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Gabe Brannigan is a Californian real estate mogul who is used to seeing property in terms of dollar signs. When his father dies unexpectedly and leaves him the family ranch, he’s annoyed rather than grateful. The conditions of his inheritance include living on the ranch for six months before being able to sell it.
He’s ready to walk away from the deal until he meets the sexy, motorcycle-riding ranch caretaker. She’s brash and outspoken, rough around the edges. Definitely not his style, but that doesn’t stop him from wanting her.
Craving her.
Throwing all caution aside and deciding to have her.
Josephine Ashby has found the perfect place to hide until Mr. Sexy Eyes shows up and announces he is moving in.
A man who doesn’t believe in anything, finds himself believing in her.
But will it be enough?
He’s ready to walk away from the deal until he meets the sexy, motorcycle-riding ranch caretaker. She’s brash and outspoken, rough around the edges. Definitely not his style, but that doesn’t stop him from wanting her.
Craving her.
Throwing all caution aside and deciding to have her.
Josephine Ashby has found the perfect place to hide until Mr. Sexy Eyes shows up and announces he is moving in.
A man who doesn’t believe in anything, finds himself believing in her.
But will it be enough?
174 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2016
522 people are currently reading
571 people want to read
About the author
Ruth Cardello
127 books2,954 followersRuth Cardello hit the NYTs and USA Today for the first time back in 2012. Millions of sales are evidence that her books are akin to potato chips, addictive from the first one. She has created a multi-series billionaire world with a combination of escapism and realism that has gained her a faithful following of readers.
What Kindle Reviewers write about her:
"Wow hot at every page. Heart stoping, fear raging, mind blowing wonderful."
"I'm a true fan of Ms. Cardello. I ran on to her first book a few years back and have been hooked ever since. I could go on and on about the story like of this book, but I'm not. All of her books are total page turners, unique, heart wrenching, and I love them all. There isn't two alike in the bunch and I feel like i know the characters personally. I personally read 97 authors books. And I buy every book they put out. This author is in my top 10. Great job and keep them coming."
"Love this series. Got me to start reading again. I look forward to the next book. Thank you for giving me the love of reading back."
Ruth Cardello was born the youngest of 11 children in a small city in northern Rhode Island. She spent her young adult years moving as far away as she could from her large extended family. She lived in Boston, Paris, Orlando, New York--then came full circle and moved back to New England. She now happily lives one town over from the one she was born in. For her, family trumped the warmer weather and international scene.
She was an educator for 20 years, the last 11 as a kindergarten teacher. When her school district began cutting jobs, Ruth turned a serious eye toward her second love- writing and has never been happier. When she's not writing, you can find her chasing her children around her small farm or connecting with her readers online.
Email Notice of New Releases: www.RuthCardello.com/Signup
You can find her on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/RuthCardello
Follow her at Twitter @RuthieCardello
If you'd like to email her directly, you may contact her via her website: www.ruthcardello.com
Lone Star Burn Series
Book 1: Taken, Not Spurred
Book 2: Tycoon Takedown
Book 3: Taken Home
Book 4: Taking Charge
Want to hear the song Charles proposed to Melanie with? https://youtu.be/SGZT5nVKfMs
The Legacy Collection
Book 1: Maid for the Billionaire (FREE on Amazon!)
Book 2: For Love or Legacy
Book 3: Bedding the Billionaire
Book 4: Saving the Sheikh
Book 5: Rise of the Billionaire
Book 6: Breaching the Billionaire: Alethea's Redemption
Book 7: (Novella) A Corisi Christmas
The Andrades:
Book 1: Come Away With Me (FREE on Amazon)
Book 2: Home to Me
Book 3: Maximum Risk
Book 4: Somewhere Along the Way
Book 5: Loving Gigi
Christmas Novella: A Recipe for Love (Maddy and Richard)
The Barrington Billionaires:
Book 1: Always Mine
Book 2: Stolen Kisses
Book 3: Trade It All
Book 3.5: A Billionaire for Lexi
Book 4: Let It Burn
Book 5: More than Love
Book 6: Forever Now
Book 7: Never Goodbye
Book 8: Reluctantly Alpha
Book 9: Reluctantly Rescued
Book 10: Reluctantly Romanced
Book 11: Loving a Landon
Book 12: Loathing a Landon
For a more complete list visit her website at www.ruthcardello.com
What Kindle Reviewers write about her:
"Wow hot at every page. Heart stoping, fear raging, mind blowing wonderful."
"I'm a true fan of Ms. Cardello. I ran on to her first book a few years back and have been hooked ever since. I could go on and on about the story like of this book, but I'm not. All of her books are total page turners, unique, heart wrenching, and I love them all. There isn't two alike in the bunch and I feel like i know the characters personally. I personally read 97 authors books. And I buy every book they put out. This author is in my top 10. Great job and keep them coming."
"Love this series. Got me to start reading again. I look forward to the next book. Thank you for giving me the love of reading back."
Ruth Cardello was born the youngest of 11 children in a small city in northern Rhode Island. She spent her young adult years moving as far away as she could from her large extended family. She lived in Boston, Paris, Orlando, New York--then came full circle and moved back to New England. She now happily lives one town over from the one she was born in. For her, family trumped the warmer weather and international scene.
She was an educator for 20 years, the last 11 as a kindergarten teacher. When her school district began cutting jobs, Ruth turned a serious eye toward her second love- writing and has never been happier. When she's not writing, you can find her chasing her children around her small farm or connecting with her readers online.
Email Notice of New Releases: www.RuthCardello.com/Signup
You can find her on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/RuthCardello
Follow her at Twitter @RuthieCardello
If you'd like to email her directly, you may contact her via her website: www.ruthcardello.com
Lone Star Burn Series
Book 1: Taken, Not Spurred
Book 2: Tycoon Takedown
Book 3: Taken Home
Book 4: Taking Charge
Want to hear the song Charles proposed to Melanie with? https://youtu.be/SGZT5nVKfMs
The Legacy Collection
Book 1: Maid for the Billionaire (FREE on Amazon!)
Book 2: For Love or Legacy
Book 3: Bedding the Billionaire
Book 4: Saving the Sheikh
Book 5: Rise of the Billionaire
Book 6: Breaching the Billionaire: Alethea's Redemption
Book 7: (Novella) A Corisi Christmas
The Andrades:
Book 1: Come Away With Me (FREE on Amazon)
Book 2: Home to Me
Book 3: Maximum Risk
Book 4: Somewhere Along the Way
Book 5: Loving Gigi
Christmas Novella: A Recipe for Love (Maddy and Richard)
The Barrington Billionaires:
Book 1: Always Mine
Book 2: Stolen Kisses
Book 3: Trade It All
Book 3.5: A Billionaire for Lexi
Book 4: Let It Burn
Book 5: More than Love
Book 6: Forever Now
Book 7: Never Goodbye
Book 8: Reluctantly Alpha
Book 9: Reluctantly Rescued
Book 10: Reluctantly Romanced
Book 11: Loving a Landon
Book 12: Loathing a Landon
For a more complete list visit her website at www.ruthcardello.com
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
November 3, 2016
I read the two first books I received ARCs of the two authors and I need to say I loved the seven brothers who lost their mother in a car accident and ended up losing the presence and father's love, which was not able to be with the children, and went to work and earn a lot of money and the boys even though were raised together, are friends, but not as friends as they should be...
Each Brother will, in this series, receive from the father a legacy, their father died and did not tell anyone he was even sick, the brothers received the father's death news after nearly a week and with the news they received an inheritance, a well... that we'll discover as the story will develop in each book.Gabe received the family ranch, where the children lived with their parents while his mother was alive and after she died with many nannies...
Gabe met a woman who disturbed him from the first look, a woman who doesn't make his taste... but his body reacted in a surprising way and Gabe discovered something more than physical attraction.
Barbara Freethy and Ruth Cardello created beautiful women, strong and smart, but I was charmed more with Ruth's Josephine... a woman with a high Q.I but she knows how to be funny and conquer a man who doesn't believe in love, only money.
The story is intriguing, full of information (I wondered the research done by Ruth that Josephine was so clever and created so many smart things).
Each Brother will, in this series, receive from the father a legacy, their father died and did not tell anyone he was even sick, the brothers received the father's death news after nearly a week and with the news they received an inheritance, a well... that we'll discover as the story will develop in each book.Gabe received the family ranch, where the children lived with their parents while his mother was alive and after she died with many nannies...
Gabe met a woman who disturbed him from the first look, a woman who doesn't make his taste... but his body reacted in a surprising way and Gabe discovered something more than physical attraction.
Barbara Freethy and Ruth Cardello created beautiful women, strong and smart, but I was charmed more with Ruth's Josephine... a woman with a high Q.I but she knows how to be funny and conquer a man who doesn't believe in love, only money.
The story is intriguing, full of information (I wondered the research done by Ruth that Josephine was so clever and created so many smart things).
November 16, 2016
Gabe is the second book in the 7 Brides for 7 Brothers series, each book written by different authors. This is the story of Josephine (Josie) Ashby and Gabe Brannigan. These two people could not be more different. He looks at everything as dollar signs and Josie could really care less about the money. She has another purpose in mind, needing to keep a promise, and find the time to right some wrongs done to her and her father. Her father was her world, while Gabe is irritated that his father left him the family ranch with a condition. Gabe sets his sights on Josie from the beginning, she is feisty, independent and beautiful, but he feels like she is hiding something. Josie doesn't have time for a man, and she certainly doesn't want to involve one in the danger that has became her life. This was a great read filled with suspense, lies, misunderstandings and romance. Her fathers friend, Frank is unique in his own way but he is also a good friend to Josie. Not only did I fall in love with Gabe, Aunt Claire, but also his brothers. Loved the little talk Josie and James had in the final chapter, but what Montee did for her was absolutely priceless. You will have to read it to find out what I am talking about.
Five stars for this one!!
Five stars for this one!!
December 4, 2016
Rating: 2.5*
Chemistry: Low Boil
Review: Two major issues stopped me really being able to get into the book:
1. The plot remarkably resembles the first book in the series: Man is left a property he does not want by his father, he reluctantly goes to visit said property where he finds a woman looking after it. They bond over their shared experience of losing a loved one.
I love the idea of the series as a whole with each brother being left something by their father which leads them to discovering true love but having two similar plot arcs one after the other wasn't a good call
2. Stop with the italics already!
December 9, 2016
The Legacy series shows that love is what makes a family. The Andrades and Barringtons showed the good, bad and ugly that bitterness and hate can do. The Lone Star series mixes laughter, love and hope with wonderful stories that continue to inspire and get better when every edition to the series. All evidence of the talent of Ruth Cardello. It's hard to believe that one person has the power to create so many worlds and still deliver some surprises along the way. Gabe is a blend of Ms. Cardello's signature motto of family, but captivates with mystery and a emotional story of love. Through Gabe and Jolie eyes we see the heartache of loss, the danger of attraction and the beginning of a second chance between two loners trying to mend their broken hearts. Gabe is just another reason why, I am a fan of this author.
Copyright of Night Owl Reviews
Copyright of Night Owl Reviews
May 22, 2018
Good book with a nice blend of romance and intrigue. Gabe and his brothers recently lost their father. Gabe has inherited the family ranch, a property that he has no intention of keeping. However, before he can sell it, he is required to live on it for one month. He's ready to walk away from it until his aunt coerces him into spending a weekend at the ranch. There he meets Josie, who acts as the ranch caretaker while the regular one is away.
Josie is hiding out on the ranch after her father's death. She believes that he was murdered and the company he worked for has covered it up by accusing him of stealing and embezzlement. Now she believes that they are after her. She is determined to finish her father's work and clear his name. Having Gabe underfoot is not in her plans.
I liked both Gabe and Josie. She is a brilliant woman, feisty, independent, and determined. Her father was her parent and her best friend, and without him, she is a little bit lost. She doesn't trust easily. Gabe is equally determined, focused on his business, and avoids relationships. After the death of their mother, Gabe's father buried his grief in work, leaving his sons in the care of nannies. As a result, the boys grew apart from their father and each other.
From the moment they met, there were sparks between Gabe and Josie. I laughed out loud at their first meeting, with Gabe distracted by his attraction to her, and Josie taking him down and holding him at gunpoint. Gabe is determined to get her into his bed, but it isn't long before the woman herself fascinates him. He also realizes that she's keeping secrets and is determined to uncover them. Josie is equally attracted to Gabe but doesn't want him to get caught up in her troubles. I enjoyed seeing them dance around each other at first, then give in to what was happening to them. It was fun to see the business-only Gabe making time to spend with Josie. And I love how Josie helped Gabe remember the good times on the ranch and look at his father through new eyes. I loved it when Josie got to the point where she trusted Gabe enough to tell him the truth, and the way that Gabe discovered unexpected feelings of protectiveness. There are a couple of hiccups due to communication and trust issues, but in the end, Gabe and Josie realize that they belong together. Gabe loved Josie just the way she was, and Josie was the piece of Gabe he didn't know was missing. The last chapter was sweet, romantic and heartwarming.
The intrigue of the story was good. I loved the project that Josie was working on and her determination to finish it and clear her father. I also understood her wariness around Gabe and his about her. I liked how he took her concerns seriously once he believed. I liked seeing him take steps to protect her, though his take-charge attitude did create a few problems. I hurt for Josie when she thought he'd betrayed her, and loved that she didn't just wallow in her pain. The scene on the ranch with Josie and the security guys was hilarious. I loved Gabe's part in the resolution.
I am looking forward to reading the other books in the series.
Josie is hiding out on the ranch after her father's death. She believes that he was murdered and the company he worked for has covered it up by accusing him of stealing and embezzlement. Now she believes that they are after her. She is determined to finish her father's work and clear his name. Having Gabe underfoot is not in her plans.
I liked both Gabe and Josie. She is a brilliant woman, feisty, independent, and determined. Her father was her parent and her best friend, and without him, she is a little bit lost. She doesn't trust easily. Gabe is equally determined, focused on his business, and avoids relationships. After the death of their mother, Gabe's father buried his grief in work, leaving his sons in the care of nannies. As a result, the boys grew apart from their father and each other.
From the moment they met, there were sparks between Gabe and Josie. I laughed out loud at their first meeting, with Gabe distracted by his attraction to her, and Josie taking him down and holding him at gunpoint. Gabe is determined to get her into his bed, but it isn't long before the woman herself fascinates him. He also realizes that she's keeping secrets and is determined to uncover them. Josie is equally attracted to Gabe but doesn't want him to get caught up in her troubles. I enjoyed seeing them dance around each other at first, then give in to what was happening to them. It was fun to see the business-only Gabe making time to spend with Josie. And I love how Josie helped Gabe remember the good times on the ranch and look at his father through new eyes. I loved it when Josie got to the point where she trusted Gabe enough to tell him the truth, and the way that Gabe discovered unexpected feelings of protectiveness. There are a couple of hiccups due to communication and trust issues, but in the end, Gabe and Josie realize that they belong together. Gabe loved Josie just the way she was, and Josie was the piece of Gabe he didn't know was missing. The last chapter was sweet, romantic and heartwarming.
The intrigue of the story was good. I loved the project that Josie was working on and her determination to finish it and clear her father. I also understood her wariness around Gabe and his about her. I liked how he took her concerns seriously once he believed. I liked seeing him take steps to protect her, though his take-charge attitude did create a few problems. I hurt for Josie when she thought he'd betrayed her, and loved that she didn't just wallow in her pain. The scene on the ranch with Josie and the security guys was hilarious. I loved Gabe's part in the resolution.
I am looking forward to reading the other books in the series.
December 27, 2019
Amazing storyline😍
Gabe is the second book in this 7 brides for 7 brothers series and so far I have to say the best....yes I know I have another five in the series still to read....but my expectations have risen for them😁
Gabe’s father dies unexpectedly and he’s left the family ranch. Gabe is convinced he’s going to sell the ranch but when he arrives and meets a woman who intrigues him on a level no one else ever has, he slowly starts to reconsider❣️Unfortunately, he past is no picnic and she’s wary and secretive and he’s not sure he can help her until he knows the truth😢I definitely recommend this one and I’m going to look into some of Ruth’s other books as well in the future❤️
Gabe is the second book in this 7 brides for 7 brothers series and so far I have to say the best....yes I know I have another five in the series still to read....but my expectations have risen for them😁
Gabe’s father dies unexpectedly and he’s left the family ranch. Gabe is convinced he’s going to sell the ranch but when he arrives and meets a woman who intrigues him on a level no one else ever has, he slowly starts to reconsider❣️Unfortunately, he past is no picnic and she’s wary and secretive and he’s not sure he can help her until he knows the truth😢I definitely recommend this one and I’m going to look into some of Ruth’s other books as well in the future❤️
December 27, 2016
Ruth Cardello – Gabe Book 2 – Series: 7 Brides For 7 Brothers
Ms. Cardello’s installment of this series is fast, fun and ohhhh so SEXY and HOT. The premise for the series is 7 sexy Brannigan brothers whose mother passed away when some of them were small. After her death, their father didn’t seem to be able to function as a father without his wife by his side. She was the love of his life and he buried himself in building his media empire and became an absent father with lots of nannies for his sons. And now, even the brothers didn’t get together very often.
They each received notification that their father died alone, his choice, and only with his medical team caring for him. The real money portion of the billions would be distributed in 5 years, but he left each of them an inheritance “now”. As each son grieves a father that had faded from their lives years ago, they are taken on a journey that I believe their father hoped would detour each of them from making his mistake, becoming workaholic, and no one by their side to love and cherish.
Gabe’s story:
Gabe Brannigan is a Californian real estate mogul so when he received the family ranch, the home they grew up in, he wants nothing to do with it and will be selling it ASAP. After all it will simply mean more $$$$. One catch, he must live on the ranch before he can sell it.
When he arrives, there is a sexy woman, Josephine Ashby, under the hood of a pickup. While she is not his type, there is a lot more to Josephine than meets the eye. She is hiding from some people/company that killed her father who was a scientist. She took his unfinished work and is determined to finish his project and find the people who murdered her father.
As time moves forward, they both feel the attraction and pull they have for each other. Even after they give into the passion, she knows she must leave as soon as Gabe is not looking and finish her father’s work. After all, if she stays she will put Gabe in harm’s way with the people after her.
I highly recommend this installment. Don’t miss it.
The 7 Brothers & Authors
Luke – Barbara Freethy
Gabe – Ruth Cardello
Hunter – Melody Anne
Knox – Christie Ridgway
Max – Lynn Raye Harris
James – Roxanne St. Claire
Finn – JoAnn Ross
Ms. Cardello’s installment of this series is fast, fun and ohhhh so SEXY and HOT. The premise for the series is 7 sexy Brannigan brothers whose mother passed away when some of them were small. After her death, their father didn’t seem to be able to function as a father without his wife by his side. She was the love of his life and he buried himself in building his media empire and became an absent father with lots of nannies for his sons. And now, even the brothers didn’t get together very often.
They each received notification that their father died alone, his choice, and only with his medical team caring for him. The real money portion of the billions would be distributed in 5 years, but he left each of them an inheritance “now”. As each son grieves a father that had faded from their lives years ago, they are taken on a journey that I believe their father hoped would detour each of them from making his mistake, becoming workaholic, and no one by their side to love and cherish.
Gabe’s story:
Gabe Brannigan is a Californian real estate mogul so when he received the family ranch, the home they grew up in, he wants nothing to do with it and will be selling it ASAP. After all it will simply mean more $$$$. One catch, he must live on the ranch before he can sell it.
When he arrives, there is a sexy woman, Josephine Ashby, under the hood of a pickup. While she is not his type, there is a lot more to Josephine than meets the eye. She is hiding from some people/company that killed her father who was a scientist. She took his unfinished work and is determined to finish his project and find the people who murdered her father.
As time moves forward, they both feel the attraction and pull they have for each other. Even after they give into the passion, she knows she must leave as soon as Gabe is not looking and finish her father’s work. After all, if she stays she will put Gabe in harm’s way with the people after her.
I highly recommend this installment. Don’t miss it.
The 7 Brothers & Authors
Luke – Barbara Freethy
Gabe – Ruth Cardello
Hunter – Melody Anne
Knox – Christie Ridgway
Max – Lynn Raye Harris
James – Roxanne St. Claire
Finn – JoAnn Ross
January 9, 2017
Gabe Brannigan is a real estate mogul he has a successful career and loves his bachelor life until he inherits the family ranch after his father dies and Gabe fins so much more than he expected when he goes back to the family ranch to sell in and he finds pocket rocket Josephine hiding out there. I loved Gabe's story we take the uptight suit wearing Gabe and place him on a ranch for a month with a sassy sexy geek who is on the run loved the adventure the thrills spills and the duct tape some great laughs.
March 17, 2020
Second book and love it as much as Book 1 Luke by Barbara Freethy
I recently binge read the entire 7 Brides for 7 Brothers series while on vacation in Hawaii. To me the island of Kauai is one of the most romantic places in the world. So, what better place to read the collaborative romance series of some of my favorite romance authors! I know some of you might be thinking you could find other things to do then read when in Hawaii. But really between the river cruise, and sunset catamaran cruise, snorkeling and trekking through beautiful tropical gardens, there is plenty of time to eat breakfast on your patio, sit at the three tier pool at your resort or just soak up the sun on a not so crowed beach on the island. This romance series by Roxanne St. Clair, Joanne Ross, Christine Ridgeway, Melody Anne ,Ruth Cardello, Barbara Freethy and Lynne Raye Harris, is the perfect island vacation companion (second to my spouse of course!) I admit I might have skipped a few sunsets just to keep reading, much to my brother and sister-in-law’s dismay! After all this was supposed to be a romantic couple get away. Oh but no one writes melt your heart romance like these authors!
I first encountered this series in one of the authors’ newsletters and was immediately intrigued and ordered the entire series right then. It is available on Kindle Unlimited and can be read with your subscription but as my Unlimited was full at the time, I purchased the whole set. Something I rarely do! However, I was anxious to have this set for my vacation.
Two things attracted me to this series. First, 7 Brides for 7 Brothers has to be one of my all- time favorite musicals. My millennial uber-feminist daughter just can’t see the romance in being snowed in on a mountain with 7 men who pretty much kidnapped you in order to “trap” you into marriage! But having been snowed in with her very sexy mountain man father, I can see how love can blossom in some not so great circumstances. I couldn’t resist seeing how these authors handled 7 ultra-independent billionaire brothers finding their true loves in some less than perfect situations.
The second factor that I found interesting was the idea of seven authors collaborating on one series. This is not an anthology of these romance writers novellas or short stories. This is a collaboration where these authors with different writing styles, characterization and romance genres (contemporary, suspense, chick lit etc.) agreed to a specific plot line , characters and how settings, personalities were all going to fit together. I have had personal experience with collaborating with other authors on a novel and the result was less than satisfactory. Of course, I was a young Honors English student and the collaboration was on a school assignment, so my income and career were not at stake. Still it requires a lot of time, interaction and communication between authors. In order to get the plot to be consistent, the interactions between different characters (the one you are responsible for and the others your fellow authors are writing about)to flow seamlessly and the timing between chapters correct can take months of meetings, conference calls, endless sleepless nights and a few strained friendships to get it right. These ladies not only did that flawlessly, they have gone on to collaborate again in 7 Brides for 7 soldiers. And if you can believe their newsletters, they still admire each other and are willing to continue to work together! My own experience with collaboration left me traumatized and afraid to write for years!
The novels are complete with no cliffhangers and thus could be read as stand- alone. I think it is best if you read the series in order starting with book 1 Luke by Barbara Freethy and ending with Finn by JoAnn Ross. Each of the 7 Brannigan Brothers has his own personality, lifestyle and own brand of sexy manhood. Yet, they all share love for their siblings and a brokenness from an early family tragedy. As I said the flawless consistency in the interactions between the brothers from book to book as well as a smooth timeline that is adhered to by each author is amazing. There is more than enough steamy romance in each book without overwhelming the storyline. Each brother comes to terms with his roadblocks to love in a different way and a different setting from Yosemite to Italy. I can see how this allowed each writers’ special style to be showcased. The descriptions of the settings made the books come to life for me and made me feel like I was experiencing the scene with the characters.
Being able to get lost in a book, leaving my own fears, problems and insecurities behind even for an hour or so a day was heavenly. That feeling of timelessness, escape from reality, is to me a mark of great romantic fiction. The authors of 7 Brides for 7 Brothers achieve that in this series! Don't stop until you have read all 7 books!
I recently binge read the entire 7 Brides for 7 Brothers series while on vacation in Hawaii. To me the island of Kauai is one of the most romantic places in the world. So, what better place to read the collaborative romance series of some of my favorite romance authors! I know some of you might be thinking you could find other things to do then read when in Hawaii. But really between the river cruise, and sunset catamaran cruise, snorkeling and trekking through beautiful tropical gardens, there is plenty of time to eat breakfast on your patio, sit at the three tier pool at your resort or just soak up the sun on a not so crowed beach on the island. This romance series by Roxanne St. Clair, Joanne Ross, Christine Ridgeway, Melody Anne ,Ruth Cardello, Barbara Freethy and Lynne Raye Harris, is the perfect island vacation companion (second to my spouse of course!) I admit I might have skipped a few sunsets just to keep reading, much to my brother and sister-in-law’s dismay! After all this was supposed to be a romantic couple get away. Oh but no one writes melt your heart romance like these authors!
I first encountered this series in one of the authors’ newsletters and was immediately intrigued and ordered the entire series right then. It is available on Kindle Unlimited and can be read with your subscription but as my Unlimited was full at the time, I purchased the whole set. Something I rarely do! However, I was anxious to have this set for my vacation.
Two things attracted me to this series. First, 7 Brides for 7 Brothers has to be one of my all- time favorite musicals. My millennial uber-feminist daughter just can’t see the romance in being snowed in on a mountain with 7 men who pretty much kidnapped you in order to “trap” you into marriage! But having been snowed in with her very sexy mountain man father, I can see how love can blossom in some not so great circumstances. I couldn’t resist seeing how these authors handled 7 ultra-independent billionaire brothers finding their true loves in some less than perfect situations.
The second factor that I found interesting was the idea of seven authors collaborating on one series. This is not an anthology of these romance writers novellas or short stories. This is a collaboration where these authors with different writing styles, characterization and romance genres (contemporary, suspense, chick lit etc.) agreed to a specific plot line , characters and how settings, personalities were all going to fit together. I have had personal experience with collaborating with other authors on a novel and the result was less than satisfactory. Of course, I was a young Honors English student and the collaboration was on a school assignment, so my income and career were not at stake. Still it requires a lot of time, interaction and communication between authors. In order to get the plot to be consistent, the interactions between different characters (the one you are responsible for and the others your fellow authors are writing about)to flow seamlessly and the timing between chapters correct can take months of meetings, conference calls, endless sleepless nights and a few strained friendships to get it right. These ladies not only did that flawlessly, they have gone on to collaborate again in 7 Brides for 7 soldiers. And if you can believe their newsletters, they still admire each other and are willing to continue to work together! My own experience with collaboration left me traumatized and afraid to write for years!
The novels are complete with no cliffhangers and thus could be read as stand- alone. I think it is best if you read the series in order starting with book 1 Luke by Barbara Freethy and ending with Finn by JoAnn Ross. Each of the 7 Brannigan Brothers has his own personality, lifestyle and own brand of sexy manhood. Yet, they all share love for their siblings and a brokenness from an early family tragedy. As I said the flawless consistency in the interactions between the brothers from book to book as well as a smooth timeline that is adhered to by each author is amazing. There is more than enough steamy romance in each book without overwhelming the storyline. Each brother comes to terms with his roadblocks to love in a different way and a different setting from Yosemite to Italy. I can see how this allowed each writers’ special style to be showcased. The descriptions of the settings made the books come to life for me and made me feel like I was experiencing the scene with the characters.
Being able to get lost in a book, leaving my own fears, problems and insecurities behind even for an hour or so a day was heavenly. That feeling of timelessness, escape from reality, is to me a mark of great romantic fiction. The authors of 7 Brides for 7 Brothers achieve that in this series! Don't stop until you have read all 7 books!
November 1, 2016
Gabe is the second brother to get his bride in the 7 Brides for 7 Brothers series. I like the idea of 7 different authors with different writing styles writing books for the same series. They are truly stand alone books. From what I gathered each brother will get something from their dead brother that will help in get the woman who is meant for him. In this case, Gabe gets a ranch. He is forced to stay in it for a month and then he may do with it whatever he wants, like get rid of it. Then he meets Josephine a woman who intrigues him and can't get out of his mind. He doesn't know that she hasn't even told him her real name. We find early on what she is hiding, but there still more things for us to uncover.
I liked the book. After reading about a heroine with no backbone it was great to read about Josephine. She is brilliant and a strong woman. I liked that about her. I could be recommending the book only because she is in it. Let's just say that I wouldn't want to be her enemy. She might not military or something like that, but I wouldn't want to stand in her way.
Once she stopped trying to get rid of Gabe and his advances, things started to run smoothly. I enjoyed the book and it was a great companion on a hard Monday.
I liked the book. After reading about a heroine with no backbone it was great to read about Josephine. She is brilliant and a strong woman. I liked that about her. I could be recommending the book only because she is in it. Let's just say that I wouldn't want to be her enemy. She might not military or something like that, but I wouldn't want to stand in her way.
Once she stopped trying to get rid of Gabe and his advances, things started to run smoothly. I enjoyed the book and it was a great companion on a hard Monday.
May 12, 2017
I admire the idea of series where each book is written by a different author. This allows people like me, who never read two books by the same author one after another, to follow the series and not to get distracted by other books. It also allows the authors themselves to create the characters according to their style and preferences, thus the seven main heroes are brothers but at the same time are utterly different from one another.
Now back to Gabe's story...well, it was nothing like what I expected. At times it was too quick for me and I was wondering what is left there to happen, but as I went on reading, new and new things happened, new sides of their personalities were uncovered, their inner dialogues became longer.
One thing that appeared in both Gabe and Luke's story(and I hope will appear in the rest of the books as well) is the figure of their father - how none of the brothers had a close relationship with him but each eventually comes to know him in a way they didn't think was possible.
The ending....no words there. You just have to read the book and decide for yourselves. All I have to say is that I giggled like an idiot throughout the last chapter and almost cried at the end.
Now back to Gabe's story...well, it was nothing like what I expected. At times it was too quick for me and I was wondering what is left there to happen, but as I went on reading, new and new things happened, new sides of their personalities were uncovered, their inner dialogues became longer.
One thing that appeared in both Gabe and Luke's story(and I hope will appear in the rest of the books as well) is the figure of their father - how none of the brothers had a close relationship with him but each eventually comes to know him in a way they didn't think was possible.
The ending....no words there. You just have to read the book and decide for yourselves. All I have to say is that I giggled like an idiot throughout the last chapter and almost cried at the end.
March 27, 2018
Gabe is a real estate mogul and his father passed away a couple of months ago. Out of his six brothers, he was left a ranch that they used to live on when their mother was alive. There is a clause that he has to stay a month in it. He plans to renovate it and then sell it. When he arrives for a weekend, he finds a woman holding a gun on him there.
Josephine is in hiding after her father is killed and labeled a thief. He was working for a company to make a motorcycle that could be remote controlled and rescue downed soldiers. She did most the work on his inventions but let him take the credit. Now she wants to clear her father’s name and get the motorcycle running.
He finds out she’s been lying about her name and other facts, so he keeps her in the ranch for a month, while she works on the motorcycle. But the closer they become the harder they fall. When she believes Gabe has betrayed her, she’ll do anything to get off the ranch.
I couldn’t put it down. Josephine is a genius and can kick butt like a soldier. Gabe is handsome and not used to someone like Josephine. His life is about control and order. Steamy sex. Toward the end you’ll need tissues for the crying.
* Voluntarily read and reviewed for BookFunnel *
Josephine is in hiding after her father is killed and labeled a thief. He was working for a company to make a motorcycle that could be remote controlled and rescue downed soldiers. She did most the work on his inventions but let him take the credit. Now she wants to clear her father’s name and get the motorcycle running.
He finds out she’s been lying about her name and other facts, so he keeps her in the ranch for a month, while she works on the motorcycle. But the closer they become the harder they fall. When she believes Gabe has betrayed her, she’ll do anything to get off the ranch.
I couldn’t put it down. Josephine is a genius and can kick butt like a soldier. Gabe is handsome and not used to someone like Josephine. His life is about control and order. Steamy sex. Toward the end you’ll need tissues for the crying.
* Voluntarily read and reviewed for BookFunnel *
November 12, 2017
Gabe by Ruth Cardello is the second book in a fun new series (7 Brides for 7 Brothers). The books are all written by different authors and all are contemporary romances about the seven brothers and their seven brides. Each can be read alone, but then again why would you?
Gabe is a real estate mogul who lives for the deal. He sees property as things to buy and sell. So when his father died, and he inherited the ranch they used to go to when he was a boy with a caveat. He had to stay out there for a time before he can get rid of the property. When he went out to check out the ranch, he meets Josephine. She is the crazy caretaker, only she might not be what she seems and that is when things begin to get weird. She needs something from Gabe, but as usual communication might be a problem, but Josephine has a skill set that not many people know about it. And then there is the chemistry… Gabe by Ruth Cardello is a fun good read.
Gabe is a real estate mogul who lives for the deal. He sees property as things to buy and sell. So when his father died, and he inherited the ranch they used to go to when he was a boy with a caveat. He had to stay out there for a time before he can get rid of the property. When he went out to check out the ranch, he meets Josephine. She is the crazy caretaker, only she might not be what she seems and that is when things begin to get weird. She needs something from Gabe, but as usual communication might be a problem, but Josephine has a skill set that not many people know about it. And then there is the chemistry… Gabe by Ruth Cardello is a fun good read.
January 4, 2017
Meet the 7 sexy Brannigan brothers~who bring the heart and a whole lot of heat! This collection of new contemporary romance is brought to you from 7 of the bestselling authors Barbara Freethy, Ruth Cardello, Melody Anne, Christie Ridgway, Lynn Raye Harris, Roxanne St. Claire and JoAnn Ross. 7 Brides for 7 Brothers. You won't want to miss a single one!
Book 2 : GABE by Ruth Cardello
Meet Hot Shot Gabe Brannigan. Gabe is a true Californian real estate mogul. Gabe's used to seeing everything in property terms which equate into lots of dollar signs. However when his father dies so unexpectedly. His father leaves him the family ranch. However Gabe’s annoyed at the inheritance he's been left with rather than grateful. Only the conditions of Gabe's inheritance also includes living on the ranch for total of six months that's before Gabe's able to sell it.
Gabe’s almost ready to walk away from the deal. That's until he meets one sexy, motorcycle-riding and now sole ranch caretaker. The fact that she’s brash and overwhelming outspoken, totally rough around the edges. This woman is definitely not his style. However that doesn’t stop Gabe from wanting her.
Gabe is craving her.
Gabe even throws all caution to the wind and decides he has to have her.
Meet straight talking and sexy Josephine Ashby. Josephine who prefers to be called Josie, thinks that she has found the perfect place to hide. That is until Mr. Sexy Eyes shows up and announces he is now moving in.
A man who doesn’t want believe in anything, suddenly finds himself believing in her and wanting her more than anything.
But will it be enough? Can Gabe and Josie work through their problems? Can Josie convince Gabe to believe her? Is it possible that Gabe is beginning to believe in happy ever after?
Book 2 : GABE by Ruth Cardello
Meet Hot Shot Gabe Brannigan. Gabe is a true Californian real estate mogul. Gabe's used to seeing everything in property terms which equate into lots of dollar signs. However when his father dies so unexpectedly. His father leaves him the family ranch. However Gabe’s annoyed at the inheritance he's been left with rather than grateful. Only the conditions of Gabe's inheritance also includes living on the ranch for total of six months that's before Gabe's able to sell it.
Gabe’s almost ready to walk away from the deal. That's until he meets one sexy, motorcycle-riding and now sole ranch caretaker. The fact that she’s brash and overwhelming outspoken, totally rough around the edges. This woman is definitely not his style. However that doesn’t stop Gabe from wanting her.
Gabe is craving her.
Gabe even throws all caution to the wind and decides he has to have her.
Meet straight talking and sexy Josephine Ashby. Josephine who prefers to be called Josie, thinks that she has found the perfect place to hide. That is until Mr. Sexy Eyes shows up and announces he is now moving in.
A man who doesn’t want believe in anything, suddenly finds himself believing in her and wanting her more than anything.
But will it be enough? Can Gabe and Josie work through their problems? Can Josie convince Gabe to believe her? Is it possible that Gabe is beginning to believe in happy ever after?
April 4, 2018
Gabe by Ruth Cardello is a fantastic contemporary romance. This is a fairly quick read, perfect for those with limited reading time. Ms. Cardello has delivered a well-written book and furnished it with outstanding, lovable characters. I totally love the characters in this book! Gabe's father has passed away and left him the family ranch. His aunt made him promise to spend a weekend there before selling it. Josephine is a genius masquerading as the caretaker. Their story is packed with action, suspense, humor, sizzle and drama. I enjoyed every page of this book and look forward to reading more from Ruth Cardello soon. Gabe is book 2 of the 7 Brides for 7 Brothers Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete story, not a cliff-hanger.
I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book that I received from Bookfunnel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book that I received from Bookfunnel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 29, 2017
This was my first book by Ruth Cardello. I really enjoyed it and the emotions she evokes with her writing. Gabe is the second book in the 7 Brides for 7 Brothers series. Gabe is very serious and works a lot. His father left him the family ranch but to get it he has to stay there for a month. Gage is ready to sell but his aunt talks him into staying there for a weekend. He meets Josie who absolutely blows him away. Being on the ranch makes Gabe feel things he had forgotten and consider his father in a different light. Josie who is complicated also makes him think again about his priorities. Gabe helps Josie deal with some terrible things so they can reach their happily ever after. The relationship between the brothers is also advancing.
January 4, 2020
Gabe Brannigan is a Californian real estate mogul who is all about the money. So when his father dies unexpectedly and leaves him the family ranch, he's annoyed and can't wait to sell. But his father left a stipulation that he has to live on the ranch for one month before he can sell it.
To appease his aunt he goes to the ranch and is all ready to walk away from the deal. But once he gets to ranch he meets the sexy caretaker and has other thoughts.
Josephine Ashby has found the perfect place to hide until she can get her life straightened out and then she sees Gabe and he announces that he is moving in. Things quickly heat up between them. But what will happen when Gabe learns her secrets?
To appease his aunt he goes to the ranch and is all ready to walk away from the deal. But once he gets to ranch he meets the sexy caretaker and has other thoughts.
Josephine Ashby has found the perfect place to hide until she can get her life straightened out and then she sees Gabe and he announces that he is moving in. Things quickly heat up between them. But what will happen when Gabe learns her secrets?
August 19, 2022
This is book 2 in a 7 book series on 7 brothers and their romances leading to 7 brides. I liked the first book. This book as a male reader of romances hit me the wrong way. Gabe the 2nd oldest brother and a fraternal twin is a stereotype that never draws me in. He inherites the ranch all 7 brother grew up on and the ashes of both his parents are located on. He has no sensitivity towards his 6 brothers feelings for their former home only what he a real estate mogul can get for it at auction. An opposite attraction romance is poorly written and very stereotypical. This is formulated romance with poor writing and gratuitous sex in place of character development and any real believable romance. This was not a good introduction for me to this author.
February 21, 2020
Insta love
Gabe inherits a ranch after his father's death and goes to visit before selling it. There he meets Josie the caretaker with something to hide. Instantly smitten and perhaps more. When he realizes she's hiding something, he demands she remain at the ranch with him to prove herself and allowing him to fulfill the terms of his father's will. She makes him realize what's missing from his life. Their chemistry is off the charts and undeniable even when unsure if they can trust each other. Josie is no shrinking violet as she proves when Gabe keeps the truth from her. Some of the other brothers make appearances and I'm eager to read their books.
Gabe inherits a ranch after his father's death and goes to visit before selling it. There he meets Josie the caretaker with something to hide. Instantly smitten and perhaps more. When he realizes she's hiding something, he demands she remain at the ranch with him to prove herself and allowing him to fulfill the terms of his father's will. She makes him realize what's missing from his life. Their chemistry is off the charts and undeniable even when unsure if they can trust each other. Josie is no shrinking violet as she proves when Gabe keeps the truth from her. Some of the other brothers make appearances and I'm eager to read their books.
December 15, 2020
Excellent
A really enjoyable read with a lot to keep the interest going, Gabe the uptight property mogul who also happens to be a hot handsome alpha male is left the family ranch after his father's death he is determined to sell it until he pays a visit and finds more than he bargained for in the feisty female Josephine that he finds staying there. She has a huge amount of secrets and is in hiding but he is soon determined to unravel her mysteries. These two go through a lot together but that thing called love won't be denied. A great story with good characters and interesting storyline.
A really enjoyable read with a lot to keep the interest going, Gabe the uptight property mogul who also happens to be a hot handsome alpha male is left the family ranch after his father's death he is determined to sell it until he pays a visit and finds more than he bargained for in the feisty female Josephine that he finds staying there. She has a huge amount of secrets and is in hiding but he is soon determined to unravel her mysteries. These two go through a lot together but that thing called love won't be denied. A great story with good characters and interesting storyline.
July 29, 2017
This really isn't a bad book at all. Your probably asking yourself then why did she rate it just 1 star. I couldn't finish this and got bored since its too similar to the first book of the series. I wont be reading anymore of this series. There are 7 books in this series each by a different author with the plots basically the same. However, if you can handle each book being very similar then you may love this.
August 26, 2017
Gabe - 7 Brides for 7 Brothers
Gabe's life has always revolved around the next big deal at his real estate company. When his father leaves Gabe the family home, will Gabe find himself, his way back to his family and love? Author Ruth Cardello, brings a great story to life with an awesome amount of suspense and romance. The characters come to life and you become part of her story as you read.
Gabe's life has always revolved around the next big deal at his real estate company. When his father leaves Gabe the family home, will Gabe find himself, his way back to his family and love? Author Ruth Cardello, brings a great story to life with an awesome amount of suspense and romance. The characters come to life and you become part of her story as you read.
September 17, 2017
Gabe book,2
I enjoyed reading this book very much. I wait to more books by Ruth Cardello. I have read some of Ruth books in the past and I liked reading the books. I disagree with the person who wrote about Gabe been like book one in series with the characters and die log of the book, I found the book very different to book one. I look forward to reading more books by Ruth Cardello in the future. ☺
I enjoyed reading this book very much. I wait to more books by Ruth Cardello. I have read some of Ruth books in the past and I liked reading the books. I disagree with the person who wrote about Gabe been like book one in series with the characters and die log of the book, I found the book very different to book one. I look forward to reading more books by Ruth Cardello in the future. ☺
October 5, 2017
In this installment we meet Gabe Brannigan, the real estate mogul, who inherits the family home. He encounters a mysterious woman living on the estate. The story kept you interested and was exciting with the added suspense. Josie was an intriguing character with her high intelligence and ingenuity. I loved that she was a strong capable woman, which added depth to the character. Overall it was a good read.
June 3, 2018
This is Gabe, book 2 of the 7 Brides for 7 Brothers series by multiple authors, written by Ruth Cardello. After the boys father passes away each one is gifted something different from him. Gabe was given the farm that they spent time on in their youth. He discovers more there than he expected to. Sparks fly and secrets become bigger. Is Josie the lady that she claims to be? Can he let his guard down with her? It’s a great book and I couldn’t bare to set it down until the end!
June 20, 2020
Very enjoyable.
I loved this book. Gabe falls quickly for Josephine but wonders how truthful she is. What is she hiding and has she been hurt before? As she opens up to him, will he really believe in her? At one point, I wondered too. Thankfully there’s a very happy ever after. Loved when he realizes how important his family is to him and that she now has a huge family with him. I highly recommend this book.
I loved this book. Gabe falls quickly for Josephine but wonders how truthful she is. What is she hiding and has she been hurt before? As she opens up to him, will he really believe in her? At one point, I wondered too. Thankfully there’s a very happy ever after. Loved when he realizes how important his family is to him and that she now has a huge family with him. I highly recommend this book.
July 3, 2017
Wonderful second book
Continuing saga of the Brannigan brothers. Gabe the dedicated real estate mogul falls hard for a quirky genius. Josie is nothing like the women he usually is attracted to, but she absolutely captivates him. Great story of finding love and learning it's more important than business.
Continuing saga of the Brannigan brothers. Gabe the dedicated real estate mogul falls hard for a quirky genius. Josie is nothing like the women he usually is attracted to, but she absolutely captivates him. Great story of finding love and learning it's more important than business.
July 18, 2017
Smart is sexy
Josephine aka Josie is super smart and sexy. She is on a mission to complete the last project she worked on with her dad. She is also going to clear his name or die trying. Gabe is being forced by his father's will to spend time at the ranch. What he didn't plan on was this beautiful sexy woman to steal his heart. Loved this book.
Josephine aka Josie is super smart and sexy. She is on a mission to complete the last project she worked on with her dad. She is also going to clear his name or die trying. Gabe is being forced by his father's will to spend time at the ranch. What he didn't plan on was this beautiful sexy woman to steal his heart. Loved this book.
December 21, 2019
Delightful!
This is a new author to me. I didn’t care much for all of the internal dialogue, but enjoyed the story. It appears that Gabe’s father had more insight into his sons’ lives, wants and needs than they could ever imagine. Gabe seemed to be a little cocky and arrogant at first, but quickly turned into a caring sweetheart. Looking forward to the next book.
This is a new author to me. I didn’t care much for all of the internal dialogue, but enjoyed the story. It appears that Gabe’s father had more insight into his sons’ lives, wants and needs than they could ever imagine. Gabe seemed to be a little cocky and arrogant at first, but quickly turned into a caring sweetheart. Looking forward to the next book.
August 15, 2020
Gabe and Josephine
I loved Josephine's strength and determination as she worked to prove her father's innocence and dealt with her attraction to Gabe. They help each other realize what each of them is missing from their lives and how they can fix that together. Another winner from Ruth!
I loved Josephine's strength and determination as she worked to prove her father's innocence and dealt with her attraction to Gabe. They help each other realize what each of them is missing from their lives and how they can fix that together. Another winner from Ruth!
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