aching fear, and swoon-worthy cowboy romance. From the first page, I was completely invested in Nina’s journey—her pain, her resilience, and her fight to survive had me on edge the entire time. And Maverick? Be still my heart. The way he instantly steps in to protect Nina, no hesitation, no second-guessing—just pure, instinctual devotion—had me swooning from the start.

But what truly made this book unforgettable was the Hunt family. Their love, loyalty, and unwavering support wrapped around Nina like the kind of warmth she never knew she needed. Watching her slowly let down her walls, learning to trust again after everything she’s been through, was absolutely beautiful. The emotional depth in this story hit hard in the best way, proving that love, whether romantic or found in family, has the power to heal even the deepest wounds — both emotional and physical.

Night Rider isn’t just a romance—it’s a story of survival, trust, and learning to love after life has broken you. With its rugged cowboy charm, heart-pounding suspense, and deeply emotional core, this book is one that lingers long after the last page. I adored every second of it!

Thank you so much for an early advanced reader copy!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Amber Dickmann.
21 reviews1 follower
March 16, 2025
Great, sweet story. I think we all want a Mav in our lives! 🥰 yes please!!!! Thanks for the opportunity to ARC this book!
Profile Image for Ryana Horton.
121 reviews3 followers
March 6, 2025
MAVERICK. my god. WHAT. A. MAN. i stayed up all night to read this and my god was it worth it. honestly every character in this book, aside from he-who-shall-not-be-name, was fantastic and i loved them. i can't wait for benji, i just know it's gonna be good.

what i really enjoyed about this book is that nina stood on her own. she was supported, sure, but nobody did the hard work for her. i love a book with a fmc in peril but i don't necessarily want the fmc to play the white knight that takes over and does it all. and sloane really let nina grow and show her strength.

sloane, kudos to you. this was an ULTIMATE 5 star read. thank you for the ARC, i'll be thinking of this book for a while.

what's inside:
-romantic suspense/drama
-cowboy mmc x actress fmc
-single dad
-found family
-luxury dude ranch setting

cw/tw:
-depictions of a single sexual assault (min-mod detail in prologue, can be skipped without hindering the story)
-reference to sexual assault, rape and grievous bodily harm
-descriptive sexual content
Profile Image for Madison_renee2415.
416 reviews5 followers
February 4, 2026
Make sure you check your triggers before reading!

Nina is at the top of her acting career when she is attacked and goes into hiding at Hunt Ranch to heal. Maverick is the co-owner of Hunt Ranch who tries to help Nina in any way he can, while trying to not fall for her. 
I loved Poppy! She is such a cutie and she made me laugh so much (Maverick's daughter).
I loved how Maverick was slowly helping Nina as she tried to find herself at the Ranch by taking her mind off of everything while she helped take care of the rescue horse. Maverick has such a big heart and loves to help people and horses.
I don't want to give too much away, I am no spoiler. I am a sucker for Single daddy's!!!!!
This was really a good book.
Profile Image for Ellen (elmreadsbooks).
60 reviews48 followers
February 7, 2026
This was an enjoyable read and a genuinely interesting twist on a cowboy romance, I wasn't expecting it to have so much depth honestly. From the cover I got fluffy cowboy romance vibes but this felt like more of a romantic thriller in a lot of ways and I really enjoyed the genre mix. At its core, Night Rider is a healing romance wrapped up in the in ranch life bow but it has a dark undertone.

This book deals with some heavy topics including SA, difficult parental relationships, and child loss. I’d strongly recommend checking content warnings before going in, I had and I’m really glad I did because yikes.

Nina, the FMC, is dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic assault at the very start of the book, and the story is largely about her trying to process that trauma and figure out who she is outside of the life she’s been running from. That emotional through line kept me hooked when the romance started to feel a little generic, I just really wanted to know what happened and how it would all unfold.

Maverick (MMC) is our cookie cutter hottie, total green flag, grumpy and mysterious, adorable and great with kids etc. I’ll be honest the name Maverick (and the nickname “Mav”) did absolutely nothing for me 🫣 but that’s 100% personal preference and I just started reading it as Max instead haha. As a character though he’s incredibly conscious of Nina’s boundaries and consent, which I loved. The way consent is handled throughout this book is genuinely one of its strongest points. Soft, careful, respectful after everything she'd been through and honestly, very hot because of it. Consent is sexy!! There’s a small moment at a BBQ where they’re just sitting together and their thighs touch, and it captures that early relationship butterflies feeling perfectly, it was so cute and I think that was my fave part of the whole book tbh.

Overall I'd say its a solid twist on a cowboy romance and i'd recommend it!

Social review posts to follow.
Profile Image for Andrea.
89 reviews2 followers
Read
December 6, 2025
I liked the premise of the book and a cowboy romance is always a good time. While I didn’t expect it to be in 3rd person POV, as I am used to contemporary romances being in first person, I quickly came to like how we got both POVs within each chapter/at the same time. I also became very intrigued by Sierra and Benji’s story and, while I read Night Rider until 33%, I imagine the next book will be about them. This book, however, is unfortunately a DNF for me. I didn’t feel very invested in the story and I thought that everything happened way too quickly. I think the prologue should have been extended slightly, perhaps so that we got to know more about Nina, before moving to the present day where she’s going to the ranch and meeting Maverick. I think they meet too quickly in the story and their “tension”/connection comes out of left field. They only knew each other for 3 days (or that’s what I gathered from what I read), and they ended up kissing without any preamble. It just felt too insta-lust/love without them knowing the other for a sufficient time. Mav tells Nina she is the strongest person he knows while only knowing her for 3 days. It didn’t feel realistic to me, so I had a hard time connecting to the story. If things moved more slowly, I think I would have liked Mav, Nina and Poppy’s characters.
Profile Image for Ciara Reads.
104 reviews66 followers
November 23, 2025
Night rider is a cowboy romance with a serious side. While it has the cosy setting, gorgeous cowboys and found family that the cover leads you to expect, it also doesn’t shy away from trauma and exploring the aftermath of sexual assault in detail.

The characters were wonderful. It was so easy to sympathise with Nina and I enjoyed her connection with Maverick. Poppy was a really well written child character and Markus was very likeable and so much fun. The found family was a highlight of the book for me. I adored the luxury ranch setting setting and the time spent with the horses in the first half.

I had some issues with the pacing and really struggled with the third person narration at the beginning. I was eventually able to look past it but I would have preferred to read this story in the first person.

While I do recommend picking up this book, don’t go into it purely for the romance which is well done, but is more or less resolved by the half way mark. The latter half predominantly focuses on Nina working through her trauma and demanding justice for her assault. I feel like I might have enjoyed this more if I’d known what I was getting into from the beginning and hadn’t picked it up when I was in the mood for a lighter romance read.
1 review
February 5, 2026
For my first ARC review, it was spectacular. I’ve never read anything of Sloane Fletchers, but she provided an amazing and considerate view on Sexual Assault and the reality of SA survivors trying to navigate life after.
Every character played such an important part of the story and the development of found family. She made us fall in love with Maverick as a brooding, sexy cowboy, singer and single father. I loved his understanding for the space that Nina needed to recover and for wanting to keep him and his daughter safe from the ramifications of seeking justice for her abuser. The other character that deserves mentioning is Marcus, the best friend that everyone wants and deserves in their life.
In the acknowledgements, Fletcher says how if you’re reading this book you’re probably a woman who has been trained to be weary and careful in this world. We understand and we sympathize with these victims and survivors. It’s not an easy topic to read about, but Sloane did a fantastic job of bringing us along Nina’s journey of recovery and discovering love both romantically and in friendship. I can’t wait to read about Sierra and Benji’s story next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Miranda Black.
44 reviews
April 6, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ I loved this book! You couldn’t help but fall in love with Nina and Maverick! I will think of this story every time I hear the song Run by George Strait! I am a sucker for a good cowboy romance and this certainly delivered! Maverick was such a gentleman! I loved how patient he was with Nina given all that she had been through! I also loved how Nina always put Poppy first!

Thank you Sloane Fletcher for the opportunity to read an ARC copy!
Profile Image for Becky Parker.
212 reviews
February 6, 2026
This was fantastic.

The strength that Nina showed throughout the book was admirable. Nina suffered a horrific attack and even though she was terrified she kept trying to live her life as normal.

Maverick helped Nina as much as he could without smothering her. He gave her the strength she needed to push through but also the space she needed as well.

This book was beautiful and emotional. I was completely hooked throughout.
Profile Image for Christina.
613 reviews12 followers
March 7, 2025
I want to preface this by saying I’m not usually one to enjoy a 3rd person POV but Sloane knocked it out of the park with this one! It is also the first time I’ve read a book by her and it’s hard to find new authors that you and enjoy and I now I found another one to add to my list!

Nina Keller is a famous actress and one night she is assaulted in her home. She needs to get away from LA and goes to Hunt Ranch to recuperate from her injuries and get over her fear and anxiety due to the attack. Nina is fragile at this time and every little thing is tough for her to handle. Enter Maverick Hunt who is one of the owners of the each alongside his sister Sierra. The hot AF cowboy is a single dad to Poppy and has a gentle heart and he sees what Nina is going through. Nina is scared and Maverick helps her heal by showing her how life on a ranch works and Nina grows accustom to it and it helps her in ways she couldn’t even imagine.

Nina and Maverick form a strong bond and despite not knowing each other long they fall in love and it’s a beautiful story. It has romantic suspense, drama and everything else in between. Such a great story! I can’t wait for the next book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Bree Dodge.
16 reviews
March 12, 2025
I don't think I will ever listen to George Strait's "Run" again without thinking about this book. I finished reading it 4 days ago and I still think about it multiple times a day. The characters were AMAZING. Maverick may be one of my favorite book boyfriends of all time. Marcus was one of my favorite characters in the book too! Everything about this book was perfect... character building, plot, romance, everything. If I could give it more than 5 stars I would!!
Profile Image for Lauren Molyneux.
286 reviews19 followers
January 26, 2026
I fell in love with this from the first chapter, and I think I knew this was going to be 5 stars when the author actually humanised the MMC's ex, instead of just having her be the "villain". I'm looking forward to being absolutely destroyed by the next book.
Profile Image for ❤️Tina❤️.
264 reviews16 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
January 12, 2026
4.5⭐️

I love a cowboy romance and this one gave me everything I love but it also delves into some hard hitting topics and had me getting emotional.

Nina is an actress and after a traumatic event, she flees Hollywood and arrives at the ranch, hoping to hide and recuperate. She finds herself drawn to the handsome dimpled cowboy Ranch owner Maverick.

Maverick is juggling running a ranch with being a single dad but finds himself mesmerised the first time he seems Nina Keller, despite the sadness he can see behind her beautiful eyes.

I adored Maverick, he has the patience of a saint and is so understanding with Nina. Despite closing herself off, Nina can't help but open up to Mav.

‘𝗜 𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘁𝗼 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗺𝗲 𝘀𝗼 𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗜 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗲𝘁 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗲𝗹𝘀𝗲, 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻 𝗺𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗹𝘆.’

This story is beautiful and heartbreaking. It deals with grief, PTSD and trauma. Sloane wrote the characters so well, you can't help but fall in love with them.

The only thing I would have liked was a bit more closure at the end, I wanted to know the karma that had come around for those that deserved it!

I am looking forward to Sierra and Benji's story, even though I know it's going to rip my heart out!

Thank you so much to HQ for the copy for my honest review 🫶
Profile Image for Jayme .
111 reviews2 followers
March 7, 2025
I absolutely devoured this book. This story was so addicting. The amount of love and awe I have for Nina! It's filled with trauma and healing and the way Nina and Maverick have this magnetic pull towards each other! You can't help but to fall in love with each character in this book. The raw feelings you get while reading this made this book more special.
Profile Image for Leanne .
129 reviews12 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
January 10, 2026
wow this was such an emotional, heartfelt book. The resilience and determination of the heroine was inspiring and Mav *sigh* all heroes should be like him. Such a green flag 🥺

one thing that really stood out is the third person pov. It really gave the book such a nostalgic edge, I've missed having third person in romance books!

full review later when my head is not spinning but overall loved loved loved it and highly recommend

but please do read the trigger warnings because this was hard to read in places ❤️

many thanks to the publishers @hqstories for the early copy!
Profile Image for Maddie Jane.
60 reviews1 follower
May 16, 2025
*** another update ***
I’m glad to see this books release was pushed back and will be released with a non AI cover. I hope Author Sloane understands the impact and hurt AI causes small businesses, creators, and even us fans as well. I changed the rating back to what it was originally before the use of AI was known as I believe this book and the writing she put behind it is owed that. I will not change the review as it shows growth.

*** Update ***
It has come to light that the cover was created using generative AI, I am fully against the use of AI when there are so many options an author can use. This is super disheartening as I truly loved this book and the characters. However, I can’t fathom defending AI and its use in this case and the on going double downing where the author doesn’t take the criticism, asking for reviews to be deleted.

It’s very well known in the bookish community that we are very against AI. There are plenty of artists that can be commissioned to create characters art and covers.

*****

⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️

Woaaaah. My heart cannot take this.

I received an ARC copy of this title and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. Mav and Nina are so perfect. How can you not love a rugged cowboy MMC and a drop dead gorgeous actress FMC.

Nina is so relatable from her childhood background and the reason she goes to Hunt Ranch to get away. I’m so happy for the HEA! And POPPY, she’s so adorable the entire time!

If you love a good fast pace, romantic suspense/drama centered around a Hollywood actress and a single cowboy dad. This is the book for you.
Profile Image for Dee.
125 reviews10 followers
December 14, 2025
4⭐️

Night rider

Thank you so much to Net Galley for this book, I thoroughly enjoyed it! If you like romantic suspense and cowboys then this is for you.
Nina is a famous actress who has been assaulted and runs to a high end ranch resort to escape and reset.
There she meets the most gorgeous sweet cowboy ever.. sigh.. Maverick you’re gorgeous!
He teaches her how to ride and can see how traumatized she is, there’s even a gorgeous Palomino horse that she names Barbie.. I mean come on, that’s perfect!
I loved the first half of the book with the beautiful ranch setting, her healing with the horses and Maverick and with her best friend Markus, LOVE him!
The second half focuses on her trauma and steps she takes to get her life back. I enjoyed the second half too, couldn’t put the book down but I wish we had more of the horses and ranch life sprinkled throughout the second half, especially since she had a bond with Barbie and I would have liked to see more of that where they heal together.
The writing is amazing it just pulls you in and I might have to get a paper copy when it’s out.
It could have been shorter since it was a bit repetitive but honestly it was so good that it didn’t bother me too much.
Overall I loved the book, and Mavericks daughter Poppy was a cutie.
If you like Catherine Cowles books I think you will love this! Can’t wait to see what this wonderful author releases next.
Profile Image for Leah-Marie.
112 reviews4 followers
March 12, 2025
WOW. This book took my heart, shattered it, and then carefully put it back together in the most breathtaking way. Night Rider is everything I could have hoped for and more—a stunning, emotional, and deeply heartfelt story that lingers long after the last page.

Let’s start with Mav. I officially have a new book boyfriend because he is everything. Protective, patient, unwaveringly loyal, and so full of love—he’s the kind of character that burrows into your soul. Watching him love so fiercely, so completely, was nothing short of beautiful. And the way he holds space for someone who has been through so much? Perfection.

And then there’s Nina. My heart ached for her, but at the same time, I was in awe of her. She has been through the unthinkable, yet she carries herself with so much quiet strength and kindness. Even after everything, she still has so much love to give, and the way she slowly lets herself trust, lets herself feel, is so incredibly powerful. Her journey isn’t easy, but it’s real—messy, raw, and full of emotions that hit straight to the heart. She is a survivor in every sense, and I was rooting for her from the very first page.

This book captures vulnerability and healing in a way that feels raw and authentic. Every emotion is so carefully woven into the story—grief, fear, hope, and, most of all, the kind of love that transforms you. There’s a deep, aching tenderness in these pages, and I felt everything right alongside the characters.

Beyond the romance, the found family aspect stole my heart. The friendships, the unconditional support, the ride-or-die loyalty—this book is filled with the kind of relationships that remind you love isn’t just romantic, it’s in the people who choose you, stand by you, and love you as you are. Also, can we talk about the absolute icon that is the gay best friend? A scene-stealer in the best way!

And then there’s the sweetest little addition—Mav’s daughter. She is beyond adorable, bringing so much warmth and light into this story. The way she interacts with the characters, her pure heart, and the way she effortlessly strengthens the bonds between them made my heart melt. She’s one of those kids who steals the show in the best possible way.

I loved every single thing about this book, and I already know Sierra and Benji’s story is going to wreck me in the most beautiful way. If it’s anything like Night Rider, it will be filled with the same depth, the same raw emotion, and the same soul-stirring love that made this book unforgettable.

If you love stories that make you feel—truly, deeply feel—this book is an absolute must-read.
Profile Image for bookgirlieri X.
106 reviews1 follower
March 13, 2025
Night Rider takes readers on a passionate journey through the rugged, sweeping landscapes of the Wild West, blending romance, adventure, crime and a touch of suspense. Set in a cowboy-centric world, this novel delivers a compelling narrative that explores love, loyalty, and the struggle to overcome past traumas. Fans of cowboy romance will find plenty to savor in this heartfelt story. (Please do read the trigger warnings ⚠️)

The story follows Nina Keller, a compelling protagonist who is strong, independent, and yet vulnerable. Nina ends up in a luxurious dude ranch, seeking a fresh start after a life of hardship & childhood trauma. She’s a woman trying to escape her painful past, struggling to come to terms with being sexually assaulted, looking for solace and a sense of stability. Her determination to rebuild her life and protect her heart is relatable, and her internal struggles with trust and love are deeply human. She’s not portrayed as a damsel in distress but as someone who decides to face her past and embrace the possibility of a future with Maverick Hunt. Nina’s growth throughout the novel is both heartwarming and empowering.

Maverick, the quintessential cowboy hero, is complex and multi-layered. He’s a man with a tortured past and a rugged exterior, yet his interactions with Nina reveal a tenderness and depth that makes him irresistible. His emotional walls are as high as the mountains that surround his ranch, and watching him lower them for Nina is a deeply satisfying journey. Maverick is the kind of hero who embodies both strength and vulnerability, making him a perfect counterpart to Nina’s resilience.

As Nina becomes more entwined in Maverick’s life, they face numerous challenges. There are external threats, personal demons, and emotional walls that keep them apart even as their attraction deepens. Nina must confront her past while Maverick wrestles with his own fears and insecurities. The romance develops slowly but passionately, with the two characters navigating their shared emotional baggage, the dangers surrounding them, and their undeniable connection.

To conclude, this is a cowboy romance that will leave readers both swooning and breathless. With strong, relatable characters, a slow-burn romance that sizzles, and a beautifully atmospheric setting, this book delivers everything fans of the genre could want. Nina and Maverick’s journey is one of healing, trust, and ultimately, love. Their emotional growth and the challenges they face together make their romance all the more satisfying.
Profile Image for Mina.
81 reviews7 followers
March 16, 2025
❤️‍🩹 ARC Review ❤️‍🩹

Rating: 5/5
Spice: 🔥.5

First and foremost, Sloane, thank you for choosing me as an ARC reader. The book is fuhkin amazing! You’ve crafted such a beautiful and profound story about love, trust, healing, and hope. It’s truly a masterpiece! It’s written in the third person point of view, which took me a while to adjust to. Once I got past that, I thoroughly enjoyed the book.

Nina’s story is so raw and honest. It shows how tired it is to put on a brave face, how scared you are of losing yourself, and how hard it is to find your way back to feeling safe and loved. Learning to lean, trust and find a safety net in her best friend and her newfound family.

Maverick Hunt. I would do anything for that man. He’s definitely bumped up on my book boyfriends list, no, scratched that, husbands list. He is such an amazing dad to the sweetest little girl, Poppy. He embodies all that a partner could desire—loyalty, support, and a profound connection to Nina’s journey. Their heartwarming and hopeful relationship exemplifies love and healing.

Buckle up, folks, because this cowboy romance is gonna take you on a wild ride! Nina and Maverick’s story is about healing, trust, and love. They’ll grow together, face some tough times, and in the end, they’ll find their happily ever after. It’s a heartwarming and thrilling love story that’ll leave you swooning and breathless.

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169 reviews
March 13, 2025
E-ARC Book Review—Night Rider by Sloane Fletcher—Spoiler Free

Night Rider available April 5, 2025

Nina Keller is one of Hollywood’s top stars at the moment and finishing up a movie that could have her winning an Oscar. She’s living the life she always dreamed of until one day someone breaks into her home and assaults her leaving her broken, bruised, and a shell of the woman she was just days earlier.

She sets it up to recover on the private luxury ranch outside of L.A., Hunt Ranch, owned by brother and sister Maverick and Sierra Hunt. They’ve been updated about what happened to her even though it’s been kept out of the media so they’re prepared to keep her safe and her stay as private as possible. Maverick tries to keep his distance from her to not make her uncomfortable, but as he introduces her to a rescue horse and ranch life, neither of them can deny the attraction they feel for one another.

What you’ll find:

💫Heroine in Hiding
💫Single Dad
💫Cowboy/Actress
💫Found Family

This cowboy romance (with a little thriller) had me turning the pages to find out what would happen next. Maverick and Nina’s relationship was wonderful and mature. I loved that they were both open with what they wanted and what they could give. There were parts I was mentally cheering and parts that had me tearing up. It was emotional and I could feel the love that all the main characters had for one another. I also, can’t wait for the next book following a couple of characters we met here. Their story was set up perfectly. Overall, this was a fantastic read and Sloane Fletcher did such a great job.


⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️






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Profile Image for Kelli.
78 reviews3 followers
March 11, 2025
Night Rider - Book 1 in the Hunt ranch series by Sloane Fletcher was FABULOUS!!

Nina Keller is an actress on the run from a bad situation in LA. She seeks a hidden refuge in Hunt Ranch and gets more than she bargained for when she crossed paths with the ranch owner Maverick. The single dad and Nina go through a slow burn period but ultimately, their connection is unavoidable.

This western romance has the perfect blend of romance, suspense and spice and is well written to keep you engaged. Lovable side characters, found family and a swoony George Straight “Run” scene to make you want to grab your cowboy and hold him tight.

Maverick is true book loyal and supportive boyfriend material and Nina is a strong female main character that has overcame so much in her life that it is natural to want to cheer for her.

A few of my favorite clips:

“I figure we’re not compatible. I know you need to go back and pick up your life and the career you’ve worked so hard for. But the only thing I’m certain of is that if I don’t take what I can of you while you’re here, I’ll regret it for the rest of my life.”

Swoon moment: “Mav, you’ve known me two weeks. Two of the lowest weeks of my life.” “Yeah, maybe. But I’ve been searching for you for a lifetime, and that has to count for something. And if I can love you as much as I do at your lowest, God only knows how much I’ll love you at your best.”

MMC - 40 year old Cowboy - ranch owner, single dad
MFC - 34 year old Actress on the run
Found family: Adorable 5 year old daughter and loyal best friends and siblings.
🌶️🌶️

Read trigger warnings.
“This book contains depictions of a heavily moderated single sexual assault and reference to sexual assault, rape, and grievous bodily harm.” DO slip the prologue if this triggers you.

I received an ARC copy of this book and this review is 100% my own.
Launches April 5, 2025 - go ahead and add it to the top of that TBR.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Victoria Rose.
93 reviews3 followers
February 2, 2026
4.5✨

This is Big city actress x small town cowboy meets single dad meets slow burn meets found family and a sprinkling of spice chucked in for good measure.

I love a cowboy romance as much as the rest of us but I find that sometimes they can come across a bit samey and predictable, but this had such a magnetic freshness to it. Firstly because of the general story line, Fletchers writing had me reading this at every spare moment I could find in my day. I literally could not put it down which is rare for me. But secondly because of the characters. Nina and Mav (along with Poppy, Sierra, Markus and Benji) will genuinely stay in my heart for a while. I couldn’t route for a fictional couple more. Actually that’s a lie… I could… the way I need to read book 2 in this series immediately because it is Sierra and Benji’s story. It’s going to be a special one.

Fletchers writing style has made her an instant favourite of mine and I can’t wait to dive back into Hunt Ranch with my now most anticipated book of the year, ‘Blue Devil Woman’.

🐴
Night Rider by Sloane Fletcher is the first book in the Hunt Ranch series, a contemporary cowboy romance that follows Hollywood starlet Nina Keller as she seeks refuge at a ranch after a traumatic assault, finding healing and a new life with the ranch owner, Maverick Hunt, a single father, while confronting her past. The story blends romance, suspense, and themes of healing, trust, and finding home, featuring a slow-burn romance and a strong, protective hero.

Thank you as always to NetGalley for a copy of this arc 💓
Profile Image for Emily Jundt.
54 reviews4 followers
March 16, 2025
ARC Review!!!!

Sloane Fletcher absolutely knocked it out of the freaking park with this book! Like, I could talk about this everyday and not be bored 😂

Nina Keller is a freaking badass of a woman who was handed such terrible and awful cards in life, a drunk/drug mom who slept around and endangered Nina’s life AND assaulted in her own home. Despite all of that tragedy, Nina is strong, resilient, capable, intelligent, kind, compassionate, and loving. Throughout the entire book, she puts others before herself, no matter if it costs her.

In walks Maverick Hunt in his jeans, t-shirt, and backwards baseball hat. He’s tall, strong, hard-working, caring, and also extremely good-looking! He wears his heart on his sleeve and puts others first. Oh, and he has an adorable little girl AND he rides horses 😍 I mean, what more could you want?!

Together, these two find bout that they want to be together and have undeniable chemistry, but they both have past trauma that is keeping them from opening up completely to each other.

This book deals with some very heavy and difficult topics: home invasion, physical/sexual assault, abandonment, trust issues, and more. But Sloane does a beautiful job of telling Nina and Maverick’s story in a heartfelt and honest way.


10/10 highly recommended!!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Jeliza Torres.
354 reviews10 followers
March 17, 2025
You know it’s a really good book when you highlight so many parts that either had your heart fluttering/breaking, or outright giggling. I never wanted it to end that’s how much I loved it!

Nina is an actress with a huge following. Until she was physically and sexually assaulted and needed to flee from the career she worked so hard for. She decides to stay at the Hunts Ranch for a month to recover and heal. Her stay there made her feel safe with the help by the ranch owner Mav Hunt. And oh did I love everything about her stay there!

When Mav first set his eyes on her he immediately lost his shit internally when he saw the bruises on her face. Although he kept his distance, he couldn’t help by at least try to be there for her. Then we have adorable little poppy who is Mavs daughter and his sister Sierra who I LOVE, especially when she’s around Nina’s best friend Markus. They are so hilarious together!

Mav’s never ending love proved to Nina that she can trust him. Especially during the trials she had to face against her abuser. I’m just so happy and love that her wish came true 🤍

I can’t wait for what Sloane has in store for Blue Devil Woman 🩵
Profile Image for S.A. Bierly.
Author 1 book4 followers
March 16, 2025
Wow, what a plot line! This story was super good. Typically when I read books by new authors, I find a common writing style that clearly indicates a new author - I did not find that with this book.

The writing was exquisite. You find yourself fully immersed in Maverick and Nina’s story, feeling their love, their pain, their uncertainty. This was really well done.

It’s a difficult plot line to read (read trigger warnings!!) but it is handled extremely well and that makes it feel all the more real. The only drawback I have with this story is that two strangers fall madly in love (like inseparable love) in TWO WEEKS. 75% of the book takes place over two weeks, which is kinda crazy to me. But it’s written in a way that doesn’t feel like that, the characters just keep reminding you the timeline because it’s important for the plot.

Overall, this was a really good book. It’s long, but it kept me captivated and I read the majority in one afternoon. I liked this story a lot! Really looking forward to Benji and Sierra’s story because there’s SO MUCH there.
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