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Cloverleaf Meadows #2
Saddled in Secrets
It's his job to keep me safe, but his obsession is free of charge...
Bianca
This entire mess started when my older brother’s best friend got hired to be my bodyguard.
Colton Keller has been keeping an eye on me ever since he came to live on our ranch. The wall of muscle wrapped in mysterious darkness has spoken less than five words to me in the same amount of years.
But now that Colton’s position is official, he follows me like a reclusive shadow. I try to ditch him at every turn, but he never lets me get too far.
Just as I’m about to get more creative with my evasive maneuvers, a threat to my safety pushes him to the extreme.
Colton
I’m obsessed with my best friend’s younger sister. There’s no other way to describe my desire for Bianca Benson. It’s another secret saddled to me.
But then her brother assigns me to watch over the reckless rodeo princess, as if I haven’t been doing that already.
What started as an obligation to protect her has grown into a necessity.
It’s the only part of her that’s mine. At least until my past resurfaces to haunt me.
Bianca bucks my restrictive methods as complications force my hand. She wants answers that I’m not ready to share. I’ll only surrender once she’s ready to admit the truth.
My infatuation might’ve started it, but hers will save us.
Bianca
This entire mess started when my older brother’s best friend got hired to be my bodyguard.
Colton Keller has been keeping an eye on me ever since he came to live on our ranch. The wall of muscle wrapped in mysterious darkness has spoken less than five words to me in the same amount of years.
But now that Colton’s position is official, he follows me like a reclusive shadow. I try to ditch him at every turn, but he never lets me get too far.
Just as I’m about to get more creative with my evasive maneuvers, a threat to my safety pushes him to the extreme.
Colton
I’m obsessed with my best friend’s younger sister. There’s no other way to describe my desire for Bianca Benson. It’s another secret saddled to me.
But then her brother assigns me to watch over the reckless rodeo princess, as if I haven’t been doing that already.
What started as an obligation to protect her has grown into a necessity.
It’s the only part of her that’s mine. At least until my past resurfaces to haunt me.
Bianca bucks my restrictive methods as complications force my hand. She wants answers that I’m not ready to share. I’ll only surrender once she’s ready to admit the truth.
My infatuation might’ve started it, but hers will save us.
Paperback
Published September 22, 2025
982 people are currently reading
8577 people want to read
About the author
Harloe Rae
44 books6,238 followersHarloe Rae is a USA Today & Amazon Top 10 bestselling author. Her passion for writing and reading has taken on a whole new meaning. Each day is an unforgettable adventure.
She's a Minnesota gal with a serious addiction to romance. She’s always chasing an epic happily ever after. When she’s not buried in the writing cave, Harloe can be found hanging with her hubby and son. If the weather permits, she loves being lakeside or out in the country with her horses.
She writes emotional, heartfelt romance with swoony heroes and sassy leading ladies. Her titles are available on Amazon.
Find all the latest on her site www.harloe-rae.blog
Subscribe to her newsletter at http://bit.ly/HarloesList
Join her reader group, Harloe’s Hotties, at http://www.facebook.com/harloehotties
She's a Minnesota gal with a serious addiction to romance. She’s always chasing an epic happily ever after. When she’s not buried in the writing cave, Harloe can be found hanging with her hubby and son. If the weather permits, she loves being lakeside or out in the country with her horses.
She writes emotional, heartfelt romance with swoony heroes and sassy leading ladies. Her titles are available on Amazon.
Find all the latest on her site www.harloe-rae.blog
Subscribe to her newsletter at http://bit.ly/HarloesList
Join her reader group, Harloe’s Hotties, at http://www.facebook.com/harloehotties
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 175 reviews
October 5, 2025
This book took me forever to finish. Not because the book is any bad, but it was some places kind of dragged out.
And my own life have been chaotic the last week, so not much time for reading.
But this man is so sweet and obsessed with her, he stalks her for the last 5 years and everything he does is for her. And yes, he is celibate the whole time!
- He falls first and harder
- Hero with traumatic past
- H stalks h
- Celibate hero
- Bodyguard
- Brothers best friend
Safety:
- No info about either of their last time, but H said he hasn’t been with anyone since he first met the h 5 years ago. Not so long for the h
- No info about H former partners, but he isn’t a V
- H gets piercing on his d*ck, only h who ever gets to see and use them
- h have been with other men, but H is the only one who ever goes down on her
- No owd or omd
And my own life have been chaotic the last week, so not much time for reading.
But this man is so sweet and obsessed with her, he stalks her for the last 5 years and everything he does is for her. And yes, he is celibate the whole time!
- He falls first and harder
- Hero with traumatic past
- H stalks h
- Celibate hero
- Bodyguard
- Brothers best friend
Safety:
- No info about either of their last time, but H said he hasn’t been with anyone since he first met the h 5 years ago. Not so long for the h
- No info about H former partners, but he isn’t a V
- H gets piercing on his d*ck, only h who ever gets to see and use them
- h have been with other men, but H is the only one who ever goes down on her
- No owd or omd
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2025
4.5⭐️
Thank you to Harloe Rae for the eARC! This second book in the Cloverleaf Meadows series was definitely one I was looking forward to and I ate it up!
I’ve always kind of laughed at the idea of books putting unrealistic expectations of men in my head but it’s never really hit as hard as Colton Keller. Because that slightly moral grey man with stalker tendencies and an obsession with the same girl for 5 years has ruined me. Everything that man did for her, in thought of her, because of her, was definitely feeling those “romantic orgasms” that Bianca was too.
Saddled in Secrets follows Colton and Bianca right from where he first laid eyes on her to becoming her bodyguard in Europe to Colton finally admitting his true feelings. Add in a bit of drama with some unwelcome family members and you’ve got a spicy romance that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
I loved the pacing of this book even considering the somewhat insta love that occurred. But if we think about the overall timeline, Colton had been pining from the shadows for years. So when he finally came out of hiding and Bianca realized he was real and serious about her, I don’t blame her at all for falling head over heels.
There were a couple parts that dragged but honestly I was so focused on the tension between these two that I barely registered it. Truly an amazing story and cannot wait for Frankie and Byron!
Thank you to Harloe Rae for the eARC! This second book in the Cloverleaf Meadows series was definitely one I was looking forward to and I ate it up!
I’ve always kind of laughed at the idea of books putting unrealistic expectations of men in my head but it’s never really hit as hard as Colton Keller. Because that slightly moral grey man with stalker tendencies and an obsession with the same girl for 5 years has ruined me. Everything that man did for her, in thought of her, because of her, was definitely feeling those “romantic orgasms” that Bianca was too.
Saddled in Secrets follows Colton and Bianca right from where he first laid eyes on her to becoming her bodyguard in Europe to Colton finally admitting his true feelings. Add in a bit of drama with some unwelcome family members and you’ve got a spicy romance that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
I loved the pacing of this book even considering the somewhat insta love that occurred. But if we think about the overall timeline, Colton had been pining from the shadows for years. So when he finally came out of hiding and Bianca realized he was real and serious about her, I don’t blame her at all for falling head over heels.
There were a couple parts that dragged but honestly I was so focused on the tension between these two that I barely registered it. Truly an amazing story and cannot wait for Frankie and Byron!
September 22, 2025
We’re back in Cloverleaf Meadows with a seemingly spoiled cowgirl and her family's head of security who’s constantly dogging her heels. Of course, Bianca Benson isn’t happy with her Colton Keller-shaped shadow, but there's far more at play than meets the eye.
I’d be remiss not to talk about our hero, Colton. Grumpy, stoic, and taciturn, this guy gives off that cold-hearted, aloof, detached vibe, but nothing is further from the truth. Because he falls first, at first glance, and quietly carries that unrequited love until the time is right to win Bianca's heart. He's a man of steel resolve and quiet determination, and our girl Bianca doesn’t stand a chance. You'll be begging for this dirty talking, stalkerish, protective cowboy to toss his lasso your way.
And begging is something Bianca never thought she would do. She's a strong woman, used to making her own order of her world, but it's only so long before she sees the irrestible gift the broody cowboy really is. And when there's danger involved, there's no one better to have by her side.
This crafty wordsmith has done it again, giving us a riveting romance with authentic, vulnerable characters that's wildly emotional and satisfying. The banter is entertaining, the drama and danger is nail-biting, the chemistry is smoking hot, and the depth of heart is unmatched. One of my top reads this year, do your romantic heart a favor and dive into this one today.
I’d be remiss not to talk about our hero, Colton. Grumpy, stoic, and taciturn, this guy gives off that cold-hearted, aloof, detached vibe, but nothing is further from the truth. Because he falls first, at first glance, and quietly carries that unrequited love until the time is right to win Bianca's heart. He's a man of steel resolve and quiet determination, and our girl Bianca doesn’t stand a chance. You'll be begging for this dirty talking, stalkerish, protective cowboy to toss his lasso your way.
And begging is something Bianca never thought she would do. She's a strong woman, used to making her own order of her world, but it's only so long before she sees the irrestible gift the broody cowboy really is. And when there's danger involved, there's no one better to have by her side.
This crafty wordsmith has done it again, giving us a riveting romance with authentic, vulnerable characters that's wildly emotional and satisfying. The banter is entertaining, the drama and danger is nail-biting, the chemistry is smoking hot, and the depth of heart is unmatched. One of my top reads this year, do your romantic heart a favor and dive into this one today.
November 12, 2025
4 ⭐️
Celibate MMC (5 years since first seeing FMC - no info on past before that, doesn’t give manho vibes)
FMC is NOT a virgin (she’s been with a couple guys, no details or how long it’s been)
MMC got pierced (excessively lmaoooo) after hearing her mention it one time, she’s the only one he’s been with with them
No cheating or OW/OM drama
Totally safe - MMC is obsessed from the start, takes FMC longer to come around to her feelings
Celibate MMC (5 years since first seeing FMC - no info on past before that, doesn’t give manho vibes)
FMC is NOT a virgin (she’s been with a couple guys, no details or how long it’s been)
MMC got pierced (excessively lmaoooo) after hearing her mention it one time, she’s the only one he’s been with with them
No cheating or OW/OM drama
Totally safe - MMC is obsessed from the start, takes FMC longer to come around to her feelings
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2025
Colton Keller is Bianca Benson’s bodyguard who was hired by her older brother, Brody, originally to be head of security for the Benson family and their empire.
The book did start off slowly to me because the author back tracked to give us a piece of Colton’s past and Colton meeting Brody. Then years later, Colton meeting Bianca for the first time. Which led to Echo, Bianca’s mom’s horse being horse-napped and Bianca dragging Paisley, her best friend and brother’s wife, out with her to retrieve the horse and meeting Colton’s dad.
Colton has been in love with Bianca for five years and Bianca thinks he’s only around because he’s getting paid to be her bodyguard, but it’s so much than that. This man. THIS MAN! Oh my gosh, he’s 100% book boyfriend material! He cooks for her, he learned to ride horses for her, and he bought a house with a large plot of land so she could ride her horse around, and so much more!
I enjoyed the banter between Colton and Bianca; they are such a fun couple! I loved the relationship Bianca has with her family, who are supportive and love her and will do anything to protect her. I enjoyed the buildup of suspense throughout the book with Colton’s dad, who’s a bad man and trying to get Colton to take over the reins of the family business.
There are some sneak peaks into the next book in the series, which I cannot wait for!
The book did start off slowly to me because the author back tracked to give us a piece of Colton’s past and Colton meeting Brody. Then years later, Colton meeting Bianca for the first time. Which led to Echo, Bianca’s mom’s horse being horse-napped and Bianca dragging Paisley, her best friend and brother’s wife, out with her to retrieve the horse and meeting Colton’s dad.
Colton has been in love with Bianca for five years and Bianca thinks he’s only around because he’s getting paid to be her bodyguard, but it’s so much than that. This man. THIS MAN! Oh my gosh, he’s 100% book boyfriend material! He cooks for her, he learned to ride horses for her, and he bought a house with a large plot of land so she could ride her horse around, and so much more!
I enjoyed the banter between Colton and Bianca; they are such a fun couple! I loved the relationship Bianca has with her family, who are supportive and love her and will do anything to protect her. I enjoyed the buildup of suspense throughout the book with Colton’s dad, who’s a bad man and trying to get Colton to take over the reins of the family business.
There are some sneak peaks into the next book in the series, which I cannot wait for!
November 13, 2025
This was…. Not great. I mean, if you’re looking for lots of smut, with barely a plot, low angst, and lots of cringy dialogue, this is for you.
Here are the details:
- OTT stalker possessive H. Colton is from a rough background and is pulled from danger by Bianca’s brother, who becomes his best friend, after hiring him as security for his ranch. Over 7 yrs he works his way to head of security and apparently bodyguard for Bianca.
- altho what is this ranch? I have no idea; the actual workings of the ranch aren’t really mentioned.
Anyhoo, he becomes obsessed after seeing Bianca once. They rarely interact over the next 5 years, but gets various random tattoos in her honor, names his truck after the color of her eyes, and pierces his dick bc she happened to mention it once. He even buys a whole ass house and decorates it for her before she has idea of his feelings. She meanwhile can’t stand him because he’s always asked to protect her and limit her freedom.
- Why, you ask? Idk. I honestly don’t know. There’s a whole thing in the beginning when they’re traveling in Germany that made no sense to me.
When his dangerous dad gets in the picture, he scuttles her off to safety at the house he bought for her. Within two days she’s in love. Okey dokey. Then there’s some lingering danger but mostly just sex and lots of cringy dialogue.
- No third act breakup
- 7 yr age difference 24 and 31
- he’s a man w a dangerous past and she’s some kind of rodeo horse woman from a wealthy family.
- obsession (H)/dislike (h) to insta lust to insta love.
- low angst
- Communication - he literally communicates in one word grunts and scowls for the first 30%? of the book and she’s just fresh and bratty. It’s delightful. 🙄 He does finally tell her all the various ways that’s he’s obsessed and what he’s done for her and then it’s overly sweet love declarations and smut for the rest of the book.
- Danger - Colton is afraid his dad is going to hurt Bianca to get to him bc he wants him to take over the family crime business (whatever that is) and he is very randomly shot by his cousin at the end.
- Scoliosis - she has scoliosis which is randomly brought up from time to time but then conveniently forgotten other times.
- Spice - it’s ridiculous. They have sex outside the truck in Nov, in a gross bathroom, in a shower right before her family arrives. Basically anywhere and everywhere. He’s also pierced, bc why not. Also, he makes her wait to have sex with him until she’ll admit that she loves him - aka the “kinky-ultimatum”
- No OM/OW - he’s been celibate for 5 yrs since he first saw her. She’s had no prior relationships but is not a virgin.
- Dual POV; HEA. Pregnancy, marriage and baby in 1 yr later epilogue.
Here are the details:
- OTT stalker possessive H. Colton is from a rough background and is pulled from danger by Bianca’s brother, who becomes his best friend, after hiring him as security for his ranch. Over 7 yrs he works his way to head of security and apparently bodyguard for Bianca.
- altho what is this ranch? I have no idea; the actual workings of the ranch aren’t really mentioned.
Anyhoo, he becomes obsessed after seeing Bianca once. They rarely interact over the next 5 years, but gets various random tattoos in her honor, names his truck after the color of her eyes, and pierces his dick bc she happened to mention it once. He even buys a whole ass house and decorates it for her before she has idea of his feelings. She meanwhile can’t stand him because he’s always asked to protect her and limit her freedom.
- Why, you ask? Idk. I honestly don’t know. There’s a whole thing in the beginning when they’re traveling in Germany that made no sense to me.
When his dangerous dad gets in the picture, he scuttles her off to safety at the house he bought for her. Within two days she’s in love. Okey dokey. Then there’s some lingering danger but mostly just sex and lots of cringy dialogue.
- No third act breakup
- 7 yr age difference 24 and 31
- he’s a man w a dangerous past and she’s some kind of rodeo horse woman from a wealthy family.
- obsession (H)/dislike (h) to insta lust to insta love.
- low angst
- Communication - he literally communicates in one word grunts and scowls for the first 30%? of the book and she’s just fresh and bratty. It’s delightful. 🙄 He does finally tell her all the various ways that’s he’s obsessed and what he’s done for her and then it’s overly sweet love declarations and smut for the rest of the book.
- Danger - Colton is afraid his dad is going to hurt Bianca to get to him bc he wants him to take over the family crime business (whatever that is) and he is very randomly shot by his cousin at the end.
- Scoliosis - she has scoliosis which is randomly brought up from time to time but then conveniently forgotten other times.
- Spice - it’s ridiculous. They have sex outside the truck in Nov, in a gross bathroom, in a shower right before her family arrives. Basically anywhere and everywhere. He’s also pierced, bc why not. Also, he makes her wait to have sex with him until she’ll admit that she loves him - aka the “kinky-ultimatum”
- No OM/OW - he’s been celibate for 5 yrs since he first saw her. She’s had no prior relationships but is not a virgin.
- Dual POV; HEA. Pregnancy, marriage and baby in 1 yr later epilogue.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2025
Bianca is a princess. According to Colton, that is.
Bianca is a barrel racer. She's quite good and travels all over. So when her brother assigns Colton to be her bodyguard, she's not very happy. He ruins her trip overseas, and she can't escape him.
Why can't she escape him? Because he's been watching her for years. He's really in love with her, but it feels like there's this divide between them (ie hes older, works for her family, and has a dark past). Sooo... he just keeps a really close eye on her.
Recently, though, Coltons past is affecting Biancas' future. People are sniffing around, and Colton won't stand for it.
He proves his devotion to her day after day. Just like I personally want to read about.
Bianca isn't the spoiled Princess he calls her. She's had such a tough life with disabilities that she has to work through. And a really huge personal loss.
So I'm loving the way Bianca stands up to Colton. And the way she tempts him. I was like, girl!!!!!
If you want a book about an obsessive guy who only wants to protect and love... This is it!
Bianca is a barrel racer. She's quite good and travels all over. So when her brother assigns Colton to be her bodyguard, she's not very happy. He ruins her trip overseas, and she can't escape him.
Why can't she escape him? Because he's been watching her for years. He's really in love with her, but it feels like there's this divide between them (ie hes older, works for her family, and has a dark past). Sooo... he just keeps a really close eye on her.
Recently, though, Coltons past is affecting Biancas' future. People are sniffing around, and Colton won't stand for it.
He proves his devotion to her day after day. Just like I personally want to read about.
Bianca isn't the spoiled Princess he calls her. She's had such a tough life with disabilities that she has to work through. And a really huge personal loss.
So I'm loving the way Bianca stands up to Colton. And the way she tempts him. I was like, girl!!!!!
If you want a book about an obsessive guy who only wants to protect and love... This is it!
September 23, 2025
Colton is a man in love and a man who isn’t going to let anyone hurt the woman who has his heart.
Bianca is a headstrong, fierce woman who definitely keeps Colton on his toes.
As always this book is fun of quick Witt and heater banter. As our hero and heroine are thrust together they discover hidden truths and have to decide what’s best in the long run.
A fun read and I loved being “back on the ranch” and am excited for what’s next!
Bianca is a headstrong, fierce woman who definitely keeps Colton on his toes.
As always this book is fun of quick Witt and heater banter. As our hero and heroine are thrust together they discover hidden truths and have to decide what’s best in the long run.
A fun read and I loved being “back on the ranch” and am excited for what’s next!
September 22, 2025
Wow, first let me start by saying I’ve never read a book about the main character having scoliosis. This was first. Colton is the kind of man in some ways I feel every girl deserves. He’s attentive, caring, and somewhat stalkerish. I know I say this about every book but I loved Colton and Bianca’s story so much. There’s a slight age gap which makes it even more perfect. Bianca is one lucky lady.
September 22, 2025
I was hooked from the moment the story appeared in my ereader. I couldn’t put this book down. This author never fails to deliver such memorable characters, must visit small towns and stellar storylines.
Read
September 27, 2025dnf
side eyeing this rn
side eyeing this rn
September 19, 2025
What a fun, flirty spoiled rich Cowgirl story always trying to find oneself stuck with her bodyguard. She doesn't feel like she needs protection, as she can take care of herself. yet danger lurks where she doesn't expect and from who. The hidden dangers, suspense and attraction is always right nearby, this story will keep you happy and guessing. loved it.
September 19, 2025
Colton is so over the top. I loved him. He cares for Bianca in the best of ways. I liked the way their relationship changed. It takes a little while for them to get on the same page. Their chemistry is great. I liked the storyline a lot. This was a very good book I read in a few hours.
September 25, 2025
Loved book 2 in the Cloverleaf Meadows series! Colton and Bianca are FIRE! Morally gray cowboy with stalkerish tendencies? Yes, please! With the best of intentions, of course. 😉And with a squishy, soft, romantic heart, too. Yeah… that’s our Colton! I’m excited for what’s next!
September 25, 2025
4.75!!
I LOVEDDDD IT!!!
🤭🤭
It was so fun, s*xy, heartwarming, angsty, and emotional!
I loved every aspect!
We are following Colton and Bianca
Colton works for Bianca’s brother as security
He has a dark past that is coming back to haunt him
Bianca is a barrel racer
The way this man is OBSESSED with her!!! Legit a st@lker!
When their threat from his past leads to Bianca his protectiveness is in overdrive and she tries to evade him
But
The more time they spend the more she sees everything that is Colton
I love how she was so forward with him and he was the emotional one who wanted a connection
The way he loved her my goodness 🙌🏻🙌🏻
I loveeeeee when there is suspense and possible danger or threat to the mcs and how protective he was!!
ahhhhh I just loveeeee it 😍😍
And she did it so well!
And the SPICEEEE girlllll🙌🏻🙌🏻🙇🏻♀️🙇🏻♀️🙇🏻♀️🙇🏻♀️
That’s all imma say haha
Congrats on your new release!! And thank you for the Arc🥰
I LOVEDDDD IT!!!
🤭🤭
It was so fun, s*xy, heartwarming, angsty, and emotional!
I loved every aspect!
We are following Colton and Bianca
Colton works for Bianca’s brother as security
He has a dark past that is coming back to haunt him
Bianca is a barrel racer
The way this man is OBSESSED with her!!! Legit a st@lker!
When their threat from his past leads to Bianca his protectiveness is in overdrive and she tries to evade him
But
The more time they spend the more she sees everything that is Colton
I love how she was so forward with him and he was the emotional one who wanted a connection
The way he loved her my goodness 🙌🏻🙌🏻
I loveeeeee when there is suspense and possible danger or threat to the mcs and how protective he was!!
ahhhhh I just loveeeee it 😍😍
And she did it so well!
And the SPICEEEE girlllll🙌🏻🙌🏻🙇🏻♀️🙇🏻♀️🙇🏻♀️🙇🏻♀️
That’s all imma say haha
Congrats on your new release!! And thank you for the Arc🥰
September 22, 2025
Omg I can't even express how much I loved this book!! Seriously, it was everything and definitely a top favorite of all time. Colton is such a sweetheart while also being morally gray and will stop at nothing to protect his woman. He also doesn't take no for an answer and won't give up until he has Bianca exactly where he wants her! He is obsessed, st@lkery (yeah, not a real word), yet so freaking soft, sweet, and caring. I loved how bold and sassy Bianca was and how she could hold a grudge, but also knew how to give it and let go. These two had me completely consumed! The underlying suspense plot was just an added bonus. If you are on the fence about this story, well, Im here to give a big ol push! Trust me, you won't regret it!
September 24, 2025
Holy moly Bianca and Colton’s story had a grip on me from the beginning. Harloe definitely delivers with this book and I think I found my newest favorite couple of her. The banter and the obsesión had me hooked. This story definitely gripped my soul. I have beeb thinking about this since I finished reading it. It lives rent free in my head and heart. So amazing!
October 15, 2025
DNF @ 69%
not even a celibate MMC with a pierced dick could make up for how cheesy this became
not even a celibate MMC with a pierced dick could make up for how cheesy this became
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2025
What’s better than a bodyguard romance? When he’s a cowboy, grumpy, big and hard in all the right places, protective, possessive, he’s old fashioned …. And he’s completely smitten with the FMC - for years may I add. It’s her or no one.
This man is the complete package. A scarred soul because of his past, but don’t underestimate this man’s desire to please Bianca. When this man says “princess” or “baby girl”?! And don’t get me started when this man begs…ugh— I can’t.
This man is the complete package. A scarred soul because of his past, but don’t underestimate this man’s desire to please Bianca. When this man says “princess” or “baby girl”?! And don’t get me started when this man begs…ugh— I can’t.
October 10, 2025
Wow what a fabulous read. I couldn’t get enough of Colton and Bianca. I adored the push and pull, the chemistry, the he falls first and hard. I love how she pushed and he didn’t cave until she was ready.
Just adore
Just adore
September 16, 2025
Morally gray cowboy with a soft spot for a sassy independent ranch princess? All the yes!
Saddled in Secrets is the second book in the Cloverleaf Meadows series by Harloe Rae- and let me just say that Bianca Benson and Colton Keller are just absolute fire. Bianca is a literal spitfire- she's fierce in her own right, strong, full of sass and determination- basically utter chaos wrapped in a pretty package. It's no wonder that Colton is literally a man obsessed. Colton is a dichotomy himself- from his sketchy upbringing and background to the emotionally romantic simp that lives and breathes for Bianca- I found myself caught between being slightly horrified by the extent of his "stalker" tendencies to having the biggest heart eyes for his utter devotion to the woman that half despised him at times and didn't even realize he existed at others.
One of my biggest issues with Buckled in Barbwire, book 1 in this series, was the pacing. That issue does kind of pop up again for me here- but in a way for the personalities of these MCs it worked. Colton flipped from being completely unwilling to acknowledge his obsession and ultimately his feelings for Bianca because he felt unworthy in the eyes of her family- but then he was basically grand gesturing all over the place in front of everyone while waiting for her to catch up to his hopes and desires. Then Bianca went from being completely annoyed by Colt and his over the top protective measures, absolutely unwilling to entertain the idea of a relationship, let alone "love" to basking in his adoration and not even flinching at this poetic declarations of forever. But for the chaos that is Bianca and Colt- it worked. Or maybe it was just the excessive sexual tension and teasing that Harloe was basically edging us with that like Bianca, I found myself entranced in the swoony depths of Colt's squishy heart and the razzle of his bedazzle 😉
There's an undertone of danger to the story- I mean Colt is obsessed with Bianca's safety- but it also isn't really center stage in the way that I thought it was going to play out. I'm interested to see if this part of the story is going to shift into the next book with Frankie and Byron!
Saddled in Secrets is the second book in the Cloverleaf Meadows series by Harloe Rae- and let me just say that Bianca Benson and Colton Keller are just absolute fire. Bianca is a literal spitfire- she's fierce in her own right, strong, full of sass and determination- basically utter chaos wrapped in a pretty package. It's no wonder that Colton is literally a man obsessed. Colton is a dichotomy himself- from his sketchy upbringing and background to the emotionally romantic simp that lives and breathes for Bianca- I found myself caught between being slightly horrified by the extent of his "stalker" tendencies to having the biggest heart eyes for his utter devotion to the woman that half despised him at times and didn't even realize he existed at others.
One of my biggest issues with Buckled in Barbwire, book 1 in this series, was the pacing. That issue does kind of pop up again for me here- but in a way for the personalities of these MCs it worked. Colton flipped from being completely unwilling to acknowledge his obsession and ultimately his feelings for Bianca because he felt unworthy in the eyes of her family- but then he was basically grand gesturing all over the place in front of everyone while waiting for her to catch up to his hopes and desires. Then Bianca went from being completely annoyed by Colt and his over the top protective measures, absolutely unwilling to entertain the idea of a relationship, let alone "love" to basking in his adoration and not even flinching at this poetic declarations of forever. But for the chaos that is Bianca and Colt- it worked. Or maybe it was just the excessive sexual tension and teasing that Harloe was basically edging us with that like Bianca, I found myself entranced in the swoony depths of Colt's squishy heart and the razzle of his bedazzle 😉
There's an undertone of danger to the story- I mean Colt is obsessed with Bianca's safety- but it also isn't really center stage in the way that I thought it was going to play out. I'm interested to see if this part of the story is going to shift into the next book with Frankie and Byron!
September 22, 2025
I received an ARC of this book, all thoughts are my own.
I have so many feeling about this book. There’s just something about the morally grey, all-consuming, borderline obsessive-but-protective love interest trope that hits way harder than it has any right to. I start the book thinking, "Oh, I know this type! He’s dark, broody, probably a little toxic.” But then I keep reading, and before I know it, I'm halfway through the book going, "LOOK AT ALL HE'S DOING FOR HER, WHAT A PRINCE!"
Let's check some boxes, shall we?
possessive, obsessive MMC ✓
strong, sassy FMC ✓
found family ✓
Well, that's pretty much the trifecta, right? Colton carries the ultimate “touch her and die” energy wrapped in trauma, loyalty and single-minded devotion. His life became Bianca the second he first saw her. It was like his whole life pivoted in that one moment, and from then on, she became his compass. Sound intense? Well, I'm pretty sure Intense is Colton Keller's middle name.
So many FMCs fold under that kind of male intensity, but not her. She matches him with her sass, her fire and her refusal to be tamed. The fact that she sees all of him, not just the protectiveness, but also the darkness, the scars, the obsession and loves him for it? That’s the real fantasy. She doesn't want to “fix” him, but she chooses him as he is.
And the found family element with Brody? Ugh. Colton’s story isn’t just love; it's also about redemption. Colton is just learning to feel again, as he was raised to be a cold and lethal puppet controlled by his father. He can hardly believe that someone is finally gave him a chance, and then Bianca gave him a reason. The contrast between who he is to the world vs. who he becomes for her? That's where the magic is. It's the softness that he only shows her. It's how his monstrous edges don’t get erased, just redirected, weaponized in Bianca's defense, but never against her.
If you think all of this this might be your cup of tea, I highly suggest reading this one. Also if cowboys are in your wheelhouse, this entire series is for you. Or we can sit here and keep worshiping Colton and Bianca like the emotionally ruined reader you’ve now become.
I have so many feeling about this book. There’s just something about the morally grey, all-consuming, borderline obsessive-but-protective love interest trope that hits way harder than it has any right to. I start the book thinking, "Oh, I know this type! He’s dark, broody, probably a little toxic.” But then I keep reading, and before I know it, I'm halfway through the book going, "LOOK AT ALL HE'S DOING FOR HER, WHAT A PRINCE!"
Let's check some boxes, shall we?
possessive, obsessive MMC ✓
strong, sassy FMC ✓
found family ✓
Well, that's pretty much the trifecta, right? Colton carries the ultimate “touch her and die” energy wrapped in trauma, loyalty and single-minded devotion. His life became Bianca the second he first saw her. It was like his whole life pivoted in that one moment, and from then on, she became his compass. Sound intense? Well, I'm pretty sure Intense is Colton Keller's middle name.
So many FMCs fold under that kind of male intensity, but not her. She matches him with her sass, her fire and her refusal to be tamed. The fact that she sees all of him, not just the protectiveness, but also the darkness, the scars, the obsession and loves him for it? That’s the real fantasy. She doesn't want to “fix” him, but she chooses him as he is.
And the found family element with Brody? Ugh. Colton’s story isn’t just love; it's also about redemption. Colton is just learning to feel again, as he was raised to be a cold and lethal puppet controlled by his father. He can hardly believe that someone is finally gave him a chance, and then Bianca gave him a reason. The contrast between who he is to the world vs. who he becomes for her? That's where the magic is. It's the softness that he only shows her. It's how his monstrous edges don’t get erased, just redirected, weaponized in Bianca's defense, but never against her.
If you think all of this this might be your cup of tea, I highly suggest reading this one. Also if cowboys are in your wheelhouse, this entire series is for you. Or we can sit here and keep worshiping Colton and Bianca like the emotionally ruined reader you’ve now become.
September 16, 2025
Saddle up because Colton and Bianca are taking you for a ride! “Saddled in Secrets” is a steamy, swoony and action packed forced proximity small town romance that is an amazing story in the Harloe Rae world.
It’s been five years since Colton Keller was hired on the ranch and had been keeping an eye on his best friend’s younger sister, Bianca. When Bianca needed to get away, Colton was hired as her bodyguard. She tries to evade him at every chance but when there is a threat to her safety, Colton whisks her off to his property and the need to protect her intensifies. And so do his feelings for her because he has known she was the one for him from the moment they had first met.
From the first chapter, I was hooked on Bianca and Colton. Bianca is sassy, independent, kind and someone that I liked from the beginning. She marches to her own beat and isn’t afraid to stand up for herself. She’s close with her brother and they have a great relationship. Colton is one hundred percent swoony with a touch of morally gray in him. His father is not a good person and used him for his own gain but Colton overcame that when he was able to start working at the ranch. I loved his obsession with Bianca and was down bad for her from the start. They had great chemistry and I loved their banter when they were only friends. There was a lot of teasing and a slow burn to the steamy scenes and it was worth the wait because Colton knows how to treat a woman. I loved the added action of Colton’s past coming back and how far he would go to protect her. I couldn’t put it down when I got to the twelve chapters and loved the ending, it was perfectly romantic for them.
It’s been five years since Colton Keller was hired on the ranch and had been keeping an eye on his best friend’s younger sister, Bianca. When Bianca needed to get away, Colton was hired as her bodyguard. She tries to evade him at every chance but when there is a threat to her safety, Colton whisks her off to his property and the need to protect her intensifies. And so do his feelings for her because he has known she was the one for him from the moment they had first met.
From the first chapter, I was hooked on Bianca and Colton. Bianca is sassy, independent, kind and someone that I liked from the beginning. She marches to her own beat and isn’t afraid to stand up for herself. She’s close with her brother and they have a great relationship. Colton is one hundred percent swoony with a touch of morally gray in him. His father is not a good person and used him for his own gain but Colton overcame that when he was able to start working at the ranch. I loved his obsession with Bianca and was down bad for her from the start. They had great chemistry and I loved their banter when they were only friends. There was a lot of teasing and a slow burn to the steamy scenes and it was worth the wait because Colton knows how to treat a woman. I loved the added action of Colton’s past coming back and how far he would go to protect her. I couldn’t put it down when I got to the twelve chapters and loved the ending, it was perfectly romantic for them.
September 26, 2025
I loved Colton
3.75 stars
I feel various this about this and almost like I read two completely different books.
It started off really good. The conflict, tension, and angst between Colton and Bianca was done really well especially in Colton’s point of view. I loved all the longing and pining from his side. I loved that he was obsessed with her and became this very protective alpha male. Then all the gestures that he made were incredible. I loved when he finally let go and was able to show her and finally be honest with his love. It had me swooning hard especially when he dictated his wants and needs.
Then it was kind of ruined by Bianca. In my opinion was very cruel to him by sexual taunting and teasing in order to get him in her bed. It was very manipulative that left a bad taste in my mouth especially knowing where his boundaries were and not seeming to care about them. It really turned me off on an epic scale and made me not believe her feelings at all for him.
Even though there were some romantic moments, provided mostly from him, they just turned into a smut fest after that, which I feel like what romance has become of late instead of the process of showing people falling in love. I had to skim those scenes because I didn’t really care.
The ending was good though because there was more depth and meat there. I became a little more engaged than I was with half of the book. It saved it from getting a lower review from me.
3.75 stars
I feel various this about this and almost like I read two completely different books.
It started off really good. The conflict, tension, and angst between Colton and Bianca was done really well especially in Colton’s point of view. I loved all the longing and pining from his side. I loved that he was obsessed with her and became this very protective alpha male. Then all the gestures that he made were incredible. I loved when he finally let go and was able to show her and finally be honest with his love. It had me swooning hard especially when he dictated his wants and needs.
Then it was kind of ruined by Bianca. In my opinion was very cruel to him by sexual taunting and teasing in order to get him in her bed. It was very manipulative that left a bad taste in my mouth especially knowing where his boundaries were and not seeming to care about them. It really turned me off on an epic scale and made me not believe her feelings at all for him.
Even though there were some romantic moments, provided mostly from him, they just turned into a smut fest after that, which I feel like what romance has become of late instead of the process of showing people falling in love. I had to skim those scenes because I didn’t really care.
The ending was good though because there was more depth and meat there. I became a little more engaged than I was with half of the book. It saved it from getting a lower review from me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2025
Colton and Bianca's story is full of delicious obsession, lots of secrets, and soul deep love. I absolutely could not put it down!
This story has so much love from found family to romantic. Colton grew up in a terrible situation with a pathetic excuse for a father who turned him into a weapon. I love that we get the backstory of how Brody met him and offered him a better life. And then the first time he sees Bianca? This man is only soft for her and I am here for it! He can be so swoony and sweet, but only for his Princess. The way he cares for her is unmatched. I love the stalking and obsession. Bianca learns all of Colton’s secrets and can't help but fall for him. She was so fiercely independent and so sassy. I just loved her. The way she can see Colton’s heart and vulnerability was perfection. She loves him in all of his forms. Protective, obsessive, loving, attentive, she loves it all.
I love the light suspense of Colton’s past resurfacing. The writing was executed perfectly. Watching these two fall deeply in love was everything. This is becoming my new favorite series from Harloe!
ARC review.
This story has so much love from found family to romantic. Colton grew up in a terrible situation with a pathetic excuse for a father who turned him into a weapon. I love that we get the backstory of how Brody met him and offered him a better life. And then the first time he sees Bianca? This man is only soft for her and I am here for it! He can be so swoony and sweet, but only for his Princess. The way he cares for her is unmatched. I love the stalking and obsession. Bianca learns all of Colton’s secrets and can't help but fall for him. She was so fiercely independent and so sassy. I just loved her. The way she can see Colton’s heart and vulnerability was perfection. She loves him in all of his forms. Protective, obsessive, loving, attentive, she loves it all.
I love the light suspense of Colton’s past resurfacing. The writing was executed perfectly. Watching these two fall deeply in love was everything. This is becoming my new favorite series from Harloe!
ARC review.
September 25, 2025
if you love brother’s best friend / bodyguard / boy OBSESSED, then this book is an immediate MUST read 🤭
I have loved all of harloe’s books and this one is no different. I mean he’s so obsessed he *watches* her - yes please 👏🏻
Colton first meets Bianca years ago when he starts doing security for her older brother. From the moment he meets her, he is instantly hooked. Since then he’s kept his distance, but always has his eye on her.
When Colton’s past comes back to haunt him and ends up putting Bianca in danger, he goes to protect her and takes her to his safe place.
While there, Colton is trying to show Bianca exactly how he feels. He’s so gone for her that he gets a special piercing for her, his security code is her birthday, plants her favorite flowers, stock the fridge with her favorite foods and SO MUCH MORE. He’s so obsessed and I was here for it 👏🏻
And when Bianca finally gives in, these two are everything! 😍
From the swoony moments to the spice - you’ll be both in a puddle and blushing 🫠
I absolutely loved this one and I’m already SO excited for the next book. The little teases throughout - I can’t wait! 🤩
This is a MUST read if you love:
🏡Small Town Cowboy
💪🏻Bodyguard Romance
🧢Brother’s Best Friend
🐴Age Gap
🧎Boy Obsessed
Spice: 3 🌶️
I have loved all of harloe’s books and this one is no different. I mean he’s so obsessed he *watches* her - yes please 👏🏻
Colton first meets Bianca years ago when he starts doing security for her older brother. From the moment he meets her, he is instantly hooked. Since then he’s kept his distance, but always has his eye on her.
When Colton’s past comes back to haunt him and ends up putting Bianca in danger, he goes to protect her and takes her to his safe place.
While there, Colton is trying to show Bianca exactly how he feels. He’s so gone for her that he gets a special piercing for her, his security code is her birthday, plants her favorite flowers, stock the fridge with her favorite foods and SO MUCH MORE. He’s so obsessed and I was here for it 👏🏻
And when Bianca finally gives in, these two are everything! 😍
From the swoony moments to the spice - you’ll be both in a puddle and blushing 🫠
I absolutely loved this one and I’m already SO excited for the next book. The little teases throughout - I can’t wait! 🤩
This is a MUST read if you love:
🏡Small Town Cowboy
💪🏻Bodyguard Romance
🧢Brother’s Best Friend
🐴Age Gap
🧎Boy Obsessed
Spice: 3 🌶️
September 18, 2025
I am loving the era Harloe Rae is in! Cowgirl/romantic suspense/a little darker than her normal(not that there was anything wrong with her normal). We met Bianca and Colton in Buckled In Barbed Wire she is Brody’s sister and Paisley’s best friend and Colton is the head of security for Benson farms. Colton has been in love and obsessed with Bianca from the first moment he saw her 5 years ago, when a threat comes out in the form of Colton’s past he swears to keep and an even closer eye on her. Bianca fights him every step of the way until he whisks her away to another town where she discovers he has bought an amazing getaway home and she comes to see just how much she has meant to him all of these years her walls start to come down! This was yet another incredible book by Harloe and I can’t stress enough if you haven’t read her you really need to!
September 22, 2025
Colton Keller has always watched for her from afar ,protecting ,never neglecting this duty,wh can blame him, she’s a beauty. He’s the best friend of Bianca’s brother Brody and the way he looks at her…Oh brother! Hot as sin ? She knows not where to begin! Bianca Benson is his obsession and when he gets the one job that could land him in hot water he seeks her out like a horse needing water. Charged with keeping an eye out since he came to live on the ranch . The duty doesn’t make him blanch . No way he’s in for the long haul all the way .wishes she was his girl ,would make his day.Lord save us this is hot ,he wants her has for years ,she needs him ,his heart,his passion ,his heat on repeat . But first business and tying up loose ends because they’re turning a corner and not just friends ….Hot dang I was all in for these two and the heat ? Phew 😮💨. Brilliant storyline ,simply divine and I certainly had a good time reading this ,it’s absolute bliss . The suspense sets this book apart and it’s told with mystery ,tension and heightened anxiety takes it to the next level . It’s by Harloe Rae so of course the storytelling was compelling and blew me the eff away.
September 23, 2025
Colton Keller has always watched for her from afar ,protecting ,never neglecting this duty,wh can blame him, she’s a beauty. He’s the best friend of Bianca’s brother Brody and the way he looks at her…Oh brother! Hot as sin ? She knows not where to begin! Bianca Benson is his obsession and when he gets the one job that could land him in hot water he seeks her out like a horse needing water. Charged with keeping an eye out since he came to live on the ranch . The duty doesn’t make him blanch . No way he’s in for the long haul all the way .wishes she was his girl ,would make his day.Lord save us this is hot ,he wants her has for years ,she needs him ,his heart,his passion ,his heat on repeat . But first business and tying up loose ends because they’re turning a corner and not just friends ….Hot dang I was all in for these two and the heat ? Phew 😮💨. Brilliant storyline ,simply divine and I certainly had a good time reading this ,it’s absolute bliss . The suspense sets this book apart and it’s told with mystery ,tension and heightened anxiety takes it to the next level . It’s by Harloe Rae so of course the storytelling was compelling and blew me the eff away.
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