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Blue Creek Ranch #3
Mend a Heart
Emery Harrington has focused on his goals of first becoming a family medicine doctor and then returning home to Colorado, his family’s ranch, and working at the family care clinic in town. With that dream realized, he turns his attention to being the best doctor he can be. But then his sometimes, occasional friend-with-benefits shows up.
Ville Aalto left his family behind and forged a new path. As the head of security for a superstar country music artist, he’s not only found his purpose, but his place in the world. Heading to Blue Creek Ranch to shore up security is a no-brainer; not only did his best friend and boss ask him to, but he’ll be able to see Emery again. Their time together in the past has been brief and sporadic, but always explosive and worth every second.
What neither man expects is the feelings that grow when they get to spend more than a few hours together. With a wedding, a medical emergency, and the superstar’s impending visit on the horizon, Emery and Ville not only carve out time for each other, but lean on each other. Emery has it all. Ville has everything he’s ever wanted. They both know it’s temporary, and it can’t be more. But when it comes time to say goodbye, neither man is ready to let go.
Mending hearts is harder than breaking them, but Emery and Ville are willing to do whatever it takes to get their happily ever after.
Ville Aalto left his family behind and forged a new path. As the head of security for a superstar country music artist, he’s not only found his purpose, but his place in the world. Heading to Blue Creek Ranch to shore up security is a no-brainer; not only did his best friend and boss ask him to, but he’ll be able to see Emery again. Their time together in the past has been brief and sporadic, but always explosive and worth every second.
What neither man expects is the feelings that grow when they get to spend more than a few hours together. With a wedding, a medical emergency, and the superstar’s impending visit on the horizon, Emery and Ville not only carve out time for each other, but lean on each other. Emery has it all. Ville has everything he’s ever wanted. They both know it’s temporary, and it can’t be more. But when it comes time to say goodbye, neither man is ready to let go.
Mending hearts is harder than breaking them, but Emery and Ville are willing to do whatever it takes to get their happily ever after.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 21, 2026
About the author
Kris T. Bethke
65 books65 followersKris T. Bethke has been a voracious reader for pretty much her entire life and has been writing stories for nearly as long. An avid and prolific daydreamer, she always has a story in her head. She spends most of her free time reading, writing, or knitting/crocheting her latest project. Her biggest desire is to find a way to accomplish all three tasks at one time. A classic muscle car will always turn her head and weekend naps are one of her greatest guilty pleasures. She lives in a converted attic with an aquarium full of tropical fish and the voices in her head. She’ll tell you she thinks that’s a pretty good deal.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
May 25, 2026
I really enjoy this series and this rambunctious fictional family! This one was cute and maybe just fine. I felt more invested in the previous couplings more so than this one. Mostly because they kind of fell into a relationship that everyone accepted was real except them. The stakes were pretty low. Sweet MCs. Loved the cameos and getting to see the other couples thrive and mesh into daily life. Still excited for the next book!
I received an advanced reader’s copy in exchange for my honest review.
I received an advanced reader’s copy in exchange for my honest review.
June 6, 2026
Okay, hear me out. Book one of this series TAKE A CHANCE had me in a chokehold. Rancher/cowboy, single dad, bad situation turned romance. I love it SO MUCH and can't recommend it enough. Book two, EARN HIS TRUST was also hella good. Horse trainer/millionaire, one sided enemies to lovers, and y'all these two go thru it. I loved it, and recommend it as well.
So when MEND A HEART popped up it was an immediate yes. And... it didn't hit for me at all. It could be my slump. It could also just be the themes of the story. BUT, I still wanted to review here because the first two books were STUNNING and this one may be just up your street.
These two authors together are 🔥🔥🔥
Here's the blurb:
Emery Harrington has focused on his goals of first becoming a family medicine doctor and then returning home to Colorado, his family’s ranch, and working at the family care clinic in town. With that dream realized, he turns his attention to being the best doctor he can be. But then his sometimes, occasional friend-with-benefits shows up.
Ville Aalto left his family behind and forged a new path. As the head of security for a superstar country music artist, he’s not only found his purpose, but his place in the world. Heading to Blue Creek Ranch to shore up security is a no-brainer; not only did his best friend and boss ask him to, but he’ll be able to see Emery again. Their time together in the past has been brief and sporadic, but always explosive and worth every second.
What neither man expects is the feelings that grow when they get to spend more than a few hours together. With a wedding, a medical emergency, and the superstar’s impending visit on the horizon, Emery and Ville not only carve out time for each other, but lean on each other. Emery has it all. Ville has everything he’s ever wanted. They both know it’s temporary, and it can’t be more. But when it comes time to say goodbye, neither man is ready to let go.
Mending hearts is harder than breaking them, but Emery and Ville are willing to do whatever it takes to get their happily ever after.
If you read this series TAP IN!
So when MEND A HEART popped up it was an immediate yes. And... it didn't hit for me at all. It could be my slump. It could also just be the themes of the story. BUT, I still wanted to review here because the first two books were STUNNING and this one may be just up your street.
These two authors together are 🔥🔥🔥
Here's the blurb:
Emery Harrington has focused on his goals of first becoming a family medicine doctor and then returning home to Colorado, his family’s ranch, and working at the family care clinic in town. With that dream realized, he turns his attention to being the best doctor he can be. But then his sometimes, occasional friend-with-benefits shows up.
Ville Aalto left his family behind and forged a new path. As the head of security for a superstar country music artist, he’s not only found his purpose, but his place in the world. Heading to Blue Creek Ranch to shore up security is a no-brainer; not only did his best friend and boss ask him to, but he’ll be able to see Emery again. Their time together in the past has been brief and sporadic, but always explosive and worth every second.
What neither man expects is the feelings that grow when they get to spend more than a few hours together. With a wedding, a medical emergency, and the superstar’s impending visit on the horizon, Emery and Ville not only carve out time for each other, but lean on each other. Emery has it all. Ville has everything he’s ever wanted. They both know it’s temporary, and it can’t be more. But when it comes time to say goodbye, neither man is ready to let go.
Mending hearts is harder than breaking them, but Emery and Ville are willing to do whatever it takes to get their happily ever after.
If you read this series TAP IN!
May 22, 2026
MEND A HEART
By Kris T. Bethke & Tia Fielding
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received this E-book ARC edition of the novel from the authors in exchange for an honest review. It is Available NOW on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited.
https://www.amazon.com /B0FRK3KY7N
This is a 303-page Medium Paced, Semi-Establish / History, Insta-Love, Friends-to-Lovers, Protector / Healer, Found Family MM Romance. This is the third book in the Blue Creek Ranch series, which picks up 8 months after book ends. It can be read as a standalone technically, HOWEVER, I highly recommend reading at least the first book to acquaint yourself with all the characters and to avoid spoilers from that novel.
Written in alternating chapters dual first person POV, this book will make you feel like you are a part of the family instantly. The family is getting bigger!!!! The Harrington’s are a family of 12, and one thing the parents are good at is picking up strays along the way. Ville shows up at the ranch to do a job. He works for Wren, a famous country singer, and a close friends to the family that practically adopted by them when he was a kid. Ville is there to tighten security around the property, because apparently their security donkey Juanpablo isn’t enough anymore with how popular they have gotten on social media. But also for when Wren arrives, he will be safe, in addition to keeping the Harrington’s safe in the long run as well. Emery Harrington just moved home a year prior after finishing medical school and his rotations. His dream had always been to care for his community, connect with the patients at a human level and take the time and the attention they deserve and it just happened to work out that there was a spot open at the Doctor’s Office and Clinic in town when he graduated.
What I didn’t know going in was these two guys are FRIENDLY with each other. It may have been hinted in the previous books to tell you the truth, but my memory is crap! They have a history that is typical for the queer community. But they never left each other’s minds. When Ville shows up, they picked up right where they left off, with no shame! And not even trying to hide it from the rest of the huge family. While Ville is there to set everything up in time for a big wedding event on the property that Wren will be there for, Emery is working to earn the respect of the citizens of the town as well as his boss, who have a hard time not seeing his as a professional, and not one of the Harrington Crew.
This is an ensemble forward plot! The whole family is awesome!!!! They all have distinct personalities, and even though THERE ARE A LOT OF THEM, it is so easy to follow along to all their different jobs around the ranch and all their family couplings with all the kids! And speaking of kids, if you didn’t love Payton before, you will fall for his adorable little personality in this novel. He is sooooo cute and funny. The one thing about this family dynamic that is different from other family centric stories is that they don’t meddle. They Support each other with their whole hearts. Yes, they rib each other just like all siblings do, and there is a lot of that because there are a lot of them, but seeing the way they are there for each other, no questions asked, is something to aspire to. You also can’t have a medical professional in the family and as an MC without one or multiple people going thru a crisis.
The spice in this novel is not your norm. It is full of consent and care, but also ravaging. But a lot of the scenes are closed door or partially open. This is not a complaint! It works so well for this story. Yes, their intimacy is important to them and they make it known, but the focus is on their emotional connection with each other and the family. It is so strong. It leaves no doubt that they will last if they can get through the challenges that have been placed in their path.
What I really love about this series is the feeling of literally being on the ranch yourself. They wrote this so immersively, I feel like I am one of the hands on the ranch or part of the family myself, with the animals and the kiddos that are multiplying quicker that rabbits. I also love the creativity the authors bring to the table to give all the characters life challenges, not just the MCs. Demi, Emery’s twin, is really going through it this addition. While we get big updates on Crew, Malachi, & Payton and see that Hawk & Carter are still going strong while Carter helps care for the family with the money and power that he has. Bodhi, the oldest of the children, appeared in book 2, but his story has been a mystery since, and we still don’t have much. He is very tight lipped about what he went through while in the marines, to the point of not telling his best friend Wren he was even back from service. Their book gets lightly set up within the plot of this novel as well as a hint for another with one of the other kids and a new employee.
I can’t wait for this family to return! BIGGER AND WITH MORE LOVE.
💜Happy Reading🫶
By Kris T. Bethke & Tia Fielding
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received this E-book ARC edition of the novel from the authors in exchange for an honest review. It is Available NOW on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited.
https://www.amazon.com /B0FRK3KY7N
This is a 303-page Medium Paced, Semi-Establish / History, Insta-Love, Friends-to-Lovers, Protector / Healer, Found Family MM Romance. This is the third book in the Blue Creek Ranch series, which picks up 8 months after book ends. It can be read as a standalone technically, HOWEVER, I highly recommend reading at least the first book to acquaint yourself with all the characters and to avoid spoilers from that novel.
Written in alternating chapters dual first person POV, this book will make you feel like you are a part of the family instantly. The family is getting bigger!!!! The Harrington’s are a family of 12, and one thing the parents are good at is picking up strays along the way. Ville shows up at the ranch to do a job. He works for Wren, a famous country singer, and a close friends to the family that practically adopted by them when he was a kid. Ville is there to tighten security around the property, because apparently their security donkey Juanpablo isn’t enough anymore with how popular they have gotten on social media. But also for when Wren arrives, he will be safe, in addition to keeping the Harrington’s safe in the long run as well. Emery Harrington just moved home a year prior after finishing medical school and his rotations. His dream had always been to care for his community, connect with the patients at a human level and take the time and the attention they deserve and it just happened to work out that there was a spot open at the Doctor’s Office and Clinic in town when he graduated.
What I didn’t know going in was these two guys are FRIENDLY with each other. It may have been hinted in the previous books to tell you the truth, but my memory is crap! They have a history that is typical for the queer community. But they never left each other’s minds. When Ville shows up, they picked up right where they left off, with no shame! And not even trying to hide it from the rest of the huge family. While Ville is there to set everything up in time for a big wedding event on the property that Wren will be there for, Emery is working to earn the respect of the citizens of the town as well as his boss, who have a hard time not seeing his as a professional, and not one of the Harrington Crew.
This is an ensemble forward plot! The whole family is awesome!!!! They all have distinct personalities, and even though THERE ARE A LOT OF THEM, it is so easy to follow along to all their different jobs around the ranch and all their family couplings with all the kids! And speaking of kids, if you didn’t love Payton before, you will fall for his adorable little personality in this novel. He is sooooo cute and funny. The one thing about this family dynamic that is different from other family centric stories is that they don’t meddle. They Support each other with their whole hearts. Yes, they rib each other just like all siblings do, and there is a lot of that because there are a lot of them, but seeing the way they are there for each other, no questions asked, is something to aspire to. You also can’t have a medical professional in the family and as an MC without one or multiple people going thru a crisis.
The spice in this novel is not your norm. It is full of consent and care, but also ravaging. But a lot of the scenes are closed door or partially open. This is not a complaint! It works so well for this story. Yes, their intimacy is important to them and they make it known, but the focus is on their emotional connection with each other and the family. It is so strong. It leaves no doubt that they will last if they can get through the challenges that have been placed in their path.
What I really love about this series is the feeling of literally being on the ranch yourself. They wrote this so immersively, I feel like I am one of the hands on the ranch or part of the family myself, with the animals and the kiddos that are multiplying quicker that rabbits. I also love the creativity the authors bring to the table to give all the characters life challenges, not just the MCs. Demi, Emery’s twin, is really going through it this addition. While we get big updates on Crew, Malachi, & Payton and see that Hawk & Carter are still going strong while Carter helps care for the family with the money and power that he has. Bodhi, the oldest of the children, appeared in book 2, but his story has been a mystery since, and we still don’t have much. He is very tight lipped about what he went through while in the marines, to the point of not telling his best friend Wren he was even back from service. Their book gets lightly set up within the plot of this novel as well as a hint for another with one of the other kids and a new employee.
I can’t wait for this family to return! BIGGER AND WITH MORE LOVE.
💜Happy Reading🫶
May 21, 2026
Mend a Heart
By: Kris T. Bethke & Tia Fielding
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
Perfect and forever!
In book 3 in the Blue Creek Ranch series we get Ville and Emery who’s getting ready for his twin sister’s wedding. Ville is head of security for a famous country singer attending the wedding. Both have had intimate encounters and could have a longer encounter this visit. Emery comes from a large loving family Ville does not.
They want to turn the occasion time together into something more but Emery is a doctor and Ville travels with the singer and together seems impossible. The author writing is flawless, and the words are so captivating, the plot had so many twists and turns and none that I was expecting, and many shockingly intimate I have become a huge fan of this author. The author writes with so much intensity and emotion pulled from each book it’s felt page after page. Some have quick witted story lines that are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.
Authors blurb: Emery Harrington has focused on his goals of first becoming a family medicine doctor and then returning home to Colorado, his family’s ranch, and working at the family care clinic in town. With that dream realized, he turns his attention to being the best doctor he can be. But then his sometimes, occasional friend-with-benefits shows up.
Ville Aalto left his family behind and forged a new path. As the head of security for a superstar country music artist, he’s not only found his purpose, but his place in the world. Heading to Blue Creek Ranch to shore up security is a no-brainer; not only did his best friend and boss ask him to, but he’ll be able to see Emery again. Their time together in the past has been brief and sporadic, but always explosive and worth every second.
What neither man expects is the feelings that grow when they get to spend more than a few hours together. With a wedding, a medical emergency, and the superstar’s impending visit on the horizon, Emery and Ville not only carve out time for each other, but lean on each other. Emery has it all. Ville has everything he’s ever wanted. They both know it’s temporary, and it can’t be more. But when it comes time to say goodbye, neither man is ready to let go.
Mending hearts is harder than breaking them, but Emery and Ville are willing to do whatever it takes to get their happily ever after.
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in dual POV this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know you’re 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
By: Kris T. Bethke & Tia Fielding
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
Perfect and forever!
In book 3 in the Blue Creek Ranch series we get Ville and Emery who’s getting ready for his twin sister’s wedding. Ville is head of security for a famous country singer attending the wedding. Both have had intimate encounters and could have a longer encounter this visit. Emery comes from a large loving family Ville does not.
They want to turn the occasion time together into something more but Emery is a doctor and Ville travels with the singer and together seems impossible. The author writing is flawless, and the words are so captivating, the plot had so many twists and turns and none that I was expecting, and many shockingly intimate I have become a huge fan of this author. The author writes with so much intensity and emotion pulled from each book it’s felt page after page. Some have quick witted story lines that are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.
Authors blurb: Emery Harrington has focused on his goals of first becoming a family medicine doctor and then returning home to Colorado, his family’s ranch, and working at the family care clinic in town. With that dream realized, he turns his attention to being the best doctor he can be. But then his sometimes, occasional friend-with-benefits shows up.
Ville Aalto left his family behind and forged a new path. As the head of security for a superstar country music artist, he’s not only found his purpose, but his place in the world. Heading to Blue Creek Ranch to shore up security is a no-brainer; not only did his best friend and boss ask him to, but he’ll be able to see Emery again. Their time together in the past has been brief and sporadic, but always explosive and worth every second.
What neither man expects is the feelings that grow when they get to spend more than a few hours together. With a wedding, a medical emergency, and the superstar’s impending visit on the horizon, Emery and Ville not only carve out time for each other, but lean on each other. Emery has it all. Ville has everything he’s ever wanted. They both know it’s temporary, and it can’t be more. But when it comes time to say goodbye, neither man is ready to let go.
Mending hearts is harder than breaking them, but Emery and Ville are willing to do whatever it takes to get their happily ever after.
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in dual POV this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know you’re 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
May 27, 2026
I would like to thank GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Mend a Heart was so sweet and lovely and everything I LOVE in an MM ranch romance! Emery and Ville were SUPER scrumptious, and I especially loooooved how their physical love expressions went beyond their very sexy hot loving! We love a soulmate weighted blanket frfr 🫠sigh
This book's vibe was what I thought Hawk's installment, Earn his Trust, was going to be like. And so after being pretty sad that Book 2 wasn't a win for me, I was VERY happy that the series came back around to this feel-good energy again!
It honestly makes my life when the MC pairing kicks the story off deliciously together, without any ott contrivances, crazy exes, or superficial "will they won't they" angst. So it was nice to just flow with Emery and Ville as they evolved from their already hot relationship into something more deeply fulfilling by the end.
The narrative vibe was that soothing, pastoral, relaxed kind of chill that was everything I wanted this romance to be! There was heart horse love, sunshine bright verdant pastures, the sounds of gentle mooing/braying/cawing on the breeze, and ofc the Harringtons as a whole…but mostly THE MENU that had me craving every. single. one. of the meals!
Horse-Ranch slice of life genuinely leaves me feeling blissed out and sighing all over the place, and I was exceptionally soft for the close-knit Harrington family bonds, and how they all CARED FOR each other, and cared ABOUT one another. The high-energy sibling dynamics were quality, love-powered chaos, and the twins Demi and Em(mie) went particularly hard in this book and made me want a womb-mate so badly!
And Mike and Jenn have become my fantasy parentals, because of the way they love on their zillion kids+their partners+animals+each other, which honestly made me teary-eyed and emotional more than a few times throughout this sweet read!
I will never get enough of positive, accepting, openly loving parents, doing the most for their kids in MM Romances! And in rl too ofc!
I'm just really loving how all the Blue Creek Ranch romances are turning out to be feelings-rich explorations of different healing journeys, where endearing sweethearts navigate a bevy of unique heartaches/breaks/losses/fears as they ride or die for their beloved!
Come Home To Me is going to be amazing! I'm very much a fan of Wren, and Bodhi's already breaking my heart, and they're so obviously aching for each other, but they're also both hurting from their own intense lives!
I also hope we'll get Nick and Judson's story! Ahhhh so much loving still to come and I really hope Blue Creek Ranch lasts forever!
Mend a Heart was so sweet and lovely and everything I LOVE in an MM ranch romance! Emery and Ville were SUPER scrumptious, and I especially loooooved how their physical love expressions went beyond their very sexy hot loving! We love a soulmate weighted blanket frfr 🫠sigh
This book's vibe was what I thought Hawk's installment, Earn his Trust, was going to be like. And so after being pretty sad that Book 2 wasn't a win for me, I was VERY happy that the series came back around to this feel-good energy again!
It honestly makes my life when the MC pairing kicks the story off deliciously together, without any ott contrivances, crazy exes, or superficial "will they won't they" angst. So it was nice to just flow with Emery and Ville as they evolved from their already hot relationship into something more deeply fulfilling by the end.
The narrative vibe was that soothing, pastoral, relaxed kind of chill that was everything I wanted this romance to be! There was heart horse love, sunshine bright verdant pastures, the sounds of gentle mooing/braying/cawing on the breeze, and ofc the Harringtons as a whole…but mostly THE MENU that had me craving every. single. one. of the meals!
Horse-Ranch slice of life genuinely leaves me feeling blissed out and sighing all over the place, and I was exceptionally soft for the close-knit Harrington family bonds, and how they all CARED FOR each other, and cared ABOUT one another. The high-energy sibling dynamics were quality, love-powered chaos, and the twins Demi and Em(mie) went particularly hard in this book and made me want a womb-mate so badly!
And Mike and Jenn have become my fantasy parentals, because of the way they love on their zillion kids+their partners+animals+each other, which honestly made me teary-eyed and emotional more than a few times throughout this sweet read!
I will never get enough of positive, accepting, openly loving parents, doing the most for their kids in MM Romances! And in rl too ofc!
I'm just really loving how all the Blue Creek Ranch romances are turning out to be feelings-rich explorations of different healing journeys, where endearing sweethearts navigate a bevy of unique heartaches/breaks/losses/fears as they ride or die for their beloved!
Come Home To Me is going to be amazing! I'm very much a fan of Wren, and Bodhi's already breaking my heart, and they're so obviously aching for each other, but they're also both hurting from their own intense lives!
I also hope we'll get Nick and Judson's story! Ahhhh so much loving still to come and I really hope Blue Creek Ranch lasts forever!
June 18, 2026
ghost horses, go zebra hunting, SOB, P2Y12, baby cow eyes, funeral food, BBQ ribs & smoked brisket, horse tail extension, donkra not zonkey, syzygy, long-distance orgasm, Mimi & Nana club, sneaky sneaks
Here's another great addition to the 'Blue Creek Ranch' series. I love the Harrington family! All of them! They're loud and chaotic. That's just everyday life for them.
Warm, loving, down-to-earth, and accepting of any strays. They enfolded next-door school boy Wren when his own family ignored him, before he became a famous country music superstar. Of course, there's a price to be paid for superstardom. Wren now needs round-the-clock security. His record label has Ville Aalto as his head of security.
Because of Wren's connection to the Harringtons, Ville has come to know them and how much they mean to Wren. Who caught his eye however, is Emery Harrington. Emery has been back home since he got through with his medical schooling and residency. He's the Family Medicine doctor whose dream it was to return to his hometown and serve the community he grew up with. It helps that his family is nearby. His life is firmly entrenched at the BCR.
Ville is at the ranch because Wren is attending the wedding of one of the Harrington clan. He's there to oversee the security situation for Wren. He's had dalliances with Emery before, and he's still attracted to Emery. It gives him the opportunity to reconnect with Emery and the Harrington family. Emery and he are keeping things on the DL. Spoiler alert: they are not! It's heartbreaking when they have to separate to live their own lives. I especially feel it for Emery. I mean, it's also hard on Ville too. It's just that Emery wears his heart on his sleeve.
I love how their love story is written: meaningful without extra fluff. The book may seem long but, it's actually not. When the epilogue ended, I wanted more! I relished every word, and reread several passages just in case I missed anything. I'm glad I did. Getting so involved and excited with the story, I missed some important details. The imagery is truly magnificent. It also helps that I read the first two books before this. It made this story more enjoyable knowing the ranch's history and background of the other characters. I enthusiastically recommend this!
Here's another great addition to the 'Blue Creek Ranch' series. I love the Harrington family! All of them! They're loud and chaotic. That's just everyday life for them.
Warm, loving, down-to-earth, and accepting of any strays. They enfolded next-door school boy Wren when his own family ignored him, before he became a famous country music superstar. Of course, there's a price to be paid for superstardom. Wren now needs round-the-clock security. His record label has Ville Aalto as his head of security.
Because of Wren's connection to the Harringtons, Ville has come to know them and how much they mean to Wren. Who caught his eye however, is Emery Harrington. Emery has been back home since he got through with his medical schooling and residency. He's the Family Medicine doctor whose dream it was to return to his hometown and serve the community he grew up with. It helps that his family is nearby. His life is firmly entrenched at the BCR.
Ville is at the ranch because Wren is attending the wedding of one of the Harrington clan. He's there to oversee the security situation for Wren. He's had dalliances with Emery before, and he's still attracted to Emery. It gives him the opportunity to reconnect with Emery and the Harrington family. Emery and he are keeping things on the DL. Spoiler alert: they are not! It's heartbreaking when they have to separate to live their own lives. I especially feel it for Emery. I mean, it's also hard on Ville too. It's just that Emery wears his heart on his sleeve.
I love how their love story is written: meaningful without extra fluff. The book may seem long but, it's actually not. When the epilogue ended, I wanted more! I relished every word, and reread several passages just in case I missed anything. I'm glad I did. Getting so involved and excited with the story, I missed some important details. The imagery is truly magnificent. It also helps that I read the first two books before this. It made this story more enjoyable knowing the ranch's history and background of the other characters. I enthusiastically recommend this!
May 24, 2026
4 stars. A heartwarming story, first time reading a novel by these two writers combined. I've come in late in the series so tracking the 10 Harrington siblings (and kids) is a bit of an effort initially, but there's enough info to be able to follow the interactions of the different people.
This story is is focused around the friend of the Harrington family, Wren Paxton, who is a big music star, who is planning to return to the Harrington ranch (Blue Creek Ranch) for a wedding of one of the siblings, Demi. To achieve this, his friend and security guy for over 10 years, Ville, needs to ensure that the ranch has sufficient security to protect Wren from threats, one of which is actively following him in the USA.
Dr Emery Harrington is one of the younger siblings who has had occasional hookups with Ville when he's gone to see one of Wren's concerts, so when Ville arrives for updating the security of all the businesses and the homestead itself in Blue Creek Ranch, their relationship becomes much more serious and quickly.
The plot has a number of strands: the grumpy older/sunshine younger central relationship with Ville and Emery and the challenges of Ville needing to travel with Wren and Emery staying at Blue Creek Ranch for his job and family; hints at Wren's and his best friend Bodhi being more than friends and a mystery on why Bodhi is back; the stalker making an appearance; Emery's job at his clinic and establishing himself with the older owner in his own right; Ville's family background and the inclusivity of the Harringtons with respect to friends and neighbours of the ranch into their family.
It's an enjoyable read, I read it very quickly to find out what happens next. I read a sample of the first book to get into the series space and the people, which reads consistently with this book, and easily draws the reader into the series. Enjoy!
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
This story is is focused around the friend of the Harrington family, Wren Paxton, who is a big music star, who is planning to return to the Harrington ranch (Blue Creek Ranch) for a wedding of one of the siblings, Demi. To achieve this, his friend and security guy for over 10 years, Ville, needs to ensure that the ranch has sufficient security to protect Wren from threats, one of which is actively following him in the USA.
Dr Emery Harrington is one of the younger siblings who has had occasional hookups with Ville when he's gone to see one of Wren's concerts, so when Ville arrives for updating the security of all the businesses and the homestead itself in Blue Creek Ranch, their relationship becomes much more serious and quickly.
The plot has a number of strands: the grumpy older/sunshine younger central relationship with Ville and Emery and the challenges of Ville needing to travel with Wren and Emery staying at Blue Creek Ranch for his job and family; hints at Wren's and his best friend Bodhi being more than friends and a mystery on why Bodhi is back; the stalker making an appearance; Emery's job at his clinic and establishing himself with the older owner in his own right; Ville's family background and the inclusivity of the Harringtons with respect to friends and neighbours of the ranch into their family.
It's an enjoyable read, I read it very quickly to find out what happens next. I read a sample of the first book to get into the series space and the people, which reads consistently with this book, and easily draws the reader into the series. Enjoy!
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
June 1, 2026
This was such a lovely return to Blue Creek Ranch. One of my favourite things about this series is the Harrington family itself, every visit feels like coming home. The strong family bonds, found-family connections, and ranch atmosphere continue to make this series incredibly easy to sink into.
I really enjoyed Emery and Ville together. Unlike many romances where the characters start from scratch, these two already have a history and undeniable chemistry. Their previous arrangement worked because distance kept things simple, but spending several uninterrupted weeks together forces them to confront feelings neither of them can ignore. Watching their relationship deepen from occasional hookups into something meaningful felt natural, mature, and incredibly satisfying.
Both men were easy to root for. Emery is dedicated, compassionate, and deeply connected to his community, while Ville has built a life and family of his own through loyalty, hard work, and friendship. They’re both genuinely good people trying to balance careers they love with a relationship that suddenly feels worth fighting for. The lack of unnecessary drama was refreshing with no major misunderstandings, no frustrating breakup, just two adults figuring things out together.
The ranch setting remains one of the highlights of the series. While there’s a little less focus on the horses this time around, the ranch still feels alive and welcoming. Familiar faces return, new additions bring plenty of charm, and the sense of community adds so much warmth to the story.
Sweet, comforting, and full of heart, this was another wonderful instalment in the Blue Creek Ranch series. Emery and Ville’s romance is low angst, deeply emotional, and built on a foundation of friendship, trust, and mutual respect. I’m already looking forward to seeing whose story comes next.
I received a free arc and this is my honest review
I really enjoyed Emery and Ville together. Unlike many romances where the characters start from scratch, these two already have a history and undeniable chemistry. Their previous arrangement worked because distance kept things simple, but spending several uninterrupted weeks together forces them to confront feelings neither of them can ignore. Watching their relationship deepen from occasional hookups into something meaningful felt natural, mature, and incredibly satisfying.
Both men were easy to root for. Emery is dedicated, compassionate, and deeply connected to his community, while Ville has built a life and family of his own through loyalty, hard work, and friendship. They’re both genuinely good people trying to balance careers they love with a relationship that suddenly feels worth fighting for. The lack of unnecessary drama was refreshing with no major misunderstandings, no frustrating breakup, just two adults figuring things out together.
The ranch setting remains one of the highlights of the series. While there’s a little less focus on the horses this time around, the ranch still feels alive and welcoming. Familiar faces return, new additions bring plenty of charm, and the sense of community adds so much warmth to the story.
Sweet, comforting, and full of heart, this was another wonderful instalment in the Blue Creek Ranch series. Emery and Ville’s romance is low angst, deeply emotional, and built on a foundation of friendship, trust, and mutual respect. I’m already looking forward to seeing whose story comes next.
I received a free arc and this is my honest review
May 28, 2026
I don't know quite how I found Bethke the first time - looking at her collection makes a very different impression from what I see in this series. Her books say "fluff" and "spice", this book is solid - a good cast of characters set in a small town, no nonsense, no drama, just changing couples and tropes to keep things going steady.
Sometimes I can pinpoint exactly what took me into a certain genre and it helps me see what it is I may be secretly looking for in a book - if I have a certain standard, books may fall short by pure comparison even if there is nothing inherently wrong with them. This book, I feel, ticked all the right boxes.
I sometimes think of contemporary romance as beeing to boring and it's books like these that remind me why that's not true. This book feels "real" - a slice of someone's life, problems that include a wedding, work conflicts, long hours and family dynamics, all so... mundane. The romance is already established - there is no "romancing" you might say, they met before this book began and that continue where they left off which should make it even more boring but is actually a proof that this book works.
I don't know how or why but something about this series just works for me. I am apprehensive about the next one, I can already tell Bodhi is going to get his angst and Trauma (TM) which is a halmark of every other modern love interest and drives me crazy. Just don't do the "Bodhi is a jek but that's cause TrAumA so that's OK".
P.S: Triplets... I think some women should get some special compensation for having kids... being a mum is hard but triplets?!?!?!?
Sometimes I can pinpoint exactly what took me into a certain genre and it helps me see what it is I may be secretly looking for in a book - if I have a certain standard, books may fall short by pure comparison even if there is nothing inherently wrong with them. This book, I feel, ticked all the right boxes.
I sometimes think of contemporary romance as beeing to boring and it's books like these that remind me why that's not true. This book feels "real" - a slice of someone's life, problems that include a wedding, work conflicts, long hours and family dynamics, all so... mundane. The romance is already established - there is no "romancing" you might say, they met before this book began and that continue where they left off which should make it even more boring but is actually a proof that this book works.
I don't know how or why but something about this series just works for me. I am apprehensive about the next one, I can already tell Bodhi is going to get his angst and Trauma (TM) which is a halmark of every other modern love interest and drives me crazy. Just don't do the "Bodhi is a jek but that's cause TrAumA so that's OK".
P.S: Triplets... I think some women should get some special compensation for having kids... being a mum is hard but triplets?!?!?!?
May 31, 2026
So nice to be back at the Blue Creek Ranch
I loved the first two books and Mend a Heart is just as good. The huge Harrington clan are just such good people and spending time with them is very easy and very rewarding, and the found family vibe is strong again here.
Unusually, Emery and Ville have a history together, spending time with each other and exploring their mutual attraction but not with any seriousness. It's obvious they would like more but because of their work commitments, that's not possible. When Ville's employer sends him to the ranch for five weeks, the two men can't ignore their growing feelings but are also aware that their time together will end once again.
Emery and Ville are lovely characters, kind, sensible and responsible, dedicated men who love their jobs and their families (found family in Ville's case). There was no harsh words, no third act breakup, just two men loving each other and I loved them.
There's not so much of the horses this time but what there was, was just about enough to get my fix. Juanpablo continues to be a favourite and there were some new canine arrivals that made me smile. I love the ranch background, which is a character in its own right in this series.
The stage is now set for Bodhi's book, which I hope is next, and Judson is definitely ready for his own HEA after a new arrival caught his attention.
I loved the first two books and Mend a Heart is just as good. The huge Harrington clan are just such good people and spending time with them is very easy and very rewarding, and the found family vibe is strong again here.
Unusually, Emery and Ville have a history together, spending time with each other and exploring their mutual attraction but not with any seriousness. It's obvious they would like more but because of their work commitments, that's not possible. When Ville's employer sends him to the ranch for five weeks, the two men can't ignore their growing feelings but are also aware that their time together will end once again.
Emery and Ville are lovely characters, kind, sensible and responsible, dedicated men who love their jobs and their families (found family in Ville's case). There was no harsh words, no third act breakup, just two men loving each other and I loved them.
There's not so much of the horses this time but what there was, was just about enough to get my fix. Juanpablo continues to be a favourite and there were some new canine arrivals that made me smile. I love the ranch background, which is a character in its own right in this series.
The stage is now set for Bodhi's book, which I hope is next, and Judson is definitely ready for his own HEA after a new arrival caught his attention.
June 2, 2026
Not only sweet and heartwarming but also really HOT. I was not prepared for this small town/found family vibe to be so steamy yet keep the sweetness throughout. The characters were cute and fun.
Emery and Ville's story had more than just a sweet development of their feelings. They had many heartfelt moments together and with their family and friends. Their story starts off with an already established hot and heavy friend with benefits arrangement, but their forced proximity makes their feelings and relationship grow into so much more. I really enjoyed how they resolved their relationship hurdles in a completely mature way without a bunch of drama.
This is the first book I've read in the series and can absolutely be read as a standalone, though characters are interconnected. This is one of those super comforting, low angst, feel-good, heartfelt MM romances that will leave you with a huge smile on your face.
Tropes:
Friends with benefits to lovers
Age-gap
Secret relationship
Forced proximity
Found Family
Dual POV
Thank you, GRR, for the opportunity to read this book.
Emery and Ville's story had more than just a sweet development of their feelings. They had many heartfelt moments together and with their family and friends. Their story starts off with an already established hot and heavy friend with benefits arrangement, but their forced proximity makes their feelings and relationship grow into so much more. I really enjoyed how they resolved their relationship hurdles in a completely mature way without a bunch of drama.
This is the first book I've read in the series and can absolutely be read as a standalone, though characters are interconnected. This is one of those super comforting, low angst, feel-good, heartfelt MM romances that will leave you with a huge smile on your face.
Tropes:
Friends with benefits to lovers
Age-gap
Secret relationship
Forced proximity
Found Family
Dual POV
Thank you, GRR, for the opportunity to read this book.
June 1, 2026
3.75 stars
“Mend a Heart” by Kris T. Bethke and Tia Fielding is the third book in the ‘Blue Creek Ranch’ series and centers around medical doctor Emery and his sometimes lover, security specialist Ville, as they navigate the challenges of establishing a stronger relationship knowing there is an expiration date to it.
This adult contemporary gay western romance continues to chronicle the adventures of the charismatic Harrington family and those who matter to them. I wasn’t as enthralled with this couple as I have been with the others, even though I love the extended Harrington family. There is a bit of suspense, which felt a little bit forced, and the pining was a bit much for me. It was great to get cameos of the projects all of the siblings are working on and to discover that even Juanpablo the watch-donkey may find a mate, even though I still am waiting to find out what happened to Bodhi and for him to get his HEA. I look forward to revisiting this busy and fascinating ranch and its denizens.
A copy of this title was provided for review
“Mend a Heart” by Kris T. Bethke and Tia Fielding is the third book in the ‘Blue Creek Ranch’ series and centers around medical doctor Emery and his sometimes lover, security specialist Ville, as they navigate the challenges of establishing a stronger relationship knowing there is an expiration date to it.
This adult contemporary gay western romance continues to chronicle the adventures of the charismatic Harrington family and those who matter to them. I wasn’t as enthralled with this couple as I have been with the others, even though I love the extended Harrington family. There is a bit of suspense, which felt a little bit forced, and the pining was a bit much for me. It was great to get cameos of the projects all of the siblings are working on and to discover that even Juanpablo the watch-donkey may find a mate, even though I still am waiting to find out what happened to Bodhi and for him to get his HEA. I look forward to revisiting this busy and fascinating ranch and its denizens.
A copy of this title was provided for review
May 30, 2026
If I could give more than five stars I would. Book three is an excellent lovestory that will make your heart sing and swoon. Yes it is a standalone but reading the other books first makes it more enjoyable. Expect lots of plot twists and intense emotional moments. A what a great family. Emery has moved back home to Blue Creek ranch fulfilling his dream of being a doctor working in family clinic. Ville has a job of security protecting a famous country music star. When Emery's sister plans wedding and said country music star attending Ville has to come to the ranch. We learn he has had a brief and fun interaction with Emery. When he arrives and they spend more time together feeling escalate and a great love story begins. The best feeling for this former farm boy I’d I felt like I was back in the farm hanging with my family and friends.
May 31, 2026
Mend a Heart centers on Wren Paxton, a major music star and longtime friend of the Harrington family, who returns to Blue Creek Ranch for Demi’s wedding. His arrival brings along Ville—his best friend and security lead—whose job is to secure the ranch from an active threat. Ville’s return also reignites his long‑running, casual connection with Dr. Emery Harrington, which quickly deepens into something more serious. The romance between Ville (grumpy, guarded) and Emery (sunny, grounded) is the heart of the book, and their chemistry is immediate. The authors balance their relationship with several compelling subplots: Wren and Bodhi’s not‑so‑subtle tension, the stalker storyline, Emery’s growth at his clinic, and the Harringtons’ warm, inclusive family culture.
A warm, funny, and enjoyable read with a great mix of romance, family, and suspense.
A warm, funny, and enjoyable read with a great mix of romance, family, and suspense.
June 2, 2026
They have never had time to be together but they know that they click. Emery and Ville get a chance to be in the same place when Ville comes to Blue Creek Ranch where Emery is to do security. They have good chemistry and although they started out thinking that they were temporary, the feelings seemed to be there from the start. Emery is where he wants to be on the ranch. Ville is just supposed to be stopping through. But the heart wants, and with these two it really does want, and finding a way to honor that and do what they want is something that they have to work on. They are doing it in the right place. This family, Emery's family, is so interesting, supportive and loving. Their story was well done.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Third book of the Blue Creek Ranch series, but it can be enjoyed as a standalone. It does contain spoilers for the first two books, and I highly recommend the first one Take a Chance. Mend a Heart is a spicy romance between a doctor and a security specialist, and while most of it is set on Blue Creek Ranch and there are horses it doesn’t have the “cozy cowboy” flavor of the first two books. All three are worth rereading, and I look forward to book four.
June 7, 2026
Another great entry in this series. What I enjoyed most about this is the way the story straddles the line between an established couple romance as well as a new one. Emery and 'Ville are long-time friends with benefits who don't see each other regularly as 'Ville does security for a country music performer and Emery is a small town family practice doctor in Colorado. It's great that both are established and successful at what they do. When the musician plans to come to Emery's area and the two of them spend a longer amount of time together much deeper feelings develop in a lovely, organic way. Decisions then have to be made about how/if they might be able to build a life together.
May 28, 2026
A delightful book to read when you have time off. I had intended to read it slowly, but I couldn't put it down.
Once again, I was pleasantly surprised by how these two good writers collaborated and wrote such a beautiful book.
It was so beautiful to see how both MCs were drawn to each other. How they ultimately chose to stay together, despite the distance.
And I was glad that this book has a happy ending, because you wish that for both men.
💞Thank you to the Authors and GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC💖
Once again, I was pleasantly surprised by how these two good writers collaborated and wrote such a beautiful book.
It was so beautiful to see how both MCs were drawn to each other. How they ultimately chose to stay together, despite the distance.
And I was glad that this book has a happy ending, because you wish that for both men.
💞Thank you to the Authors and GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC💖
June 1, 2026
Thank you for the audiobook; here is my honest opinion:
A cute addition to this fun series, I appreciate a low drama romance with two pretty clueless MCs. The relationship between Ville and Emory was very natural, they fall into the easy dynamic of two people who genuinely enjoy each other’s company. They take some time to realize they kind of set up a committed relationship when Ville came to town. They are pretty oblivious, but thoroughly likable. I love the setting as well, the ranch world building is very charming.
A cute addition to this fun series, I appreciate a low drama romance with two pretty clueless MCs. The relationship between Ville and Emory was very natural, they fall into the easy dynamic of two people who genuinely enjoy each other’s company. They take some time to realize they kind of set up a committed relationship when Ville came to town. They are pretty oblivious, but thoroughly likable. I love the setting as well, the ranch world building is very charming.
June 18, 2026
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
If you want small town romance featuring a massive family, this could be what you are looking for.
Personally, I wasn’t a big fan of this book, but maybe it wasn’t the book I needed at the time. It did feel like a mostly low angst read where the MCs were able to feel supported, which I appreciated. It did feel like there was a lot of indications of the conflict for the couple I imagine the next book will be about.
If you want small town romance featuring a massive family, this could be what you are looking for.
Personally, I wasn’t a big fan of this book, but maybe it wasn’t the book I needed at the time. It did feel like a mostly low angst read where the MCs were able to feel supported, which I appreciated. It did feel like there was a lot of indications of the conflict for the couple I imagine the next book will be about.
May 29, 2026
Emery and Ville are just wow, the chemistry is off the charts from the beginning. This two go from just being friends with benefits to something so much more. Watching these two fall in love while surrounded by such an amazing and supportive family was beautiful. The ending was absolutely wonderful. My heart broke for Wren and Bohdi for very different reasons and I can’t wait to read their book next. ❤️
June 1, 2026
Amazing!!!
I fell in love with this family when I read Crew and Mal’s story. Emery was one I was hoping we would get soon. Yes I want all the stories but Emery had worked so hard to get back home and start working at the urgent care. I do want to know what’s up with Brodhi. I’d also like to get to know Nick better. I know there will be more. After all Mike and Jenn had 10 kids lol.
I fell in love with this family when I read Crew and Mal’s story. Emery was one I was hoping we would get soon. Yes I want all the stories but Emery had worked so hard to get back home and start working at the urgent care. I do want to know what’s up with Brodhi. I’d also like to get to know Nick better. I know there will be more. After all Mike and Jenn had 10 kids lol.
June 2, 2026
who doesn’t love a cowboy
Ahhh well I guess technically neither is a cowboy since Em is a doctor and Ville is security for Wren but they sure do wear the hat well. I love that this is a family encompassing all book and while the main story is Ville and Emry we still get a full story about the rest of the family as well. And while you don’t have to read the first or second book to understand this one, I’m for sure going to go back and read them.
Ahhh well I guess technically neither is a cowboy since Em is a doctor and Ville is security for Wren but they sure do wear the hat well. I love that this is a family encompassing all book and while the main story is Ville and Emry we still get a full story about the rest of the family as well. And while you don’t have to read the first or second book to understand this one, I’m for sure going to go back and read them.
June 7, 2026
This world is expanding quite organically and it’s beautiful!! Yes, read the books in order…. as events and easter eggs occur in previous books which will give an inclining of next book. As for this couple, I was hooked from the first “hey sugar” ……swoon …… there’s no initial awkward meeting or conversations….and they are very sweet and intuitive of each other and offer support where needed. Seriously, it’s a beautiful story ….and can’t wait for next in series!!
June 25, 2026
Choices! Emery and Ville, have a sporadic convenient relationship. Emery returns home to open his dream medical practice. Ville, is living his dream as head of security for a country music artist. When Ville, comes to town. Their dynamic changes and expands. When they are both in town, their relationship grows and becomes more intense. Dilemma is can they sustain a relationhip with their current lifestyles? Amazing story, well done! I can read this over and over. Great story!
May 22, 2026
I love it when chemistry is not limited to inside the bedroom. I also love how well they know each other and continued to learn one another. To communicate even without words. And I enjoyed the interaction of the whole family, their relationships with the community, and how they support each other.
I received an advanced readers copy and am giving my honest review.
I received an advanced readers copy and am giving my honest review.
May 22, 2026
Oh my god! I loved this. Ville and Emory are very swoonworthy. I can’t believe I haven’t read any of these books yet! I got very quickly invested in these two finding a way to make everything work. The Harringtons sound almost too perfect to be real and I absolutely love this kind of feel good found family story. 100% recommend and now I have to go read the first couple of books in this series!
May 21, 2026
faire coller deux professions aussi improbable qu un garde du corps d une celibrite et d un medecin dune petite ville est un coup de maitre tres reussi. Et toujours ce joyeux cchos de cette famille nous enchante.
May 29, 2026
The Harrington family is the reason I keep coming back to this series; without a doubt, every single member is special, and Emery is no exception.
This story was an absolute rollercoaster of emotions. The relationship Ville and Emery built is so beautiful! 😍
I'm super intrigued by Bodhi and Wren! I honestly cannot wait for their story.
This story was an absolute rollercoaster of emotions. The relationship Ville and Emery built is so beautiful! 😍
I'm super intrigued by Bodhi and Wren! I honestly cannot wait for their story.
May 30, 2026
I loved it, Emery and Ville are amazing together and the family dynamics are such a refreshing change that everyone gets on so well and the parents are loving and kind. I really enjoyed this book and hoping there is more to come, so now off to read books 1 & 2.
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