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Sierra Legacy #3
Home Free
His first taste of freedom was only the beginning...
Arch Hoffman has paid for his crimes. All he wants is to come home to rural California and start over. He's not looking to be a hero when he rescues a wedding cake from hitting the dirt at the ranch next door. But culinary artist Mandy Allen's irresistible smile makes him glad to save the day--and thankful that they're neighbors.
Mandy's just the distraction Arch needs. Her sweet voice quiets the memories that threaten his chance to be a better man, and he's determined to help her confront her fears. But the past is its own prison, and even love might not be enough to set them free.
Arch Hoffman has paid for his crimes. All he wants is to come home to rural California and start over. He's not looking to be a hero when he rescues a wedding cake from hitting the dirt at the ranch next door. But culinary artist Mandy Allen's irresistible smile makes him glad to save the day--and thankful that they're neighbors.
Mandy's just the distraction Arch needs. Her sweet voice quiets the memories that threaten his chance to be a better man, and he's determined to help her confront her fears. But the past is its own prison, and even love might not be enough to set them free.
380 pages, Paperback
Published November 8, 2016
About the author
Claire McEwen
48 books613 followersClaire McEwen lives by the ocean in Northern California with her family and a scruffy, mischievous terrier. When not dreaming up new stories, she can be found digging in her garden with a lot of enthusiasm but, unfortunately, no green thumb. She loves discovering flea-market treasures, walking on the beach, dancing, traveling and reading, of course!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
October 18, 2024
the church thing was honestly really sweet at first but the fact that it became such a big part it was literally the last word of the book? sorry no, jesus does not get to have that much influence in my life (just MY opinion dont cancel pls)
overall the story was cute but it was really shallow, i mean we got all what was happening but there was just....the tip of the iceberg WHATS HIDING UNDERNEATH? idk. (none of us will know either)
3*
overall the story was cute but it was really shallow, i mean we got all what was happening but there was just....the tip of the iceberg WHATS HIDING UNDERNEATH? idk. (none of us will know either)
3*
August 7, 2017
I wish I could give this book more than 5 stars! I was hoping that Ms. McEwen would write about one of the outlaw Hoffman brothers. Having read the first two books in this series, I'm so glad my wish was realized!
Arch was raised by a man who thought being a crook was the way to live. Arch followed his dad and one of his brothers into that life of crime. On the run, he realized that this wasn't the life he wanted and turned himself in to the police. He served his time and is now looking to become a low key citizen in his hometown. Unfortunately not everyone there is thrilled with his homecoming!
Mandy has issues stemming from the time of her mother's death and is stuck. Stuck being the kind, loyal, everyone's sister, and resident baker extraordinaire, Mandy has dreams, but just doesn't know if they will work for her.
Arch comes to Mandy's rescue in more ways than one, and helps her question where she wants to be and how it can happen, but only if she wants it to come to fruition. Mandy, believes in Arch when most of the citizens do not. She is falling in love with him and he is finally believing he can have it all. Unfortunately, Arch doesn't believe in Arch and when he is suspected of a crime, he feels he is pulling her down. When he leaves town, Mandy is crushed, but is also empowered to do some changing of her own.
Sometimes absence does make the heart grow fonder and as they both grow as people, love and commitment happens.
Arch was raised by a man who thought being a crook was the way to live. Arch followed his dad and one of his brothers into that life of crime. On the run, he realized that this wasn't the life he wanted and turned himself in to the police. He served his time and is now looking to become a low key citizen in his hometown. Unfortunately not everyone there is thrilled with his homecoming!
Mandy has issues stemming from the time of her mother's death and is stuck. Stuck being the kind, loyal, everyone's sister, and resident baker extraordinaire, Mandy has dreams, but just doesn't know if they will work for her.
Arch comes to Mandy's rescue in more ways than one, and helps her question where she wants to be and how it can happen, but only if she wants it to come to fruition. Mandy, believes in Arch when most of the citizens do not. She is falling in love with him and he is finally believing he can have it all. Unfortunately, Arch doesn't believe in Arch and when he is suspected of a crime, he feels he is pulling her down. When he leaves town, Mandy is crushed, but is also empowered to do some changing of her own.
Sometimes absence does make the heart grow fonder and as they both grow as people, love and commitment happens.
January 5, 2019
Arch just got out of prison after 10 years, and heads back home to his younger sister and brother. He’s not sure if they’ll accept him or not, he was a lot of trouble as a teenager and bullied them. Neighbor Mandy helps talk them into giving him a chance. He and Mandy spend time together, helping each other overcome their fears. This was a great story of forgiveness and redemption, and love. I really liked it and read it in one sitting.
March 8, 2017
Second chances....what we all wish to have and this is the perfect second chance story. I loved how Arch and Mandy meet and how they help each other throughout the story. This is a very sweet story and a quick, easy read. This book is part of a series but can definitely be read as a stand alone book.
I received this book in a giveaway from goodreads.com.
I received this book in a giveaway from goodreads.com.
November 5, 2017
Mandy Allen gets a chance encounter with a local ex-con named Arch Hoffman. He saves her from near disaster on her sisters wedding day. Mandy is trusting, kind and helpful. Even though the thought of Arch Hoffman's past scares her, with his help she learns to deal with her panic, anxiety and her past. Beautifully written story about redemption, love,faith, and conquering the past.
November 10, 2016
A good, well written romance. Great characters. Now I need to read the others in the series. I won this book through goodreads.
November 16, 2016
What an amazing story of growth and triumph!
Mandy stays at the ranch, inside the house baking. After putting together and pulling off an amazing wedding and the most delicious as well as beautiful cake for her sister, Lori and Wade are off on their honeymoon. Mandy's left in charge of their family ranch, no problem until all the ranch hands are either hurt or sick and can't work, or are on vacation. One major problem, she's afraid of the big animals on the ranch. She figured she'd only have to "manage" issues that came up and the ranch hands would actually run the ranch. What is she going to do now?
Arch comes back to Benson looking for his brother Wade. After being released after spending 10 years in prison to ask his brother for help until he can get back on his feet. He's hoping his brother won't turn him away. The first person he runs into is Mandy when he saves the beautiful wedding cake she was carrying from a runaway mini donkey. Unfortunately Mandy fell on the ground, but he'd saved the cake. Which had her sticking up for him with his brother Wade and sister Nora. They decided to give Arch a chance while Wade and his now new wife Lori, are on their honeymoon and live on and work their family ranch. When Wade returns, they'll decide what to do then.
Arch feels an instant connection with Mandy and wants to help her with not only the ranch but help her overcome her fears. Mandy feels the same and doesn't care what others in the town thinks of his past. Mandy and Arch have many demons holding them each back from being the awesome people they could be, if they'd only let their pasts be just that the past and live in not only the here and now, but the future. Can they let go of their demons? Will they live in the future, and if they do, will they end up going it alone or will they allow themselves to be the happy, loving couple they could be together? You'll have to read HOME FREE to find out, but it's an AMAZING story of growth, commitment, love, compassion and letting go. This was the first Sierra Legacy story I've read, as well as the first Claire McEwen book, but I want to read Wade & Lori's story in RETURN TO MARKER RANCH, as well as Todd & Nora's story in Wild Horses. Each of these stories are a standalone story that follow people in the town of Benson. I received an ARC via Tasty Book Tours in exchange for an honest blog tour review.
FAVORITE PASSAGES
~ “Maybe we can get each other unstuck.”
~ things that were golden and perfect had to be earned.
Mandy stays at the ranch, inside the house baking. After putting together and pulling off an amazing wedding and the most delicious as well as beautiful cake for her sister, Lori and Wade are off on their honeymoon. Mandy's left in charge of their family ranch, no problem until all the ranch hands are either hurt or sick and can't work, or are on vacation. One major problem, she's afraid of the big animals on the ranch. She figured she'd only have to "manage" issues that came up and the ranch hands would actually run the ranch. What is she going to do now?
Arch comes back to Benson looking for his brother Wade. After being released after spending 10 years in prison to ask his brother for help until he can get back on his feet. He's hoping his brother won't turn him away. The first person he runs into is Mandy when he saves the beautiful wedding cake she was carrying from a runaway mini donkey. Unfortunately Mandy fell on the ground, but he'd saved the cake. Which had her sticking up for him with his brother Wade and sister Nora. They decided to give Arch a chance while Wade and his now new wife Lori, are on their honeymoon and live on and work their family ranch. When Wade returns, they'll decide what to do then.
Arch feels an instant connection with Mandy and wants to help her with not only the ranch but help her overcome her fears. Mandy feels the same and doesn't care what others in the town thinks of his past. Mandy and Arch have many demons holding them each back from being the awesome people they could be, if they'd only let their pasts be just that the past and live in not only the here and now, but the future. Can they let go of their demons? Will they live in the future, and if they do, will they end up going it alone or will they allow themselves to be the happy, loving couple they could be together? You'll have to read HOME FREE to find out, but it's an AMAZING story of growth, commitment, love, compassion and letting go. This was the first Sierra Legacy story I've read, as well as the first Claire McEwen book, but I want to read Wade & Lori's story in RETURN TO MARKER RANCH, as well as Todd & Nora's story in Wild Horses. Each of these stories are a standalone story that follow people in the town of Benson. I received an ARC via Tasty Book Tours in exchange for an honest blog tour review.
FAVORITE PASSAGES
~ “Maybe we can get each other unstuck.”
~ things that were golden and perfect had to be earned.
November 5, 2016
While the comically bad-timing of certain plot twists offer plenty of obstacles to the romance between sweet, fearful Mandy and rugged reformed criminal Arch (whose return to his small hometown gives everyone, including Arch's ex, plenty to talk - and throw food - about!), what I love most about Home Free is the way that both characters are so different, yet they inspire the other to face and process their own internal struggles to be the best individuals and partners they can be. I like that personal growth is never sacrificed for love in this book; and that love prevails once all the growing is done!
I appreciate Claire M.'s commitment to creating strong, independent characters who, even if lust plays a big part in their motivation, work to build a mature kind of relationship that will last rather than taking the easy way out. Arch's whole MO in this book, in fact, is learning to do the hard work of emotional honesty and truthful action in order to break free of his criminal past and old habits, while Mandy must learn to overcome her own fears, guilt and grief in order to truly live the life she longs for. Maybe it's my own experience with losing my mom, or my relationship with a man who's had a pretty rough past that he's worked hard to overcome, but I got a lot more out of this book than a simple happy ending. I got a fully-realized example of the kind of love and friendship that encouragement and belief in another person's best qualities can create, even if it sometimes means going it alone until you yourself are ready to be there for someone else.
All I want now is for a super-talented, strong, dark and handsome metal worker to make me a paper-thin petalled California poppy out of steel! I'll have to talk to my own reformed bad boy about that one... All that to say, it's the little details and careful descriptions that really bring this book to life. I love Claire McEwen's writing, and I highly recommend this latest installment! I haven't read the other two books in this series yet, though I read all three of her first. I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review, and - honestly - Home Free convinced me to snag the first two books in the Sierra Legacy trilogy to get all the romance I can out of this beautiful little ranch town. Highly recommend.
I appreciate Claire M.'s commitment to creating strong, independent characters who, even if lust plays a big part in their motivation, work to build a mature kind of relationship that will last rather than taking the easy way out. Arch's whole MO in this book, in fact, is learning to do the hard work of emotional honesty and truthful action in order to break free of his criminal past and old habits, while Mandy must learn to overcome her own fears, guilt and grief in order to truly live the life she longs for. Maybe it's my own experience with losing my mom, or my relationship with a man who's had a pretty rough past that he's worked hard to overcome, but I got a lot more out of this book than a simple happy ending. I got a fully-realized example of the kind of love and friendship that encouragement and belief in another person's best qualities can create, even if it sometimes means going it alone until you yourself are ready to be there for someone else.
All I want now is for a super-talented, strong, dark and handsome metal worker to make me a paper-thin petalled California poppy out of steel! I'll have to talk to my own reformed bad boy about that one... All that to say, it's the little details and careful descriptions that really bring this book to life. I love Claire McEwen's writing, and I highly recommend this latest installment! I haven't read the other two books in this series yet, though I read all three of her first. I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review, and - honestly - Home Free convinced me to snag the first two books in the Sierra Legacy trilogy to get all the romance I can out of this beautiful little ranch town. Highly recommend.
November 13, 2016
As a result of his not-so-nice ways during his younger years (a result of his bad daddy’s influence), Arch has spent the last ten years in prison. He’s out and trying his best to make amends. He wants to be a better person, and he wants a better relationship with his siblings. He knows the error of his ways…what he doesn’t know is whether or not that badness is so imbedded into him that he will one day return to his roots.
Mandy has been living in a prison of her own. She blames herself for her mother’s death, and she now suffers anxiety and a fear of large animals – something that doesn’t bode over well for the part-owner of a ranch. Mandy’s sister, Lori, has just married Arch’s brother, Wade, and when they leave for their honeymoon- and the ranch staff takes ill- Arch and Mandy find themselves working together to keep things running smoothly. They never expected their work to go beyond ranch duties, but it does. She helps him to see the wonderful person he has inside, and he helps her to face her fears.
Although there is definitely some chemistry between them, they explore their emotional connection as well. Arch has never been around someone as sweet and encouraging as Mandy. Her forgiving heart and belief that there’s some good in everyone kicks his determination to do right into high gear. Although the devil has returned to his throne (he was a terror in the town before his imprisonment), he’s exchanged the horn and tails for wings and a halo. No, he’s not perfect – no one is-but he puts his best foot forward to prove he can be a much better man.
Although there are struggles and obstacles to overcome, the book is rather light, but also uplifting. There’s a spot of drama, but McEwen doesn’t include a lot of drama after the drama. Decisions are made and respected; and although there is some pain, nothing is drawn out. Everyone is given the chance to make their own way. The easy nature of the story is perfect for those who prefer less drama.
I enjoyed the story, and I do recommend it.
Mandy has been living in a prison of her own. She blames herself for her mother’s death, and she now suffers anxiety and a fear of large animals – something that doesn’t bode over well for the part-owner of a ranch. Mandy’s sister, Lori, has just married Arch’s brother, Wade, and when they leave for their honeymoon- and the ranch staff takes ill- Arch and Mandy find themselves working together to keep things running smoothly. They never expected their work to go beyond ranch duties, but it does. She helps him to see the wonderful person he has inside, and he helps her to face her fears.
Although there is definitely some chemistry between them, they explore their emotional connection as well. Arch has never been around someone as sweet and encouraging as Mandy. Her forgiving heart and belief that there’s some good in everyone kicks his determination to do right into high gear. Although the devil has returned to his throne (he was a terror in the town before his imprisonment), he’s exchanged the horn and tails for wings and a halo. No, he’s not perfect – no one is-but he puts his best foot forward to prove he can be a much better man.
Although there are struggles and obstacles to overcome, the book is rather light, but also uplifting. There’s a spot of drama, but McEwen doesn’t include a lot of drama after the drama. Decisions are made and respected; and although there is some pain, nothing is drawn out. Everyone is given the chance to make their own way. The easy nature of the story is perfect for those who prefer less drama.
I enjoyed the story, and I do recommend it.
December 7, 2016
This book told such a lovely, honest story of a man, Arch (such a great name!), wanting to become a better man, make positive changes to his life, correct the wrongs he had made, and make amends to those he hurt in the past. Arch is asking for a second chance and in this book he not only finds it, but meets a sweet, beautiful, woman, Mandy, who not only inspires him to change, but becomes the reason why he is going to do things right this time. Mandy is more of a shy, reserved girl as she is battling her own personal demons, but with the help of Arch truly comes out of her shell and becomes a strong, confident woman.
There are so many messages and takeaways from this book! The big ones are change, determination, hope, and second chances!
I was truly impressed with the strong, well developed main characters! Arch and Mandy felt very real and genuine! Arch and Mandy are full of real-life flaws and emotions!
I really liked this couple, Arch and Mandy, and found myself rooting for them and their happiness.
Arch and Mandy both suffer from personal setbacks, but together they help each other fight, grow, and overcome those obstacles! That’s what a true partner does – helps make you a better, stronger person!
I loved that Arch came back to Benson to make amends and actually wanted to change and turn his life around. He doesn’t make excuses and owns up to his mistakes. Of course, change is hard, and there is no short supply of people wanting to see him fail or blame him for their own setbacks.
I truly enjoyed reading this book and even learned from it! I am excited to check out Claire’s other books on the Benson crew!
I would absolutely recommend this book – in fact maybe even encourage you to read this book! This book is filled with love, hope, determination, strength, change, forgiveness, and second chances!
**Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.**
There are so many messages and takeaways from this book! The big ones are change, determination, hope, and second chances!
I was truly impressed with the strong, well developed main characters! Arch and Mandy felt very real and genuine! Arch and Mandy are full of real-life flaws and emotions!
I really liked this couple, Arch and Mandy, and found myself rooting for them and their happiness.
Arch and Mandy both suffer from personal setbacks, but together they help each other fight, grow, and overcome those obstacles! That’s what a true partner does – helps make you a better, stronger person!
I loved that Arch came back to Benson to make amends and actually wanted to change and turn his life around. He doesn’t make excuses and owns up to his mistakes. Of course, change is hard, and there is no short supply of people wanting to see him fail or blame him for their own setbacks.
I truly enjoyed reading this book and even learned from it! I am excited to check out Claire’s other books on the Benson crew!
I would absolutely recommend this book – in fact maybe even encourage you to read this book! This book is filled with love, hope, determination, strength, change, forgiveness, and second chances!
**Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.**
November 21, 2016
A touching and honest story of a journey a man with a criminal background, and just released from the prison has to take and wants to take, to change his life, change himself, his habits, and make a chance for a brighter tomorrow, to have a future to be proud of.
Arch is a charming and alluring character, with his determination and desire to face the past and make the future better it was easy to root for him, wish him nothing but the best, and hope he finds his way.
Mandy's prison has been her mind ever since her mother died, the panic attacks she never told anyone about. Together Mandy and Arch are a force to be reckoned with. By a set of circumstances, they are let alone to take care of two ranchers, and to be able to accomplish that they have to face their fears, their demons, their past, and overcome them.
That road isn't easy for them. There are some who wants them to fail, there are some who wish they would fall back to the past behavior, there are some who are blaming Arch for their own mistakes, and some who just wish he would have never come home.
The story and its honesty hit me in the gut. The development of the characters as their face the obstacles in their lives was beautifully done, and every moment with them pulled me more into the tale, into the pain and joy they experienced. Arch's rectitude was honorable, admirable, and even though Mandy and Arch had to go through the fire to find their feet, their future, the story has such a clear message of hope, that people can choose to change, and it is possible if you are willing to put all in and work for the change, it just made me want to cheer out loud.
A delicate story about life, love, and change, a story that can affect a person if you let the message get close to your heart and choose to feel the good, the positive, and the joy in life.
~ Five Spoons!
Arch is a charming and alluring character, with his determination and desire to face the past and make the future better it was easy to root for him, wish him nothing but the best, and hope he finds his way.
Mandy's prison has been her mind ever since her mother died, the panic attacks she never told anyone about. Together Mandy and Arch are a force to be reckoned with. By a set of circumstances, they are let alone to take care of two ranchers, and to be able to accomplish that they have to face their fears, their demons, their past, and overcome them.
That road isn't easy for them. There are some who wants them to fail, there are some who wish they would fall back to the past behavior, there are some who are blaming Arch for their own mistakes, and some who just wish he would have never come home.
The story and its honesty hit me in the gut. The development of the characters as their face the obstacles in their lives was beautifully done, and every moment with them pulled me more into the tale, into the pain and joy they experienced. Arch's rectitude was honorable, admirable, and even though Mandy and Arch had to go through the fire to find their feet, their future, the story has such a clear message of hope, that people can choose to change, and it is possible if you are willing to put all in and work for the change, it just made me want to cheer out loud.
A delicate story about life, love, and change, a story that can affect a person if you let the message get close to your heart and choose to feel the good, the positive, and the joy in life.
~ Five Spoons!
November 30, 2016
"Home Free" by Claire McEwen tells of the return of Arch Hoffman, after a ten-year absence. A lot has changed since he was one of the despised and feared members of his family, including his younger siblings and the ranch they grew up on. Arch is trying to be a better man, and has to work hard to convince those who knew him in the past to give him a second chance, but fortunately, he finds inspiration in Mandy Allen, who inspires him with her own courage and her acceptance of his shortcomings. They each have a traumatic past to overcome, but have to decide whether they have the courage to reach for happiness.
This contemporary western romance is a story of redemption and atonement in a small town setting. I love the way the author was able to shift perception of a despised and hated person into gradual acceptance and eventual forgiveness, and found this story heartwarming and inspiring. For me, it was important that Arch not only paid his debt to society, but sought to make amends to those he had wronged in the past, albeit with occasional backsliding. The courage displayed by him and those who come to accept and love him is delightful, and I enjoyed watching the relationship slowly blossom into a passionate bond, even though I was irked by the setback they experienced. Mandy was pretty stunted at first, understandably given her past, but I was happy that she also managed to blossom into a self-reliant person and therefore become an equal partner. I had the pleasure of reading a previous book in this series, so I was familiar with some of the background, but there would be no problem reading this as an enjoyable stand-alone story.
A copy of this title was provided to me for review
This contemporary western romance is a story of redemption and atonement in a small town setting. I love the way the author was able to shift perception of a despised and hated person into gradual acceptance and eventual forgiveness, and found this story heartwarming and inspiring. For me, it was important that Arch not only paid his debt to society, but sought to make amends to those he had wronged in the past, albeit with occasional backsliding. The courage displayed by him and those who come to accept and love him is delightful, and I enjoyed watching the relationship slowly blossom into a passionate bond, even though I was irked by the setback they experienced. Mandy was pretty stunted at first, understandably given her past, but I was happy that she also managed to blossom into a self-reliant person and therefore become an equal partner. I had the pleasure of reading a previous book in this series, so I was familiar with some of the background, but there would be no problem reading this as an enjoyable stand-alone story.
A copy of this title was provided to me for review
November 7, 2016
Reading this was a mistake, not that it wasn’t a great read because it was but it is part of a series, one that I haven’t read yet and that means that having now picked this one up …I now have additions to my library!
I am looking at this as a standalone and it reads well in that capacity so if like me you have managed to miss the start of the series you will still be able to enjoy the story.
This is the story of Arch Hoffman and he was a force to be reckoned with, as you would expect time spent in prison has affected him but it is the pressure of life on the outside that is weighing heavy on him almost as much. He wants to keep his life on the straight and narrow now, to be the man that he knows he can be but will he be able too…that is the question?
But when he meets Mandy, he may have found his motivation because between the two of them there is a spark that cannot be denied.
They are perfect for each other but getting there is going to require work on both their parts, Mandy must learn that life is for living and stop looking for the other show to fall, she seems to live in a constant fear of almost everything, it must have been tiring! And Arch well he lives in fear too, of sort fear that he can’t be not only who he needs to be but also who Mandy needs. I wanted him to understand that under that exterior was a man that could achieve anything he put his mind too. Their angst was distracting but it was necessary because it gave an honesty to their story that I felt like they needed.
Life is hard, it is an evolution and a relationship needs work and I liked the fact the author gave them time to show me that they were willing to give themselves that time.
I am looking at this as a standalone and it reads well in that capacity so if like me you have managed to miss the start of the series you will still be able to enjoy the story.
This is the story of Arch Hoffman and he was a force to be reckoned with, as you would expect time spent in prison has affected him but it is the pressure of life on the outside that is weighing heavy on him almost as much. He wants to keep his life on the straight and narrow now, to be the man that he knows he can be but will he be able too…that is the question?
But when he meets Mandy, he may have found his motivation because between the two of them there is a spark that cannot be denied.
They are perfect for each other but getting there is going to require work on both their parts, Mandy must learn that life is for living and stop looking for the other show to fall, she seems to live in a constant fear of almost everything, it must have been tiring! And Arch well he lives in fear too, of sort fear that he can’t be not only who he needs to be but also who Mandy needs. I wanted him to understand that under that exterior was a man that could achieve anything he put his mind too. Their angst was distracting but it was necessary because it gave an honesty to their story that I felt like they needed.
Life is hard, it is an evolution and a relationship needs work and I liked the fact the author gave them time to show me that they were willing to give themselves that time.
November 1, 2016
I've had the pleasure of reading all of the books in Claire McEwen's "Sierra Legacy" series and enjoyed watching both of the previous Hoffman's heal and find their happily ever after, but with her latest installment in the series, HOME FREE, my favorite sibling was discovered! Arch was raised in that same horrible childhood that Nora and Wade came from, but he let himself go towards the bad, ugly side for a long time instead of knowing it was wrong like his younger siblings did. He eventually realized there was more to life than being a bad guy, and decided to change his life. He sacrificed himself in order to pay for his sins, and then had to learn how to pick up the pieces afterwards. What a strong message this book brings! None of us are perfect, and some are just pure evil, but there's never a day until your last where it is too late to have regret and actually care to make a difference going forward. Great book!
After paying for his crimes, Arch Hoffman makes his way back home to Benson to figure out where he goes from here. Picking himself up from the past is going to be a long road, and he isn't sure he has the skills to get there yet ... but he sure is going to try! Running across Mandy Allen on his first day back into town turns into just the motivation he needs. She's sweet, innocent, pure ... and he loves the peace she brings to his mind when he's around her. She has her own demons she's trying to find a way to move on from, so the kindness they both show to the other, has a healing effect on them both.
After paying for his crimes, Arch Hoffman makes his way back home to Benson to figure out where he goes from here. Picking himself up from the past is going to be a long road, and he isn't sure he has the skills to get there yet ... but he sure is going to try! Running across Mandy Allen on his first day back into town turns into just the motivation he needs. She's sweet, innocent, pure ... and he loves the peace she brings to his mind when he's around her. She has her own demons she's trying to find a way to move on from, so the kindness they both show to the other, has a healing effect on them both.
November 30, 2016
It took me along time to actually get in to this book but when I started I couldn't stop it's a good read but I will point out that at the beginning of every paragraph or new chapter the font was a bit weird as it started with a capital letter and then the font was a different size to the rest of the words sorry but I have to point that out.
But the characters blended well together.
When arch got out of prison after handing himself in ten years ago he didn't know who to go to in the end he went back to his old town where his welcome was not friendly after he did the most stupid things when he was younger but after going to find his brother wade and sister Nora he found out wade was getting married and he spotted this young woman called Wendy.
Wendy has to look after the ranch while her sister Lori goes on her honeymoon with wade she is afraid of the cattle and the horses as she has a dark secret but in time she confines in arch and he tells her it's not her fault then she starts to find her love of horses again. Wendy wants to start her own bakery up but she is afraid?
Will arch and Wendy ever have a happy ending and bring each other out of there slump or will they just break each other and go there separate ways?
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
But the characters blended well together.
When arch got out of prison after handing himself in ten years ago he didn't know who to go to in the end he went back to his old town where his welcome was not friendly after he did the most stupid things when he was younger but after going to find his brother wade and sister Nora he found out wade was getting married and he spotted this young woman called Wendy.
Wendy has to look after the ranch while her sister Lori goes on her honeymoon with wade she is afraid of the cattle and the horses as she has a dark secret but in time she confines in arch and he tells her it's not her fault then she starts to find her love of horses again. Wendy wants to start her own bakery up but she is afraid?
Will arch and Wendy ever have a happy ending and bring each other out of there slump or will they just break each other and go there separate ways?
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
November 3, 2016
Home Free is part of the Sierra Legacy series by Claire McEwen and is the final visit with the Hoffman family. Each of the Hoffman children have had to deal with a childhood that was less than optimum. Arch Hoffman has more to overcome than most. He is just out of prison and is trying to come to terms with life in the outside world. He is afraid that he will not succeed in becoming a new and better person. Mandy Allen has her own past that is holding her back. When the two meet the two strike a spark and it seems each is what the other needs. Having said that the relationship does not run smoothly. Mandy has to overcome her fears and Arch has to believe in the man he has become. I like the fact that there was not instant solution. It takes time and experience for both to believe in themselves and then believe in their love. They are both great characters and they come alive on the pages of the book. I felt for both and was pulling for them throughout the story. This is part of a series but it works well as a standalone. There will be future books in the Sierra Legacy series and I think I saw a hook for the next character to have their story and HEA. When the next book comes out I will see if I am right or wrong.
November 14, 2016
"Home Free" by Claire McEwen is a story filled with love, hope, second chances and kindness. Our main characters, Mandy and Arch, both have demons holding them back. Arch, newly released from prison, is working hard to forge a new life for himself - a better life. He's determined yet scared. Mandy had lived in a self imposed prison for a long time. She is the picture of kindness and helpfullness, yet is yearning for more. Ms. McEwen has successfully written a tale that is both heartwarming and heartbreaking. Her portrayal of Arch and what one goes through to live beyond their past is heartfelt. I truly enjoyed this one, honestly, more than I expected. Ms. McEwen brought me inside the heads and hearts of both Mandy and Arch and I cheered and rooted for them throughout. This is a story of how much one's perception of themselves can affect their life as well as others. It also shows how simple kindess and a touch of faith from another human being can go a long way to change another's life. I found Ms. McEwen graced us with more than a romance, "Home Free" is a story of second chances and belief in the human spirit. When a story touches my heart as much as this one did, I never want it to end.
April 14, 2017
Home Free is the third book in the Sierra Legacy miniseries by Claire McEwen. I have followed this series from the start and was super excited that not only is there a third book, but that there will also be a fourth book. Truly can't wait!
Home Free was an excellent addition to the series and follows the third Hoffman sibling Arch as he seeks redemption from his troubled past and sweet but fearful Mandy as she conquers her fears. Although they are complete opposites, they have an unavoidable attraction right from the start that can't keep them away from each other. This book is filled with courage, forgiveness, and second-chances. Fantastic read!
We also get to read a little bit about Wade and Lori's wedding and get some exciting new about Nora and Todd. Although it can be read as a standalone, I think reading the first two books in the series really complete the experience.
Also, Shrimp is just the cutest, I hope we get to read more about him in the next book! And I would also like to say that the cover looks exactly like I pictured Arch would look like.
*I was provided an advanced reader copy and all opinions expressed in this review are my own.*
Home Free was an excellent addition to the series and follows the third Hoffman sibling Arch as he seeks redemption from his troubled past and sweet but fearful Mandy as she conquers her fears. Although they are complete opposites, they have an unavoidable attraction right from the start that can't keep them away from each other. This book is filled with courage, forgiveness, and second-chances. Fantastic read!
We also get to read a little bit about Wade and Lori's wedding and get some exciting new about Nora and Todd. Although it can be read as a standalone, I think reading the first two books in the series really complete the experience.
Also, Shrimp is just the cutest, I hope we get to read more about him in the next book! And I would also like to say that the cover looks exactly like I pictured Arch would look like.
*I was provided an advanced reader copy and all opinions expressed in this review are my own.*
November 10, 2016
Another Awesome book by Claire McEwen. I just love her series. This book made me cry in parts and laugh in other parts. It was such an enjoyable book and her writing made you feel like you were part of the book. The characters were your neighbors or friends.
Wade and Nora were well loved by their small town, now one of their wayward brothers who used to cheat and do bad things to their neighbors has returned home. He turned himself in and paid for his crimes but the town is skeptical since they were hurt by his actions in the past. Can they put their painful memories aside and let Arch start anew in their town.
It seems one member of the town can be friendly to Arch and that would be Mandy. Read their story and see if these two can make a bright and wonderful future for themselves. If you haven't read the rest other books in this series don't worry this one will still make sense to you. But I would suggest that you read the other ones sometime they are great reads as well
Wade and Nora were well loved by their small town, now one of their wayward brothers who used to cheat and do bad things to their neighbors has returned home. He turned himself in and paid for his crimes but the town is skeptical since they were hurt by his actions in the past. Can they put their painful memories aside and let Arch start anew in their town.
It seems one member of the town can be friendly to Arch and that would be Mandy. Read their story and see if these two can make a bright and wonderful future for themselves. If you haven't read the rest other books in this series don't worry this one will still make sense to you. But I would suggest that you read the other ones sometime they are great reads as well
November 21, 2016
Another Sierra Legacy story, this one focuses on Arch Hoffman after he gets out of prison and comes home to figure out what to do with the rest of his life; in short, to start over. Also key in this story is Mandy Allen, the sister whose trauma when her mother died, has sent her into the kitchen and away from other ranch chores. Now she focuses on her baking and housekeeping and continues to endure the fears that keep her trapped.
The back stories of these two flawed characters make them uniquely endearing at a time when people tend to ignore how imprisonment scars and how fears as surely imprison people who appear to be living freely. Were it possible to give this story 4.5 stars, I would do so, for that reason alone. However, the story and how these characters help each other heal and then come to a greater understanding of themselves is a truly worthy read.
The back stories of these two flawed characters make them uniquely endearing at a time when people tend to ignore how imprisonment scars and how fears as surely imprison people who appear to be living freely. Were it possible to give this story 4.5 stars, I would do so, for that reason alone. However, the story and how these characters help each other heal and then come to a greater understanding of themselves is a truly worthy read.
November 8, 2016
Oh how I love the Sierra Legacy Series! Home Free is a sweet, delightful, feel good romance with great characters and a great story line that just draws you in. Arch and Mandy are two lost and broken souls who find love and happiness together and the courage to follow their dreams. Arch is just amazing. He makes a brave and difficult decision to turn his life around and you just fall in love with him and cheer him on at each stage of his journey to becoming a better man and law abiding citizen. A great bonus is that many of the great characters from the other books in the series also make an appearance in Arch and Mandy's story. I definitely recommend Home Free and all the books in this series.
November 9, 2016
4 star
The story has laughs, secrets, suspense, twists & turns, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Wild Horses
Return to Marker Ranch (Sierra Legacy #2)
This is Mandy and Arch’s story. Arch served his time and paid for his crime. But now he just wants to settle down and start over. Mandy needs help and Arch helps her. The chemistry between these two is hot but will secrets and the past come in the way of them being together? Can these two broken souls heal each other? Can he really move on from his ugly past and learn to be a great man?
I loved these characters and also the side characters. I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I recommend this book.
The story has laughs, secrets, suspense, twists & turns, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Wild Horses
Return to Marker Ranch (Sierra Legacy #2)
This is Mandy and Arch’s story. Arch served his time and paid for his crime. But now he just wants to settle down and start over. Mandy needs help and Arch helps her. The chemistry between these two is hot but will secrets and the past come in the way of them being together? Can these two broken souls heal each other? Can he really move on from his ugly past and learn to be a great man?
I loved these characters and also the side characters. I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I recommend this book.
May 12, 2017
Claire McEwen's book, Home Free, is a book with flawed characters. It is the third book in her series, but can easily be read as a standalone. Mandy Allen and Arch Hoffman both have things to overcome. Arch returns to rural CA to start over after paying for his bad decisions/crimes in jail. He is hoping to find a way to redeem himself with his siblings. Mandy Allen has fears of her own after the death of her mother. Somehow these neighbors bring out the best in each other. It's nice to read a story where you want to root for the characters to come to terms with the decisions they've made in their lives and move forward. McEwen's writing makes it easy to visualize Mandy and Arch and hope for a HEA for them!
March 27, 2023
I want to thank Claire McEwen, author and Goodreads First Reads for the copy of Home Free that my Mom won in the Giveaway.
Arch Hoffman, just out of prison and out on parole was lost and wanting to find himself and a better life when he rescues Mandy and the wedding cake for her sister and his brother's wedding. The plot gave a realistic look at the difficulties that face a man wanting to turn his life around and feeling worthy of a good woman. He also helped her get past her anxiety and fear from an accident in her childhood with his understanding and support as she learned to choose not to be afraid. I enjoyed the characters, plot and all the animals in the story.
Arch Hoffman, just out of prison and out on parole was lost and wanting to find himself and a better life when he rescues Mandy and the wedding cake for her sister and his brother's wedding. The plot gave a realistic look at the difficulties that face a man wanting to turn his life around and feeling worthy of a good woman. He also helped her get past her anxiety and fear from an accident in her childhood with his understanding and support as she learned to choose not to be afraid. I enjoyed the characters, plot and all the animals in the story.
October 29, 2016
I loved Arch. Despite having a tough childhood and engaging in criminal activities, he was able to turn his life around. He is strong and protective, yet tender and loving with Mandy. I thoroughly enjoyed their courtship as they helped each other to break free from their pasts.
Home Free is a touching story about redemption, self-forgiveness, and second chances to follow your dreams. I love the Sierra Legacy Series and I'm so glad that Claire McEwen decided to tell Arch's story.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Home Free is a touching story about redemption, self-forgiveness, and second chances to follow your dreams. I love the Sierra Legacy Series and I'm so glad that Claire McEwen decided to tell Arch's story.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
November 26, 2016
Home Free by Claire McEwen is a wonderful story about forgiveness and taking chances. Arch has just been released from prison and he goes to see his brother (on his Wedding Day) Mandy is the Bride's sister and she is scared of large animals and spends most her time at home taking care of her family and small animals. I loved how Arch and Mandy were so good for each other. He gave her strength to face her fears and she gave him strength to face his fears. I highly recommend this book. It's a gem.
November 2, 2016
Home Free by Claire McEwen.....What a beautifully written story full of emotion and forgiveness. Arch is looking for a second chance from his past. I loved watching the story unfold between Arch and Mandy. Claire McEwen knows how to suck us readers into the story and you don't want it to end. I voluntarily reviewed an advance readers copy of this book.
November 7, 2016
Another beautifully written book from Ms. McEwen. While this book is part of a series, it can totally be read as a stand alone. This is a beautiful story about how people can change and are able to face fears. This story is an emotional rollercoaster with twists and turns and an adorable donkey named Shrimp.
November 18, 2016
What a wonderful book! It's the story of two broken people, Mandy Allen & Arch Hoffman. Their first meeting is both unexpected & endearing. As they each find themselves, they also encourage each other & find love. As with the book that preceded this one, I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
December 5, 2016
A story of forgiving and healing. It had me from the beginning. It is a story that shows no matter your struggles and hardships in life, if you believe in yourself and never give up you can and will overcome the obstacles. Family and relationships must have a trust and understanding to help heal the past and this author has chosen to show us even though fictional it is real.
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