Boss and Brat

Foggy Basin Season Three

by Brina Brady, Anita Ford (Editor)

Ethan Evans has spent his whole life doing what everyone else wants; working the ranch, pretending he’s straight, and trying not to drown under the weight of his parents’ expectations. After failing out of college and getting kicked into the barn like an unwanted stray, he’s stuck under the watchful eye of the new ranch boss… a man he can’t stop noticing.

Carter Higgins shows up at Willow Creek Ranch looking like he stepped out of a modern Western—rugged, calm, and carrying the kind of quiet authority that makes people straighten up without being asked. He’s got a past he doesn’t talk about and a family he’d rather forget. What he does have is discipline, a degree in Agricultural Business, and a talent for reading people like open books.

And Ethan? Ethan is the one person he can’t quite figure out.
Ethan’s trouble. Carter sees it instantly. But he also sees the fear, the longing, and the spark Ethan tries so hard to hide. Carter knows that look—he’s worn it himself.

As the two of them clash, circle, and collide in the dusty heat of Foggy Basin, lines blur fast. Ethan wants freedom. Carter wants peace. Neither expects to want each other.

But on a ranch where secrets don’t stay buried and families don’t forgive easily, falling for the wrong man might cost them everything… or finally give them the chance to live the lives they’ve always wanted.

Welcome to Foggy Basin. Just passing through? No problem. Here to stay, well, better find your place. Sit back, relax and get to know the townsfolk. They love hard and play even harder. Each book is a standalone but why not stay and get to know us and read them all?

333 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 2, 2026

About the author

I read and write M/M Gay Erotica/Romance novels.

I am a retired high school teacher with a Master's Degree from California State University of Long Beach and UCLA.

I taught various high school subjects including the following:world history, math, Algebra, Careers, CAHSEE prep, Independent Studies,science, Adult School, Orientation, and even middle school for three years. Let's not talk about the middle school experience. I prefer teaching high school seniors.

During the day, I read and write. I enjoy taking writing classes in my spare time.

Reviews

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars, rounded to 5
Brina Brady has been a go-to author for several years, and my library is full of her books. I really enjoyed this journey into Foggy Bottom with Ethan and Carter. Ethan is a hot mess, always seeming to get into trouble, unable to control his penchant for doing things “too much”” — taking unsafe actions while dirt bike racing, over-reacting and making poor choices in retaliation for things done against him, totally blowing his senior year of college and getting kicked out— all culminating in being sent home in disgrace with his parents, being relegated to a room in the old barn, and his life turned over to the new ranch manager, Carter, with the orders to make him a man. Carter is pretty stoic, disciplined, structured, a man of high expectations for himself and Ethan, and a man that is falling for the son of his boss, the boy he has sworn to protect. Ethan is falling, too — luckily, turns out both are gay, closeted but gay. When Ethan is moved into Carter’s cabin to keep him protected, lines start to blur, then cross, as the two navigate a new and shaky relationship, build trust, and figure out what will be needed to be together. The road isn’t smooth, and isn’t likely to get any easier, but they persevere, facing hurdles as they come to get their HEA. Over the course of the book some surprises are revealed, discrimination exposed, and family dynamics which I sure don’t envy. Some things Ethan gains are an implicit trust in Carter, surprise revelations from his father, and a sense of safety and home that has been missing for a long time in his life. Spice level is low, the development of the trust and attraction, then caring, then love is slow and deliberate with Carter in control while giving Ethan what he needs, security and safety, and being seen for who he is. I had an immense sense of satisfaction at the place Ethan is by the end of the book. This one grabbed me and kept me involved all the way, and is one I would recommend, well worth the time to read in my opinion.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Shawna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Boss and Brat — Brina Brady

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️(5/5) This was a steamy M/M small-town ranch romance with a strong opposites-attract dynamic, plenty of emotional healing, and two men learning that love can mean finally being accepted for who they are.

Ethan Evans has spent years trying to live up to everyone else’s expectations while hiding a major part of himself. His struggle with family pressure, feeling like he doesn’t belong, and trying to figure out what he truly wants gives his character a lot of emotional depth. Beneath the bratty attitude is someone who is looking for acceptance and a place where he can be himself.

Carter Higgins is the perfect contrast. As the new ranch boss, he is confident, disciplined, and calm under pressure. He brings a steady presence to Ethan’s chaos, but he also carries his own past and emotional baggage. Their dynamic works because Carter doesn’t just challenge Ethan—he sees him.

Their chemistry is built on tension, teasing, and a power dynamic that fits naturally into their personalities. The ranch setting adds a great backdrop, and watching these two move from conflict to trust creates a satisfying romance.

What I loved:

* 🤠 Small-town horse ranch setting
* ❤️ Opposites attract romance
* 🔥 Strong chemistry and spice
* 🐎 Cowboy/ranch atmosphere
* 💕 Emotional journey toward acceptance
* 😈 Brat/discipline dynamic
* 🤝 Two characters who help each other grow

Overall:
Boss and Brat is an enjoyable M/M romance with heart beneath the heat. Ethan and Carter’s story is about breaking free from expectations and finding someone who accepts all parts of you. If you enjoy ranch romances, strong personalities, and relationships built around trust and chemistry, this is a satisfying read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Reid · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Heartfelt Ranch Romance About Being Truly Seen

Boss and Brat by Brina Brady was a thoroughly enjoyable read from beginning to end. Set against the backdrop of ranch life and a charming small-town community, this story is about far more than romance—it's about finding someone who truly sees you for who you are.

Ethan is an easy character to sympathise with. He's spent so much of his life trying to meet other people's expectations that he's almost forgotten who he is. Carter, on the other hand, is quiet, observant, and steady. Rather than judging Ethan, he takes the time to understand him, and watching their relationship develop was one of the highlights of the book.

The boss-and-brat dynamic adds a fun layer to the story without overshadowing the emotional journey. The chemistry between Ethan and Carter feels natural, and their growing trust makes the romance believable and satisfying. I also appreciated that the supporting characters helped bring the world of Foggy Basin to life.

The pacing kept me turning the pages, and the emotional moments were balanced nicely with lighter scenes and humour. If you enjoy MM romance with a ranch setting, a caring yet firm hero, and a story centred on acceptance, growth, and love, this book is well worth picking up.

I really enjoyed this one and will happily return to Foggy Basin for more stories.

[Mandy (MP Book Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ethan Evans has spent his life doing what others expect — working the ranch, hiding who he is, and carrying his parents’ disappointment. After failing out of college, he ends up living in the barn under the strict eye of Carter Higgins, the new ranch boss with a quiet authority and a past he won’t discuss. As they clash and circle each other in the heat of Foggy Basin, their connection becomes impossible to ignore. Neither planned on wanting the other, but the pull between them grows fast.

This story was rich with emotion, showing real care in how it portrayed both Ethan’s struggle with his past and family expectations and Carter’s dilemma of falling for someone he was meant to protect. I loved how they were drawn to each other from the start, and how trust slowly built between them until the ranch became a place where feelings could finally grow instead of being shut down. Carter’s protectiveness was one of my favourite parts — the way he shielded Ethan from people who hurt him, physically and mentally, made their connection feel even more meaningful. There were a couple of surprises along the way, and the ending was especially satisfying. The story carried big emotions throughout, all written with clarity and warmth, making their journey easy to feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review for (Foggy Basin Season Three) Boss and Brat by Brina Brady
Triopes-
M/M Romance
First love
Small town
Age gap
Hurt/comfort
Spanking
Horse ranch

Again, a fantastic story in this fabulous town. I fell in love with Brina's style of writing a few years back. She writes not only a great story but also a fabulous book series, so you get to know the town/people more. Ethan's life has not been living for himself; no, it has been living for others. What they felt he should be and do with his life. He pretends he is straight when all he wants is to love who he wants to. Ethan works on the ranch, and his days just go by. He wants his parents to love who he is, not to make him feel he has to be what they want to be to be accepted by them. If life wasn't bad enough, he flunks college, and he finds himself sent to the barn like he is nothing. He finds himself under the eye of the ranch boss, Carter. I loved how their story unfolded. It made me happy that Ethan was going to get what he deserves in life, not what others want. Carter is that man; he shows Ethan what it means to live who you are. The freedom was liberating with his help. I just couldn't put it down. I can't wait to see what comes out next for Brina Brady.

Nicole Harvey

[Yet Fry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stories that prioritize low drama often resonate with those seeking a gentler, more heartfelt experience, allowing you to engage emotionally without overwhelming tension. In these narratives, the heat level is notably low, catering to those who prefer intricate storylines over excessive romantic tension.

One such engaging relationship is that between Carter and Ethan, with the focus on their evolving dynamics. Throughout the book, Ethan finds himself entangled in various troubles, often unintentionally. Fortunately, Carter is always there, ready to help and keep things from spiraling out of control. This supportive bond provides an enriching experience, making it easy to root for both characters as they navigate their feelings.

The interplay between tender and stressful moments creates a balance that makes the narrative both enlightening and relatable. While the story approaches drama gently, it does not shy away from life’s harsher realities. These contrasts lift the spirits while also reminding you of life’s complexities, prompting reflection and connection through the characters’ trials and triumphs. Ultimately, this mix contributes to an overall good read that feels both comforting and thought-provoking.

[Erica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Boss and Brat by Brina Brady is about Ethan and Carter. Ethan knows he messed up and when his dad relegates him to the abandoned barn and Carter the ranch’s foreman he knows he is in trouble. Carter seeing Ethan defeated and trying to make himself smaller just didn’t sit well with him. Carter, the foreman of the ranch has taken on the responsibility of helping Ethan “become a man” and be more responsible by working the ranch, repaying his father for school tuition and following the rules set by himself. What Carter saw was a kid who was always blamed for everything that went wrong and no one stood up for him and he tried to keep his distance emotionally but he realized it was inevitable that he would fall for Ethan. His dad paid for his mistakes with cash but still punished him as well. I enjoyed this book with its complex emotions about the family dynamics and of Carter showing the way to becoming the man Ethan wants to be without expectations of failing or blame but free to fall in love and show his dad what is the most important, which was falling in love with Carter and building a life with him.

[Bethany Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Age Gap
First Love
Hurt/Comfort
Some Drama

I enjoyed this edition to the Foggy Basin series. I liked how it shared some background to Ethan’s life beforehand to show how his parents treated him. In steps Carter, where he’s tasked with watching over Ethan to make sure he is behaving.

I liked the slow burn to Ethan and Carter’s relationship. Carter was fighting his inner demons when it came to giving in to Ethan’s obvious crush but when he did, I loved how they were together. Carter finally understood why Ethan was the way he was and listened to him.

One thing I was a little hesitant on for lining the book is that they had such a slow burn and then randomly they are like “we have to act normal in public and not like significant others.” I felt it went from slow burn to insta relationship, however, that could have just been me!

Overall, I really enjoyed the book and would recommend it! I liked the relationship they had together and the drama that came with Ethan from his last. These two had a great connection and I really liked the hurt/comfort aspect of the story!

[Cynthia M Brow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Boss and Brat is part of the multi author Foggy Basin Season Three series. Each book can be read as a standalone but why not enjoy the whole series. This is the story of Ethan and Carter. This was a great addition to the Foggy Basin series. I loved these two and really wanted to hug Ethan. The chemistry between these two is perfect and feels so real. I loved watching them work through their own issues and build a relationship. I really didn't like Ethan's mother and wished she would wake up and see how wonderful Ethan really is. This is really a story about accepting and being who you are. I love the way Brina Brady tells a story. I can't wait to see what she writes next. I also can't wait for the next book in the series. I would definitely recommend this book.
received a free review copy

[Bryan See · Rating 5 out of 5]

I discovered Brina Brady’s ‘Boss and Brat’ after reviewing another Foggy Basin series book ‘Dreams and Reptiles’ by R.L. Merrill.

I read this book straight through other than a break to eat and walk my dog. Brady’s style is clean, captivating with a story that wouldn’t let me put the book down.

She created two main characters I loved, a character I started by hating, but liked in the end, and another I would never want to meet for fear of just wanting to punch them.

I loved the very masculine world Brady created; two men who discover shared interest but fight their love at first sight.

I did feel like other than being labeled as part of Foggy Basin, the town and the characters don’t seem to play a part in this book. Perhaps another book in the series will tie them together.

All opinions are my own.

[Marion · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is part of the multi author Foggy Basin Season Three series. Each book can be read as a standalone and features a different couple. This is the story of Ethan Evans and Carter Higgins. Ethan has spent his entire life trying to do what everyone else wanted him to do. When it all falls apart, he is back to working at the ranch. Carter is the new to the Willow Creek Ranch and is the new boss. This is their story. I enjoyed watching as they each slowly worked through their own respective issues. It was then that they were able to build a relationship. It is always hard to watch someone finally learning to accept themselves as they truly are. This is a wonderful addition to the Foggy Basin series. I enjoyed their journey. I look forward to reading the next next book in this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Gavin Stephenson-Jackman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Being seen, really seen is something neither Ethan nor Carter have really had until they meet each other. Ethan has just failed his last year of college and been brought home to the family ranch in disgrace. Carter is the new manager for the ranch and has been tasked with “straightening” Ethan out. As they work together they find the pieces that have been missing in their lives in each other. Threats from Ethan's past emerge and help cement the relationship between the two. Being seen allows Ethan to truly mature and Carter to come to himself, something he's been controlling for years. A truly great read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Andrew · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brina writes a heartwarming love between two young men who were both raised in oppressive rural communities. The relationship was very tender and well crafted, but the BDSM left a bit to be desired, only featuring a single paddling in the second to last chapter. I feel the lack of BDSM in the earlier chapters to make for a bit of an unconvincing reformed brat, and more like a story of a misunderstood boy. I found the father likeable, but also a bit schizophrenic in behavior. While it has a nice ending, I can't help but wish the book explored the rancher's upbringing, the dynamic between siblings, and the aspects of training / reforming the brat rather than simple trust - trust should be earned.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tiffany Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me in its grip from the very beginning. The tension, slow burn and the bond they build was well worth it. I have read a few books written by Brina and I have loved every one of them.

Ethan is struggling with being his true self, being tossed out like garbage by his family and being seen. He failed his classes and ended up by at his families ranch and ends up under Carter's protection and Carter making sure he Ethan does what he's supposed to be doing and staying out of trouble. Carter stepped up when no one else did. This HEA was fought for and well deserved.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Deb Kel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a heartfelt small-town ranch romance with plenty of emotion and two characters who were easy to root for. Ethan's struggle to break free from other people's expectations felt genuine, while Carter's calm, patient nature made him the perfect balance for Ethan's uncertainty.

Their relationship develops at a satisfying pace, blending sweet moments with plenty of chemistry as trust slowly grows between them. Add in the welcoming Foggy Basin setting and a memorable supporting cast, and this is an enjoyable start to a series I'm looking forward to continuing.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ethan fails out of his last year of college. His dad comes to pick him up to take him home. Angry about his son's behavior he drops him off at a ranch & tells him he's not to step foot at home or have any contact with the family. Carter is the boss, ex marine, grumpy & strict on rules. When he gets the run down from Ethan's dad on how he should be treated & meets Ethan he notices that Ethan's behavior shows more as needing understanding & is acting out. As time goes on they develop a romantic relationship. There is low angst when Ethan's past gets in the way. HEA. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[C.B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

It helps when someone listens. Ethan, struggles to find himself as he is growing up. He gets minimum to no help from his parents. He returns home in disgrace and is put under the guidance of new ranch foreman, Carter. Carter, is a Marine Vet and is comfortable with a life of discipline. As he gets to know Ethan, he realizes there is more to him than what he seems like and what his parents perceive. Carter, guides Ethan on a clearer path. Brina, excels at characters growing up and coming of age while they get to know their other half. Nicely done. Hot cover art, good flow, great environment. Nicely done.

[Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always enjoy the books set in Foggy Basin. In this one we meet Ethan, a young guy who has all he could want, except the love of his parents. He drops out of college and his family put him in the barn - it's as sad as it sounds. He's under the charge of Boss Carter, who sees that Ethan is crying out for someone to care about him, and he helps him figure out he's not a useless dropout, but a man who can contribute and be loved. There are cameos from some of the past characters of Foggy Basin, which is always nice to see, and a lovely romance. Wonderful story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Johanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

'As the two of them clashed, circled, and collided in the dusty heat of Foggy Basin, lines blurred fast and spankings might have been in order. Neither expected to want the other.'

The characters were very appealing and likeable and complicated and absolutely perfect together. Plot was intriguing and exciting and well paced. World building was solidly drawn and impressive. Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend.

Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Samina Rajiwate · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely amazing romance. The characters really made me smile and cry a few times. Especially when Ethan talks to his father.
Ethan has this ability to forget warnings and Carter knows how to pull Ethan back in line(sometimes with words and sometimes with spankings). The chemistry between them is hot. The family dynamics of both Ethan and Carter make the story totally unable to be put down.
If you are a fan of MM romance with family theatrics, this book is worth picking up.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Barb · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great addition to this series! I just loved Ethan and Carter and my heart went out to them both! These guys really had some strong chemistry and really saw each other which I think is a first for them both. I loved watching their relationship develop. A very enjoyable story back in the small town of Foggy Basin with some wonderful characters!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Fran Rosey · Rating 5 out of 5]

wonderfully done. the feels just hit you with Ethans issues with his parents and the bullies who wont leave him alone. Carter justs looks at Ethan and knows that what his father tells him and what he reads is totally different to what he sees. very fast paced but very well put together and they both have ways of understanding each other without words. im glad the dad didnt an issue with them being together. wonderful hea. cant wait for more. keep up the great work.

[stardragon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ethan just failed out of college and his brought back to the ranch. He has had problems in the past, but he needs some guidance. Carter has just been hired by Willow Creek as the foreman and in charge with guiding Ethan onto a better path. These two don’t get along at first, which is actually funny, but as their dynamics change, they connect. This is part of Foggy Basin season three, and I can’t get enough of this place, recommend.

[Misc · Rating 1 out of 5]

If I didn't know better I'd believe this book was AI generated, or at least AI assisted, because what's with all the nonsensical details that kept popping up out of no where, like part of the story was missing or out of order? The writing is also very repetitive and stilted, and drags in places that jar you out of the story instead of smoothly drawing you in. This book's premise could've been executed much better with all the potential it holds. What a shame.

[Cynthia Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

This a romantic story with suspense. Ethan has aways felt like he wasn't good enough in his parents' eyes and always ended up in trouble. Carter is hired to take over running Ethan's father's ranch. Carter is asked to try and get Ethan to accept responsibility and not run from it. Carter sees what 's going on in Ethan's head and tries to help but when someone comes after Ethan, he realizes that he will protect Ethan no matter what and that Ethan is his. I really enjoyed this book.

[Lisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ethan drops out of college and his father sets him to work on the ranch reporting to Carter, who Ethan's father gives full control of Ethan to.
I have to say I didn't take to Carter and Ethan really needed to grow up. I thought this might be mild BDSM but there was only a scene where Carter spanks Ethan and not in a BDSM setting. It was like Ethan was a small child and the 20 something man he was.

[Yvonne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book keeps you glued to it right from the start.
Every page ensures that, due to the suspense and twists, you want to turn to the next to find out how it ends.

Both MCs carry a past with them, and throughout the story, thanks to the support they give each other, they work things out together.

💞Thank you to the Author for the opportunity to read and review this ARC💖

[Bianca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ethan and Carter story brings us back to loved universe where friends and old characters helps in securing a hard won happiness.
They complete each beautifully even if they had a rocky start.
It had emotion, humour, past hurts, and misunderstandings.
I liked seeing how they consolidated their feelings and trust.

[Fran Novick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ethan starts out very confused about himself and his life. He's been acting out and the consequences have finally caught up to him. Then he meets Carter, the new boss on his father's ranch, and he doesn't know what to think of him. Carter continues to surprise Ethan, but Ethan's father is keeping the biggest secret.
I received an advanced copy from the author and this is my honest review.

[Rhonda Boone · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book captured my heart as well as my attention. An age gap, small town, cowboy ranch environment with hurt comfort, engaging characters great dialogue and storyline that held me captivated. Add a copy today to your TBR...

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.