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Blackthorne Brothers #1
Declan
Estranged from their hometown for eight years, Declan Blackthorne and his brothers are called home in order to search for their missing father at the behest of Miss Molly, town matriarch and their loving aunt. Declan's brothers assume their father is off on a bender or finally smartened up enough to want to escape their wicked stepmother, but Declan knows in his gut that his father wouldn't leave the family dairy farm. Returning home to Healing Springs isn't an easy decision, but Declan can't ignore the feeling that his something tragic has swept his father away from the farm.
When Declan encounters the fiery vegan activist who can't stop herself from sneaking onto the farm in a misguided attempt to liberate the cows, he's forced to confront all of his previously held beliefs. He can't fight the spark between them, but can he trust her? As clues into their father's disappearance point toward her as a potential suspect, Declan is forced to confront his beliefs all over again.
When Declan encounters the fiery vegan activist who can't stop herself from sneaking onto the farm in a misguided attempt to liberate the cows, he's forced to confront all of his previously held beliefs. He can't fight the spark between them, but can he trust her? As clues into their father's disappearance point toward her as a potential suspect, Declan is forced to confront his beliefs all over again.
173 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 13, 2017
264 people are currently reading
274 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Torrey
35 books474 followersWhen not writing, USA Today Bestselling author Amanda Torrey enjoys spending time with her adult kids and her real-life hero. She loves reading, playing in nature/hugging trees, traveling, taking road trips (especially the kind that make everyone around her question her sanity), playing with her puppies, going to the movies, and binge-watching her favorite shows. Amanda is in love with elephants and castles and Scotland, and she is a true believer in happily-ever-after. She bursts into an instant good mood when people are unexpectedly kind or polite, and thinks there's nothing greater than connecting with a stranger through a smile. She loves meeting new people, and especially loves to hear from readers!
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January 26, 2018
Declan and his brothers come home to search for their dad that has turned up missing. But things seem to have gone seriously downhill on the farm. When Declan comes face to face with an activist protesting his family's dairy farm, it stirs more than anger in him and her both.
This book was a quick read and a good little romance book, but left the mystery of his missing father to the back burner and sort of a sidenote in the story that did not get solved in this book.
This book was a quick read and a good little romance book, but left the mystery of his missing father to the back burner and sort of a sidenote in the story that did not get solved in this book.
June 6, 2025
j’ai pas du tout aimé .. entre l’écriture, la vitesse de la relation et l’univers, j’ai tout sauf accroché.
November 18, 2017
Stars: 4 for overall story
Chilies: 4 for the heat between the sheets/or anywhere else
Chapters: 15
Ending: Cliffhanger warning; HEA
Characters:
Declan Blackthorne – One of the brothers (Kaden’s twin)
Great Aunt Miss Molly – the person who called the boys home
Blaze Blackthorne – 2nd oldest brother
Kaden Blackthorne – Stage name Kaden Decker (Declan’s twin)
Zander Blackthorne – Oldest brother
Rylee Duncan – Animal activist/protester
Brady – Rylee’s roommate/ex-boyfriend
Natalie – Step Sister
Step-Witch – Step Mother
Kate, Kyle, Aidyn – Fellow protesters
Series: Blackthorne Brothers
Review: YOU MUST READ THIS STORY! I absolutely love everything about this story. The feistiness that Rylee maintains through the story is in perfect balance of Declan! The two of them have such a strong chemistry from the beginning that will set everything a blaze!
This story does end with a cliffhanger with all the questions regarding the father’s disappearance, but does end with a HEA.
ARC read in exchange for honest review.
November 13, 2017
I absolutely LOVED Declan! Even though he has been gone from the farm for eight years, he has a heart of gold and loves the animals in his care. He stole my heart from the very beginning. Rylee, being a vegan and an activist, is against everything Declan does on the dairy farm, but cannot deny the electricity between them. She is blown away by the way he reacts to seeing how the farm has deteriorated over the years and the way the cows have been treated. The way he tenderly and lovingly cares for the injured cows warms her heart.
I really love Declan and Rylee’s romance. It’s not like any storyline I’ve read before. It was unique and refreshing. I loved how Declan was open to Rylee’s views and opinions and loved what he proposed to her.
I cannot wait to see what happens with Zander, Blaze, and Kaden’s books. I’m looking forward to seeing how they will find romance. I’m even more anxious to see what happened to their dad!
I really love Declan and Rylee’s romance. It’s not like any storyline I’ve read before. It was unique and refreshing. I loved how Declan was open to Rylee’s views and opinions and loved what he proposed to her.
I cannot wait to see what happens with Zander, Blaze, and Kaden’s books. I’m looking forward to seeing how they will find romance. I’m even more anxious to see what happened to their dad!
November 13, 2017
Small town haters to lovers romance that mixes a sexy romance with mystery and suspense
Declan is a fairly fast paced small town haters to lovers romance that mixes a sexy romance with a mystery and suspense theme to make this an intriguing read. Declan is the first book in this series and while it can be read as a standalone in regard to the couple, there is a sub-plot that isn’t resolved in this book.
Told from dual perspective, Declan and Rylee have a fiery chemistry from the very moment they meet and that chemistry only continues to spark as their attraction heats up. The two are complete opposites, a vegan animal rights protester and the son of a dairy farm; both are strong characters who were perfectly matched when facing off to each other. Watching these two war with their attraction and emotions is fun and when you mix in some farm animals too it makes for a fun read.
If you enjoy an easy to read and well written haters to lovers romance mixed with a small town and a dash of suspense, definitely give this book a read!
*I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
Declan is a fairly fast paced small town haters to lovers romance that mixes a sexy romance with a mystery and suspense theme to make this an intriguing read. Declan is the first book in this series and while it can be read as a standalone in regard to the couple, there is a sub-plot that isn’t resolved in this book.
Told from dual perspective, Declan and Rylee have a fiery chemistry from the very moment they meet and that chemistry only continues to spark as their attraction heats up. The two are complete opposites, a vegan animal rights protester and the son of a dairy farm; both are strong characters who were perfectly matched when facing off to each other. Watching these two war with their attraction and emotions is fun and when you mix in some farm animals too it makes for a fun read.
If you enjoy an easy to read and well written haters to lovers romance mixed with a small town and a dash of suspense, definitely give this book a read!
*I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
January 18, 2021
4.25. This sweet romance between an unlikely couple just made me smile. In addition to the developing sexy relationship between Declan (an account/ dairy farmer) and Rylee (a vegan, animal rights’ activist), the senior Mr. Blackthorne has disappeared. Since this books ends with no clues on the whereabouts of their father, it appears this plot will continue throughout each of his sons’ books.
This story is set at an organic dairy farm in New England. That was a refreshing change, as most books involving livestock take place on a horse or cattle ranch. This setting added originality.
I am not a fan of instant love, (lust, yes), however since I liked Declan and Rylee so much, I let it slide. The author took a creative approach to give this sexy, but mismatched couple a chance for a HEA. I do think there should have been more scenes of the brothers working together uncovering clues on their father’s disappearance. I look forward to seeing how the mystery plot continues in Zander’s book.
This story is set at an organic dairy farm in New England. That was a refreshing change, as most books involving livestock take place on a horse or cattle ranch. This setting added originality.
I am not a fan of instant love, (lust, yes), however since I liked Declan and Rylee so much, I let it slide. The author took a creative approach to give this sexy, but mismatched couple a chance for a HEA. I do think there should have been more scenes of the brothers working together uncovering clues on their father’s disappearance. I look forward to seeing how the mystery plot continues in Zander’s book.
November 13, 2017
This book is the first in Ms Torrey’s new series titled Blackthorne Brothers and it’s also the first book I read by this author.
The series centers around four brothers that left their home, a dairy farm, and the town of Healing Springs, eight years ago when their Dad married a woman they call the step-witch. Each went their separate ways but were summoned back by their aunt, Miss Molly, when their Father disappears.
Each of the brothers is unique and their lives have taken different directions, from a movie star to an accountant, Declan, whose real love is the dairy farm.
At the farm protestors are creating havoc, one in particular, Rylee, who is a vegan and an advocate for the cows.
It was entertaining with a dash of mystery and romance. Future stories of the other brothers should be interesting.
For me it was more of a 3.5 star story. Cute but not memorable.
I was gifted this copy. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
The series centers around four brothers that left their home, a dairy farm, and the town of Healing Springs, eight years ago when their Dad married a woman they call the step-witch. Each went their separate ways but were summoned back by their aunt, Miss Molly, when their Father disappears.
Each of the brothers is unique and their lives have taken different directions, from a movie star to an accountant, Declan, whose real love is the dairy farm.
At the farm protestors are creating havoc, one in particular, Rylee, who is a vegan and an advocate for the cows.
It was entertaining with a dash of mystery and romance. Future stories of the other brothers should be interesting.
For me it was more of a 3.5 star story. Cute but not memorable.
I was gifted this copy. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
March 13, 2018
Cliffhangers.........hate them
This is not a bad book but the mystery of where the father, which is why all 4 bothers come home is not answered in this book.
Their Aunt calls them (4 brothers) to tell them their father is missing and asks them to come home. When they get into town they don't even bother to check in with her first. The boys take over the farm and house but where is the step mother. We never hear from step mother but have a few scenes with the step sister. Confusing. Towards the end of the part of the story we are told that the aunt has had a stroke and is in the hospital unable to talk.
He's a dairy farmer at heart, she's a vegan activist. The idea that they can so easily compromise in the the end is far fetched. If she had just been against the abuse of the animals sure, but she is against all people eating any animals. I ended up skimming the steamy parts, so I can't say whether they were or not.
This is not a bad book but the mystery of where the father, which is why all 4 bothers come home is not answered in this book.
Their Aunt calls them (4 brothers) to tell them their father is missing and asks them to come home. When they get into town they don't even bother to check in with her first. The boys take over the farm and house but where is the step mother. We never hear from step mother but have a few scenes with the step sister. Confusing. Towards the end of the part of the story we are told that the aunt has had a stroke and is in the hospital unable to talk.
He's a dairy farmer at heart, she's a vegan activist. The idea that they can so easily compromise in the the end is far fetched. If she had just been against the abuse of the animals sure, but she is against all people eating any animals. I ended up skimming the steamy parts, so I can't say whether they were or not.
November 13, 2017
Something has happened to their father and it has brought the mysterious Blackthorne brothers back to the place they called home 8 years ago and haven’t visited since. Declan is the first to return and of the bunch the one most knowledgeable and willing to run the farm. But some things are out of his control, namely the hot little spit fire Rylee. She is nothing like his previous girl and not someone he should want but he’s done for, now all he has to do is convince her. Great story with the brothers all asserting their alpha genes which of course means clashes and plenty of testosterone. Love this authors style and gotta love her guys which are all man and all drool worthy especially Declan who won my heart. Can’t wait for Zander’s story.
November 15, 2017
I absolutely loved this story. The Blackthorne brothers are called home to try and find their missing father. The family farm is no longer as they remember it, it has become run down. Not at all as their father used to have it. There is suspense, mystery, romance and strong characters in this story. When Declan is confronted by Rylee, an animal activist determined to save the cows that are being abused on the farm, sparks fly. I would highly recommend this book. You will not be disappointed at all. Can't wait to read the stories of all the brothers. I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.
by Maggi on November 15, 2017
by Maggi on November 15, 2017
November 13, 2017
Ahh Declan.... what more could you want? Except maybe his brothers!!😉
This is a great quick read. Not too much angst or inner musings. The characters are likeable and the banter between the brothers makes it definitely worth a read. This book gives a great introduction to each of the brothers and I very much look forward to following the others in their own books. I'm also interested to see how the missing father mystery pans out.
I received my free ARC in return for an honest review.
January 23, 2018
Interesting premise, but fell flat. I'm hoping that the next book is fuller and has more build to it's characters and the world.
I didn't hate Declan and Rylee. I just couldn't figure out the pull he had for her.
I also can't figure out how the step monster can have a part in something so important as their father missing and yet the character has no dialog in the story.
I'll keep reading but only because I want to know own what happened to Mr. Blackthorne and what the heck is up with Kegan and Natalie
I didn't hate Declan and Rylee. I just couldn't figure out the pull he had for her.
I also can't figure out how the step monster can have a part in something so important as their father missing and yet the character has no dialog in the story.
I'll keep reading but only because I want to know own what happened to Mr. Blackthorne and what the heck is up with Kegan and Natalie
November 15, 2017
I received a complimentarily copy of this book and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
This was a nice way to spend a few hours. I loved the idea of a series a books based on brothers coming home to the home they left eight years old upon their father’s disappearance. I loved Declan’s character. I can’t wait to meet the others.
I love that Ms. Torrey wrote all the books and released them at the same time!!!! I hate having to wait for the following books to be released.
This was a nice way to spend a few hours. I loved the idea of a series a books based on brothers coming home to the home they left eight years old upon their father’s disappearance. I loved Declan’s character. I can’t wait to meet the others.
I love that Ms. Torrey wrote all the books and released them at the same time!!!! I hate having to wait for the following books to be released.
November 15, 2017
Wow, wow, wow. Loved this story of Declan and Rylee. Couldn't see how these two could possibly end up together with their opposing views. But the chemistry was so hot it was impossible for them to ignore. Some great humorous moments along the way too. Not to mention Declan's hot brothers who I'm really looking forward to reading more of. Promising to be a great series. Read an ARC for an honest review.
January 9, 2021
I have to say that I expected a bit more from the story; it’s nicely written but it lacks a bit of extra thrill.
The part where the brothers are looking for clues to find their missing father is mainly on the periphery of the plot, though it’s the main reason for them to return to their family farm ...
The love story (enemies to lovers) is only lukewarm ... so three stars.
I’ll see if the next book in the series gets better ...
The part where the brothers are looking for clues to find their missing father is mainly on the periphery of the plot, though it’s the main reason for them to return to their family farm ...
The love story (enemies to lovers) is only lukewarm ... so three stars.
I’ll see if the next book in the series gets better ...
November 14, 2017
This is my first book from this author and Ms. Torres did not disappoint. The story grabbed me from the first page and didn't let go not the last word was read. The characters where well defined and plotted out well. I would definitely recommend this book to readers who love a HEA. I voluntarily read this advanced readers copy. This review is my own and is my honest opinion
November 16, 2017
I like the storyline but in order to understand it, you should read the prequel. The author offers it on her website.
I like the dynamic between Declan and Riley. One minute they are kissing the next they are a fighting.
I love the brothers and think this is going to be a great series.
I voluntarily review for an ARC
I like the dynamic between Declan and Riley. One minute they are kissing the next they are a fighting.
I love the brothers and think this is going to be a great series.
I voluntarily review for an ARC
March 15, 2018
High school?
Struggled with this book. The dialogue comes across as high school ish and Declan is more like a nervous school boy than a grown man. Somewhat preachy on animal rights, taking away any mention of the missing father and potential romance. Too many hints at backstory for 6 characters and not enough main story for a romance or a mystery.
Struggled with this book. The dialogue comes across as high school ish and Declan is more like a nervous school boy than a grown man. Somewhat preachy on animal rights, taking away any mention of the missing father and potential romance. Too many hints at backstory for 6 characters and not enough main story for a romance or a mystery.
August 12, 2019
Ok
This book is an average rating for me. It is not bad and I know that it is fiction but I just can't see a rancher falling for an over zealous vegetarian who is trying to put him out of business. I don't have any patience with vegans or any other type of people who think they have the right to force everyone else to live their same lifestyle.
This book is an average rating for me. It is not bad and I know that it is fiction but I just can't see a rancher falling for an over zealous vegetarian who is trying to put him out of business. I don't have any patience with vegans or any other type of people who think they have the right to force everyone else to live their same lifestyle.
January 19, 2021
This one was different than anything I’ve read in a while. Yes it is a romance, yes it has mystery, yes it has a hot hero and a stubborn heroine but there was mystery that dragged me further. I wanted to see how two completely opposite people could make it work. Now I’m invested... I need to know what happened to their dad and I have a feeling step monster knows more than she is saying...
January 26, 2021
I enjoyed all these Blackthorne brothers. The characters are all believable and likeable and the interactions amongst the brothers and their gals and their stories are great. You need to read them all though because of the mystery running throughout them which is not resolved until the last book. I’m glad I got them at discount. Well done!
November 13, 2017
Great first book. I can’t wait to find out more surrounding the disappearance of their father. I enjoyed this storyline. It’s most definitely a refreshing change from the normal contemporary romance scene.
November 14, 2017
An enjoyable tale of scattered family pulling together in the face of adversity. Four very diverse brothers called back home to help solve a mystery, save the family farm from ruin and hopefully survive each other. This was a great first instalment of a truly intriguing story.
November 15, 2017
Great book
Over this book. You must read the prequel before starting this book. Great characters and plot. Love the character interaction. Hooked from start to finish. Can't wait for the next book
Over this book. You must read the prequel before starting this book. Great characters and plot. Love the character interaction. Hooked from start to finish. Can't wait for the next book
November 16, 2017
At first I couldn’t get into the story, but as it progressed I enjoyed the relationship between Declan and Rylee. I’m glad I didn’t give up because it turned out to be a nice love story.
I voluntarily reviewed this ARC
I voluntarily reviewed this ARC
January 21, 2018
Great
The brothers a have come home to the farm to find out what happened to their dad. Things are worse. He's misusing, the farm is a mess. Declan ius dealing with the protestors and finding his dad.
The brothers a have come home to the farm to find out what happened to their dad. Things are worse. He's misusing, the farm is a mess. Declan ius dealing with the protestors and finding his dad.
January 25, 2018
Sweet story
Sweet story with a little spice and a little mystery. I loved the connection between Declan and Rylee. I would have loved to get to know them more and look forward to the rest of the series.
Sweet story with a little spice and a little mystery. I loved the connection between Declan and Rylee. I would have loved to get to know them more and look forward to the rest of the series.
July 27, 2018
Well written cliff hanger
This is a typical romance with an element of mystery. The author puts together a fine story however it is a total cliffhanger and not worth reading unless you wish to shell out for the next four books.
This is a typical romance with an element of mystery. The author puts together a fine story however it is a total cliffhanger and not worth reading unless you wish to shell out for the next four books.
April 24, 2020
One of the worst books i ever read.
I am sorry I read this book. Really thought it would make sense but it didn't. They characters were all over the place. No one had any redeeming qualities. The ending was a cliffhanger.
I am sorry I read this book. Really thought it would make sense but it didn't. They characters were all over the place. No one had any redeeming qualities. The ending was a cliffhanger.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews