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Ashford Ridge #1
Legacy & Lace
When an injury brings her back to her family’s Montana ranch, Hazel tells herself it’s temporary. Help her aunt. Lend a hand. Then leave before the past catches up with her.
There’s just one problem.
Eli Dawson.
Her childhood best friend. The neighboring rancher who’s been quietly keeping Clarke Ranch running. The man she walked away from without a word the morning after they finally crossed the line from friendship to something more.
Eli isn’t chasing her anymore. He’s steady. Guarded. And done risking his heart on someone who already proved she could leave.
But as Hazel settles back into ranch life, old sparks reignite and long-buried feelings resurface. With the future of the ranch uncertain and a life waiting for her elsewhere, Hazel is forced to decide what matters more — the plans she made… or the love she never quite left behind.
A heartfelt, slow-burn ranch romance filled with cowboys, second chances, and a love worth staying for..
There’s just one problem.
Eli Dawson.
Her childhood best friend. The neighboring rancher who’s been quietly keeping Clarke Ranch running. The man she walked away from without a word the morning after they finally crossed the line from friendship to something more.
Eli isn’t chasing her anymore. He’s steady. Guarded. And done risking his heart on someone who already proved she could leave.
But as Hazel settles back into ranch life, old sparks reignite and long-buried feelings resurface. With the future of the ranch uncertain and a life waiting for her elsewhere, Hazel is forced to decide what matters more — the plans she made… or the love she never quite left behind.
A heartfelt, slow-burn ranch romance filled with cowboys, second chances, and a love worth staying for..
441 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
May 8, 2026
This book was absolutely adorable! I listened to the audiobook through Audible and completely fell in love with the story.
Eli is the perfect broody, yearning cowboy MMC, while Hazel is incredibly relatable FMC—a former cowgirl who traded her small-town roots for city life after experiencing deep grief. When she returns home and is forced to face Eli again, all of those old emotions come rushing back.
There’s just something irresistible about a second-chance romance, especially when it involves a cowboy. The slow burn between Eli and Hazel was built so well that every interrupted moment had me practically yelling through my earbuds. And when the tension finally breaks… it absolutely delivers.
This felt like one of those comforting, Hallmark-style romances that wraps you up in all the emotions while still giving you plenty of chemistry and heartache along the way.
My only small critique is that the audiobook narration didn’t always capture the natural emotional flow of the story as strongly as I think the writing deserved. Even with that, I still thoroughly enjoyed the listening and would definitely recommend it to readers who love emotional small-town romances with longing, healing, and second chances.
Eli is the perfect broody, yearning cowboy MMC, while Hazel is incredibly relatable FMC—a former cowgirl who traded her small-town roots for city life after experiencing deep grief. When she returns home and is forced to face Eli again, all of those old emotions come rushing back.
There’s just something irresistible about a second-chance romance, especially when it involves a cowboy. The slow burn between Eli and Hazel was built so well that every interrupted moment had me practically yelling through my earbuds. And when the tension finally breaks… it absolutely delivers.
This felt like one of those comforting, Hallmark-style romances that wraps you up in all the emotions while still giving you plenty of chemistry and heartache along the way.
My only small critique is that the audiobook narration didn’t always capture the natural emotional flow of the story as strongly as I think the writing deserved. Even with that, I still thoroughly enjoyed the listening and would definitely recommend it to readers who love emotional small-town romances with longing, healing, and second chances.
May 15, 2026
Such a great read!! Can’t wait for the sequel
May 6, 2026
5 Stars 🌟
Thank you to the author for this ARC! 🤍
Going into this, I was so excited! My ARC schedule has been insane, and I got to it later than I'd hoped. However, it was worth the wait!
As a southern gal myself, I enjoy a good cowboy romance. In a way, Legacy & Lace gave me Heartland vibes (one of my favorite TV shows). Eli and Hazel definitely have their struggles, but there is no doubt that they're made for one another. This book was funny, well written, full of lovable side characters, and is honestly kind of sad in a way that just made sense. While reading, I was so emotionally invested in this book that I honestly felt drained afterward (the best books do that imo). I absolutely loved L&L, and I cannot wait to see what's in store for the Ashford Ridge series next!
🎧 ALC REVIEW:
4 Stars 💫
Thank you to the author for the ALC!
After reading and loving the book, I was very excited to dive into this audiobook. I absolutely love Hazel and Eli's story, and it was just as amazing in audio. I love them and the side characters so much, and the narrator, Shane Martinez, did an absolutely wonderful job of bringing everyone to life. While I didn't quite enjoy this as much as the physical book, this book is stunning. The author's writing and storytelling is beautiful, and it has a way of pulling you in. If audiobooks are more your speed, consider Legacy & Lace as your next listen!
Thank you to the author for this ARC! 🤍
Going into this, I was so excited! My ARC schedule has been insane, and I got to it later than I'd hoped. However, it was worth the wait!
As a southern gal myself, I enjoy a good cowboy romance. In a way, Legacy & Lace gave me Heartland vibes (one of my favorite TV shows). Eli and Hazel definitely have their struggles, but there is no doubt that they're made for one another. This book was funny, well written, full of lovable side characters, and is honestly kind of sad in a way that just made sense. While reading, I was so emotionally invested in this book that I honestly felt drained afterward (the best books do that imo). I absolutely loved L&L, and I cannot wait to see what's in store for the Ashford Ridge series next!
🎧 ALC REVIEW:
4 Stars 💫
Thank you to the author for the ALC!
After reading and loving the book, I was very excited to dive into this audiobook. I absolutely love Hazel and Eli's story, and it was just as amazing in audio. I love them and the side characters so much, and the narrator, Shane Martinez, did an absolutely wonderful job of bringing everyone to life. While I didn't quite enjoy this as much as the physical book, this book is stunning. The author's writing and storytelling is beautiful, and it has a way of pulling you in. If audiobooks are more your speed, consider Legacy & Lace as your next listen!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely devoured this cowboy romance — I could not put it down! From the very first chapter, the chemistry was electric, the tension perfectly paced, and the emotional depth completely pulled me in.
The cowboy hero was everything you want — rugged, protective, a little guarded, but with a heart that slowly unfolds in the most swoon-worthy way. And the heroine? Strong, relatable, and impossible not to root for.
Their banter had me smiling, their quiet moments had me melting, and the emotional twists kept me turning pages long past bedtime.
The small-town setting felt vivid and cozy, wrapping around the love story like a warm blanket. Every scene had purpose, every chapter ended with just enough pull to keep me saying “one more.”
Brilliantly written, deeply romantic, and utterly addictive — this is the kind of cowboy romance that reminds you why you love the genre. Five stars without hesitation! 🫶
The cowboy hero was everything you want — rugged, protective, a little guarded, but with a heart that slowly unfolds in the most swoon-worthy way. And the heroine? Strong, relatable, and impossible not to root for.
Their banter had me smiling, their quiet moments had me melting, and the emotional twists kept me turning pages long past bedtime.
The small-town setting felt vivid and cozy, wrapping around the love story like a warm blanket. Every scene had purpose, every chapter ended with just enough pull to keep me saying “one more.”
Brilliantly written, deeply romantic, and utterly addictive — this is the kind of cowboy romance that reminds you why you love the genre. Five stars without hesitation! 🫶
May 13, 2026
Legacy and Lace is the first book in the Ashford Ridge series written by Rebecka Cole. Thank you to the author for ALC. I am an audiobook girlie, so this is right up my alley. The narration was good, but lacked emotion at times. The aspect of grief is definitely relatable. If you have experienced a significant loss you will feel for Hazel. I wanted to feel more of that through the narration.
Eli is the broody cowboy left in the dust. He has been holding the reins since Hazel ran away. This is a second chance romance for them. They took their chance, but it took awhile to get on the same page. I have never read a character that had laced up her running shoes so fast! When things got tough she ran. She did it in the past and she was trying to do it to Eli now. He was steady though. He wanted her but wanted her to choose him. Eli didn’t want Hazel to feel pressured or regret anything.
He deserves a gold star to be honest. Hazel was extremely conflicted. Yes, she left because of her grief of losing her father. That is understandable, but coming back home she really didn’t know what she wanted. Hazel made us all wait until the very end for her to decide to start LIVING life. Finally she didn’t let the fear of making the wrong decision control her anymore. Eli was just standing there always choosing her and wanting to be chosen by Hazel.
Legacy and Lace is the first book by this author that I have read. I love anything cowboys, so it is an easy choice for me to come back to the series as it develops. I truly have no idea where Rebecka is going to take us in the next book. To me that is half the fun of reading.
Eli is the broody cowboy left in the dust. He has been holding the reins since Hazel ran away. This is a second chance romance for them. They took their chance, but it took awhile to get on the same page. I have never read a character that had laced up her running shoes so fast! When things got tough she ran. She did it in the past and she was trying to do it to Eli now. He was steady though. He wanted her but wanted her to choose him. Eli didn’t want Hazel to feel pressured or regret anything.
He deserves a gold star to be honest. Hazel was extremely conflicted. Yes, she left because of her grief of losing her father. That is understandable, but coming back home she really didn’t know what she wanted. Hazel made us all wait until the very end for her to decide to start LIVING life. Finally she didn’t let the fear of making the wrong decision control her anymore. Eli was just standing there always choosing her and wanting to be chosen by Hazel.
Legacy and Lace is the first book by this author that I have read. I love anything cowboys, so it is an easy choice for me to come back to the series as it develops. I truly have no idea where Rebecka is going to take us in the next book. To me that is half the fun of reading.
May 10, 2026
I got this as an ALC and I loved it. I usually read dark romance or fantasy which can be a lot and this was a perfect palette cleanser in between two of those. I loved the story and all the characters. It was beautifully written. It felt like I was there with them, every step of the way, rooting for them on their goals and in their relationship. The slow burn & tension were top notch. My only wish is that it was duet/dual narration since there were some chapters in Eli’s point of view. However, the narrator still did an amazing job. I hope we get some books about the side characters in the future. 👀 If you love small town romance, second chances, slow burn, & grumpy MMC’s, then try this!
May 11, 2026
As someone reading their very first cowboy romance, I can officially say I’m hooked. completely won me over with its emotional depth, slow-burn tension, and beautifully written second chance romance.
This childhood friends-to-lovers story follows Hazel as she returns to her hometown after spending five years in the big city, forced to face old memories, unresolved grief, and the life she left behind. The tension between Hazel and Eli was so well done. Every interaction felt layered with history, heartbreak, and longing. I absolutely loved watching their relationship rebuild piece by piece.
Eli and Hazel’s story was emotional, heartfelt, and filled with that perfect small-town charm. The themes of grief, healing, and finding your way home really added so much depth to the romance.
This childhood friends-to-lovers story follows Hazel as she returns to her hometown after spending five years in the big city, forced to face old memories, unresolved grief, and the life she left behind. The tension between Hazel and Eli was so well done. Every interaction felt layered with history, heartbreak, and longing. I absolutely loved watching their relationship rebuild piece by piece.
Eli and Hazel’s story was emotional, heartfelt, and filled with that perfect small-town charm. The themes of grief, healing, and finding your way home really added so much depth to the romance.
May 15, 2026
Need A Good Cowboy Love Story? Read Legacy & Lace
I received this lovely story by way of a Goodreads giveaway, and I agreed to leave an honest review as part of the deal.
This story deals with death and grief and how we handle it or not, and the decisions made based on those feelings. Hazel and Eli were destined to love each other growing up together until they grew apart due to life circumstances. If you like second chances, small town community love and being the underdog - this is the story for you. Enjoy!! I'm awaiting the next one in the series....
I received this lovely story by way of a Goodreads giveaway, and I agreed to leave an honest review as part of the deal.
This story deals with death and grief and how we handle it or not, and the decisions made based on those feelings. Hazel and Eli were destined to love each other growing up together until they grew apart due to life circumstances. If you like second chances, small town community love and being the underdog - this is the story for you. Enjoy!! I'm awaiting the next one in the series....
May 8, 2026
This book had me in an emotional chokehold, I couldn't put it down! The deep emotional tension, sexual tension, the history, the stakes, everything was so great! I was slightly annoyed with Hazel most of the time, but I couldn't bring myself to hate her like I easily could have. She had her reasons for leaving, however flawed the execution of it was. Her and Eli had undeniable chemistry, the steady presence of her Aunt Mae was essential, and I can't wait to see more from Rebecka!
May 13, 2026
Thank you Rebecka Cole for this ALC!! I absolutely loved this audio! I tend to like duets more because I feel like there is more emotional between the different characters. Even though this was not a duet, I still loved the storyline and everything. So good!
May 18, 2026
Such a light, romantic read. Dreamy, ranch vibes! Would recommend for a summer read 🤠🐴
Review of advance copy received from Author
WOW! What a book to start a series off with!! I absolutely ATE this book up. Cowboys, tension and full of emotion? Yes, please!
I was completely hooked from the prologue, and when I say hooked, I mean literally sat on the floor balancing my kindle to carry on reading whilst folding washing, hooked!
Hazel, left home after losing her father and not being able to live around the constant reminders of him. The only downside, she left best friend/first love Eli asleep in her bed with no goodbye. Breaking both their hearts as she dissappears to Denver.
Eli has spent the last few years trying to save Hazel's family ranch whilst working at his own and every day that passes it's harder and harder to keep it afloat. The Clarks need a miracle at this point. But when Hazel finally returns to help out, Eli swears he's not letting her back into his life just so she can leave again.
Our FMC is strong, stubborn and so relatable it's impossible not to be on her side. But Eli, our MMC? he's everything a cowboy should be. Grumpy, rugged, closed off protective and completely swoonworthy. The character growth both MC's go through made Legacy and Lace feel much more relatable.
The whole book was filled with banter, tension, grief and so heartwarming I literally could jave melted onto the floor. I love when a slow burn hits that perfect spot that the suspense is almost as good as the details.
Thank you so much again Rebecka Cole for the opportunity to read before release, I'm frothing at the mouth waiting for Chase and Addie's book!
I was completely hooked from the prologue, and when I say hooked, I mean literally sat on the floor balancing my kindle to carry on reading whilst folding washing, hooked!
Hazel, left home after losing her father and not being able to live around the constant reminders of him. The only downside, she left best friend/first love Eli asleep in her bed with no goodbye. Breaking both their hearts as she dissappears to Denver.
Eli has spent the last few years trying to save Hazel's family ranch whilst working at his own and every day that passes it's harder and harder to keep it afloat. The Clarks need a miracle at this point. But when Hazel finally returns to help out, Eli swears he's not letting her back into his life just so she can leave again.
Our FMC is strong, stubborn and so relatable it's impossible not to be on her side. But Eli, our MMC? he's everything a cowboy should be. Grumpy, rugged, closed off protective and completely swoonworthy. The character growth both MC's go through made Legacy and Lace feel much more relatable.
The whole book was filled with banter, tension, grief and so heartwarming I literally could jave melted onto the floor. I love when a slow burn hits that perfect spot that the suspense is almost as good as the details.
Thank you so much again Rebecka Cole for the opportunity to read before release, I'm frothing at the mouth waiting for Chase and Addie's book!
April 3, 2026
Legacy & Lace absolutely ruined me in the best, softest, slow-burn way. It’s one of those stories that doesn’t shout for your attention, it just quietly wraps itself around your ribs and squeezes until you’re feeling everything all at once.
Hazel coming back to the ranch had that “I’m only here temporarily” energy that we ALL know is a lie from page one… and watching her try to convince herself she hadn’t left pieces of her heart behind?? Pain. Delicious, aching pain. And then there’s Eli freaking Dawson.
Eli. Dawson.
This man is not loud or flashy. He’s steady. Solid. The kind of man who shows love in a thousand quiet ways instead of grand speeches. And honestly? That made it hit ten times harder. The fact that he used to chase her but doesn’t anymore?? The emotional damage. The tension. The way every interaction felt like walking across a field full of old memories and “what ifs”?? I was eating it up with a spoon.
Their history is EVERYTHING. Childhood best friends to almost-lovers to heartbreak to… whatever this fragile, complicated thing is now?? It’s messy and real and layered and I swear you can feel the years between them in every single conversation. The slow burn here is SLOW slow, but not in a frustrating way. In a “every glance matters, every word matters, every almost-touch matters” kind of way that had me feral.
And the ranch setting?? It’s not just background, it breathes. You can feel the dust, the work, the weight of legacy hanging over everything. It makes the stakes feel so much bigger than just romance. It’s about home. Belonging. Roots you can’t quite rip out no matter how far you run.
But what really got me was that core question: do you stick to the life you planned, or do you choose the love you never actually let go of? That tension runs through the entire book and it hurts so good.
By the end I was a puddle. A satisfied, heart-full, slightly emotionally compromised puddle.
If you love:
• second chance romance that actually earns it
• quiet, stoic cowboys with big feelings buried deep
• childhood friends with unresolved everything
• slow burn that simmers until it aches
…this book is going to own you.
Hazel coming back to the ranch had that “I’m only here temporarily” energy that we ALL know is a lie from page one… and watching her try to convince herself she hadn’t left pieces of her heart behind?? Pain. Delicious, aching pain. And then there’s Eli freaking Dawson.
Eli. Dawson.
This man is not loud or flashy. He’s steady. Solid. The kind of man who shows love in a thousand quiet ways instead of grand speeches. And honestly? That made it hit ten times harder. The fact that he used to chase her but doesn’t anymore?? The emotional damage. The tension. The way every interaction felt like walking across a field full of old memories and “what ifs”?? I was eating it up with a spoon.
Their history is EVERYTHING. Childhood best friends to almost-lovers to heartbreak to… whatever this fragile, complicated thing is now?? It’s messy and real and layered and I swear you can feel the years between them in every single conversation. The slow burn here is SLOW slow, but not in a frustrating way. In a “every glance matters, every word matters, every almost-touch matters” kind of way that had me feral.
And the ranch setting?? It’s not just background, it breathes. You can feel the dust, the work, the weight of legacy hanging over everything. It makes the stakes feel so much bigger than just romance. It’s about home. Belonging. Roots you can’t quite rip out no matter how far you run.
But what really got me was that core question: do you stick to the life you planned, or do you choose the love you never actually let go of? That tension runs through the entire book and it hurts so good.
By the end I was a puddle. A satisfied, heart-full, slightly emotionally compromised puddle.
If you love:
• second chance romance that actually earns it
• quiet, stoic cowboys with big feelings buried deep
• childhood friends with unresolved everything
• slow burn that simmers until it aches
…this book is going to own you.
April 22, 2026
"Five years ago, I let myself touch her. Thought it meant something. The next morning, she was gone."
After seeing the tropes for this story I was super excited to get an ARC! It drew me in from chapter 1, the emotion poured off the pages ... the backstory is wrapped in grief, but beautiful & the descriptions of the Montana setting are a dream 😍
FMC Addie is raw, relatable & struggling ... her grief from her fathers passing heavy throughout the read! But as the story progressed I loved watching her grow, rediscovering her grit, stubbornness & drive 🙌 Although at times when she was caught up in her head I did want to shake her & tell her to just give in 🤭
MMC Eli had his walls of heartbreak built up HIGH! He was broody, cold & even harsh in places ... but inwardly for Hazel he was soft, worn down, committed & totally besotted 🫠
I loved the references to their past - being childhood best friends & how they grew together. It gave depth to the their emotional relationship and added another layer to their characters which invested me as a reader ❤️
The ranch setting was rough, rugged, harsh, but beautiful Montana ... Though it was emotional to read Aunt Maes struggles & watch her bear the burden of the ranch to protect Hazel 🥹
I suprisingly enjoyed the horse training aspect and the addition of Chance & Addie as sideline characters! Chances banter & inappropriately timed one liners, mixed with Addies low tolerance & fiesty cut offs made me laugh out loud!! 🤭 They gave a great found family aspect, alongside bestie Shae & I loved the groups dynamic 🫶
Overall this was a read full of will they, won't they - right to the very end! I felt all the feels & enjoyed the hell outta the ride 🤠 I'm really looking forward to being back on Clarke Ranch soon for Chace & Addies story (ooh thats gonna have some fire!) 🔥
After seeing the tropes for this story I was super excited to get an ARC! It drew me in from chapter 1, the emotion poured off the pages ... the backstory is wrapped in grief, but beautiful & the descriptions of the Montana setting are a dream 😍
FMC Addie is raw, relatable & struggling ... her grief from her fathers passing heavy throughout the read! But as the story progressed I loved watching her grow, rediscovering her grit, stubbornness & drive 🙌 Although at times when she was caught up in her head I did want to shake her & tell her to just give in 🤭
MMC Eli had his walls of heartbreak built up HIGH! He was broody, cold & even harsh in places ... but inwardly for Hazel he was soft, worn down, committed & totally besotted 🫠
I loved the references to their past - being childhood best friends & how they grew together. It gave depth to the their emotional relationship and added another layer to their characters which invested me as a reader ❤️
The ranch setting was rough, rugged, harsh, but beautiful Montana ... Though it was emotional to read Aunt Maes struggles & watch her bear the burden of the ranch to protect Hazel 🥹
I suprisingly enjoyed the horse training aspect and the addition of Chance & Addie as sideline characters! Chances banter & inappropriately timed one liners, mixed with Addies low tolerance & fiesty cut offs made me laugh out loud!! 🤭 They gave a great found family aspect, alongside bestie Shae & I loved the groups dynamic 🫶
Overall this was a read full of will they, won't they - right to the very end! I felt all the feels & enjoyed the hell outta the ride 🤠 I'm really looking forward to being back on Clarke Ranch soon for Chace & Addies story (ooh thats gonna have some fire!) 🔥
May 8, 2026
This was such a great read! I love me a good western romance!! Hazel ups and leaves her family ranch after the unexpected death of her father. Taking a job as a data analyst in Denver, Hazel leaves behind her old life and Eli, a flame she extinguished before it had the chance to roar to life.
Five years later, Hazel is back in Montana on her family’s ranch, to help her Aunt after an injury. The only thing…her home isn’t the same anymore and Eli has become cold and distant. Thrown into the realization that Hazel’s leaving in addition to the death of her father, set a chain reaction that can cost Hazel, her family’s home. Rival rancher, Cole has his eye on Hazel’s home and will stop at nothing to grow his family’s business and the land around it. Hazel is now stuck between continuing the new life she built for herself in Colorado, or saving her family’s legacy and restoring past relationships.
I had the honor of being able to listen to the audiobook of this story (I am voluntarily giving my review) and the narrator did an AMAZING job with the voices AND emotions of the characters. Rebecka truly wrote a captivating story that was easy to follow, had a slow burn romance, and emotional plot that keeps you engaged. Your emotions will enjoy the rollercoaster ride. Highly recommend the read!
I have to add that I was irritated with Hazel’s reaction towards Eli at first. I could understand Eli’s response to how she came back and thinking that she could just pick up where she left off. At the same time, all Hazel knows is where she left off. She was aware of how she left things and actively works to fix her mistakes. On that same path, Hazel needed to get away; she needed that time to fall back in love with her home, and the people in it.
Give this a read or a listen to! You will not regret it.
Five years later, Hazel is back in Montana on her family’s ranch, to help her Aunt after an injury. The only thing…her home isn’t the same anymore and Eli has become cold and distant. Thrown into the realization that Hazel’s leaving in addition to the death of her father, set a chain reaction that can cost Hazel, her family’s home. Rival rancher, Cole has his eye on Hazel’s home and will stop at nothing to grow his family’s business and the land around it. Hazel is now stuck between continuing the new life she built for herself in Colorado, or saving her family’s legacy and restoring past relationships.
I had the honor of being able to listen to the audiobook of this story (I am voluntarily giving my review) and the narrator did an AMAZING job with the voices AND emotions of the characters. Rebecka truly wrote a captivating story that was easy to follow, had a slow burn romance, and emotional plot that keeps you engaged. Your emotions will enjoy the rollercoaster ride. Highly recommend the read!
I have to add that I was irritated with Hazel’s reaction towards Eli at first. I could understand Eli’s response to how she came back and thinking that she could just pick up where she left off. At the same time, all Hazel knows is where she left off. She was aware of how she left things and actively works to fix her mistakes. On that same path, Hazel needed to get away; she needed that time to fall back in love with her home, and the people in it.
Give this a read or a listen to! You will not regret it.
March 18, 2026
This book was absolutely incredible—an easy 5-star read for me. It’s been a long time since I’ve picked up a story that held my attention this completely from beginning to end. The character development was beautifully done; every person felt real, layered, and worth investing in.
Set against the backdrop of ranch life, the story captures something truly special about love and loss, and how those two things so often walk hand in hand. There’s a quiet strength in the way the author portrays a “simpler” life—reminding us that simpler doesn’t mean easier, but often more meaningful, more grounded, and ultimately more rewarding.
The writing itself flowed effortlessly. The pacing was just right, with enough detail to bring scenes to life without ever feeling repetitive or overwhelming. It never lingered too long in one place, yet still gave every moment the weight it deserved.
I found myself completely immersed, and by the end, I wasn’t ready to let these characters go. I truly hope this isn’t the last we see of this world. There are threads here that could lead to more stories, and I would absolutely love to see where they go. I’m especially curious about what the future holds for Eli and Hazel—even if they aren’t the main focus, I’d gladly read more about their journey.
If you enjoy heartfelt stories about love, resilience, and the beauty found in a slower, more intentional way of life, this one is a must-read.
Set against the backdrop of ranch life, the story captures something truly special about love and loss, and how those two things so often walk hand in hand. There’s a quiet strength in the way the author portrays a “simpler” life—reminding us that simpler doesn’t mean easier, but often more meaningful, more grounded, and ultimately more rewarding.
The writing itself flowed effortlessly. The pacing was just right, with enough detail to bring scenes to life without ever feeling repetitive or overwhelming. It never lingered too long in one place, yet still gave every moment the weight it deserved.
I found myself completely immersed, and by the end, I wasn’t ready to let these characters go. I truly hope this isn’t the last we see of this world. There are threads here that could lead to more stories, and I would absolutely love to see where they go. I’m especially curious about what the future holds for Eli and Hazel—even if they aren’t the main focus, I’d gladly read more about their journey.
If you enjoy heartfelt stories about love, resilience, and the beauty found in a slower, more intentional way of life, this one is a must-read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2026
Legacy and Lace
Book 1 in the Ashford Ridge Series
Rating: 4⭐️
Spice: 1🌶️
What a debut by Rebecka! Legacy and Lace is more than just a second chance romance. It’s a story about grief, healing, and understanding that sometimes when we’re at our absolute lowest, walking away isn’t giving up but it’s choosing yourself. Sometimes distance gives us the space to find who we are and discover what truly matters.
My heart absolutely ached for Hazel. Watching her navigate such devastating loss while standing at a crossroads, hurt in all the ways it was supposed to. But I admired her so much for finding the strength to return to the town she left behind and fight for her family’s legacy.
Eli. I wanted nothing more than to wrap my arms around that man and tell him it was okay to FEEL again. That cowboy was carrying the world on his shoulders, burying every emotion deep inside himself, and there were so many moments where I just wanted to reach into the pages and remind him that he didn’t have to carry it all alone.
Legacy and Lace brought so much healing, comfort, and love. It was a reminder that even after loss, even after heartbreak, there can still be joy waiting on the other side. If you’re ready for a cowboy romance where emotions run deep but found family runs even deeper, you need to pick up Legacy and Lace.
Tropes
•cowboy romance
•second chance romance
•close proximity
•grief/healing
•friends to lovers
Book 1 in the Ashford Ridge Series
Rating: 4⭐️
Spice: 1🌶️
What a debut by Rebecka! Legacy and Lace is more than just a second chance romance. It’s a story about grief, healing, and understanding that sometimes when we’re at our absolute lowest, walking away isn’t giving up but it’s choosing yourself. Sometimes distance gives us the space to find who we are and discover what truly matters.
My heart absolutely ached for Hazel. Watching her navigate such devastating loss while standing at a crossroads, hurt in all the ways it was supposed to. But I admired her so much for finding the strength to return to the town she left behind and fight for her family’s legacy.
Eli. I wanted nothing more than to wrap my arms around that man and tell him it was okay to FEEL again. That cowboy was carrying the world on his shoulders, burying every emotion deep inside himself, and there were so many moments where I just wanted to reach into the pages and remind him that he didn’t have to carry it all alone.
Legacy and Lace brought so much healing, comfort, and love. It was a reminder that even after loss, even after heartbreak, there can still be joy waiting on the other side. If you’re ready for a cowboy romance where emotions run deep but found family runs even deeper, you need to pick up Legacy and Lace.
Tropes
•cowboy romance
•second chance romance
•close proximity
•grief/healing
•friends to lovers
April 1, 2026
Legacy and Lace by Rebecka Cole is a heartfelt small-town romance that wraps you up in dust, denim, and deep emotions. This is a beautifully done friends to lovers story. The chemistry between Eli and Hazel feels natural, built on years of shared history, unspoken feelings, and undeniable tension. The ranch life, community ties, and slower pace create the perfect atmosphere for a romance rooted in tradition and legacy. The cowboy element isn’t just aesthetic. It is woven into the characters’ identities, responsibilities, and making everything feel grounded and real. There’s also a strong emotional thread tied to family, legacy, and what it means to build a life while honoring the past. It adds depth beyond the romance, giving the story weight without taking away from the heartwarming moments. If you love small-town settings, rugged cowboys, and that slow-burn friends-to-lovers tension that keeps you turning pages, Legacy and Lace is a cozy, emotional read that delivers exactly what you’re hoping for.
March 29, 2026
As someone who loves a good western romance, Legacy & Lace delivers!
When Hazel Clarke returns to her family’s struggling ranch, she comes back carrying grief, unfinished business, and a future she never planned to reclaim.
Enter Eli Dawson— who’s still there, quieter and steadier than ever. He was left to pick up the pieces of not only her family’s ranch but his heart as well.
Rebuilding the ranch means facing the past, and staying means risking everything.
I loved Eli and Hazel’s love story so much. Second chance is one of my favorite tropes, and I love how Eli set boundaries for himself. He was still hurting and his emotions were glossed over simply because this was a romance book.
The feelings, the relationship was so realistic. Both Eli and Hazel had a lot to learn before they could really be together again.
I also loved Hazel’s determination to help her family’s ranch. Seeing the problem and thinking outside the box.
Watching her fall in love with the ranch again was everything.
Such a beautiful love story!
When Hazel Clarke returns to her family’s struggling ranch, she comes back carrying grief, unfinished business, and a future she never planned to reclaim.
Enter Eli Dawson— who’s still there, quieter and steadier than ever. He was left to pick up the pieces of not only her family’s ranch but his heart as well.
Rebuilding the ranch means facing the past, and staying means risking everything.
I loved Eli and Hazel’s love story so much. Second chance is one of my favorite tropes, and I love how Eli set boundaries for himself. He was still hurting and his emotions were glossed over simply because this was a romance book.
The feelings, the relationship was so realistic. Both Eli and Hazel had a lot to learn before they could really be together again.
I also loved Hazel’s determination to help her family’s ranch. Seeing the problem and thinking outside the box.
Watching her fall in love with the ranch again was everything.
Such a beautiful love story!
April 8, 2026
Oh, my oh my. I am beyond happy that I received this book as an ARC.
I am usually a big cry baby and let me tell you how this beautiful book has touched my big heart. The author is such a phenomenal writer. The writing takes my breath away.
By the end of this book, I sobbed buckets.
How Hazel confesses that she loves him & how Eli reacts, as if he couldn't believe it.
It tore at my heart, when he told her that he believed that he wasn't enough. Oh, gosh.. the waterworks!!!! I couldn't stop sobbing, because I've been there, feeling I am not worthy.
So, it hit home for me.
In the end, I found her to be so brave and I was sobbing again of course, when she had convinced him that he was indeed enough, MORE than enough.
Okay, i am going to stop now. Will cry again, if I don't.
Thank you so much, dear author.
Your story was absolutely beautiful and thank you for sharing it with us. I loved it!
I recommend this to anyone who wants to hear about it and also to those who don't want to hear.
Cannot wait to read more from you.
I am usually a big cry baby and let me tell you how this beautiful book has touched my big heart. The author is such a phenomenal writer. The writing takes my breath away.
By the end of this book, I sobbed buckets.
How Hazel confesses that she loves him & how Eli reacts, as if he couldn't believe it.
It tore at my heart, when he told her that he believed that he wasn't enough. Oh, gosh.. the waterworks!!!! I couldn't stop sobbing, because I've been there, feeling I am not worthy.
So, it hit home for me.
In the end, I found her to be so brave and I was sobbing again of course, when she had convinced him that he was indeed enough, MORE than enough.
Okay, i am going to stop now. Will cry again, if I don't.
Thank you so much, dear author.
Your story was absolutely beautiful and thank you for sharing it with us. I loved it!
I recommend this to anyone who wants to hear about it and also to those who don't want to hear.
Cannot wait to read more from you.
March 30, 2026
God, I loathe Cole. My first big feeling while reading was how much I instantly disliked him. But I guess that makes him a pretty good villain 🤣
I love a good “f*ck it” moment and this story delivered! Although I want to punch Hazel’s head off. She should have been begging for Eli’s forgiveness from the second she came back to town, that man is *chef’s kiss*.
Wish there had been more spice to it rather than every opportunity becoming “after” aside from the first descriptive encounter and the one at the end.
I couldn’t catch my breath after that call from her boss, I wanted to cry for Eli and I think I was as upset and resigned as he was. Thank God I didn’t have to wait toooo long for the HEA because my blood pressure definitely spiked.
Overall, I enjoyed the story and look forward to what comes next for Ashford Ridge!
I love a good “f*ck it” moment and this story delivered! Although I want to punch Hazel’s head off. She should have been begging for Eli’s forgiveness from the second she came back to town, that man is *chef’s kiss*.
Wish there had been more spice to it rather than every opportunity becoming “after” aside from the first descriptive encounter and the one at the end.
I couldn’t catch my breath after that call from her boss, I wanted to cry for Eli and I think I was as upset and resigned as he was. Thank God I didn’t have to wait toooo long for the HEA because my blood pressure definitely spiked.
Overall, I enjoyed the story and look forward to what comes next for Ashford Ridge!
April 3, 2026
Wow what an amazing read!
I was fully invested from start to finish and completely swept away by Hazel and Eli's story.
The undeniable tension and yearning between them had me hooked from the very beginning!
Hazel is a strong and relatable FMC — it's impossible not to love her. I found myself rooting for her the whole way through. And Eli... a brooding, protective, swoon-worthy cowboy? Yes please!
The banter, the tension, and the second-chance slow burn were done so well. Every moment felt natural and beautifully written, making it impossible not to get completely immersed in the world of Ashford Ridge.
And can we talk about Chance and Addie wow - I'm desperate for their story!
Thank you Rebecka, for allowing me to step into Ashford Ridge and fall in love with Hazel and Eli's journey.
I was fully invested from start to finish and completely swept away by Hazel and Eli's story.
The undeniable tension and yearning between them had me hooked from the very beginning!
Hazel is a strong and relatable FMC — it's impossible not to love her. I found myself rooting for her the whole way through. And Eli... a brooding, protective, swoon-worthy cowboy? Yes please!
The banter, the tension, and the second-chance slow burn were done so well. Every moment felt natural and beautifully written, making it impossible not to get completely immersed in the world of Ashford Ridge.
And can we talk about Chance and Addie wow - I'm desperate for their story!
Thank you Rebecka, for allowing me to step into Ashford Ridge and fall in love with Hazel and Eli's journey.
March 22, 2026
Wow this is a really good second chance romance!! It takes a lot to make it this good and realistic! The doubt, yearning, hurt, happiness and fear was just perfect. Eli and Hazel’s chemistry was sparking and just felt super natural! The pacing flowed really nice and all characters felt real and realistic. The side characters were all really well done, which I really appreciate in a book. My emotions were all over while reading and that’s always a good tell if it’s a good book!
Im so glad and grateful for being able to read this early so thank you Rebecka for the arc of this💞
Im so glad and grateful for being able to read this early so thank you Rebecka for the arc of this💞
April 9, 2026
Legacy & Lace is a sweet & cozy cowboy romance with an angsty slow burn.
I enjoyed Eli & Hazel’s story, although her flight response had me begging her to stay for him. I mean, miss ma’am, this man is down bad for you after you walked out on him five years ago. You’re not going to find that anywhere else.
And Eli, bless him. He was trying to protect himself, but nothing could keep him from her—not even five years of longing.
I’m definitely reading book two because I LOVE Chace and Addie. I need their story.
I enjoyed Eli & Hazel’s story, although her flight response had me begging her to stay for him. I mean, miss ma’am, this man is down bad for you after you walked out on him five years ago. You’re not going to find that anywhere else.
And Eli, bless him. He was trying to protect himself, but nothing could keep him from her—not even five years of longing.
I’m definitely reading book two because I LOVE Chace and Addie. I need their story.
March 4, 2026
Hazel ran away from her family’s ranch to a new job in Denver. She heads back home temporarily to help out her Aunt Mae. Eli, her best friend, is now working at the ranch and things are unresolved between them. Eli has feelings for Hazel and she isn’t sure how she feels. A sweet story about family and relationships set on a ranch in Montana. I loved this book. Thanks to the author for my Advanced Reader Copy.
March 14, 2026
REVIEW OF ADVANCE COPY RECEIVED FROM AUTHOR
This book took up all the free space in my head while reading it, and it’s still lingering long after the fact!
I love, love, loved the tension between Eli and Hazel. And while I wanted to shake some sense into Hazel for her inability to make a decision, I do understand, to an extent, not wanting to make the wrong choice.
This is a sweet, small-town horse ranch, second chance cowboy romance. Rebecka’s descriptive writing made me feel like I was there with Hazel, Eli and the gang in Ashford Ridge. I can’t wait for the next book!
This book took up all the free space in my head while reading it, and it’s still lingering long after the fact!
I love, love, loved the tension between Eli and Hazel. And while I wanted to shake some sense into Hazel for her inability to make a decision, I do understand, to an extent, not wanting to make the wrong choice.
This is a sweet, small-town horse ranch, second chance cowboy romance. Rebecka’s descriptive writing made me feel like I was there with Hazel, Eli and the gang in Ashford Ridge. I can’t wait for the next book!
April 1, 2026
She left town for five years. He took over her family’s ranch. Now she’s back in town and the ranch is in trouble. Will she stay in Montana or go back to Denver for the career she’s built? Will they have to sell the ranch? Will Hazel and Eli get a second chance?
Classic small town cowboy romance. He’s broody and she wants to leave town and start a career. It’s a fun and easy read so make sure to check it out!
Classic small town cowboy romance. He’s broody and she wants to leave town and start a career. It’s a fun and easy read so make sure to check it out!
April 4, 2026
The writing is beautiful, just lovely. The yearning.. amazing. The cowboy.. he’s delish. No other woman drama, no other man drama which I was really grateful for. I loved that horses were involved (horse girl here) and the ranch setting was described so well. This is a soft, slow paced read where you really get to know the characters well. Very slow burn and the sexual tension.. omg I was pulling my hair out 🤣
The fmc annoyed me with a certain decision she needed to make which is why I knocked a star off, but overall I could not put this down. Can’t wait for book two!
The fmc annoyed me with a certain decision she needed to make which is why I knocked a star off, but overall I could not put this down. Can’t wait for book two!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Such an amazing small-town cowboy second-chance romance story. The very first sentence of the prologue had me hooked.
Hazel returns to her family ranch five years after her father’s death, even though she’s built a full life in Denver. Watching her slowly realize where she truly belongs is beautiful.
🌶🌶
Second chance
Cowboy romance
Small-town
Third act breakup
Beta read
Hazel returns to her family ranch five years after her father’s death, even though she’s built a full life in Denver. Watching her slowly realize where she truly belongs is beautiful.
🌶🌶
Second chance
Cowboy romance
Small-town
Third act breakup
Beta read
March 9, 2026
This was a fun book to read! All the feels and emotions. Hazel and Eli will have you feeling all the things. Angst, love, humor, heartache, everything. I was happy and sad, and frustrated all at the same time. I loved their story. I can’t wait for the next book also! Thank you for sharing your story with us!
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