What do you think?
Rate this book
Thornbrush Ranch #3
Saddle the Storm
She has secrets. He's obsessed. Can he convince her to saddle up with him before the storm hits?
Hiding from her past, Sage Pardy is determined to keep everyone at arm’s length—especially the charming bull rider who won’t take no for an answer. He may be funny and sweet with an ass that can make even an ice queen weep, but he’s persistent, unwilling to accept rejection, and claims her dog as theirs as if they share some sort of custody agreement.
Christian Riggs is bound and determined to win a buckle and the heart of his best friend’s sister, the closed off-bartender with walls as high as the sky. He knows beneath her hard exterior she wears scars like a shield to protect her heart. But he may be just the one to win her trust.
When her past walks into the bar in a shearling coat and thousand dollar caiman boots, Christian does the only thing he can think of to protect her: claim her as his. With their small town no longer safe, and a championship in Vegas, Sage has no choice but to “saddle up”with him. The only problem is the ring and paper work feel a little too real. But it’s the least of her worries, because a storm is about to roll in.
Hiding from her past, Sage Pardy is determined to keep everyone at arm’s length—especially the charming bull rider who won’t take no for an answer. He may be funny and sweet with an ass that can make even an ice queen weep, but he’s persistent, unwilling to accept rejection, and claims her dog as theirs as if they share some sort of custody agreement.
Christian Riggs is bound and determined to win a buckle and the heart of his best friend’s sister, the closed off-bartender with walls as high as the sky. He knows beneath her hard exterior she wears scars like a shield to protect her heart. But he may be just the one to win her trust.
When her past walks into the bar in a shearling coat and thousand dollar caiman boots, Christian does the only thing he can think of to protect her: claim her as his. With their small town no longer safe, and a championship in Vegas, Sage has no choice but to “saddle up”with him. The only problem is the ring and paper work feel a little too real. But it’s the least of her worries, because a storm is about to roll in.
444 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 30, 2026
About the author
June Lark
5 books129 followersJune Lark is a romance author of steamy bygone and contemporary small town love stories filled with tension and suspense, with strong heroines who save themselves and brooding heroes who fall first. After years of research and a career in teaching social studies, she is finally living her childhood dream.
She lives outside of Portland, Oregon with her husband, Kenny, two kids, K.C. and Skye Lynn, and their lovey-dovey Norwegian elkhound, Baldur. She loves spending time with her family, cooking, exploring the Pacific Northwest, retail therapy, and devouring romance novels. With a coconut milk latte in hand, you can find June researching and writing in her office/kids' craft room.
She lives outside of Portland, Oregon with her husband, Kenny, two kids, K.C. and Skye Lynn, and their lovey-dovey Norwegian elkhound, Baldur. She loves spending time with her family, cooking, exploring the Pacific Northwest, retail therapy, and devouring romance novels. With a coconut milk latte in hand, you can find June researching and writing in her office/kids' craft room.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 168 reviews
July 11, 2026
✨ARC Book Review✨
Omg, this book had me in my feelings so many times!
Sage is running from a very abusive relationship. She moves close to her brother and eventually starts to feel comfortable. Since moving to town, she’s become quite familiar with Christian, her brother’s best friend, who’s totally in love with her.
I absolutely adore Christian. Do men like this really exist? He was so in love with Sage! This man was down bad 😅 I loved how, anytime he had the chance to be there for her, he never hesitated. He had all the green flags and was such a gentleman!
I felt so bad for Sage. Her story of surviving domestic abuse is so heartbreaking. That kind of trauma changes you. I appreciated that it took her time to open up and be vulnerable. She totally found the perfect man in Christian.
The last quarter of this book had me so mad! When Sage finally had a moment to express her feelings about the situation, I was right there with her! I did like the ending, though. I was totally hooked and couldn’t put it down!
Omg, this book had me in my feelings so many times!
Sage is running from a very abusive relationship. She moves close to her brother and eventually starts to feel comfortable. Since moving to town, she’s become quite familiar with Christian, her brother’s best friend, who’s totally in love with her.
I absolutely adore Christian. Do men like this really exist? He was so in love with Sage! This man was down bad 😅 I loved how, anytime he had the chance to be there for her, he never hesitated. He had all the green flags and was such a gentleman!
I felt so bad for Sage. Her story of surviving domestic abuse is so heartbreaking. That kind of trauma changes you. I appreciated that it took her time to open up and be vulnerable. She totally found the perfect man in Christian.
The last quarter of this book had me so mad! When Sage finally had a moment to express her feelings about the situation, I was right there with her! I did like the ending, though. I was totally hooked and couldn’t put it down!
July 6, 2026
I don’t know why I waited so long to read this series, but let me tell you… it’s a must add!! This book was definitely my favorite!! I am simply head over heels in love with Christian and Sage!
He is down bad, she has secrets, and these two have off the charts chemistry you just can’t help but root for!! This book is full of banter, humor, tension, and suspense that keeps you sucked into every single page!! The heat between these two!! To die for!!!
I didn’t want to put this book down. My heart felt so deeply for Sage, but also loved the strong FMC that she was! Christian is a top tier MMC who is willing to risk it all for her & her love. If you love romantic suspense, fake dating, accidental marriage, brothers best friend, and a bull riding MMC that will sweep you off your feet. This one is 100% for you!!
Thank you Luna Lit for this early copy!! I cannot wait for more from this series!!!
He is down bad, she has secrets, and these two have off the charts chemistry you just can’t help but root for!! This book is full of banter, humor, tension, and suspense that keeps you sucked into every single page!! The heat between these two!! To die for!!!
I didn’t want to put this book down. My heart felt so deeply for Sage, but also loved the strong FMC that she was! Christian is a top tier MMC who is willing to risk it all for her & her love. If you love romantic suspense, fake dating, accidental marriage, brothers best friend, and a bull riding MMC that will sweep you off your feet. This one is 100% for you!!
Thank you Luna Lit for this early copy!! I cannot wait for more from this series!!!
June 28, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Each book in this series just keeps getting better, and Saddle the Storm is no exception.
Watching the FMC finally escape an abusive relationship and fight to build a new life for herself was such a rewarding journey. She was incredibly strong, and I loved seeing her find people who truly had her back.
The MMC was absolutely gone for her from the moment they met, and there was no way he was going to let the chance at a relationship slip away. I’ll admit, his constant flirting drove me a little crazy at times, but every bit of it came from a place of wanting to make her smile and remind her she deserved to be loved. He was willing to do whatever it took to protect her from both her past and the walls she’d built around herself.
The found family in this series continues to be one of my favorite parts. They would do absolutely anything for each other, and that loyalty shines through on every page. And that third-act twist? Holy shit. I never saw it coming.
After reading the blurb for the next book, I already know I can’t wait to dive back into this world.
Each book in this series just keeps getting better, and Saddle the Storm is no exception.
Watching the FMC finally escape an abusive relationship and fight to build a new life for herself was such a rewarding journey. She was incredibly strong, and I loved seeing her find people who truly had her back.
The MMC was absolutely gone for her from the moment they met, and there was no way he was going to let the chance at a relationship slip away. I’ll admit, his constant flirting drove me a little crazy at times, but every bit of it came from a place of wanting to make her smile and remind her she deserved to be loved. He was willing to do whatever it took to protect her from both her past and the walls she’d built around herself.
The found family in this series continues to be one of my favorite parts. They would do absolutely anything for each other, and that loyalty shines through on every page. And that third-act twist? Holy shit. I never saw it coming.
After reading the blurb for the next book, I already know I can’t wait to dive back into this world.
June 9, 2026
Wow! I don’t know why more people are not talking about this series, it’s so slept on. It’s a top tier fav romance suspense series for me! I didn’t think she could top Reed and Lina in book 2 but then enters Christian Riggs😮💨and let me tell you she delivered. I loved him and Sage so much! He was a big ol sap and beyond obsessed with her and I absolutely loved it and ate it up.
Their tension and banter from the first book had me dying to get their story! I knew it was going to be good! Their dynamic and banter was just so fun and had me giddy and laughing out loud. He would do absolutely anything and everything for her and wouldn’t stop until he got her! The spice was spicing🥵let’s just say it got real spicy at his parents house and there’s some painting involved😮💨
I love June’s writing so much. She blends romance, suspense, spice and banter so dang good with plot twists that leave your jaw on the floor. The found family is incredible in this series and just keeps getting better. She always has the best group chats that have me dying😂This is def my favorite is the series and I can’t wait for the next book and finally get Hazels story!
Thank you so much to June for allowing me to be a honeybee and sending me this to read early! This releases on June 30th and you need to add this to your tbr immediately. If you haven’t started this series what are you even doing! You will devour them!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Romance suspense
He falls first
Accidental marriage
Fake engagement
Brothers best friend
Forced proximity
Their tension and banter from the first book had me dying to get their story! I knew it was going to be good! Their dynamic and banter was just so fun and had me giddy and laughing out loud. He would do absolutely anything and everything for her and wouldn’t stop until he got her! The spice was spicing🥵let’s just say it got real spicy at his parents house and there’s some painting involved😮💨
I love June’s writing so much. She blends romance, suspense, spice and banter so dang good with plot twists that leave your jaw on the floor. The found family is incredible in this series and just keeps getting better. She always has the best group chats that have me dying😂This is def my favorite is the series and I can’t wait for the next book and finally get Hazels story!
Thank you so much to June for allowing me to be a honeybee and sending me this to read early! This releases on June 30th and you need to add this to your tbr immediately. If you haven’t started this series what are you even doing! You will devour them!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Romance suspense
He falls first
Accidental marriage
Fake engagement
Brothers best friend
Forced proximity
Read
March 30, 2026beta read
June 30, 2026
✨️ Thanks to @junelarkauthor for the ARC
🔥 “Come here, my other hand still works, just sit on it.”
🔥 “There is no boundary I’m not willing to step over for you.”
🔥 “These hands, my touch, should only ever bring you pleasure. Should only ever convey my love.”
Running from her ex, Sage Pardy refuses to let anyone in - including the handsome bull rider, Christian Riggs, who is totally obsessed with her. Although she has consistently turned him down, Christian is quite persistent and is determined to break down her walls and earn her trust. When the past that has caused her turmoil walks into the bar she works at, Christian steps in to claim and protect her. With danger lurking in town, Sage relents and reluctantly joins Christian in Vegas for his bull riding championship. Not everything that happens in Vegas stays in Vegas because the pair return with more than prize money in hand. As their facade relationship starts to feel too real, can Sage find freedom with Christian or will her past threaten to engulf her?
When I say I love an obsessed MMC, I am talking about Christian Riggs! I freaking loved his unwavering devotion to Sage. The “free use (for her)” trope was a first for me and I was not disappointed. And that truck scene will live rent free in my head. Their flirty banter was perfection and their spicy text threads left me absolutely giddy - not to mention their fun contact names for each other. And not to be outshined, Sage was the epitome of strength and kindness. Even while struggling with her past, she never failed to put others first and still remained a kind and caring person. I really appreciated the author shining a light on the very real issues surrounding domestic abuse and the fact that Indigenous women are disproportionately affected. This series was one of my first forays into romantic suspense and this one had me anxious and on the edge of my seat in the best possible way. I have loved all the books in this series but Christian and Sage were such a duo and hold the top spot for me. That teaser for the next book has me so excited to see Hazel get her happily ever after.
✨️Tropes:
🩷Golden Retriever Bull Rider x Black Cat Bartender
⚡️Annoyed to Lovers
🩷Brother’s Best Friend
⚡️Man Obsessed
🩷Fake Engagement
⚡️Accidental Marriage
🩷Free Use (for her)
⚡️Romantic Suspense
🩷Forced Proximity
⚡️Banter
🩷Slow Burn
🔥 “Come here, my other hand still works, just sit on it.”
🔥 “There is no boundary I’m not willing to step over for you.”
🔥 “These hands, my touch, should only ever bring you pleasure. Should only ever convey my love.”
Running from her ex, Sage Pardy refuses to let anyone in - including the handsome bull rider, Christian Riggs, who is totally obsessed with her. Although she has consistently turned him down, Christian is quite persistent and is determined to break down her walls and earn her trust. When the past that has caused her turmoil walks into the bar she works at, Christian steps in to claim and protect her. With danger lurking in town, Sage relents and reluctantly joins Christian in Vegas for his bull riding championship. Not everything that happens in Vegas stays in Vegas because the pair return with more than prize money in hand. As their facade relationship starts to feel too real, can Sage find freedom with Christian or will her past threaten to engulf her?
When I say I love an obsessed MMC, I am talking about Christian Riggs! I freaking loved his unwavering devotion to Sage. The “free use (for her)” trope was a first for me and I was not disappointed. And that truck scene will live rent free in my head. Their flirty banter was perfection and their spicy text threads left me absolutely giddy - not to mention their fun contact names for each other. And not to be outshined, Sage was the epitome of strength and kindness. Even while struggling with her past, she never failed to put others first and still remained a kind and caring person. I really appreciated the author shining a light on the very real issues surrounding domestic abuse and the fact that Indigenous women are disproportionately affected. This series was one of my first forays into romantic suspense and this one had me anxious and on the edge of my seat in the best possible way. I have loved all the books in this series but Christian and Sage were such a duo and hold the top spot for me. That teaser for the next book has me so excited to see Hazel get her happily ever after.
✨️Tropes:
🩷Golden Retriever Bull Rider x Black Cat Bartender
⚡️Annoyed to Lovers
🩷Brother’s Best Friend
⚡️Man Obsessed
🩷Fake Engagement
⚡️Accidental Marriage
🩷Free Use (for her)
⚡️Romantic Suspense
🩷Forced Proximity
⚡️Banter
🩷Slow Burn
June 30, 2026
Rating: Slightly Obsessed 🤠💖
🩷 Golden Retriever Bull Rider x Black Cat Bartender
⚡️ Annoyed to Lovers
🩷 Brother's Best Friend
⚡️ Man Obsessed
🩷 Fake Engagement
⚡️ Accidental Marriage
🩷 Free Use (for her 😉)
⚡️ Romantic Suspense
🩷 Forced Proximity
⚡️ Banter
🩷 Slow Burn
This was my first June Lark book (even though it's Book 3), and let me tell you...I'm immediately going back for Books 1 and 2 because I'm not ready to leave this world yet. It works perfectly as a standalone, but now I need everyone else's stories.
This book wastes zero time. We meet Sage while she's literally running from her abusive ex, and my protective instincts kicked in immediately. June throws you right into the action, and I was hooked from page one.
Christian? Oh, this man never had a chance.
He's been down bad for his best friend/roommate's sister since the moment they met (3 years ago!), and watching him slowly realize he's getting everything he's ever wanted was adorable. He'd move mountains, wrestle bulls, and probably fight God himself if it meant proving to Sage she could trust him. The man quite literally fought demons for her.
The suspense never lets you relax. It's always lurking just beneath the surface until everything finally explodes in the second half. I hit the "just one more chapter" stage around midnight...and somehow ended up with only three hours of sleep because there was absolutely no way I was putting this book down.
June's writing is effortless. The romance and suspense weave together so seamlessly that neither overshadows the other, and the found family at the heart of this series absolutely shines. Even as a first-time reader, I felt like I'd known this group forever, and I wanted to crawl right into their little family.
Please check the trigger warnings, but also know that June handles the heavier topics with so much care. Sage being Indigenous adds another important layer to her story, and while it's heartbreaking at times, these are exactly the kinds of stories that deserve to be told.
Huge thank you to @junelarkauthor, @lunaliterary.management, and @magik4le for the gorgeous character art and the ARC! 🤍
🩷 Golden Retriever Bull Rider x Black Cat Bartender
⚡️ Annoyed to Lovers
🩷 Brother's Best Friend
⚡️ Man Obsessed
🩷 Fake Engagement
⚡️ Accidental Marriage
🩷 Free Use (for her 😉)
⚡️ Romantic Suspense
🩷 Forced Proximity
⚡️ Banter
🩷 Slow Burn
This was my first June Lark book (even though it's Book 3), and let me tell you...I'm immediately going back for Books 1 and 2 because I'm not ready to leave this world yet. It works perfectly as a standalone, but now I need everyone else's stories.
This book wastes zero time. We meet Sage while she's literally running from her abusive ex, and my protective instincts kicked in immediately. June throws you right into the action, and I was hooked from page one.
Christian? Oh, this man never had a chance.
He's been down bad for his best friend/roommate's sister since the moment they met (3 years ago!), and watching him slowly realize he's getting everything he's ever wanted was adorable. He'd move mountains, wrestle bulls, and probably fight God himself if it meant proving to Sage she could trust him. The man quite literally fought demons for her.
The suspense never lets you relax. It's always lurking just beneath the surface until everything finally explodes in the second half. I hit the "just one more chapter" stage around midnight...and somehow ended up with only three hours of sleep because there was absolutely no way I was putting this book down.
June's writing is effortless. The romance and suspense weave together so seamlessly that neither overshadows the other, and the found family at the heart of this series absolutely shines. Even as a first-time reader, I felt like I'd known this group forever, and I wanted to crawl right into their little family.
Please check the trigger warnings, but also know that June handles the heavier topics with so much care. Sage being Indigenous adds another important layer to her story, and while it's heartbreaking at times, these are exactly the kinds of stories that deserve to be told.
Huge thank you to @junelarkauthor, @lunaliterary.management, and @magik4le for the gorgeous character art and the ARC! 🤍
June 21, 2026
ARC REVIEW
Rating:5⭐️
Spice:4🌶️
My heart is so happy!
Sage-Everything makes sense from book one and two…and I hate it. The way I cried for you. I’ve been there so I knew how you felt and what you were going through. What a strong ass woman you are! You definitely pulled yourself out of the darkness and worked hard to carve out some kind of piece a belonging for yourself. I really enjoyed watching you grow emotionally and mentally in this story. You knew what you wanted and went from it. Granted, our man KNEW what you needed and I’m glad you let him.
Christian-WOW! You are the complete package aren’t you? You’re a great friend, son and an awesome dog dad. You’re funny, sweet, loyal and dedicated. You knew she was your future and you kept after her for 3 years! You paid attention to everything when it came to her and knew her without her saying a word. The way you loved her in so many ways. You kept her secrets and you kept her safe. You have her what she needed. You were willing to do anything for you and I mean ANYTHING!!!
Family- THEY’RE ALL BACK and growing! After everything our family has been through, they’re still together and going strong. Picking up the pieces and I have no doubt they’re going to build a beautiful future. I can’t wait for the Ranch to get the blessing it deserves.
Hazel baby!!! OMG, I can’t wait for your book. You deserve a happy ending and you better get one. lol.
Thank you June Lark and Luna Literary for giving me the opportunity to this amazing story early! June, you did your thing as always and I can’t wait for the next one!
Rating:5⭐️
Spice:4🌶️
My heart is so happy!
Sage-Everything makes sense from book one and two…and I hate it. The way I cried for you. I’ve been there so I knew how you felt and what you were going through. What a strong ass woman you are! You definitely pulled yourself out of the darkness and worked hard to carve out some kind of piece a belonging for yourself. I really enjoyed watching you grow emotionally and mentally in this story. You knew what you wanted and went from it. Granted, our man KNEW what you needed and I’m glad you let him.
Christian-WOW! You are the complete package aren’t you? You’re a great friend, son and an awesome dog dad. You’re funny, sweet, loyal and dedicated. You knew she was your future and you kept after her for 3 years! You paid attention to everything when it came to her and knew her without her saying a word. The way you loved her in so many ways. You kept her secrets and you kept her safe. You have her what she needed. You were willing to do anything for you and I mean ANYTHING!!!
Family- THEY’RE ALL BACK and growing! After everything our family has been through, they’re still together and going strong. Picking up the pieces and I have no doubt they’re going to build a beautiful future. I can’t wait for the Ranch to get the blessing it deserves.
Hazel baby!!! OMG, I can’t wait for your book. You deserve a happy ending and you better get one. lol.
Thank you June Lark and Luna Literary for giving me the opportunity to this amazing story early! June, you did your thing as always and I can’t wait for the next one!
June 6, 2026
ARC REVIEW
Finally getting to read Christian and Sage’s story is the highlight of my month so far. This book made me so giddy that I couldn’t put it down; I NEEDED to devour Saddle The Storm— and devour I did. Ever since I read about them in Among The Willows I was eager to get to their love story and now here I am, just finished with it and in loveeeee!!!
Excited for Hazel’s book next!
Finally getting to read Christian and Sage’s story is the highlight of my month so far. This book made me so giddy that I couldn’t put it down; I NEEDED to devour Saddle The Storm— and devour I did. Ever since I read about them in Among The Willows I was eager to get to their love story and now here I am, just finished with it and in loveeeee!!!
Excited for Hazel’s book next!
Read
March 29, 2026COPY & LINE edits & final PROOFREAD
Sage and Christian were EVERYTHING!
Add to your tbr if you like:
- romantic suspense
- annoyances (her) to lovers
- he falls first
- forced proximity
- golden retriever x black cat
- accidental marriage
Releasing 30 June!!
Sage and Christian were EVERYTHING!
Add to your tbr if you like:
- romantic suspense
- annoyances (her) to lovers
- he falls first
- forced proximity
- golden retriever x black cat
- accidental marriage
Releasing 30 June!!
June 30, 2026
So great to be back in this world . Probably the most emotional book in this series and man, was it worth the time it took to get to the healing. Sage absolutely deserved Christian and damn am I glad he never stopped fighting for her! I can’t wait for the world to get their hands on this book and root so hard for these two!
TW check in for this one🤍 Heavy Themes for sure 🤍
⚡️healing
🤍accidental marriage
⚡️it’s always been her
🤍found family
⚡️brothers best friend
Storyline:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Song: Love is a Cowboy - Kelsey Ballerini
TW check in for this one🤍 Heavy Themes for sure 🤍
⚡️healing
🤍accidental marriage
⚡️it’s always been her
🤍found family
⚡️brothers best friend
Storyline:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Song: Love is a Cowboy - Kelsey Ballerini
Read
February 6, 2026Alpha, will update review after ARC read through
Review of advance copy received from Author
𝙰𝚁𝙲 𝚁𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠: 𝚂𝚊𝚍𝚍𝚕𝚎 𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝚂𝚝𝚘𝚛𝚖
Book 3 in the Thornbrush Ranch Series absolutely delivered! This book gave me everything I wanted and more! This is the perfect slow burn with all the yearning and banter! I could not put it down!
(This book does have heavy themes of DV regarding past trauma related to the FMC so please check TW prior to reading.) With that said, June did an amazing job writing about Sages past and how it affected her character and how she continued to overcome and grow as a female taking back her freedom. If you’ve read the previous books you know Christian is obsessed with Sage and she has always acted annoyed with his flirty advances! I always loved their banter in the previous books. This book continues to build on their dynamic of annoyed to lovers. Her character is complex, she’s nervous to trust another man after what she escaped from but she’s also independent and head strong building herself a new life. She has high walls around her heart but leave it to Christian “use me” Riggs to slowly climbs those walls and show her how much he treasures and adores her.
One of the best parts in this book is the banter! I was cackling and kicking my feet! I love the golden retriever x black cat dynamic! Christian is so goofy but he only wants to make her smile!
“𝙃𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙖𝙣𝙣𝙤𝙮𝙨 𝙢𝙚 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚𝙨, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙝𝙚’𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙖 𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙠. 𝙃𝙚 𝙗𝙪𝙧𝙧𝙤𝙬𝙨 𝙪𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙨𝙠𝙞𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙧𝙚𝙛𝙪𝙨𝙚𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚.”
“𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙒𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙡𝙚𝙧𝙨, 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮'𝙧𝙚 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙖 𝙥𝙪𝙨𝙝-𝙪𝙥 𝙗𝙧𝙖 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙘𝙤𝙬𝙗𝙤𝙮 𝙗𝙪𝙩𝙩𝙨.”
The pacing I thought was perfect. Sage is busy working on her gallery, Christian is bull riding and then you get the underlying threat of her ex retuning and causing trouble along with Junior (antagonist from previous books) I was engaged through the entire book. I enjoyed the fake dating/marriage and how Christian was determined to show her how good they could be together. He was so patient and supportive. I really connected to Sage’s character personally so a lot of what she was going through resonated with me. You also get to see her as a caretaker for Christian which I really loved (she washes his hair) 🥰
Now, when the slow burn… starts to sizzle.. whew their chemistry was electric! The spicy texts.. he talks her through it.. I loved how confident Sage is in her sexuality. Oh and the toys as teammates 🙌🏼🔥 yes please I love a man who isn’t threatened by some toys!
Christian truly is a walking GREEN FLAG!! “If he wanted to he would” doesn’t even begin to cover it!
“𝙎𝙩𝙤𝙥 𝙗𝙚𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙤 𝙤𝙗𝙨𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙙 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙢𝙚, 𝙧𝙤𝙙𝙚𝙤 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧.” 𝙄 𝙨𝙘𝙤𝙛𝙛𝙚𝙙. “𝙉𝙤𝙩 𝙥𝙤𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙗𝙡𝙚, 𝙗𝙖𝙗𝙮. 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙢𝙚 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙝𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙙.”
“𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙖 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧, 𝙎𝙖𝙜𝙚. 𝙈𝙮 𝙬𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙤𝙡𝙫𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪. 𝙄 𝙘𝙖𝙣’𝙩 𝙨𝙚𝙚𝙢 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙥 𝙞𝙩. 𝙄’𝙫𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙙𝙧𝙖𝙬𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙜𝙞𝙣𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜. 𝙇𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙢𝙮 𝙤𝙧𝙗𝙞𝙩 𝙠𝙚𝙚𝙥𝙨 𝙜𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙚𝙧 𝙄 𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙄 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙨𝙚𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙗𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙨. 𝙄 𝙨𝙚𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙚, 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙡𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩.”
I swooned so hard while reading this. The last 20% of has me flying through the pages with suspense! The ending was so good and I loved the crumbs she gives regarding Hazel and Chuck. I loved seeing the other characters from the previous books!
If you enjoy slow burn, cowboy romance, with a MMC who will do anything for his woman then I cannot recommend this enough.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🫑🌶️🌶️
🩷Golden retriever bull rider x black cat bartender
⚡️Annoyed to lovers
🩷Brother’s best friend
⚡️Man obsessed
🩷Fake engagement
⚡️Accidental marriage
🩷Free use (for her)
⚡️Romantic suspense
🩷Forced proximity
⚡️Banter
🩷Slow Burn
⚡️Secret Tattoo
🩷”My Wife”
⚡️Nicknames
🩷”Good Boy”
Thank you to Author June Lark and Luna Literary Management for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Book 3 in the Thornbrush Ranch Series absolutely delivered! This book gave me everything I wanted and more! This is the perfect slow burn with all the yearning and banter! I could not put it down!
(This book does have heavy themes of DV regarding past trauma related to the FMC so please check TW prior to reading.) With that said, June did an amazing job writing about Sages past and how it affected her character and how she continued to overcome and grow as a female taking back her freedom. If you’ve read the previous books you know Christian is obsessed with Sage and she has always acted annoyed with his flirty advances! I always loved their banter in the previous books. This book continues to build on their dynamic of annoyed to lovers. Her character is complex, she’s nervous to trust another man after what she escaped from but she’s also independent and head strong building herself a new life. She has high walls around her heart but leave it to Christian “use me” Riggs to slowly climbs those walls and show her how much he treasures and adores her.
One of the best parts in this book is the banter! I was cackling and kicking my feet! I love the golden retriever x black cat dynamic! Christian is so goofy but he only wants to make her smile!
“𝙃𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙖𝙣𝙣𝙤𝙮𝙨 𝙢𝙚 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚𝙨, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙝𝙚’𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙖 𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙠. 𝙃𝙚 𝙗𝙪𝙧𝙧𝙤𝙬𝙨 𝙪𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙨𝙠𝙞𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙧𝙚𝙛𝙪𝙨𝙚𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚.”
“𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙒𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙡𝙚𝙧𝙨, 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮'𝙧𝙚 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙖 𝙥𝙪𝙨𝙝-𝙪𝙥 𝙗𝙧𝙖 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙘𝙤𝙬𝙗𝙤𝙮 𝙗𝙪𝙩𝙩𝙨.”
The pacing I thought was perfect. Sage is busy working on her gallery, Christian is bull riding and then you get the underlying threat of her ex retuning and causing trouble along with Junior (antagonist from previous books) I was engaged through the entire book. I enjoyed the fake dating/marriage and how Christian was determined to show her how good they could be together. He was so patient and supportive. I really connected to Sage’s character personally so a lot of what she was going through resonated with me. You also get to see her as a caretaker for Christian which I really loved (she washes his hair) 🥰
Now, when the slow burn… starts to sizzle.. whew their chemistry was electric! The spicy texts.. he talks her through it.. I loved how confident Sage is in her sexuality. Oh and the toys as teammates 🙌🏼🔥 yes please I love a man who isn’t threatened by some toys!
Christian truly is a walking GREEN FLAG!! “If he wanted to he would” doesn’t even begin to cover it!
“𝙎𝙩𝙤𝙥 𝙗𝙚𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙤 𝙤𝙗𝙨𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙙 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙢𝙚, 𝙧𝙤𝙙𝙚𝙤 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧.” 𝙄 𝙨𝙘𝙤𝙛𝙛𝙚𝙙. “𝙉𝙤𝙩 𝙥𝙤𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙗𝙡𝙚, 𝙗𝙖𝙗𝙮. 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙢𝙚 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙝𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙙.”
“𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙖 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧, 𝙎𝙖𝙜𝙚. 𝙈𝙮 𝙬𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙤𝙡𝙫𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪. 𝙄 𝙘𝙖𝙣’𝙩 𝙨𝙚𝙚𝙢 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙥 𝙞𝙩. 𝙄’𝙫𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙙𝙧𝙖𝙬𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙜𝙞𝙣𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜. 𝙇𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙢𝙮 𝙤𝙧𝙗𝙞𝙩 𝙠𝙚𝙚𝙥𝙨 𝙜𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙚𝙧 𝙄 𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙄 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙨𝙚𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙗𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙨. 𝙄 𝙨𝙚𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙚, 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙡𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩.”
I swooned so hard while reading this. The last 20% of has me flying through the pages with suspense! The ending was so good and I loved the crumbs she gives regarding Hazel and Chuck. I loved seeing the other characters from the previous books!
If you enjoy slow burn, cowboy romance, with a MMC who will do anything for his woman then I cannot recommend this enough.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🫑🌶️🌶️
🩷Golden retriever bull rider x black cat bartender
⚡️Annoyed to lovers
🩷Brother’s best friend
⚡️Man obsessed
🩷Fake engagement
⚡️Accidental marriage
🩷Free use (for her)
⚡️Romantic suspense
🩷Forced proximity
⚡️Banter
🩷Slow Burn
⚡️Secret Tattoo
🩷”My Wife”
⚡️Nicknames
🩷”Good Boy”
Thank you to Author June Lark and Luna Literary Management for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
★4 stars★
Spice Rating Scale: 3🔥
Some Tropes You’ll Find:
➵ Golden Retriever Bull Rider x Black Cat Bartender/Artist
➵ Annoyed to Lovers
➵ Brother’s Best Friend
➵ Man Obsessed
➵ Fake Engagement
➵ Accidental Marriage
➵ Free Use (for her)
➵ Romantic Suspense
➵ Forced Proximity
➵ Banter
➵ Slow Burn
Boy oh boy… what a ride this one was! I have been loving the Thornbrush Ranch series, and the slow-burn tension between Christian and Sage has been building since Among the Willows (Book 1), so I couldn't wait to finally read their story! I think this was my fastest read this year, I finished within a couple hours. The pacing, plot, storyline, and flow of the writing I really enjoyed. The first half focuses on Christian's relentless pursuit of Sage while she continues denying her feelings, while the second half centers on Sage overcoming her trauma and learning to trust and love again.
︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵
𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒔:
𝐒𝐚𝐠𝐞: Who doesn’t love an FMC who comes back stronger than ever after having a rough past. After escaping an abusive relationship, she finds herself rebuilding her life in the same town where her brother lives. Also, let's highlight how she is also a fantastic dog mom to Arlo!! Sage wasn't perfect, she carried plenty of baggage and kept her walls firmly in place despite having people willing to fight for her. But her growth throughout this story was worth it. I do hope throughout the series she will fully let her walls down and be more open about her love with Christian rather than trying to hide it.
𝐂𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐧: Simp. I can’t talk enough about how much I love this man. The man waited YEARS for Sage and even though she rejected him, lord knows how many times, he had the patience of a saint until she finally became his. His family definitely raised him right, a literal golden retriever, but he knows when to take things seriously and becomes protective of the ones he loves. As Sage opened up about her past, he met her with patience, understanding, and unwavering support, never pushing her beyond what she was comfortable with. Yes, he was annoying all those years confessing his love and making ridiculous comments, but deep down Sage definitely loved every moment of it!
︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵
Jude and Romy have my heart, but Christian and Sage are coming in at a close second! I need Kale to get his own book and see what kind of FMC will make this bull riding f-boy yearn and beg for her love. I am so sad to have already finished Christian and Sage’s story, but knowing they are finally together makes me happy and hopefully we'll continue seeing them throughout the rest of the series!
Thank you Luna Literary and June Lark for the ARC! 🩷
⋆༺𓆩♡𓆪༻⋆
𝑷𝒐𝒔𝒕-𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅: New book boyfriend alert! Christian Riggs I think I am just as much obsessed with you, as you are with Sage 😅
𝑷𝒓𝒆-𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅: I received this ARC from Luna Literary and June Lark! I have been keeping up with the Thornbrush Ranch Series and am so excited for Sage and Christians story!
Spice Rating Scale: 3🔥
Some Tropes You’ll Find:
➵ Golden Retriever Bull Rider x Black Cat Bartender/Artist
➵ Annoyed to Lovers
➵ Brother’s Best Friend
➵ Man Obsessed
➵ Fake Engagement
➵ Accidental Marriage
➵ Free Use (for her)
➵ Romantic Suspense
➵ Forced Proximity
➵ Banter
➵ Slow Burn
Boy oh boy… what a ride this one was! I have been loving the Thornbrush Ranch series, and the slow-burn tension between Christian and Sage has been building since Among the Willows (Book 1), so I couldn't wait to finally read their story! I think this was my fastest read this year, I finished within a couple hours. The pacing, plot, storyline, and flow of the writing I really enjoyed. The first half focuses on Christian's relentless pursuit of Sage while she continues denying her feelings, while the second half centers on Sage overcoming her trauma and learning to trust and love again.
︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵
𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒔:
𝐒𝐚𝐠𝐞: Who doesn’t love an FMC who comes back stronger than ever after having a rough past. After escaping an abusive relationship, she finds herself rebuilding her life in the same town where her brother lives. Also, let's highlight how she is also a fantastic dog mom to Arlo!! Sage wasn't perfect, she carried plenty of baggage and kept her walls firmly in place despite having people willing to fight for her. But her growth throughout this story was worth it. I do hope throughout the series she will fully let her walls down and be more open about her love with Christian rather than trying to hide it.
𝐂𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐧: Simp. I can’t talk enough about how much I love this man. The man waited YEARS for Sage and even though she rejected him, lord knows how many times, he had the patience of a saint until she finally became his. His family definitely raised him right, a literal golden retriever, but he knows when to take things seriously and becomes protective of the ones he loves. As Sage opened up about her past, he met her with patience, understanding, and unwavering support, never pushing her beyond what she was comfortable with. Yes, he was annoying all those years confessing his love and making ridiculous comments, but deep down Sage definitely loved every moment of it!
︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵
Jude and Romy have my heart, but Christian and Sage are coming in at a close second! I need Kale to get his own book and see what kind of FMC will make this bull riding f-boy yearn and beg for her love. I am so sad to have already finished Christian and Sage’s story, but knowing they are finally together makes me happy and hopefully we'll continue seeing them throughout the rest of the series!
Thank you Luna Literary and June Lark for the ARC! 🩷
⋆༺𓆩♡𓆪༻⋆
𝑷𝒐𝒔𝒕-𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅: New book boyfriend alert! Christian Riggs I think I am just as much obsessed with you, as you are with Sage 😅
𝑷𝒓𝒆-𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅: I received this ARC from Luna Literary and June Lark! I have been keeping up with the Thornbrush Ranch Series and am so excited for Sage and Christians story!
July 3, 2026
I was able to read this book ahead of its release date thanks to the author.
Spice rating: 3
This is the third book in the series and is mostly a standalone. There are two story lines that carry between all three of the current books but reading out of order won't take away from each individual story line. All you have to know is Junior is an a-hole throughout the whole series.
I've been waiting for Christian and Sage’s story since they were introduced and we learned that Christian had a thing for Sage.
Their book did not disappoint. I ate the book up from beginning to end. I went on a roller coaster of emotions with this one. June Lark is very good at getting you into a comfortable space before she lets all hell break loose and you better be holding on to the reins when it kicks off.
I was not expecting how obsessed Christian was going to be. Kinda walked the “Red flag” line at the beginning but like a golden retriever puppy that knew something was wrong but did it anyway and was super cute when he got caught kinda way. He made for some fun scenes in the story.
I knew Sage was coming in with a dark backstory and it came through perfectly. The survivor of domestic violence rep was done in a very appropriate way. She had boundaries and made them known. She was also a strong character. I appreciated that there was little DV on page other than her recalling the events and some of the emotional abuse once Clayton shows up. It wasn't there for shock value. I also appreciated that in a story with a Native American FMC June Lark took the time to very organically bring attention to a very real issue which is the 100s of indigenous girls that go missing every year from reservations and surrounding areas that go unsolved or not investigated at all through Sage.
Sage and Christians annoyed to lovers story line evolved almost at a slow burn if you start at the beginning of the series and make your way to this book. In this book though we don't have to wait too long to see that there is an attraction between the two MCs. There is a good amount of spice and a good variation in each scene. I loved that Chrisitian was more than happy to give control over to Sage when it came to their intimate moments. But he also understood when to push her to let go of control and be free. The banter is really good throughout the whole book.
The ongoing story line across all the books is woven into this book seamlessly. It fit into Sage and Christian’s story line and added to their love story.
Overall, this was a great book and a great edition to the ongoing series. I'm excited to see what the next book will be about.
Spice rating: 3
This is the third book in the series and is mostly a standalone. There are two story lines that carry between all three of the current books but reading out of order won't take away from each individual story line. All you have to know is Junior is an a-hole throughout the whole series.
I've been waiting for Christian and Sage’s story since they were introduced and we learned that Christian had a thing for Sage.
Their book did not disappoint. I ate the book up from beginning to end. I went on a roller coaster of emotions with this one. June Lark is very good at getting you into a comfortable space before she lets all hell break loose and you better be holding on to the reins when it kicks off.
I was not expecting how obsessed Christian was going to be. Kinda walked the “Red flag” line at the beginning but like a golden retriever puppy that knew something was wrong but did it anyway and was super cute when he got caught kinda way. He made for some fun scenes in the story.
I knew Sage was coming in with a dark backstory and it came through perfectly. The survivor of domestic violence rep was done in a very appropriate way. She had boundaries and made them known. She was also a strong character. I appreciated that there was little DV on page other than her recalling the events and some of the emotional abuse once Clayton shows up. It wasn't there for shock value. I also appreciated that in a story with a Native American FMC June Lark took the time to very organically bring attention to a very real issue which is the 100s of indigenous girls that go missing every year from reservations and surrounding areas that go unsolved or not investigated at all through Sage.
Sage and Christians annoyed to lovers story line evolved almost at a slow burn if you start at the beginning of the series and make your way to this book. In this book though we don't have to wait too long to see that there is an attraction between the two MCs. There is a good amount of spice and a good variation in each scene. I loved that Chrisitian was more than happy to give control over to Sage when it came to their intimate moments. But he also understood when to push her to let go of control and be free. The banter is really good throughout the whole book.
The ongoing story line across all the books is woven into this book seamlessly. It fit into Sage and Christian’s story line and added to their love story.
Overall, this was a great book and a great edition to the ongoing series. I'm excited to see what the next book will be about.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to June Lark and Luna Literary for the opportunity to read and review an ARC of Saddle the Storm!
This is my second favorite book in the series so far. Nothing has topped Burn the Breeze for me yet, but this one came pretty close!
One thing I can always count on with this series is that the beginning is going to be absolutely wild. Every book has hooked me from the very first chapter, and Saddle the Storm was no different. I was immediately invested and could not wait to see where Christian and Sage's story would go.
This man is OBSESSED with Sage, and I mean that in the best possible way. He loves her so completely and would literally do anything for her. Add in the fact that he's a bull rider cowboy and honestly, what more could I ask for?
This book has so many of my favorite things. Brother's best friend, girl on the run, found family, ranch vibes, an obsessed MMC, and a good dose of suspense. The suspense elements throughout the series always remind me a little of Catherine Cowles books! The tension between Christian and Sage was fantastic, and the dual POV made it even better.
What kept this from being a five star read for me was Sage and Christian's relationship dynamic. Christian was all in from the beginning, and while I completely understood why Sage wasn't there yet, I personally struggled with how uneven it felt at times. I spent a lot of the book thinking, Christian deserves the world. Thankfully, I loved Sage's growth throughout the story, and by the end I was rooting for them both.
I also loved getting to see Jude, Romy, Reed, and Lina again. One of my favorite things about interconnected standalone series is getting those glimpses of previous couples and seeing where they are now. It makes the world feel so much more real. And I can't write this review without mentioning Arlo. He completely stole my heart. Protective dogs will get me every single time.
I cannot wait for Hazel's book because I NEED it immediately. And if Kale doesn't get a book at some point, I might cry lol.
Also, can we talk about these covers? They are gorgeous, and I'm seriously considering adding this series to my shelves.
If you love cowboy romance, found family, suspense, protective MMC's, and a MMC who is absolutely gone for his girl, definitely pick this one up.
This is my second favorite book in the series so far. Nothing has topped Burn the Breeze for me yet, but this one came pretty close!
One thing I can always count on with this series is that the beginning is going to be absolutely wild. Every book has hooked me from the very first chapter, and Saddle the Storm was no different. I was immediately invested and could not wait to see where Christian and Sage's story would go.
This man is OBSESSED with Sage, and I mean that in the best possible way. He loves her so completely and would literally do anything for her. Add in the fact that he's a bull rider cowboy and honestly, what more could I ask for?
This book has so many of my favorite things. Brother's best friend, girl on the run, found family, ranch vibes, an obsessed MMC, and a good dose of suspense. The suspense elements throughout the series always remind me a little of Catherine Cowles books! The tension between Christian and Sage was fantastic, and the dual POV made it even better.
What kept this from being a five star read for me was Sage and Christian's relationship dynamic. Christian was all in from the beginning, and while I completely understood why Sage wasn't there yet, I personally struggled with how uneven it felt at times. I spent a lot of the book thinking, Christian deserves the world. Thankfully, I loved Sage's growth throughout the story, and by the end I was rooting for them both.
I also loved getting to see Jude, Romy, Reed, and Lina again. One of my favorite things about interconnected standalone series is getting those glimpses of previous couples and seeing where they are now. It makes the world feel so much more real. And I can't write this review without mentioning Arlo. He completely stole my heart. Protective dogs will get me every single time.
I cannot wait for Hazel's book because I NEED it immediately. And if Kale doesn't get a book at some point, I might cry lol.
Also, can we talk about these covers? They are gorgeous, and I'm seriously considering adding this series to my shelves.
If you love cowboy romance, found family, suspense, protective MMC's, and a MMC who is absolutely gone for his girl, definitely pick this one up.
June 21, 2026
I loved this book. I loved the vibes. I loved Christian and his tenaciousness. I loved the vulnerability Sage showed with Christian and how comfortable she was with him. The growth of her character was everything in this book. And we love a man who pays attention!
The entire time I was reading this, I was smiling at the man who Christian was in it. This man stood on business when it came to Sage and I couldn’t get enough. I think I wrote in my thoughts at least 5-6 times that I love him. That’s it. And the picture this man painted for them growth old together, literally melting.
Sage had a lot of walls in this book, which to be fair, were intact for a reason and the only person they were crumbling for were Christian. He was her safe space because she knew this man would do ANYTHING for her. A lot of this book, it’s a lot of Christian doing things and being there for Sage and I think thats what is intended, not that she wasn’t doing enough for him. She gave so much to herself by confiding in him and she deserved a man who would use his hands for good and not to hurt her. It took Christian years to finally get her to open her eyes to the possibility of him but, like I said, we love a man who stands on business.
The little things in this book made my heart so happy. And the spice, Mrs. June Lark, did not hold back because there were years of foreplay at hand and once it hits, it HITS. That painting scene.
I just love reading a story where a man knows a woman’s worth and knows what he wants. Not only that, but he goes after it in such a way that you know these two are meant to be. The beauty in showing a person that they are still worth it and you still want them, thats so extraordinary. The way that June Lark wrote this, there is no way that Sage didn’t eventually go all in with Christian.
Thank you to June Lark and Luna Literary for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Tropes:
✨Golden retriever bull rider x black cat bartender
✨Annoyed to lovers
✨Brothers best friend
✨Man obsessed
✨Fake engagement
✨Accidental marriage
✨Free use (for her)
✨Romantic suspense
✨Forced proximity
✨Banter
✨Slow burn
The entire time I was reading this, I was smiling at the man who Christian was in it. This man stood on business when it came to Sage and I couldn’t get enough. I think I wrote in my thoughts at least 5-6 times that I love him. That’s it. And the picture this man painted for them growth old together, literally melting.
Sage had a lot of walls in this book, which to be fair, were intact for a reason and the only person they were crumbling for were Christian. He was her safe space because she knew this man would do ANYTHING for her. A lot of this book, it’s a lot of Christian doing things and being there for Sage and I think thats what is intended, not that she wasn’t doing enough for him. She gave so much to herself by confiding in him and she deserved a man who would use his hands for good and not to hurt her. It took Christian years to finally get her to open her eyes to the possibility of him but, like I said, we love a man who stands on business.
The little things in this book made my heart so happy. And the spice, Mrs. June Lark, did not hold back because there were years of foreplay at hand and once it hits, it HITS. That painting scene.
I just love reading a story where a man knows a woman’s worth and knows what he wants. Not only that, but he goes after it in such a way that you know these two are meant to be. The beauty in showing a person that they are still worth it and you still want them, thats so extraordinary. The way that June Lark wrote this, there is no way that Sage didn’t eventually go all in with Christian.
Thank you to June Lark and Luna Literary for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Tropes:
✨Golden retriever bull rider x black cat bartender
✨Annoyed to lovers
✨Brothers best friend
✨Man obsessed
✨Fake engagement
✨Accidental marriage
✨Free use (for her)
✨Romantic suspense
✨Forced proximity
✨Banter
✨Slow burn
July 1, 2026
"These hands, my touch, should only ever bring you pleasure. Should only ever convey my love."
The dynamics between Sage and Christian leading up to their book had me very invested in them. Ms. Lark did not disappoint. She hits us in the feels immediately with that prologue that is a glimpse into Sage's past and what lands her in Willows!
Sage is one guarded woman with good reason. She has her extremely small circle of those close to her and prefers it that way. She has spent four years building a wall of protection around her heart only to have the foundation rocked by one boy obsessed bull rider, Christian Riggs.
From the moment Christian set eyes on his best friend's sister he was a goner. This grown man turns into an adorably obsessed boy when in the vicinity of Sage. He exudes cuteness with his not very subtle pickup lines and nicknames. Do not be fooled though, he is all man and will do whatever it takes to protect his Star Fire! She is the one who holds his heart and soul, there could never be no other.
The banter between these two was so much fun. Christian says some of the cheesiest things that show what a fun and loving guy he is. Sage tries so hard to come off as immune to his charm but it is no use, he is actually the cure for her battered heart. The man will stop at nothing to make her his and he does it in such a gentlemanly way, I loved it. They just balance each other out so well.
I feel Ms. Lark gives us a story that is a bit lighter than the previous two books. It makes sense with the type of personality Christian has. There is an underlying danger in the plot just like the first two books and she really had my anxiety spiking a handful of times. The slow burn was the best...it was slow but not slow but totally slow! She shows the found family all these characters belong to is stronger than ever and they repeatedly show up for each other. I have hopes of who the next couple will be so now I sit back and wait for book four!!!
The dynamics between Sage and Christian leading up to their book had me very invested in them. Ms. Lark did not disappoint. She hits us in the feels immediately with that prologue that is a glimpse into Sage's past and what lands her in Willows!
Sage is one guarded woman with good reason. She has her extremely small circle of those close to her and prefers it that way. She has spent four years building a wall of protection around her heart only to have the foundation rocked by one boy obsessed bull rider, Christian Riggs.
From the moment Christian set eyes on his best friend's sister he was a goner. This grown man turns into an adorably obsessed boy when in the vicinity of Sage. He exudes cuteness with his not very subtle pickup lines and nicknames. Do not be fooled though, he is all man and will do whatever it takes to protect his Star Fire! She is the one who holds his heart and soul, there could never be no other.
The banter between these two was so much fun. Christian says some of the cheesiest things that show what a fun and loving guy he is. Sage tries so hard to come off as immune to his charm but it is no use, he is actually the cure for her battered heart. The man will stop at nothing to make her his and he does it in such a gentlemanly way, I loved it. They just balance each other out so well.
I feel Ms. Lark gives us a story that is a bit lighter than the previous two books. It makes sense with the type of personality Christian has. There is an underlying danger in the plot just like the first two books and she really had my anxiety spiking a handful of times. The slow burn was the best...it was slow but not slow but totally slow! She shows the found family all these characters belong to is stronger than ever and they repeatedly show up for each other. I have hopes of who the next couple will be so now I sit back and wait for book four!!!
June 30, 2026
Saddle the storm
Sage and Christian I absolutely love their story. This book was so amazing. There were so many things happening at once, but it was intense in the right way. Saddle the storm was intriguing, intense, exciting, funny, sweet, and loving. I absolutely loved Christian and his family they’re so much fun and so loving and how everyone comes together for Sage is everything.
Sage is a smart, talented, beautiful, driven woman who has had a rough past and is trying to find her new found peace. She’s guarded and trying to move forward in life the best way she can. There is a certain cowboy who has always seemed to be near her and will do anything for her but she can’t seem to notice or acknowledge what it all might really be.
Christian is A funny, smart, handsome cowboy/rodeo star, small town, loyal to a fault type of man. Christian loves his family and his friends in his childhood small town He grew up in. He has been head over heel’s and attracted to his best friend’s sister, he’s always trying to get her attention and will do anything for her.
Sage has held her cards close to her chest certain secrets from her past come knocking at her future. Christian knows something isn’t right an accidental marriage later. Christian and Sage are together, pretending to be happily married to protect sage from her awful ex but along the way, pretending isn’t what it is anymore and turns out they actually love each other and when that realization hits all heck breaks loose. There were so many funny, sweet, and intense moments. I loved the found family, friends and actual family. I did read this as a standalone but I already purchased the other books in the series and I’m gonna get ready to read them soon. This book is so good It’s definitely one to be put on your TBR and yes for all you gals wondering these two were very hot together and spicy. From the first to the last chapter it was so good I couldn’t put this book down. And oh it was very much intense but it was so good.
⭐️/ 5 stars and even more.
🌶️/ 3.5 on the spice level.
Sage and Christian I absolutely love their story. This book was so amazing. There were so many things happening at once, but it was intense in the right way. Saddle the storm was intriguing, intense, exciting, funny, sweet, and loving. I absolutely loved Christian and his family they’re so much fun and so loving and how everyone comes together for Sage is everything.
Sage is a smart, talented, beautiful, driven woman who has had a rough past and is trying to find her new found peace. She’s guarded and trying to move forward in life the best way she can. There is a certain cowboy who has always seemed to be near her and will do anything for her but she can’t seem to notice or acknowledge what it all might really be.
Christian is A funny, smart, handsome cowboy/rodeo star, small town, loyal to a fault type of man. Christian loves his family and his friends in his childhood small town He grew up in. He has been head over heel’s and attracted to his best friend’s sister, he’s always trying to get her attention and will do anything for her.
Sage has held her cards close to her chest certain secrets from her past come knocking at her future. Christian knows something isn’t right an accidental marriage later. Christian and Sage are together, pretending to be happily married to protect sage from her awful ex but along the way, pretending isn’t what it is anymore and turns out they actually love each other and when that realization hits all heck breaks loose. There were so many funny, sweet, and intense moments. I loved the found family, friends and actual family. I did read this as a standalone but I already purchased the other books in the series and I’m gonna get ready to read them soon. This book is so good It’s definitely one to be put on your TBR and yes for all you gals wondering these two were very hot together and spicy. From the first to the last chapter it was so good I couldn’t put this book down. And oh it was very much intense but it was so good.
⭐️/ 5 stars and even more.
🌶️/ 3.5 on the spice level.
July 1, 2026
ARC Review
Saddle the Storm by Jude Lark
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I've been waiting for Sage and Christian's story since book one. Their chemistry and banter had me desperate for their book, and it absolutely delivered!
Christian is the ultimate golden retriever cowboy funny, loyal, completely obsessed, and willing to do absolutely anything for Sage. Watching him patiently love her, support her, and become her safe place was one of my favourite parts of the story.
Sage has been through so much, so it's understandable that she's built some walls around her. She's smart, driven, independent, and determined to create a peaceful life for herself. While it takes her time to trust Christian, every step she takes toward opening up feels earned. She deserved someone who would use his strength to protect her instead of hurting her, and Christian was exactly that person.
The fake engagement and accidental marriage tropes made for so many hilarious, swoony, and heartfelt moments. Their banter had me smiling the entire way through, and I loved watching their relationship slowly grow from years of tension into something real. Christian never gave up on her, and I couldn't help but fall for him right alongside Sage.
The romantic suspense added just the right amount of tension, with Sage's past catching up to her and raising the stakes. There were plenty of emotional moments mixed with the humour, romance, and spice, creating a story that kept me hooked from beginning to end.
I also adored Christian's family and the strong found family dynamic. The way everyone rallied around Sage and welcomed her with open arms was so heartwarming.
This book does explore some heavier topics, including a bull riding injury and past domestic violence, so please check the trigger warnings if needed.
Overall, Saddle the Storm was sweet, funny, emotional, suspenseful, and incredibly romantic. Jude Lark balanced the banter, drama, suspense, and spice so well, and I couldn't get enough of Sage and Christian's journey.
Saddle the Storm by Jude Lark
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I've been waiting for Sage and Christian's story since book one. Their chemistry and banter had me desperate for their book, and it absolutely delivered!
Christian is the ultimate golden retriever cowboy funny, loyal, completely obsessed, and willing to do absolutely anything for Sage. Watching him patiently love her, support her, and become her safe place was one of my favourite parts of the story.
Sage has been through so much, so it's understandable that she's built some walls around her. She's smart, driven, independent, and determined to create a peaceful life for herself. While it takes her time to trust Christian, every step she takes toward opening up feels earned. She deserved someone who would use his strength to protect her instead of hurting her, and Christian was exactly that person.
The fake engagement and accidental marriage tropes made for so many hilarious, swoony, and heartfelt moments. Their banter had me smiling the entire way through, and I loved watching their relationship slowly grow from years of tension into something real. Christian never gave up on her, and I couldn't help but fall for him right alongside Sage.
The romantic suspense added just the right amount of tension, with Sage's past catching up to her and raising the stakes. There were plenty of emotional moments mixed with the humour, romance, and spice, creating a story that kept me hooked from beginning to end.
I also adored Christian's family and the strong found family dynamic. The way everyone rallied around Sage and welcomed her with open arms was so heartwarming.
This book does explore some heavier topics, including a bull riding injury and past domestic violence, so please check the trigger warnings if needed.
Overall, Saddle the Storm was sweet, funny, emotional, suspenseful, and incredibly romantic. Jude Lark balanced the banter, drama, suspense, and spice so well, and I couldn't get enough of Sage and Christian's journey.
July 3, 2026
Sage has spent years hiding from the life she escaped. Even after finally beginning to feel safe and building a new life, the fear never truly leaves her. She has found a home, incredible friends, a job she loves, and she’s opening her own art studio. But those walls are still up, and she knows she can’t let herself fall for the charming cowboy who consumes her thoughts. She’s still constantly looking over her shoulder, knowing her past could catch up with her at any moment... and it looks like it just walked in.
God, I loved this story. I knew going in I was getting more than just romance and small-town cowboy shenanigans, although we absolutely get those too. This book delivers heart, hope, healing, and a deeply emotional connection. It wasn’t easy or tidy, but dang, it was soul-deep.
Sage is tough as nails. Every day she fights to leave her past behind and build the life she deserves, but she’s still only living half a life. She’s working through her trauma while knowing it will always leave its mark. The fear never fully disappears.
Then there’s Christian. Her cocky, energetic puppy dog shadow who becomes her safe place, her biggest supporter, and ultimately her savior. He’s all jokes, charm, and ass-hugging Wranglers, but this isn’t a game to him. These are real feelings. Pure adoration, unwavering devotion, and enough butterflies to melt you. And when he kicks into protection mode... phewwww... unbelievably hot. He would do absolutely anything for her. Now he just needs to make Sage believe it.
Honestly, I usually gravitate toward the rough, grumpy, broody heroes. Christian still has that rugged cowboy edge, but underneath it all he’s pure sunshine. Those nicknames for Sage… ahhh, he was just the cutest!
This was just an all-around WOW! Watching Sage rise from the ashes, reclaim her life, and slowly allow herself to love again alongside Christian’s unwavering devotion, transparency, care, and utter obsession with her was everything. And honestly, this series just keeps pulling me in deeper with every book. It’s the kind of storytelling that feels so deeply fulfilling, and I can’t get enough.
Thank you to June Lark and Luna Literary for this gifted earc!
God, I loved this story. I knew going in I was getting more than just romance and small-town cowboy shenanigans, although we absolutely get those too. This book delivers heart, hope, healing, and a deeply emotional connection. It wasn’t easy or tidy, but dang, it was soul-deep.
Sage is tough as nails. Every day she fights to leave her past behind and build the life she deserves, but she’s still only living half a life. She’s working through her trauma while knowing it will always leave its mark. The fear never fully disappears.
Then there’s Christian. Her cocky, energetic puppy dog shadow who becomes her safe place, her biggest supporter, and ultimately her savior. He’s all jokes, charm, and ass-hugging Wranglers, but this isn’t a game to him. These are real feelings. Pure adoration, unwavering devotion, and enough butterflies to melt you. And when he kicks into protection mode... phewwww... unbelievably hot. He would do absolutely anything for her. Now he just needs to make Sage believe it.
Honestly, I usually gravitate toward the rough, grumpy, broody heroes. Christian still has that rugged cowboy edge, but underneath it all he’s pure sunshine. Those nicknames for Sage… ahhh, he was just the cutest!
This was just an all-around WOW! Watching Sage rise from the ashes, reclaim her life, and slowly allow herself to love again alongside Christian’s unwavering devotion, transparency, care, and utter obsession with her was everything. And honestly, this series just keeps pulling me in deeper with every book. It’s the kind of storytelling that feels so deeply fulfilling, and I can’t get enough.
Thank you to June Lark and Luna Literary for this gifted earc!
Review of advance copy received from Author
He Fell First… and I Was Rooting for Him the Entire Time
I just finished an ARC of Saddle the Storm, and this was an easy 4-star read for me.
If you’re a fan of romantic suspense, brother’s best friend, fake engagement, accidental marriage, forced proximity, and a hero who falls first (and falls HARD), you’re going to want to pick this one up.
Christian was hands-down my favorite part of this book. The man was absolutely gone for Sage from the start, and I loved every minute of it. His devotion never felt over the top—it felt genuine, protective, and exactly what Sage needed, even when she wasn’t ready to admit it.
Speaking of Sage, I appreciated how real and relatable she was. She wasn’t perfect. She had baggage, fears, and a tendency to run from her problems instead of facing them. More than once I wanted to sit her down over margaritas and talk some sense into her about Christian! But watching her growth throughout the story and seeing her finally stop hiding and allow herself to be loved made the payoff so worth it.
Even though this is the third book in the series, I never felt completely lost having not read the first two books. That’s always a sign of a strong author who knows how to welcome new readers into an established world.
This book had me feeling all the things. I laughed, I cried, I got frustrated, and I was cheering when Sage finally realized what had been right in front of her all along. The romance felt believable, the suspense kept the story moving, and I ended up reading the entire thing in one sitting because I simply couldn’t put it down.
Saddle the Storm was absolutely a solid 4 stars and one I’d happily recommend to readers who love a devoted hero, emotional growth, and plenty of spice along the way.
And can we talk about Christian one more time? Because book boyfriends who fall first and never stop choosing their girl are quickly becoming one of my favorite tropes—and Christian delivered.
I just finished an ARC of Saddle the Storm, and this was an easy 4-star read for me.
If you’re a fan of romantic suspense, brother’s best friend, fake engagement, accidental marriage, forced proximity, and a hero who falls first (and falls HARD), you’re going to want to pick this one up.
Christian was hands-down my favorite part of this book. The man was absolutely gone for Sage from the start, and I loved every minute of it. His devotion never felt over the top—it felt genuine, protective, and exactly what Sage needed, even when she wasn’t ready to admit it.
Speaking of Sage, I appreciated how real and relatable she was. She wasn’t perfect. She had baggage, fears, and a tendency to run from her problems instead of facing them. More than once I wanted to sit her down over margaritas and talk some sense into her about Christian! But watching her growth throughout the story and seeing her finally stop hiding and allow herself to be loved made the payoff so worth it.
Even though this is the third book in the series, I never felt completely lost having not read the first two books. That’s always a sign of a strong author who knows how to welcome new readers into an established world.
This book had me feeling all the things. I laughed, I cried, I got frustrated, and I was cheering when Sage finally realized what had been right in front of her all along. The romance felt believable, the suspense kept the story moving, and I ended up reading the entire thing in one sitting because I simply couldn’t put it down.
Saddle the Storm was absolutely a solid 4 stars and one I’d happily recommend to readers who love a devoted hero, emotional growth, and plenty of spice along the way.
And can we talk about Christian one more time? Because book boyfriends who fall first and never stop choosing their girl are quickly becoming one of my favorite tropes—and Christian delivered.
July 8, 2026
Saddle the Storm completely reminded me why I love romantic suspense romances so much. I don’t know why I waited so long to start this series, but after this book… I understand the hype. 🤎
Christian and Sage absolutely stole my heart.
Christian Riggs is the definition of a man who is DOWN BAD. The kind of hero who knows exactly what he wants and will do whatever it takes to protect it. His devotion to Sage? Absolutely everything. Watching this big, tough bull rider turn into the biggest sweetheart for her had me completely obsessed. 😍
And Sage… my heart hurt for her. She’s strong, resilient, and carrying secrets that make it hard for her to let anyone in. Watching her slowly trust Christian and realize she doesn’t have to face everything alone was such a beautiful part of the story.
Their chemistry was unreal. The banter, the tension, the stolen moments… I was hooked from the beginning. These two had that perfect mix of humor, emotional depth, and undeniable attraction that makes you want to keep turning pages.
The suspense kept me invested, but the romance was always the heart of the story. June Lark does such a great job balancing twists, spice, found family, and those little moments that make you completely fall in love with the characters.
Also, the found family in this series? Perfection. The group chats, the friendships, the chaos… I need to be part of this world. 😂
Christian and Sage are officially one of my favorite couples from this series, and I cannot wait for what’s next!
✨ what to expect:
🤎 romantic suspense
🤎 bull rider MMC
🤎 he falls first
🤎 fake engagement
🤎 accidental marriage
🤎 brother’s best friend
🤎 forced proximity
🤎 found family
🤎 spicy chemistry
🤎 dual POV
If you love protective heroes, secret-filled heroines, unforgettable banter, and a romance that keeps you guessing, Saddle the Storm needs to be on your TBR. 🤠🔥
Christian and Sage absolutely stole my heart.
Christian Riggs is the definition of a man who is DOWN BAD. The kind of hero who knows exactly what he wants and will do whatever it takes to protect it. His devotion to Sage? Absolutely everything. Watching this big, tough bull rider turn into the biggest sweetheart for her had me completely obsessed. 😍
And Sage… my heart hurt for her. She’s strong, resilient, and carrying secrets that make it hard for her to let anyone in. Watching her slowly trust Christian and realize she doesn’t have to face everything alone was such a beautiful part of the story.
Their chemistry was unreal. The banter, the tension, the stolen moments… I was hooked from the beginning. These two had that perfect mix of humor, emotional depth, and undeniable attraction that makes you want to keep turning pages.
The suspense kept me invested, but the romance was always the heart of the story. June Lark does such a great job balancing twists, spice, found family, and those little moments that make you completely fall in love with the characters.
Also, the found family in this series? Perfection. The group chats, the friendships, the chaos… I need to be part of this world. 😂
Christian and Sage are officially one of my favorite couples from this series, and I cannot wait for what’s next!
✨ what to expect:
🤎 romantic suspense
🤎 bull rider MMC
🤎 he falls first
🤎 fake engagement
🤎 accidental marriage
🤎 brother’s best friend
🤎 forced proximity
🤎 found family
🤎 spicy chemistry
🤎 dual POV
If you love protective heroes, secret-filled heroines, unforgettable banter, and a romance that keeps you guessing, Saddle the Storm needs to be on your TBR. 🤠🔥
Review of advance copy received from Author
🩷 ARC REVIEW🩷
Saddle The Storm by June Lark
Christian & Sage 'Star Fire'
🩷 RELEASING: JUNE 30th 🩷
My Rating: 3.5☆
Thornbrush Ranch Series Book Three
Golden Retriever Bull Rider
Black Cat Bartender
Cowboy Romance
Romantic Suspense
Annoyed to Lovers
Brother's Best Friend
Fake Engagement
Accidental Marriage
My Wife
My Spicy Rating: 3/5🌶
Saddle The Storm is book three in Thornbrush Ranch Series. It's an annoyed to lovers, fake engagement turned accidental marriage with suspense.
Bartender Sage is hiding from her past after escaping an abusive relationship. Bull Rider Christian has been obsessed with Sage since he first saw her three years ago. He has been very open about his obsession and love. He's persistent and determined to win her heart. When her past catches up to her, Christian does the only thing he can think of to protect her: claim her as his. The only problem is it's all starting to feel a little too real.
We have witnessed Christian's obsession since the very first book of this series, Among The Willows. I cannot believe that was two books ago. Christian is just perfect. He's obsessed and patient and hot and funny and persistent and very open and honest about his obsession and love for Sage. He's exactly what Sage needed.
I have loved how the timeline and storyline has been a continuation from the previous books. It's been very fun reading about the different couples and how the suspense part continues onto the next book leaving us wanting more. I hope I'm right and the next book will be an age gap romance with maybe a secret relationship and secret encounters. It's going to be amazing.
Thank you for letting me ARC read this book. Saddle The Storm will be available to read on June 30th.
Saddle The Storm by June Lark
Christian & Sage 'Star Fire'
🩷 RELEASING: JUNE 30th 🩷
My Rating: 3.5☆
Thornbrush Ranch Series Book Three
Golden Retriever Bull Rider
Black Cat Bartender
Cowboy Romance
Romantic Suspense
Annoyed to Lovers
Brother's Best Friend
Fake Engagement
Accidental Marriage
My Wife
My Spicy Rating: 3/5🌶
Saddle The Storm is book three in Thornbrush Ranch Series. It's an annoyed to lovers, fake engagement turned accidental marriage with suspense.
Bartender Sage is hiding from her past after escaping an abusive relationship. Bull Rider Christian has been obsessed with Sage since he first saw her three years ago. He has been very open about his obsession and love. He's persistent and determined to win her heart. When her past catches up to her, Christian does the only thing he can think of to protect her: claim her as his. The only problem is it's all starting to feel a little too real.
We have witnessed Christian's obsession since the very first book of this series, Among The Willows. I cannot believe that was two books ago. Christian is just perfect. He's obsessed and patient and hot and funny and persistent and very open and honest about his obsession and love for Sage. He's exactly what Sage needed.
I have loved how the timeline and storyline has been a continuation from the previous books. It's been very fun reading about the different couples and how the suspense part continues onto the next book leaving us wanting more. I hope I'm right and the next book will be an age gap romance with maybe a secret relationship and secret encounters. It's going to be amazing.
Thank you for letting me ARC read this book. Saddle The Storm will be available to read on June 30th.
June 30, 2026
The Thornbrush Ranch series has me in a chokehold. The characters always sink their hooks in and you just can’t get enough of the found family vibes.
Christian is down so bad he simply won’t give up on Sage - his starfire. There’s a suspense plot and secrets that are continuing to unfold and I cannot to wait to read the next book!
What to expect:
🐴 GOLDEN RETRIEVER BULL RIDER
🐈⬛ BLACK CAT BARTENDER
🙄ANNOYED TO LOVERS
🤫BROTHER'S BEST FRIEND
😍MAN OBSESSED
💍 FAKE ENGAGEMENT
🃏 ACCIDENTAL MARRIAGE
🪢 FREE USE (FOR HER)
😏ROMANTIC SUSPENSE
😑FORCED PROXIMITY
😆BANTER
🔥SLOW BURN
Book overview:
She has secrets. He's obsessed. Can he convince her to saddle up with him before the storm hits?
Hiding from her past, Sage Pardy is determined to keep everyone at arm’s length—especially the charming bull rider who won’t take no for an answer. He may be funny and sweet with an ass that can make even an ice queen weep, but he’s persistent, unwilling to accept rejection, and claims her dog as theirs as if they share some sort of custody agreement.
Christian Riggs is bound and determined to win a buckle and the heart of his best friend’s sister, the closed off-bartender with walls as high as the sky. He knows beneath her hard exterior she wears scars like a shield to protect her heart. But he may be just the one to win her trust.
When her past walks into the bar in a shearling coat and thousand dollar caiman boots, Christian does the only thing he can think of to protect her: claim her as his. With their small town no longer safe, and a championship in Vegas, Sage has no choice but to “saddle up”with him. The only problem is the ring and paper work feel a little too real. But it’s the least of her worries, because a storm is about to roll in.
Christian is down so bad he simply won’t give up on Sage - his starfire. There’s a suspense plot and secrets that are continuing to unfold and I cannot to wait to read the next book!
What to expect:
🐴 GOLDEN RETRIEVER BULL RIDER
🐈⬛ BLACK CAT BARTENDER
🙄ANNOYED TO LOVERS
🤫BROTHER'S BEST FRIEND
😍MAN OBSESSED
💍 FAKE ENGAGEMENT
🃏 ACCIDENTAL MARRIAGE
🪢 FREE USE (FOR HER)
😏ROMANTIC SUSPENSE
😑FORCED PROXIMITY
😆BANTER
🔥SLOW BURN
Book overview:
She has secrets. He's obsessed. Can he convince her to saddle up with him before the storm hits?
Hiding from her past, Sage Pardy is determined to keep everyone at arm’s length—especially the charming bull rider who won’t take no for an answer. He may be funny and sweet with an ass that can make even an ice queen weep, but he’s persistent, unwilling to accept rejection, and claims her dog as theirs as if they share some sort of custody agreement.
Christian Riggs is bound and determined to win a buckle and the heart of his best friend’s sister, the closed off-bartender with walls as high as the sky. He knows beneath her hard exterior she wears scars like a shield to protect her heart. But he may be just the one to win her trust.
When her past walks into the bar in a shearling coat and thousand dollar caiman boots, Christian does the only thing he can think of to protect her: claim her as his. With their small town no longer safe, and a championship in Vegas, Sage has no choice but to “saddle up”with him. The only problem is the ring and paper work feel a little too real. But it’s the least of her worries, because a storm is about to roll in.
July 8, 2026
Book 3 in the Thornbrush Ranch series definitely lived up to and excceded the expectations I set for it after devouring both Among the Willows and Burn the Breeze. June has a way of truly transporting you into her stories with her words.
Ever since I read the first book I was drawn to Christian and his obsession with Sage. Their banter and interactions were always so fun and stuck with me even chapters later when there was no mention of it or them again.a
This series covers so many difficult topics, but the care that she takes with them is top tier. Reading about the way that Sage works through her trauma and past to reclaiam her life for herself, is so extremely uplifting and inspiring.
Christian and Sage may not have been perfect people, but they are the perfect people for each other.
Willows and Thornbrush Ranch will always hold such a special place in my heart, and be on my mind always. If you think this sounds like a book you'd love, I highly suggest heading over to Junes page and checking out what she has to offer!
💖 Annoyed to Lovers
🥃 Brothers best friend
⚡Fake Engagement
💖 Accidental Marriage
🥃 Golden Retriever x Black Cat
⚡ Romantic suspense
💖 Slow Burn
🥃 Forced Proximity
Book 3 in the Thornbrush Ranch series definitely lived up to and exceded the expectations I set for it after devouring both Among the Willows and Burn the Breeze. June has a way of truly transporting you into her stories with her words.
Ever since I read the first book I was drawn to Christian and his obsession with Sage. Their banter and interactions were always so fun and stuck with me even chapters later when there was no mention of it or them again.a
This series covers so many difficult topics, but the care that she takes with them is top tier. Reading about the way that Sage works through her trauma and past to reclaim her life for herself, is so extremely uplifting and inspiring.
Christian and Sage may not have been perfect people, but they are the perfect people for each other.
Willows and Thornbrush Ranch will always hold such a special place in my heart, and be on my mind always. If you think this sounds like a book you'd love, I highly suggest heading over to Junes page and checking out what she has to offer!
💖 Annoyed to Lovers
🥃 Brothers best friend
⚡Fake Engagement
💖 Accidental Marriage
🥃 Golden Retriever x Black Cat
⚡ Romantic suspense
💖 Slow Burn
🥃 Forced Proximity
⚡ One Bed and so so much more....
Ever since I read the first book I was drawn to Christian and his obsession with Sage. Their banter and interactions were always so fun and stuck with me even chapters later when there was no mention of it or them again.a
This series covers so many difficult topics, but the care that she takes with them is top tier. Reading about the way that Sage works through her trauma and past to reclaiam her life for herself, is so extremely uplifting and inspiring.
Christian and Sage may not have been perfect people, but they are the perfect people for each other.
Willows and Thornbrush Ranch will always hold such a special place in my heart, and be on my mind always. If you think this sounds like a book you'd love, I highly suggest heading over to Junes page and checking out what she has to offer!
💖 Annoyed to Lovers
🥃 Brothers best friend
⚡Fake Engagement
💖 Accidental Marriage
🥃 Golden Retriever x Black Cat
⚡ Romantic suspense
💖 Slow Burn
🥃 Forced Proximity
Book 3 in the Thornbrush Ranch series definitely lived up to and exceded the expectations I set for it after devouring both Among the Willows and Burn the Breeze. June has a way of truly transporting you into her stories with her words.
Ever since I read the first book I was drawn to Christian and his obsession with Sage. Their banter and interactions were always so fun and stuck with me even chapters later when there was no mention of it or them again.a
This series covers so many difficult topics, but the care that she takes with them is top tier. Reading about the way that Sage works through her trauma and past to reclaim her life for herself, is so extremely uplifting and inspiring.
Christian and Sage may not have been perfect people, but they are the perfect people for each other.
Willows and Thornbrush Ranch will always hold such a special place in my heart, and be on my mind always. If you think this sounds like a book you'd love, I highly suggest heading over to Junes page and checking out what she has to offer!
💖 Annoyed to Lovers
🥃 Brothers best friend
⚡Fake Engagement
💖 Accidental Marriage
🥃 Golden Retriever x Black Cat
⚡ Romantic suspense
💖 Slow Burn
🥃 Forced Proximity
⚡ One Bed and so so much more....
July 2, 2026
Three years ago, Sage escaped an abusive relationship with her possessive, narcissistic boyfriend. Afraid that he'll track her down, she hides out in the small town of Willows, Oregon. Christian is a life-of-the-party bull rider who has been obsessed with Sage from the minute he met her when she mysteriously arrived in his hometown. He's tried every line, move, and persistent date request he can think of to wear down her defenses. But Sage learned not to trust or depend on men to do right by her, so she blows him off; focusing solely on her bartending job and opening her art studio. That is until her villainous ex tracks her down. In a spontaneous attempt to thwart her ex's machinations, Christian and Sage agree to fake a relationship. This relationship turns into a fake marriage, but even that doesn't stop her ex's pursuit.
From here, what started as an "it's always been you" fake romance/marriage turns into a tension filled suspense. Things get a little dicey for our MC's for a bit, and they have a harrowing road to find their HEA.
While this is a standalone, I think it would have been easier to get into the story I'd have read the first two bonds. There were a lot of characters introduced in the beginning and some of the previous criminal plot carried over into this book. I think I would have enjoyed that part of the plot line and appreciated the found family a bit more with that background knowledge.
Overall, it is a solid cowboy romance with a total green flag MMC who doesn't give up on his guarded and hesitant FMC.
Tropes
Fake Marriage
Bull Rider x Artist
Native American representation
Kidnapping
It's always been you
He falls first
Domestic abuse survivor
From here, what started as an "it's always been you" fake romance/marriage turns into a tension filled suspense. Things get a little dicey for our MC's for a bit, and they have a harrowing road to find their HEA.
While this is a standalone, I think it would have been easier to get into the story I'd have read the first two bonds. There were a lot of characters introduced in the beginning and some of the previous criminal plot carried over into this book. I think I would have enjoyed that part of the plot line and appreciated the found family a bit more with that background knowledge.
Overall, it is a solid cowboy romance with a total green flag MMC who doesn't give up on his guarded and hesitant FMC.
Tropes
Fake Marriage
Bull Rider x Artist
Native American representation
Kidnapping
It's always been you
He falls first
Domestic abuse survivor
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is my favorite book in the series so far, you couldn’t help but cheer for Christian to finally get the girl. Christian Riggs was the most adorable golden retriever MMC who has been obsessed with Sage Pardy since the first time he saw her. The banter and chemistry between these two and the suspense will keep you hooked from the beginning and have you on the edge of your seat till the very end.
Sage Pardy ended up in Willows after escaping her abusive ex and leaving the reservation. Since then she has built up walls and never gets too close to anyone. Sage has worked hard to rebuild her life and avoid the advances of Christian Riggs who has been trying to win her over for years, but she turns him down every time. When Sage’s ex shows up in town and starts coming into the bar where she works, Christian suggests they get fake engaged to get her ex to leave her alone. Sage joins Christian on a trip to Vegas for a bull riding competition, where they end up getting married for real. They decide to stay married and Sage moves in with Christian and as they spend more time together, Christian slowly starts to break down Sage’s walls. Christian finally has the girl of his dreams and is going to do everything he can to get her to stay. I loved watching these two fall together and how he became a safe place for her to land after everything she had been through in her past. When Sage’s ex tries to cause more trouble for them and their close friends, they try to prepare as best they can for whatever stunt he may try to pull, especially when they find out who he is working with. You will have to read Saddle The Storm to see what all goes down and how it all ends.
Sage Pardy ended up in Willows after escaping her abusive ex and leaving the reservation. Since then she has built up walls and never gets too close to anyone. Sage has worked hard to rebuild her life and avoid the advances of Christian Riggs who has been trying to win her over for years, but she turns him down every time. When Sage’s ex shows up in town and starts coming into the bar where she works, Christian suggests they get fake engaged to get her ex to leave her alone. Sage joins Christian on a trip to Vegas for a bull riding competition, where they end up getting married for real. They decide to stay married and Sage moves in with Christian and as they spend more time together, Christian slowly starts to break down Sage’s walls. Christian finally has the girl of his dreams and is going to do everything he can to get her to stay. I loved watching these two fall together and how he became a safe place for her to land after everything she had been through in her past. When Sage’s ex tries to cause more trouble for them and their close friends, they try to prepare as best they can for whatever stunt he may try to pull, especially when they find out who he is working with. You will have to read Saddle The Storm to see what all goes down and how it all ends.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Luna Literary and the author for an advance copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
This is the third in the Thornbrush Ranch series. I haven’t read the first two, so it was a bit confusing at the beginning trying to figure out how everyone was connected, but apart from that, this book was really good. (Will I go back and read the first two? Very likely.)
Sage has managed to escape an abusive relationship and is guarded towards almost everyone, including her brother. Christian fell for Sage the first time he saw her, and has been trying to win her heart ever since. He just keeps showing up, no matter what. He knows that she’s been through some things and waits patiently for her to trust him enough to share.
Her abusive ex shows up in town and Christian immediately clocks how uncomfortable she feels around him. Enter: FAKE ENGAGEMENT! Add that to an accidental marriage in Vegas and “give me two weeks to prove this is worth it” and Sage slowly lets her walls down. Christian would do anything for her, and so would everyone else in that town. Will it be enough?
This book took me through all the emotions — annoyance at Christian, heartbreak for Sage, warm fuzzies for the Riggs (Agatha and Bill, but especially Agatha), rage at her ex (does he really deserve to be named?), and stress at the suspense!
If you love:
💥Fake engagement
💥 Accidental marriage
💥 Black cat x golden retriever
💥 Found family
💥 He falls first
💥 Romantic suspense
💥 Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
This is the third in the Thornbrush Ranch series. I haven’t read the first two, so it was a bit confusing at the beginning trying to figure out how everyone was connected, but apart from that, this book was really good. (Will I go back and read the first two? Very likely.)
Sage has managed to escape an abusive relationship and is guarded towards almost everyone, including her brother. Christian fell for Sage the first time he saw her, and has been trying to win her heart ever since. He just keeps showing up, no matter what. He knows that she’s been through some things and waits patiently for her to trust him enough to share.
Her abusive ex shows up in town and Christian immediately clocks how uncomfortable she feels around him. Enter: FAKE ENGAGEMENT! Add that to an accidental marriage in Vegas and “give me two weeks to prove this is worth it” and Sage slowly lets her walls down. Christian would do anything for her, and so would everyone else in that town. Will it be enough?
This book took me through all the emotions — annoyance at Christian, heartbreak for Sage, warm fuzzies for the Riggs (Agatha and Bill, but especially Agatha), rage at her ex (does he really deserve to be named?), and stress at the suspense!
If you love:
💥Fake engagement
💥 Accidental marriage
💥 Black cat x golden retriever
💥 Found family
💥 He falls first
💥 Romantic suspense
💥 Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2026
She has secrets from her past, he’s chasing a buckle and his best friend’s sister. What could possibly go wrong? This is my first June Lark book but I will be going back for books 1 and 2!!
The suspense in this romantic suspense starts from the very first page, as we literally meet our FMC on the run. Sage is such a strong FMC and I love everything about her. My heart ached for her at times, but seeing her growth as a character and how she can stand up for herself while also showing such kindness sold her as a favorite for me!! Enter Christian, our MMC, who is a bull rider completely (and I mean 100% x2 completely) OBSESSED with his best friend’s sister. Following along as these characters built their own life was really such a rewarding journey.
Christian had me laughing from the very start. He is full of antics trying to rile up Sage but underneath it all, he has a big heart and is the first to be in her corner. The romance and suspense in this book are weaved together effortlessly and in a way that will have you saying “just one more chapter” until it’s 2 am and the book is over. I also love the found family aspect in this book!! Everyone fits together in a way that just makes sense.
This is an interconnected standalone but I do recommend reading the first 2 books in the series to help understand all of the characters! While June does handle the heavier topics with such care, check the trigger warnings before diving in! Thank you to Luna Literary and the author for the opportunity to read this e-arc! All opinions are my own.
The suspense in this romantic suspense starts from the very first page, as we literally meet our FMC on the run. Sage is such a strong FMC and I love everything about her. My heart ached for her at times, but seeing her growth as a character and how she can stand up for herself while also showing such kindness sold her as a favorite for me!! Enter Christian, our MMC, who is a bull rider completely (and I mean 100% x2 completely) OBSESSED with his best friend’s sister. Following along as these characters built their own life was really such a rewarding journey.
Christian had me laughing from the very start. He is full of antics trying to rile up Sage but underneath it all, he has a big heart and is the first to be in her corner. The romance and suspense in this book are weaved together effortlessly and in a way that will have you saying “just one more chapter” until it’s 2 am and the book is over. I also love the found family aspect in this book!! Everyone fits together in a way that just makes sense.
This is an interconnected standalone but I do recommend reading the first 2 books in the series to help understand all of the characters! While June does handle the heavier topics with such care, check the trigger warnings before diving in! Thank you to Luna Literary and the author for the opportunity to read this e-arc! All opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 168 reviews