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Montana #5
Second Chance Ranch
Rob runs to Crooked Tree determined to find a safe place for his nephews. A family for them is the final thing on his list, and then he can vanish completely. Falling for a local paramedic along the way is a disaster in Rob’s otherwise perfect plans.
Paramedic Aaron, the middle of five brothers, would like someone to love. A great believer in fate he is convinced though, that one day he’ll find someone. He just never thought it would be a man in so much pain, or that children would be part of the package.
Rob is ready to leave. Aaron wants him to stay. Their love has an expiry date, and it’s tearing them apart. Can they find a way to save what they have?
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 25, 2018
151 people are currently reading
234 people want to read
About the author
R.J. Scott
307 books2,720 followersRJ Scott writes heartwarming, passionate MM/gay romance stories where every man finds his happily ever after. When not writing, she enjoys reading books, watching movies, spending time with her family, following Formula 1 (Forza Ferrari!), and cheering on the Pittsburgh Penguins. Email her here: rj@rjscott.co.uk
Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release
Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
September 5, 2018
Dear RJ Scott...
could you please, kindly stop making me cry first thing in the morning...yep, once again I started my day in tears because of you.
But while we're at it thanks for making some of them happy tears that helped a lot...
full review to follow soonish!
‘Second Chance Ranch’ is the 5th book in R.J. Scott’s Montana series and for me it was also the ultimate in 2nd chance stories. While I’ve enjoyed all of the stories in this series and this may have been the 5th book in the series it’s absolutely #1 as my favorite book of the series so far.
We’ve seen glimpses of Rob in some of the previous books he was a part of the Justin’s life during his missing years…a part that Justin never wanted to see again, but things have changed for Rob and he’s in desperate need of help and with Justin being the closest thing he has to a friend…where else can he go?
And we’ve seen glimpses of Aaron in previous stories as well…Aaron is one of the Carter brothers, there are 5 in total…there’s Sheriff Ryan Carter, we met him as one of the MCs in ‘Snow in Montana’, along with Jason the fire fighter, Karl the owner of Carters (the local bar/pub) and Eddie the accountant. I know after 3 adrenalin junkies and the owner of the local night life hotspot…an accountant seems a bit bizarre, but it is what it is. You’re probably thinking so why does this matter but trust me on this one it matters because all of these people matter to some degree, at some point in one or more of these stories and as well as being Aaron and Rob’s story there’s another story playing out in the background for another one of the Carter brothers.
Overall in this series we actually have 4 families who are central to this series the Todds, the Allens and the Strachans, the 3 families that founded/own/manage ‘Crooked Tree Ranch’ and the Carters whose family may not be a part of the ranch but are very much a part of the Crooked Tree family all the same.
In each of the books in this series we’ve been given the answers to a bigger mystery one that began when the men in these stories were very young and now with this 5th installment in the Montana series we get a story that’s come full circle…what started on The Crooked Tree Ranch has come back as Rob comes to the ranch looking for help for himself and his nephews.
Rob’s plan is to make sure his nephews have a home, a place where they’ll be safe and then his list is finished, and he’ll be disappearing for the last time, except by the time he’s ready to go it’s to late and all Aaron wants is for him to stay…ok, that pretty much sets the scene now for the important stuff…
This book…I don’t even know where to begin with this one. I was neither expecting nor was I prepared for how many feelz were in this story. I’m not even going to go into the how’s or whys of it but this one kind of crept up on me with how much it made my heartache. I really liked both Rob and Aaron from the minute they first met. Their interactions felt good, right…natural. There was snark so much awesome snark…sorry, I’m a fan of this and with these two if it had been any different I think I would have been disappointed.
While I’ve enjoyed all of the stories in this series with ‘Second Chance Ranch’ R.J. Scott has brought this one to life for me in a way that hadn’t happened yet and she made me cry…seriously there was me lying in bed early in the morning thinking I don’t feel like getting up yet, I’ll just quietly lie here and read. I can be nice and let the hubby sleep and that’s what I did…until…that’s right until the tears started the big ugly, gulping sobbing tears that I had to try and stifle so that I wouldn’t wake people up and then when I’d almost got them under control the other tears started…you know the ones I mean, the ones that are streaming down your face while you’re sitting there holding your breath whispering ‘yes, yes, thank you so much.’ because the author…that person who could have left you broken with your sadness has fixed you…so, thank you R.J. not for making me cry those ugly tears but for remembering to fix me.
‘Second Chance Ranch’ is for me the best one yet but only if you read it last.
*************************
An ARC of 'Second Chance Ranch' was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest
could you please, kindly stop making me cry first thing in the morning...yep, once again I started my day in tears because of you.
But while we're at it thanks for making some of them happy tears that helped a lot...
full review to follow soonish!
‘Second Chance Ranch’ is the 5th book in R.J. Scott’s Montana series and for me it was also the ultimate in 2nd chance stories. While I’ve enjoyed all of the stories in this series and this may have been the 5th book in the series it’s absolutely #1 as my favorite book of the series so far.
We’ve seen glimpses of Rob in some of the previous books he was a part of the Justin’s life during his missing years…a part that Justin never wanted to see again, but things have changed for Rob and he’s in desperate need of help and with Justin being the closest thing he has to a friend…where else can he go?
And we’ve seen glimpses of Aaron in previous stories as well…Aaron is one of the Carter brothers, there are 5 in total…there’s Sheriff Ryan Carter, we met him as one of the MCs in ‘Snow in Montana’, along with Jason the fire fighter, Karl the owner of Carters (the local bar/pub) and Eddie the accountant. I know after 3 adrenalin junkies and the owner of the local night life hotspot…an accountant seems a bit bizarre, but it is what it is. You’re probably thinking so why does this matter but trust me on this one it matters because all of these people matter to some degree, at some point in one or more of these stories and as well as being Aaron and Rob’s story there’s another story playing out in the background for another one of the Carter brothers.
Overall in this series we actually have 4 families who are central to this series the Todds, the Allens and the Strachans, the 3 families that founded/own/manage ‘Crooked Tree Ranch’ and the Carters whose family may not be a part of the ranch but are very much a part of the Crooked Tree family all the same.
In each of the books in this series we’ve been given the answers to a bigger mystery one that began when the men in these stories were very young and now with this 5th installment in the Montana series we get a story that’s come full circle…what started on The Crooked Tree Ranch has come back as Rob comes to the ranch looking for help for himself and his nephews.
Rob’s plan is to make sure his nephews have a home, a place where they’ll be safe and then his list is finished, and he’ll be disappearing for the last time, except by the time he’s ready to go it’s to late and all Aaron wants is for him to stay…ok, that pretty much sets the scene now for the important stuff…
This book…I don’t even know where to begin with this one. I was neither expecting nor was I prepared for how many feelz were in this story. I’m not even going to go into the how’s or whys of it but this one kind of crept up on me with how much it made my heartache. I really liked both Rob and Aaron from the minute they first met. Their interactions felt good, right…natural. There was snark so much awesome snark…sorry, I’m a fan of this and with these two if it had been any different I think I would have been disappointed.
While I’ve enjoyed all of the stories in this series with ‘Second Chance Ranch’ R.J. Scott has brought this one to life for me in a way that hadn’t happened yet and she made me cry…seriously there was me lying in bed early in the morning thinking I don’t feel like getting up yet, I’ll just quietly lie here and read. I can be nice and let the hubby sleep and that’s what I did…until…that’s right until the tears started the big ugly, gulping sobbing tears that I had to try and stifle so that I wouldn’t wake people up and then when I’d almost got them under control the other tears started…you know the ones I mean, the ones that are streaming down your face while you’re sitting there holding your breath whispering ‘yes, yes, thank you so much.’ because the author…that person who could have left you broken with your sadness has fixed you…so, thank you R.J. not for making me cry those ugly tears but for remembering to fix me.
‘Second Chance Ranch’ is for me the best one yet but only if you read it last.
*************************
An ARC of 'Second Chance Ranch' was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest
January 7, 2023
2.5 rounded up. This had the bones of a great story but lacked depth and relationship development. For most of the book the 2 MCs have parallel plots that seldom intersect. Still we see why they are perfect for each other it's just hard to see how they know that, does that make sense? Rob has discovered he is in charge of his 2 nephews after the death of his sister. He comes to drop them at Crooked Tree Ranch because he has a medical issue. He says he doesn't want a family but we can see that he really does. Aaron really wants a family of his own and is very involved with his own family drama (nothing OTT just life). Those 2 plot lines could have intersected if the 2 MCs had learned to know each other slowly and supported each other. But that's not what happen, at first they mostly talk about sex and Aaron keeps reaching out because he is intrigued by the mysterious Rob. Not a total bust but a missed opportunity.
September 9, 2018
5th book of the Montana Ranch series and the one I enjoyed the most with The Rancher's Son (book2). I got attached to all the protagonists of this series and was quite excited to have a book about Rob, Justin’s ex-“colleague” in Justice/crime, and about Aaron, the caring paramedic who helped to save Justin’s life, two characters that left quite an impression for me in A Cowboy's Home (book3).
Not a standalone, imo : without the background of what happened before at this ranch, it would be hard to connect.
This story took me by surprise. I thought it would be more “action”-packed, due to Rob’s past. But no : it’s all about family, friendship, life and care. And my mellow side kicked in hard : I totally went on board, with huge sights of satisfaction. Yes, my eyes got a bit moisty !!
This is a bittersweet romance between 2 tough men, with a shot at a second chance at life. And yes, I needed to believe that, despite the odds, there will be an HEA for them and the kids. Not very steamy (but after all, that would have felt weird due to Rob's condition), but nice on the feels.
I read that it maybe the last part of this series. For once, I wouldn’t have minded an epilogue for the whole series, so I could say goodbye to all the characters. Corny, maybe ? Yes, but, as I said, this author has a knack for drawing characters I have a fondness for !!
Not a standalone, imo : without the background of what happened before at this ranch, it would be hard to connect.
This story took me by surprise. I thought it would be more “action”-packed, due to Rob’s past. But no : it’s all about family, friendship, life and care. And my mellow side kicked in hard : I totally went on board, with huge sights of satisfaction. Yes, my eyes got a bit moisty !!
This is a bittersweet romance between 2 tough men, with a shot at a second chance at life. And yes, I needed to believe that, despite the odds, there will be an HEA for them and the kids. Not very steamy (but after all, that would have felt weird due to Rob's condition), but nice on the feels.
I read that it maybe the last part of this series. For once, I wouldn’t have minded an epilogue for the whole series, so I could say goodbye to all the characters. Corny, maybe ? Yes, but, as I said, this author has a knack for drawing characters I have a fondness for !!
October 8, 2018
**** A marvelous story by RJ Scott, about deeply troubled men who find their peace. ****
Rob, green eyes and dark hair, is an ex-SEAL, then assassin, who claims his nephews, Bran, 8, and younger Toby, after his sister died.
He heads to Crooked Tree, in Helena, Montana, where his only friend lives, so the kids will have a chance when he disappears.
Aaron, blonde ex-Army, now EMT, with lots of family,
including 4 brothers, responds to the traffic accident where he finds Rob, tending the injured.
They meet, and it leads to more and soon, it's sex up against the tree. Rob has a secret that is killing him. We see swimming lessons, horseback riding, and a surprise pregnancy.
Later, Rob is spilling his story to Justin, his friend, and things change when Rob gets his epiphany.
Deeply troubled Rob, is rough and tough, but the loving man, Aaron, helps find their emotions on track. Rob was a SEAL and trained killer, hard to the core, but once his decision is made, he allowed himself to have feelings for Aaron and the boys. These two aren't mushy, but become devoted.
This tale is beautifully written and we are given memorable situations to learn from and we're shown how love can conquer all.
Highly recommended. ENJOY !
===
( suicide, attempts discussed, accidental pregnancy )
======
Rob, green eyes and dark hair, is an ex-SEAL, then assassin, who claims his nephews, Bran, 8, and younger Toby, after his sister died.
He heads to Crooked Tree, in Helena, Montana, where his only friend lives, so the kids will have a chance when he disappears.
Aaron, blonde ex-Army, now EMT, with lots of family,
including 4 brothers, responds to the traffic accident where he finds Rob, tending the injured.
They meet, and it leads to more and soon, it's sex up against the tree. Rob has a secret that is killing him. We see swimming lessons, horseback riding, and a surprise pregnancy.
Later, Rob is spilling his story to Justin, his friend, and things change when Rob gets his epiphany.
Deeply troubled Rob, is rough and tough, but the loving man, Aaron, helps find their emotions on track. Rob was a SEAL and trained killer, hard to the core, but once his decision is made, he allowed himself to have feelings for Aaron and the boys. These two aren't mushy, but become devoted.
This tale is beautifully written and we are given memorable situations to learn from and we're shown how love can conquer all.
Highly recommended. ENJOY !
===
( suicide, attempts discussed, accidental pregnancy )
======
April 12, 2019
“If anyone who knew him had seen he was being handed two children to take care of, they'd call the cops. Of course, he could handle the cops. He’d done it before, but the kids would slow him down. Unless he strapped them to his back and—” – Rob, professional assassin, Second Chance Ranch
This book took my breath away, so much so that I don’t even know where to start my review. On one hand, it is very much in line with the previous books in the series in terms of the main characters and the tough choices they have to make, the complications and obstacles their love encounters, and, of course, the partially shared backstory of the various families who live at the Crooked Tree Ranch. But on the other hand, ‘Second Chance Ranch’ is also so much more. It’s a breathtaking story and I am so glad it won’t be the last in the series!
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
This book took my breath away, so much so that I don’t even know where to start my review. On one hand, it is very much in line with the previous books in the series in terms of the main characters and the tough choices they have to make, the complications and obstacles their love encounters, and, of course, the partially shared backstory of the various families who live at the Crooked Tree Ranch. But on the other hand, ‘Second Chance Ranch’ is also so much more. It’s a breathtaking story and I am so glad it won’t be the last in the series!
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
August 28, 2018
I love this whole series!!!
I’ll admit, it’s been a minute, so I had to go back and remind myself who Rob was, but if you loved and read Justin and Sam’s story, you’ll remember that he’s a former partner of Justin’s, sent to kill him in their book. Of course, he didn’t, because he wanted out of the life just as Justin did, but that didn’t mean he wasn’t dangerous and that when he left Justin alive, he didn’t think he’d ever see him again..
Rob never counted on checking on the sister he’d left behind at 18, when he signed up to serve his country. Imagine his surprise that she’d not only died but she’d left him her two children, boys, Toby and Bran. Now, we all know Jennifer’s a sucker for stories involving kids, and this one was no different. The two boys were a major part of this story; more so even than relationship that forms between Rob and Aaron, the sheriff’s brother, the paramedic. Remember him? Yeeeeah, I was excited for him too.
Unfortunately, things hadn’t been easy for Toby and Bran, shuffling into foster homes until they found Rob; (which meant, Rob wanted to be found), he was all set to leave them in foster care until he checked out the home of where the boys were staying and moved heaven and earth to get them with him. He didn’t know what to do with them and the boys didn’t trust him for a good little bit; but they needed him… they needed each other, Rob just didn’t realize it yet.
Rob had been shot and left badly injured after his last mission, and the effects from that were a problem. We don’t get to that problem for a while though, so I was left frustrated with Rob the majority of the book. And figuring something is going to happen to him; he takes the boys to Crooked Tree Ranch, because he hopes that Justin will have his back. It’s slow going, but Justin and Sam were my favorite and I knew that Justin would indeed have his back and take care of those kids should he and Sam need to. I fell in love with him all over again.
My heart still hurt for Rob, because I knew how hard he was trying to keep a distance from the kids, and trying to get the kids to keep their distance from him as well; and I hated seeing it; because those kids needed him so badly.
See, Jennifer not only loves stories about hot guys with kids; but she also has two kids, two boys and was a single parent until her oldest was 5. Remembering them trying to impress my husband of the last 9 years, wanting him to love them and be to them what they didn’t have. Stories like this one hit’s me close to home…. (okay, and Jennifer will stop referring to herself in the 3rd person, and also mention, he jumped into that dad role and has been the best one ever since) So, I was rooting for this small family, even when I thought it was impossible.
I shouldn’t have worried though, not really; I’ve read this entire series and I’m also a big fan of Ms. Scott, and I know that especially in this series; we get our happily ever afters! And Aaron, he was stubborn, having all those brothers, I’m sure he had to be; but it worked in his favor here. He didn’t let Rob scare him or push him away, and the quiet way he loved Rob, not pushing him, even when he knew what the outcome would likely be….He was just there, loving him in the time he got with him. He fought for them, but he couldn’t make him do anything unless Rob was willing to fight for all of them. It was Justin who pushed, and I loved him all the more for it.
I loved them all actually, I don’t even know what I’m saying. And while Justin and Sam remain my favorite, I’ll have to say that Toby and Bran are a very close second. I’d love to read more about this little family and I hope we get so much more from this series. I love them all, and I loved the way this one ended. Yay for all of them..
Sigh…. Great addition… I’ll take the next one, now please :D
5 stars from me!
I’ll admit, it’s been a minute, so I had to go back and remind myself who Rob was, but if you loved and read Justin and Sam’s story, you’ll remember that he’s a former partner of Justin’s, sent to kill him in their book. Of course, he didn’t, because he wanted out of the life just as Justin did, but that didn’t mean he wasn’t dangerous and that when he left Justin alive, he didn’t think he’d ever see him again..
Rob never counted on checking on the sister he’d left behind at 18, when he signed up to serve his country. Imagine his surprise that she’d not only died but she’d left him her two children, boys, Toby and Bran. Now, we all know Jennifer’s a sucker for stories involving kids, and this one was no different. The two boys were a major part of this story; more so even than relationship that forms between Rob and Aaron, the sheriff’s brother, the paramedic. Remember him? Yeeeeah, I was excited for him too.
Unfortunately, things hadn’t been easy for Toby and Bran, shuffling into foster homes until they found Rob; (which meant, Rob wanted to be found), he was all set to leave them in foster care until he checked out the home of where the boys were staying and moved heaven and earth to get them with him. He didn’t know what to do with them and the boys didn’t trust him for a good little bit; but they needed him… they needed each other, Rob just didn’t realize it yet.
Rob had been shot and left badly injured after his last mission, and the effects from that were a problem. We don’t get to that problem for a while though, so I was left frustrated with Rob the majority of the book. And figuring something is going to happen to him; he takes the boys to Crooked Tree Ranch, because he hopes that Justin will have his back. It’s slow going, but Justin and Sam were my favorite and I knew that Justin would indeed have his back and take care of those kids should he and Sam need to. I fell in love with him all over again.
My heart still hurt for Rob, because I knew how hard he was trying to keep a distance from the kids, and trying to get the kids to keep their distance from him as well; and I hated seeing it; because those kids needed him so badly.
See, Jennifer not only loves stories about hot guys with kids; but she also has two kids, two boys and was a single parent until her oldest was 5. Remembering them trying to impress my husband of the last 9 years, wanting him to love them and be to them what they didn’t have. Stories like this one hit’s me close to home…. (okay, and Jennifer will stop referring to herself in the 3rd person, and also mention, he jumped into that dad role and has been the best one ever since) So, I was rooting for this small family, even when I thought it was impossible.
I shouldn’t have worried though, not really; I’ve read this entire series and I’m also a big fan of Ms. Scott, and I know that especially in this series; we get our happily ever afters! And Aaron, he was stubborn, having all those brothers, I’m sure he had to be; but it worked in his favor here. He didn’t let Rob scare him or push him away, and the quiet way he loved Rob, not pushing him, even when he knew what the outcome would likely be….He was just there, loving him in the time he got with him. He fought for them, but he couldn’t make him do anything unless Rob was willing to fight for all of them. It was Justin who pushed, and I loved him all the more for it.
I loved them all actually, I don’t even know what I’m saying. And while Justin and Sam remain my favorite, I’ll have to say that Toby and Bran are a very close second. I’d love to read more about this little family and I hope we get so much more from this series. I love them all, and I loved the way this one ended. Yay for all of them..
Sigh…. Great addition… I’ll take the next one, now please :D
5 stars from me!
August 17, 2018
My favourite one yet in this excellent series. I just fell for Rob hook, line and sinker and was so glad Aaron wouldn't let him wallow in his misery.
Together they were dynamite and the dynamic between them of two Alpha males not willing to stand down or give ground was hot as all Hell! The premise of the narrative also worked really well for me, Rob needs somewhere safe to take the nephews he's suddenly inherited guardianship of and the only place he can think of is Justin's Crooked Tree Ranch.
There's a bit of understandable fear on Justin's part when his former assassin partner turns up with two young boys but I loved that they still had that connection and when Justin discovered why Rob was there, his support came easily.
Aaron's a fabulous character too, he's not easily cowed by Rob's aura of danger and I absolutely loved the whole Army/Navy rivalry and ribbing the two men had going.
If this is the last in the Montana series, then I think RJ has done an incredible job in rounding out all the stories of the men connected to this wonderful ranch.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Together they were dynamite and the dynamic between them of two Alpha males not willing to stand down or give ground was hot as all Hell! The premise of the narrative also worked really well for me, Rob needs somewhere safe to take the nephews he's suddenly inherited guardianship of and the only place he can think of is Justin's Crooked Tree Ranch.
There's a bit of understandable fear on Justin's part when his former assassin partner turns up with two young boys but I loved that they still had that connection and when Justin discovered why Rob was there, his support came easily.
Aaron's a fabulous character too, he's not easily cowed by Rob's aura of danger and I absolutely loved the whole Army/Navy rivalry and ribbing the two men had going.
If this is the last in the Montana series, then I think RJ has done an incredible job in rounding out all the stories of the men connected to this wonderful ranch.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
August 21, 2018
Rob is an ex-Navy Seal and assassin who recently took custody of his two nephews, Bran and Toby. He knows Justin and decides to head to Crooked Tree Ranch. He's also keeping a secret that will impact his nephews badly if he continues on his path.
Aaron is ex-Army special forces, a paramedic and the third Carter brother. He's still not back to dating since his love died in his arms while they where in the Army together. He's still hoping that he'll find someone to love.
Rob and Aaron meet when there's a bad wreck leading to trapped people in a car. Rob can't leave them there and Aaron thinks he's an idiot for getting into a car on fire and not leaving when he's told to. Rob continues onto Crooked Tree Ranch and things are rocky with his reception. While Rob and his nephews are staying at the ranch, Rob tries his best not to care about his nephews, Justin and especially Aaron, but things are conspiring against him and his feelings start to grow. Justin starts to relax toward Rob and when he finds out about Rob's secret, agrees to help Rob in his mission. When it comes time to carry out his plan, Rob is persuaded to change course for the better.
This is an insta lust, slow burn to love book with great chemistry between Rob and Aaron. I definitely felt like this was a real romance. There's not much sex and what's there is tame by most standards but I felt like it worked in this book. You can feel Rob and his nephews circling each other and finally opening up to each other. There's some cute moments when Aaron's brother Eddie talks to him about intimate things and there's a sad moment when a close friend of Aaron's brother Saul passes away. There's also a surprising and happy ending for Saul, who after raising his four brothers definitely deserves it.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and believe it's a good ending to a good series. I couldn't stop once I started reading. I definitely recommend this book and the whole series to anyone who likes a little mystery, a little drama and a whole lot of good romance. One of Rj's best books IMO.
ARC given for an honest review.
Aaron is ex-Army special forces, a paramedic and the third Carter brother. He's still not back to dating since his love died in his arms while they where in the Army together. He's still hoping that he'll find someone to love.
Rob and Aaron meet when there's a bad wreck leading to trapped people in a car. Rob can't leave them there and Aaron thinks he's an idiot for getting into a car on fire and not leaving when he's told to. Rob continues onto Crooked Tree Ranch and things are rocky with his reception. While Rob and his nephews are staying at the ranch, Rob tries his best not to care about his nephews, Justin and especially Aaron, but things are conspiring against him and his feelings start to grow. Justin starts to relax toward Rob and when he finds out about Rob's secret, agrees to help Rob in his mission. When it comes time to carry out his plan, Rob is persuaded to change course for the better.
This is an insta lust, slow burn to love book with great chemistry between Rob and Aaron. I definitely felt like this was a real romance. There's not much sex and what's there is tame by most standards but I felt like it worked in this book. You can feel Rob and his nephews circling each other and finally opening up to each other. There's some cute moments when Aaron's brother Eddie talks to him about intimate things and there's a sad moment when a close friend of Aaron's brother Saul passes away. There's also a surprising and happy ending for Saul, who after raising his four brothers definitely deserves it.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and believe it's a good ending to a good series. I couldn't stop once I started reading. I definitely recommend this book and the whole series to anyone who likes a little mystery, a little drama and a whole lot of good romance. One of Rj's best books IMO.
ARC given for an honest review.
April 28, 2019
I must be in an awful mood. I can't seem to find books that I like. Didn't like this at all. The MCs were awful. Even the kids didn't save it for me.
Hope this series will end in a good one though cause I really did enjoy most of the installments.
Hope this series will end in a good one though cause I really did enjoy most of the installments.
August 23, 2018
Rob is a killer, cold and in control. His sister dies, leaving him as guardian to his nephews. Hardly able to care for himself and not willing to take on the responsibility of these children, he look for a way out. His old partner, Justin, in at the Crooked Tree Ranch. He figures he can convince Justin to take the boys. If not him then surely someone else will want them. He has a very limited time to get them taken care of.
Aaron’s a paramedic. He meets Rob under stressful conditions and is immediately drawn to him. He want Rob and does everything in his power to get him. Rob can’t get rid of Aaron, no matter what he says or does the man just doesn’t give up.
Rob knows his time with the boys and the man who has sneaked into his heart is coming to an end. The most difficult decision he’s ever made can no longer be put off.
I have enjoyed the Crooked Tree series. All the characters have been excellent. I think Rob and Aaron have become my favorite. They are so hot and sweet together (even though Rob was a pain at times). I think this is the end of the series and it definitely is going out on a high note. Read the whole series and enjoy.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
Aaron’s a paramedic. He meets Rob under stressful conditions and is immediately drawn to him. He want Rob and does everything in his power to get him. Rob can’t get rid of Aaron, no matter what he says or does the man just doesn’t give up.
Rob knows his time with the boys and the man who has sneaked into his heart is coming to an end. The most difficult decision he’s ever made can no longer be put off.
I have enjoyed the Crooked Tree series. All the characters have been excellent. I think Rob and Aaron have become my favorite. They are so hot and sweet together (even though Rob was a pain at times). I think this is the end of the series and it definitely is going out on a high note. Read the whole series and enjoy.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
August 2, 2021
4+
Powrót do Crooked Tree Ranch i dobrej historii - ta wcześniejsza to był jakiś drobny wypadek przy pracy 😁
Przebłyski Roba i Aarona mieliśmy już w tomie poświęconym Justinowi i Samowi, z których zresztą ten pierwszy odgrywa sporą rolę tutaj. Rob to były kumpel Justina z "pracy" - nieistniejącej już, nieoficjalnej, liczącej kilka osób komórce eliminującej terrorystów. Nagle i niespodziewanie ten były zabójca, który od lat nie kontaktował się z siostrą, który zerwał wszelkie więzy, który nie pozwał sobie na żadne uczucia, którego jedynym przyjacielem (choć to mocno naciągane określenie) jest Justin - zostaje opiekunem swoich dwóch małych siostrzeńców. I zaczyna się wyścig z czasem. Bo Rob umiera. Odłamki kuli, które utkwiły w tkance bliznowatej mięśni przy kręgosłupie sączą ołów do jego krwioobiegu. Odmawia operacji, która może skończyć się jego śmiercią (z tym nie ma problemu) bądź paraliżem (na to się nie zgadza). Woli odejść z tego świata na własnych warunkach. Ale najpierw musi znaleźć bezpieczny, kochający dom dla swoich siostrzeńców. I jedyne, co mu przychodzi do głowy, to Crooked Tree Ranch i Justin z Samem jako główne postacie jego planu. Choć nie ma pewności, czy Justin go nie zastrzeli, albo przynajmniej nie wyrzuci na zbity pysk, jedzie tam z chłopcami...
Aaron to ratownik medyczny. To on tak naprawdę udzielił pomocy Justinowi, kiedy ten był na granicy śmierci i - przynajmniej z medycznego punktu widzenia - go uratował. Ma czterech braci, w tym szeryfa Ryana, którego historia jest opisana w poprzednim tomie. Były wojskowy polowy medyk, stracił na wojnie tego, którego kochał - umierał na jego rękach na polu bitwy. Po tym nie zaciągnął się już ponownie. Wrócił do domu i zaczął pracować jako ratownik medyczny. I w nieoczekiwanych okolicznościach ta dwójka samców alfa się spotyka...
Dobrze mi się czytało, naprawdę. Choć na pewno nie jest to najlepsza seria świata, to się w nią wkręciłam. Wkręciłam się w Crooked Tree Ranch, losy jego bohaterów i tych okolicznych z nimi związanych. Czasami seria ma to "coś" w sobie, co przemawia do Ciebie - choć niekoniecznie do innych 😉 Wszystkie 5 części przeczytałam jednym tchem i tylko jedna mnie rozczarowała. I tylko szkoda, że został mi ostatni tom 😕
Powrót do Crooked Tree Ranch i dobrej historii - ta wcześniejsza to był jakiś drobny wypadek przy pracy 😁
Przebłyski Roba i Aarona mieliśmy już w tomie poświęconym Justinowi i Samowi, z których zresztą ten pierwszy odgrywa sporą rolę tutaj. Rob to były kumpel Justina z "pracy" - nieistniejącej już, nieoficjalnej, liczącej kilka osób komórce eliminującej terrorystów. Nagle i niespodziewanie ten były zabójca, który od lat nie kontaktował się z siostrą, który zerwał wszelkie więzy, który nie pozwał sobie na żadne uczucia, którego jedynym przyjacielem (choć to mocno naciągane określenie) jest Justin - zostaje opiekunem swoich dwóch małych siostrzeńców. I zaczyna się wyścig z czasem. Bo Rob umiera. Odłamki kuli, które utkwiły w tkance bliznowatej mięśni przy kręgosłupie sączą ołów do jego krwioobiegu. Odmawia operacji, która może skończyć się jego śmiercią (z tym nie ma problemu) bądź paraliżem (na to się nie zgadza). Woli odejść z tego świata na własnych warunkach. Ale najpierw musi znaleźć bezpieczny, kochający dom dla swoich siostrzeńców. I jedyne, co mu przychodzi do głowy, to Crooked Tree Ranch i Justin z Samem jako główne postacie jego planu. Choć nie ma pewności, czy Justin go nie zastrzeli, albo przynajmniej nie wyrzuci na zbity pysk, jedzie tam z chłopcami...
Aaron to ratownik medyczny. To on tak naprawdę udzielił pomocy Justinowi, kiedy ten był na granicy śmierci i - przynajmniej z medycznego punktu widzenia - go uratował. Ma czterech braci, w tym szeryfa Ryana, którego historia jest opisana w poprzednim tomie. Były wojskowy polowy medyk, stracił na wojnie tego, którego kochał - umierał na jego rękach na polu bitwy. Po tym nie zaciągnął się już ponownie. Wrócił do domu i zaczął pracować jako ratownik medyczny. I w nieoczekiwanych okolicznościach ta dwójka samców alfa się spotyka...
Dobrze mi się czytało, naprawdę. Choć na pewno nie jest to najlepsza seria świata, to się w nią wkręciłam. Wkręciłam się w Crooked Tree Ranch, losy jego bohaterów i tych okolicznych z nimi związanych. Czasami seria ma to "coś" w sobie, co przemawia do Ciebie - choć niekoniecznie do innych 😉 Wszystkie 5 części przeczytałam jednym tchem i tylko jedna mnie rozczarowała. I tylko szkoda, że został mi ostatni tom 😕
September 1, 2018
For the final book, I was really kind of hoping for a little more growth for the series but it fell right in with the same formula that all the other books in the series followed. For the seriousness of this issue, the book was much, much too short and the instalove (again) was unbelievable. I actually loved the idea of these guys, Aaron and Rob but I feel like we were robbed of a full blooded story around serious issues. Not just Rob, but the other issues that are so briefly touched on but then abandoned (why did we get the female PTSD lecture and the whole warrior house scene? What did that have to do with the rest of the story? Seemed exploitive and preachy. Why did we get the Michaela scenes? I know that they all touched on the same subject but none of this came together and gelled at all).
However, as much as the romance in this book was rushed and ridiculous, the Rob and his issues actually did make me cry while I was reading this. It does grab the emotions, it just squanders them on rushed sex (that should have been much hotter for the hook up factor being used) and forced relationships that moved at rocket speed.
However, as much as the romance in this book was rushed and ridiculous, the Rob and his issues actually did make me cry while I was reading this. It does grab the emotions, it just squanders them on rushed sex (that should have been much hotter for the hook up factor being used) and forced relationships that moved at rocket speed.
September 19, 2018
When you have a series where you love the characters and stories as much as the Montana series, it’s almost like a natural instinct to rebel when the author says they’ve written the final book in that series. But Second Chance Ranch actually ties up the series quite nicely, and once done reading I didn’t feel like anything was left unresolved. It’s a good, solid story giving readers closure with a supporting character from a previous book (I know for me Rob piqued my interest when he showed up even though his appearance in that book was brief), and aligns well with the series as a whole.
While I understood the reasoning behind Rob trying to find a new home where his nephews would be safe and cared for (those poor kids really needed the love and stability after what they’ve gone through), his intentions once he’d done that did rub me the wrong way just a bit even considering his reasons behind them. Rob’s not as impervious as he may seem to getting attached to other people though, which throws the expected wrench into things even as his stubborn self keeps trying to follow through with his plans. Aaron has just the right personality and determination to make his way into Rob’s life…no matter how much Rob resists. They’re both alpha types, and that makes for some great back and forth both in their banter but also physically once things advance to that point.
People who know what I like to read know I’m not usually a fan of kids in romance stories since they can sometimes take the spotlight off of the main characters, but Rob’s nephews provide the right amount of angst to the story without removing the focus from his journey and his developing relationship with Aaron.
I was glad to see main characters from the previous books in the series return to help tie everything up; over the course of the series they’ve all become like family to me. Given Rob’s connection to Justin I was expecting Justin to play a part in this story, and his contribution does turn out to be significant…with the requisite appearance of his prickly personality when his former life in the form of Rob shows up on his doorstep.
Second Chance Ranch was a 4.5-star read for me, and I highly recommend this story. I would advise that you read this series in order before starting this book to get an understanding of all of the characters, how they relate to each other, and the reasoning behind Justin and Rob’s interactions. It’s been a great ride with this series, and while it’s sad that this is the final book, the author has done a great job bringing it to a satisfying conclusion. This story is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
While I understood the reasoning behind Rob trying to find a new home where his nephews would be safe and cared for (those poor kids really needed the love and stability after what they’ve gone through), his intentions once he’d done that did rub me the wrong way just a bit even considering his reasons behind them. Rob’s not as impervious as he may seem to getting attached to other people though, which throws the expected wrench into things even as his stubborn self keeps trying to follow through with his plans. Aaron has just the right personality and determination to make his way into Rob’s life…no matter how much Rob resists. They’re both alpha types, and that makes for some great back and forth both in their banter but also physically once things advance to that point.
People who know what I like to read know I’m not usually a fan of kids in romance stories since they can sometimes take the spotlight off of the main characters, but Rob’s nephews provide the right amount of angst to the story without removing the focus from his journey and his developing relationship with Aaron.
I was glad to see main characters from the previous books in the series return to help tie everything up; over the course of the series they’ve all become like family to me. Given Rob’s connection to Justin I was expecting Justin to play a part in this story, and his contribution does turn out to be significant…with the requisite appearance of his prickly personality when his former life in the form of Rob shows up on his doorstep.
Second Chance Ranch was a 4.5-star read for me, and I highly recommend this story. I would advise that you read this series in order before starting this book to get an understanding of all of the characters, how they relate to each other, and the reasoning behind Justin and Rob’s interactions. It’s been a great ride with this series, and while it’s sad that this is the final book, the author has done a great job bringing it to a satisfying conclusion. This story is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
September 21, 2018
I am so sad that this is the last book in the Montana series by RJ Scott. I have loved the setting for Crooked Tree Ranch, and every single one of the characters we met along the way in all five of these books. This author has a wonderful storytelling ability giving us one whole complete storyline that can be drawn out and intertwined throughout several books. This book was seriously good and I know it will be a series I come back to and re-read in the future. I loved all of these men so much.
Even knowing this was the last book, I am so happy it was set with Rob as a main character. We met him in previous books as another assassin who worked alongside Justin. If anyone needed an HEA it is for sure 100% Rob. I loved this storyline we got for him. Right from the beginning of this book, we are immersed in his story and what leads him to the path he is on. The way he meets Aaron is epic, and they both totally meet their match in each other. It’s awesome to see the two Alpha type males being all snarky and sarcastic fighting each other every step of the way. Rob and Aaron together are explosively hot. Having Rob be a surrogate parent to Bran and Toby was a great addition to this story, we get to see a completely different side to Rob when he is fully out of his element taking care of children instead of trying to kill off people. Justin really steps up in this book as a friend and all around good guy, having Rob's back even when Rob hasn’t really given him a reason to trust in the past. Aaron is the perfect person to be Rob's other half, and I am so glad he pushed as much as he did to make Rob admit to his feelings and keep fighting for what he ultimately wanted.
This book had me all emotional knowing it’s the end, but not wanting it to end. But really, what a way to end the series. Well Done!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Even knowing this was the last book, I am so happy it was set with Rob as a main character. We met him in previous books as another assassin who worked alongside Justin. If anyone needed an HEA it is for sure 100% Rob. I loved this storyline we got for him. Right from the beginning of this book, we are immersed in his story and what leads him to the path he is on. The way he meets Aaron is epic, and they both totally meet their match in each other. It’s awesome to see the two Alpha type males being all snarky and sarcastic fighting each other every step of the way. Rob and Aaron together are explosively hot. Having Rob be a surrogate parent to Bran and Toby was a great addition to this story, we get to see a completely different side to Rob when he is fully out of his element taking care of children instead of trying to kill off people. Justin really steps up in this book as a friend and all around good guy, having Rob's back even when Rob hasn’t really given him a reason to trust in the past. Aaron is the perfect person to be Rob's other half, and I am so glad he pushed as much as he did to make Rob admit to his feelings and keep fighting for what he ultimately wanted.
This book had me all emotional knowing it’s the end, but not wanting it to end. But really, what a way to end the series. Well Done!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
September 1, 2018
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the fifth, and very sadly the final, book in this series. It has been an amazing collection of stories which have over the last three years given us some absolutely beautiful, but heart-rending stories. Rest assured you will need a tissue for this one too! I really suggest that you read this books in order, as there is much that you will out on if you don't. I am writing this review assuming you do know what has happened in previous books.
We know about Crooked Ranch and its inhabitants, so to find that Rob, Justin's one time colleague, is making his way back there is definitely a worry. We also don't understand what is driving him - but once we do ... wow! R.J. Scott skillfully ensures that we are utterly invested in his, his nephews', and Aaron's futures, so that when the situation is revealed, tissues are definitely needed. Actually the subtle way in which our sympathies travel between characters is quite incredible, from the lady in the petrol station stop, to Grace, to the boys, to Rob ...
I don't want to say more, as you really need to grab a copy and enjoy every page. I have definitely made sure that this series is on my to be reread list, as I am looking forward to a marathon read of them all in one go. That said, the previous stories have always stayed with me, so that I really haven't ever felt the need to go back. Thank you for a wonderful collection of love stories.
This is the fifth, and very sadly the final, book in this series. It has been an amazing collection of stories which have over the last three years given us some absolutely beautiful, but heart-rending stories. Rest assured you will need a tissue for this one too! I really suggest that you read this books in order, as there is much that you will out on if you don't. I am writing this review assuming you do know what has happened in previous books.
We know about Crooked Ranch and its inhabitants, so to find that Rob, Justin's one time colleague, is making his way back there is definitely a worry. We also don't understand what is driving him - but once we do ... wow! R.J. Scott skillfully ensures that we are utterly invested in his, his nephews', and Aaron's futures, so that when the situation is revealed, tissues are definitely needed. Actually the subtle way in which our sympathies travel between characters is quite incredible, from the lady in the petrol station stop, to Grace, to the boys, to Rob ...
I don't want to say more, as you really need to grab a copy and enjoy every page. I have definitely made sure that this series is on my to be reread list, as I am looking forward to a marathon read of them all in one go. That said, the previous stories have always stayed with me, so that I really haven't ever felt the need to go back. Thank you for a wonderful collection of love stories.
September 9, 2018
Those who have been reading the Montana series may recall that, in A Cowboy's Home, Justin returned to Crooked Tree Ranch because he wanted to see his father again and there was an incident in which an assassin from his past, a former coworker, came along to kill him but decided against it. Well, that guy was Rob, who has now retired from his former hit man role and is dying from lead poisoning caused by a fragmented bullet lodged against his spine. When he goes to say goodbye to his sister, he discovers she’d dead and his two nephews are in foster care. He also discovers he’s been named guardian in her will and that’s something he’s totally unprepared for.
He heads to Crooked Tree Ranch to find Justin and convince him that he and his partner, Sam, would make good parents for Rob’s nephews. He plans to dump the kids and go kill himself. For the first third of this book, Rob and his problems related to finding a home for the boys and heading out to off himself take up the bulk of the story. The problem I had is that he’s not a likeable character—at least not at that point. Later, yes, the poor misguided idiot garnered my sympathy. But early on? No. And the author had a lot of backstory to fill in so it really was difficult to muster enthusiasm until close to halfway through. But along came Aaron, a paramedic, strong, alpha, kind-hearted, and smart and he immediately wants Rob and vice versa. So they start out as enemies or at least frenemies, with Rob pushing Aaron away every chance he gets at the same time as he’s trying to keep his emotional distance from his nephews.
Rob is a train wreck but the author managed to put together an interesting story and managed to get me rooting for him and the boys as well as for him and Aaron. The latter parts of the story were accelerated, but to really add meat to the story would have required another hundred pages so at least we were able to find out what happens to Rob and whether Aaron’s will for them to become a family can ring true.
If you are following this series, you will likely enjoy this one—especially the second half. I also liked the fact that the MCs are over 40, and there’s hot ex-soldiers and ex-SEALS, lots of extended family, and a couple of cute kids who just want to be loved.
ARC provided by the publisher through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.
He heads to Crooked Tree Ranch to find Justin and convince him that he and his partner, Sam, would make good parents for Rob’s nephews. He plans to dump the kids and go kill himself. For the first third of this book, Rob and his problems related to finding a home for the boys and heading out to off himself take up the bulk of the story. The problem I had is that he’s not a likeable character—at least not at that point. Later, yes, the poor misguided idiot garnered my sympathy. But early on? No. And the author had a lot of backstory to fill in so it really was difficult to muster enthusiasm until close to halfway through. But along came Aaron, a paramedic, strong, alpha, kind-hearted, and smart and he immediately wants Rob and vice versa. So they start out as enemies or at least frenemies, with Rob pushing Aaron away every chance he gets at the same time as he’s trying to keep his emotional distance from his nephews.
Rob is a train wreck but the author managed to put together an interesting story and managed to get me rooting for him and the boys as well as for him and Aaron. The latter parts of the story were accelerated, but to really add meat to the story would have required another hundred pages so at least we were able to find out what happens to Rob and whether Aaron’s will for them to become a family can ring true.
If you are following this series, you will likely enjoy this one—especially the second half. I also liked the fact that the MCs are over 40, and there’s hot ex-soldiers and ex-SEALS, lots of extended family, and a couple of cute kids who just want to be loved.
ARC provided by the publisher through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.
August 27, 2018
5 out of 5 stars!
I’m not sure if I’m on an emotional low right now and everything is making me cry or if the authors I’m currently reading are just hitting the right spot with their words, but this book caused me to shed more than a few tears.
Rob is running away from life and taking his newly acquired nephews to the one place he thinks they can live a happy life and not notice that he’s missing from it. Aaron is a paramedic who hasn’t been interested in a real relationship since he lost his last boyfriend in war.
This story was very well paced. Gave just enough detail to make it worthwhile reading. It had enough drama to make it interesting, but not so much that it was too much. And the characters - oh my! Aaron and Rob were both so endearing that my heart misses them and hopes that they are well after everything they went through in the story.
This is definitely a story I will revisit someday (which I don’t do often) because it really touched me and I am so thankful for the chance to read it!
*** I voluntarily read a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ***
I’m not sure if I’m on an emotional low right now and everything is making me cry or if the authors I’m currently reading are just hitting the right spot with their words, but this book caused me to shed more than a few tears.
Rob is running away from life and taking his newly acquired nephews to the one place he thinks they can live a happy life and not notice that he’s missing from it. Aaron is a paramedic who hasn’t been interested in a real relationship since he lost his last boyfriend in war.
This story was very well paced. Gave just enough detail to make it worthwhile reading. It had enough drama to make it interesting, but not so much that it was too much. And the characters - oh my! Aaron and Rob were both so endearing that my heart misses them and hopes that they are well after everything they went through in the story.
This is definitely a story I will revisit someday (which I don’t do often) because it really touched me and I am so thankful for the chance to read it!
*** I voluntarily read a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ***
August 29, 2018
Rob and Aaron are a wonderful match and Rob's situation is totally unexpected (but AMAZING).
I've heard that this is the wrap up for the series, and if that is correct, then Ms. Scott has done herself proud and given the readers a lovely gift as an ending. There are nods/glimpses of previous series characters, but they are only brought in when it makes sense. This entire series has been a HUGE emotional roller-coaster and this story is no different. You probably will need tissues.
It's tough to talk about the story at all without giving spoilers, so I'll leave it at this: If you enjoy RJ Scott stories, don't miss this one :-)
***RECOMMENDED***
I've heard that this is the wrap up for the series, and if that is correct, then Ms. Scott has done herself proud and given the readers a lovely gift as an ending. There are nods/glimpses of previous series characters, but they are only brought in when it makes sense. This entire series has been a HUGE emotional roller-coaster and this story is no different. You probably will need tissues.
It's tough to talk about the story at all without giving spoilers, so I'll leave it at this: If you enjoy RJ Scott stories, don't miss this one :-)
***RECOMMENDED***
September 21, 2018
**Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Signal Boost Promotions for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion, a review was not a requirement.**
Second Chance Ranch is book 5 and the final book in R.J. Scott’s Montana series. Though you could probably read this book by itself, it really does tie with the previous books and characters so you’ll get more enjoyment reading the whole series.
This was not my favorite book of the series. I spent most of the book not liking Rob who spent most of the book trying to figure out who to pawn the care of nephews to. That’s all we know. Rob finds out his sister died, his nephews are in foster care and when he decided to check out the foster care home, he didn’t like what he saw. So he takes custody of his nephews and immediately heads to Crooked Tree Ranch to give them to a couple there. Eventually, we find out why Rob was doing this, but I didn’t even care at that point.
I liked Aaron and his family from the previous books and thought he deserves someone better than Rob. It was great catching up with Aaron’s family, and seeing Saul find happiness. I was frustrated by Aaron’s chasing of Rob. It felt like this book just needed more pages to develop the story. The relationship and love happened too fast and unbelievably so especially for the character of Rob.
There was a sweet ending but honestly, I still didn’t like Rob. There was just not enough story to change my opinion of him. Most of the book was him as one type of person and then suddenly there’s an explanation of why he’s a jerk and then he’s all reformed and in love. A difficult character like this, one who briefly appeared in the series before assigned to killing Justin, needed a lot more pages to make me like him.
Rating: 4 stars
Second Chance Ranch is book 5 and the final book in R.J. Scott’s Montana series. Though you could probably read this book by itself, it really does tie with the previous books and characters so you’ll get more enjoyment reading the whole series.
This was not my favorite book of the series. I spent most of the book not liking Rob who spent most of the book trying to figure out who to pawn the care of nephews to. That’s all we know. Rob finds out his sister died, his nephews are in foster care and when he decided to check out the foster care home, he didn’t like what he saw. So he takes custody of his nephews and immediately heads to Crooked Tree Ranch to give them to a couple there. Eventually, we find out why Rob was doing this, but I didn’t even care at that point.
I liked Aaron and his family from the previous books and thought he deserves someone better than Rob. It was great catching up with Aaron’s family, and seeing Saul find happiness. I was frustrated by Aaron’s chasing of Rob. It felt like this book just needed more pages to develop the story. The relationship and love happened too fast and unbelievably so especially for the character of Rob.
There was a sweet ending but honestly, I still didn’t like Rob. There was just not enough story to change my opinion of him. Most of the book was him as one type of person and then suddenly there’s an explanation of why he’s a jerk and then he’s all reformed and in love. A difficult character like this, one who briefly appeared in the series before assigned to killing Justin, needed a lot more pages to make me like him.
Rating: 4 stars
October 29, 2018
This was a difficult book for me to read and I am very unsure how to rate it.
On the one hand it was quite annoying for a long time, the connection between the main characters was not convincing for me and I had a hard time connecting to Rob.
On the other hand, once he started to sort things out, instead of repeating over and over again, how unfit to be a guardian he was, it became really adorable, with a beautiful happy end, that was positive but still appropriate for the situation and not over the top.
Rob is, or rather was in a special unit, like an assassin, who is assigned to kill the "bad guys" before they can do any (more) harm. Probably I would know more about it, if this wasn't the first book for me in this series.
When he finds out, that his sister died and left two sons, who are in a foster family that Rob doesn't really trust to take good care of them, he takes them to Crooked tree ranch to find a home and family for them, as he himself thinks he is absolutely incapable to care for them blablabla, see above...
There he meets Aaron and they immediately fall in lust, however it takes a lot of work and convincing from Aaron's side, to show Rob that this could be more...
Of course when we learn the real reason for his hesitation to build a life with Aaron and the children, we can understand his motives a little better.
So all in all, this was quite emotional and it had me hooked throughout the story, even if Rob also annoyed me quite a bit.
At the end I would give this 3.5 stars and maybe I will give the series another chance to learn more about Justin and some of the other guys we get a glimpse of.
On the one hand it was quite annoying for a long time, the connection between the main characters was not convincing for me and I had a hard time connecting to Rob.
On the other hand, once he started to sort things out, instead of repeating over and over again, how unfit to be a guardian he was, it became really adorable, with a beautiful happy end, that was positive but still appropriate for the situation and not over the top.
Rob is, or rather was in a special unit, like an assassin, who is assigned to kill the "bad guys" before they can do any (more) harm. Probably I would know more about it, if this wasn't the first book for me in this series.
When he finds out, that his sister died and left two sons, who are in a foster family that Rob doesn't really trust to take good care of them, he takes them to Crooked tree ranch to find a home and family for them, as he himself thinks he is absolutely incapable to care for them blablabla, see above...
There he meets Aaron and they immediately fall in lust, however it takes a lot of work and convincing from Aaron's side, to show Rob that this could be more...
Of course when we learn the real reason for his hesitation to build a life with Aaron and the children, we can understand his motives a little better.
So all in all, this was quite emotional and it had me hooked throughout the story, even if Rob also annoyed me quite a bit.
At the end I would give this 3.5 stars and maybe I will give the series another chance to learn more about Justin and some of the other guys we get a glimpse of.
September 1, 2018
Reviewed by Tori (Vicki)
Rob appeared earlier in this series as a mysterious character attached to Justin and his drama when he was missing from the family ranch. The two were involved in some shady shit, kinda government, kinda military, kinda assassins, but not a good situation for any of them. Now as this book starts, Rob has some issues. His sister has died a year ago, he was so far out of touch that he didn’t know, and his two young nephews end up in the foster system. He’s also injured, and is on a countdown. His final goal is to get his nephews to a safe place. The only thing he can think to do is take them to the one person he used to have a connection with. Justin at Crooked Tree Ranch. So off the three go. And make it almost all the way to the ranch before Rob witnesses a car accident, and becomes involved in the rescue. Where he meets a hot paramedic.
Aaron has a lot fewer issues in his life, he’s pretty stable actually. He’s from a large family, five brothers with no parents anymore, the younger siblings being raised by the oldest. One of his siblings we’ve seen before, he’s the sexy Sheriff from book 4. Anyway, Aaron hangs out at Crooked Tree quite a bit with his niece and nephew, taking them on hikes, swims and for horseback riding lessons. He spends lots of time with his brothers, and works as a paramedic with a partner named Grace, who has her own issues. He works with Veterans as well, so ultimately is a pretty good guy. He and Grace respond to an accident at a gas station, and Aaron climbs in to the wrecked car, where he encounters a very stubborn man. The two banter, argue, and insult each other, then part ways.
Only to reunite at Crooked Tree Ranch. I’ll stop there to avoid spoilers!
So I have mixed feelings about this book. I wasn’t really getting into it for quite a while. I got Rob’s distress and his desire, but I’m not sure I understood his methods. I also had a hard time with the lack of a connection between Rob and Aaron until way late in the story. But about 60% I started getting to know them better as individuals and began to see some emotions from them. Maybe it could have come earlier, but they did get there. I did get emotionally involved in Rob’s drama as he makes some decisions, and even though I knew it had to have a happy ending, I did get wrapped up in the story enough to question whether that would really happen. I like when an author makes me question the outcome of a story…. of course I do WANT the happy ending, and I loved how this book ended.
I did like these guys as individuals, Aaron immediately, and Rob grew on me. Sure, I would have liked to see them together more, and show more emotions earlier in the book, but I did like them together by the end. Once they do get friendly I liked the sex scenes between them. They did grow throughout the story, especially Rob, who grabbed on to some love from several directions and went with it.
I liked to concept of the plot, although I had issues with the speed at which it developed. I have said it multiple times, I’m iffy on kids, but these little guys added to the drama of the story and I liked them. I also liked the other characters, not just the guys from previous books, but Aaron’s friend Grace and her issues, and Aaron’s siblings and their own dramas. My enjoyment of this book changed as I read it, from just an ok story, to enjoying it overall.
I have liked the books in this series, some more than others, but I’ve enjoyed reading them. You could probably read this as a standalone, but you’ll get more out of it if you read them in order. You really need to get the background of the folks on Crooked Tree Ranch… I’d give them a try! This one was a good addition, and I have seen that it might be the last. If that is the case, it was a great way to end the series.
This book was provided for free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
Rob appeared earlier in this series as a mysterious character attached to Justin and his drama when he was missing from the family ranch. The two were involved in some shady shit, kinda government, kinda military, kinda assassins, but not a good situation for any of them. Now as this book starts, Rob has some issues. His sister has died a year ago, he was so far out of touch that he didn’t know, and his two young nephews end up in the foster system. He’s also injured, and is on a countdown. His final goal is to get his nephews to a safe place. The only thing he can think to do is take them to the one person he used to have a connection with. Justin at Crooked Tree Ranch. So off the three go. And make it almost all the way to the ranch before Rob witnesses a car accident, and becomes involved in the rescue. Where he meets a hot paramedic.
Aaron has a lot fewer issues in his life, he’s pretty stable actually. He’s from a large family, five brothers with no parents anymore, the younger siblings being raised by the oldest. One of his siblings we’ve seen before, he’s the sexy Sheriff from book 4. Anyway, Aaron hangs out at Crooked Tree quite a bit with his niece and nephew, taking them on hikes, swims and for horseback riding lessons. He spends lots of time with his brothers, and works as a paramedic with a partner named Grace, who has her own issues. He works with Veterans as well, so ultimately is a pretty good guy. He and Grace respond to an accident at a gas station, and Aaron climbs in to the wrecked car, where he encounters a very stubborn man. The two banter, argue, and insult each other, then part ways.
Only to reunite at Crooked Tree Ranch. I’ll stop there to avoid spoilers!
So I have mixed feelings about this book. I wasn’t really getting into it for quite a while. I got Rob’s distress and his desire, but I’m not sure I understood his methods. I also had a hard time with the lack of a connection between Rob and Aaron until way late in the story. But about 60% I started getting to know them better as individuals and began to see some emotions from them. Maybe it could have come earlier, but they did get there. I did get emotionally involved in Rob’s drama as he makes some decisions, and even though I knew it had to have a happy ending, I did get wrapped up in the story enough to question whether that would really happen. I like when an author makes me question the outcome of a story…. of course I do WANT the happy ending, and I loved how this book ended.
I did like these guys as individuals, Aaron immediately, and Rob grew on me. Sure, I would have liked to see them together more, and show more emotions earlier in the book, but I did like them together by the end. Once they do get friendly I liked the sex scenes between them. They did grow throughout the story, especially Rob, who grabbed on to some love from several directions and went with it.
I liked to concept of the plot, although I had issues with the speed at which it developed. I have said it multiple times, I’m iffy on kids, but these little guys added to the drama of the story and I liked them. I also liked the other characters, not just the guys from previous books, but Aaron’s friend Grace and her issues, and Aaron’s siblings and their own dramas. My enjoyment of this book changed as I read it, from just an ok story, to enjoying it overall.
I have liked the books in this series, some more than others, but I’ve enjoyed reading them. You could probably read this as a standalone, but you’ll get more out of it if you read them in order. You really need to get the background of the folks on Crooked Tree Ranch… I’d give them a try! This one was a good addition, and I have seen that it might be the last. If that is the case, it was a great way to end the series.
This book was provided for free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
September 13, 2018
Second Chance Ranch by RJ Scott, the fifth installment in her Montana series, returns with the primary focus on family. All of the old crew is present, and we catch up a bit with each of them. There is no easing into this episode as we are immediately thrown into drama, tragedy, and regret. Second Chance Ranch could be read as a standalone, but to get the full impact of the shenanigans, it’s probably better to read the other books first.
Aaron Carter, a former army medic now small-town paramedic, values family, especially spending time with his niece and nephew, Milly and Jake. Aaron may like to be in control but, at heart he is a caring people-person. He deals with the after effects of serving his country and spends a portion of his time helping others to cope as well.
Rob Brady is a former Navy SEAL and Justin’s (whose story is told in A Cowboy’s Home) cohort during his absence from Crooked Tree Ranch. He has just become the guardian for Bran & Toby, his sister Suzi’s two boys. He has changed from his “save the world” days, to wishing for nothing other than creating a family with Bran, Toby, and that someone special. But, Rob harbors a secret that prevents him from letting the boys get attached to him.
Aaron and Rob meet when an anonymous family falls prey to a runaway tractor trailer crashing into their vehicle. Aaron is there in an official paramedic capacity, while Rob is a civilian bystander with field medical skills. Both men are strong willed. Together they turn what could be the ultimate tragedy for a happy family into a pleasant ending to their misfortune. However, walking away from the crash site neither man can let go of the other.
The connection between these two alpha males is intense. Each man seeks control, and doesn’t relinquish it easily. Their Army/Navy banter is to die for. But, each man also has a soft side, knowing when to bring it to the surface. Man, I totally adore the connection these two share. Their encounters volley from rough, quick, and intense, to soft, tender, and loving.
At first Rob’s intentions are unclear. He appears cold and distant as he focuses on leaving his nephews behind at Crooked Tree. Why? Well that is too much of a spoiler to share. You will just have to grab a copy of Second Chance Ranch and settle in for that discovery on your own. If it helps to entice you, know that I absolutely adore Rob and Aaron and am delighted to have been part of their journey.
Aaron and Rob are truly amazing men. Although very much alike, they complement each other, fulfilling the other’s needs. As their story unfolds you will be aroused, happy, livid, and yes, you will need a box of tissues. At one point I actually screamed “no freakin’ way” at my Kindle, startling the husband and fur babies on the bed. Be assured, the universe has a way of setting things right, and all will be good, if not perfect, for our guys in the end.
As with prior books in this series, Second Chance Ranch brings us up to date with each man, woman, and child residing at, or around, Crooked Tree Ranch. They have all grown, experienced joy, known additional sorrow, and yet they come together stronger with the passage of time. I certainly hope there is more to come from this Montana series, but if not, RJ has closed many loops with the folks who call Crooked Tree home.
Aaron Carter, a former army medic now small-town paramedic, values family, especially spending time with his niece and nephew, Milly and Jake. Aaron may like to be in control but, at heart he is a caring people-person. He deals with the after effects of serving his country and spends a portion of his time helping others to cope as well.
Rob Brady is a former Navy SEAL and Justin’s (whose story is told in A Cowboy’s Home) cohort during his absence from Crooked Tree Ranch. He has just become the guardian for Bran & Toby, his sister Suzi’s two boys. He has changed from his “save the world” days, to wishing for nothing other than creating a family with Bran, Toby, and that someone special. But, Rob harbors a secret that prevents him from letting the boys get attached to him.
Aaron and Rob meet when an anonymous family falls prey to a runaway tractor trailer crashing into their vehicle. Aaron is there in an official paramedic capacity, while Rob is a civilian bystander with field medical skills. Both men are strong willed. Together they turn what could be the ultimate tragedy for a happy family into a pleasant ending to their misfortune. However, walking away from the crash site neither man can let go of the other.
The connection between these two alpha males is intense. Each man seeks control, and doesn’t relinquish it easily. Their Army/Navy banter is to die for. But, each man also has a soft side, knowing when to bring it to the surface. Man, I totally adore the connection these two share. Their encounters volley from rough, quick, and intense, to soft, tender, and loving.
At first Rob’s intentions are unclear. He appears cold and distant as he focuses on leaving his nephews behind at Crooked Tree. Why? Well that is too much of a spoiler to share. You will just have to grab a copy of Second Chance Ranch and settle in for that discovery on your own. If it helps to entice you, know that I absolutely adore Rob and Aaron and am delighted to have been part of their journey.
Aaron and Rob are truly amazing men. Although very much alike, they complement each other, fulfilling the other’s needs. As their story unfolds you will be aroused, happy, livid, and yes, you will need a box of tissues. At one point I actually screamed “no freakin’ way” at my Kindle, startling the husband and fur babies on the bed. Be assured, the universe has a way of setting things right, and all will be good, if not perfect, for our guys in the end.
As with prior books in this series, Second Chance Ranch brings us up to date with each man, woman, and child residing at, or around, Crooked Tree Ranch. They have all grown, experienced joy, known additional sorrow, and yet they come together stronger with the passage of time. I certainly hope there is more to come from this Montana series, but if not, RJ has closed many loops with the folks who call Crooked Tree home.
August 30, 2018
I'm sorry to see this series end.
RJ Scott always knows how to rip my heart out (in the best way) and put it back together again. I read my first RJ Scott book back in February 2016 and I was hooked. Her backlist is huge so I still have a ways to go to read them all but to-date I've read about 78 of her books and haven't looked back. Her Montana series was among the first I read and it's been a great ride reading all of the wonderful books in this series.
So, Second Chance Ranch is a very emotional story – my favorite kind – and I loved it so much. You don't really need to have read all of the previous stories in the series to enjoy this one. But since so many of the main characters from previous books appear in it you might enjoy it more if you read the others first.
Rob's sister has died and left him as guardian of her two boys and he just can't take care of them; he's not a family type of guy. He also has a secret that influences his determination to find someone to take care of the boys for him. The only place he knows to go is Crooked Tree Ranch where his friend (?) lives with his partner. On the way there he performs a daring rescue and meets paramedic, Aaron.
Wow, this story is so full of feels and just about gutted me in places. Rob doesn't want to love his nephews, Bran and Toby, but that's exactly what happens. He doesn't want to have a relationship with Aaron but he does and the chemistry between them is HOT! They begin as kind of "frenemies" scratching an itch; two alpha males trying to see who will come out on top (pun not really intended).
Aaron sees how much pain Rob is in and just wants to help but Rob is stubborn and insists he doesn't need any. The scenes these two guys have together are just wonderful. They start out in an adversarial kind of relationship but it soon turns into much more.
There are thinly veiled references to suicide in the story (how Rob plans to deal with his pain) so if that's a trigger for you use caution. Just know that RJ treats the subject with sensitivity and that it is a necessary part of Rob's story.
Oh, the tears this book made me shed but it was worth every single one of them. Thank you RJ for another wonderful story.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com*** (8/30/18)
RJ Scott always knows how to rip my heart out (in the best way) and put it back together again. I read my first RJ Scott book back in February 2016 and I was hooked. Her backlist is huge so I still have a ways to go to read them all but to-date I've read about 78 of her books and haven't looked back. Her Montana series was among the first I read and it's been a great ride reading all of the wonderful books in this series.
So, Second Chance Ranch is a very emotional story – my favorite kind – and I loved it so much. You don't really need to have read all of the previous stories in the series to enjoy this one. But since so many of the main characters from previous books appear in it you might enjoy it more if you read the others first.
Rob's sister has died and left him as guardian of her two boys and he just can't take care of them; he's not a family type of guy. He also has a secret that influences his determination to find someone to take care of the boys for him. The only place he knows to go is Crooked Tree Ranch where his friend (?) lives with his partner. On the way there he performs a daring rescue and meets paramedic, Aaron.
Wow, this story is so full of feels and just about gutted me in places. Rob doesn't want to love his nephews, Bran and Toby, but that's exactly what happens. He doesn't want to have a relationship with Aaron but he does and the chemistry between them is HOT! They begin as kind of "frenemies" scratching an itch; two alpha males trying to see who will come out on top (pun not really intended).
Aaron sees how much pain Rob is in and just wants to help but Rob is stubborn and insists he doesn't need any. The scenes these two guys have together are just wonderful. They start out in an adversarial kind of relationship but it soon turns into much more.
There are thinly veiled references to suicide in the story (how Rob plans to deal with his pain) so if that's a trigger for you use caution. Just know that RJ treats the subject with sensitivity and that it is a necessary part of Rob's story.
Oh, the tears this book made me shed but it was worth every single one of them. Thank you RJ for another wonderful story.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com*** (8/30/18)
September 2, 2018
Wow, the name of this book could not have been more accurate for this book. One of the main characters truly needed a second chance and that is what he got but in order for the second chance to make a true difference, then he will have to accept this chance at not only a family and love but also at life itself. RJ Scott did an amazing job on this book. I truly did not know what was going to happen.
Rob knows that when he found out that his nephews lost their mother and that they were in foster care that he had to make sure they was well taken care of. Problem is, he felt something off from the foster parent and so now he has no choice but to take them with him. For better or worse, he has to find a home for them with people that not only Rob trusts but also that will love and care for these two boys. So off to Crooked Tree Ranch they headed to see Rob’s old team member Justin.
Rob is unsure of how Justin is going to accept his visit considering past circumstances but he is the only one Rob really trusts. Once Rob arrives things get complicated fast. Rob knows he is running out of time and and needs to make amends with his past where Justin is concerned. Then you add to the fact that Tob is getting closer to his nephews then he anticipated and there is another wrench in his plans. Aaron may just be the icing on the cake for Rob because he never expected to meet someone at this juncture in his life. Much less start to feel something for them. So now Rob has to start facing some hard realities.
When Aaron met Rob he knew he was former military by the look. The second time he met him again, he thought he was an arrogant prick. The third time he only wanted to get in his pants. From there it just seemed to all grow. Now he finds himself falling for a man that has secrets and that said man does not want to open up about them. But Aaron is not giving up or giving in. When he learns the truth, his world comes crashing down around him. All he can hope for is just one more day!!
This was such a great read. Like I said I was really doubtful on how things was going to turn out but I believe that RJ did an incredible good on how everything comes together in the end. I truly enjoyed this read. I look forward to more by RJ in the future!!
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
Rob knows that when he found out that his nephews lost their mother and that they were in foster care that he had to make sure they was well taken care of. Problem is, he felt something off from the foster parent and so now he has no choice but to take them with him. For better or worse, he has to find a home for them with people that not only Rob trusts but also that will love and care for these two boys. So off to Crooked Tree Ranch they headed to see Rob’s old team member Justin.
Rob is unsure of how Justin is going to accept his visit considering past circumstances but he is the only one Rob really trusts. Once Rob arrives things get complicated fast. Rob knows he is running out of time and and needs to make amends with his past where Justin is concerned. Then you add to the fact that Tob is getting closer to his nephews then he anticipated and there is another wrench in his plans. Aaron may just be the icing on the cake for Rob because he never expected to meet someone at this juncture in his life. Much less start to feel something for them. So now Rob has to start facing some hard realities.
When Aaron met Rob he knew he was former military by the look. The second time he met him again, he thought he was an arrogant prick. The third time he only wanted to get in his pants. From there it just seemed to all grow. Now he finds himself falling for a man that has secrets and that said man does not want to open up about them. But Aaron is not giving up or giving in. When he learns the truth, his world comes crashing down around him. All he can hope for is just one more day!!
This was such a great read. Like I said I was really doubtful on how things was going to turn out but I believe that RJ did an incredible good on how everything comes together in the end. I truly enjoyed this read. I look forward to more by RJ in the future!!
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
October 8, 2018
*´¨✫)
¸.•´¸.•*´¨)Rob Brady knew three things. His sister was dead, he was guardian to her two boys, and he was stuck in hell.
✮ (¸.•´
I always run toward an R.J. Scott book... This was one of the first times I felt a whoosh at the end of my read. With this being the end of an era, I was looking for so much more from one of my favorite author. This was supposed to be the book that exploded and be the gift that kept on giving. Both characters Aaron and Rob made their a good impression in A Cowboy's Home, book three of the Montana series.
The death of his sister and the collapse of his job one year later had Rob making decisions he may not have done before had it not been for giving his nephews something permanent. But Rob has a secret that will rip the seams of the fabric and may even make things worst. On his way to the Crooked Tree Ranch, the one place he knew could give the boys a happy ever after, Rob met ex-army worker, now Paramedic Aaron, the middle Carter brother who had no issues being flirtatious even as they worked together to save a family.
Aaron was not looking for his forever man, given how he had lost his previous boyfriend. No harm, no foul, he thought when it came to the ruggedly handsome ex Nay Seal. There was something about Rob that drew him like a moth to a flame and Aaron was determined to get singed. What secrets were Rob holding and why was the man determined to keep him at arms length?
Book three remain my favorite in this series. This one could have gone in some many directions. I appreciate the story the author set out to be told and give her two thumbs up on the way the issues were handled.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author.
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
¸.•´¸.•*´¨)Rob Brady knew three things. His sister was dead, he was guardian to her two boys, and he was stuck in hell.
✮ (¸.•´
I always run toward an R.J. Scott book... This was one of the first times I felt a whoosh at the end of my read. With this being the end of an era, I was looking for so much more from one of my favorite author. This was supposed to be the book that exploded and be the gift that kept on giving. Both characters Aaron and Rob made their a good impression in A Cowboy's Home, book three of the Montana series.
The death of his sister and the collapse of his job one year later had Rob making decisions he may not have done before had it not been for giving his nephews something permanent. But Rob has a secret that will rip the seams of the fabric and may even make things worst. On his way to the Crooked Tree Ranch, the one place he knew could give the boys a happy ever after, Rob met ex-army worker, now Paramedic Aaron, the middle Carter brother who had no issues being flirtatious even as they worked together to save a family.
Aaron was not looking for his forever man, given how he had lost his previous boyfriend. No harm, no foul, he thought when it came to the ruggedly handsome ex Nay Seal. There was something about Rob that drew him like a moth to a flame and Aaron was determined to get singed. What secrets were Rob holding and why was the man determined to keep him at arms length?
Book three remain my favorite in this series. This one could have gone in some many directions. I appreciate the story the author set out to be told and give her two thumbs up on the way the issues were handled.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author.
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
November 25, 2018
Reviewed for The Blogger Girls
I kinda loved Rob. Even though he is a pretty scary guy, and a part of me hated how he “turned” on Justin in book three, I understood. I understood him, I understood his and Justin’s past, and I understood his need to reach out to the only person he could trust, Justin. Justin didn’t want any part of his past coming to Montana or coming to threatened his life with Sam, but he also understood that Rob was desperate…and he came with two small children who needed help. Something that Second Chance Ranch can provide.
Aaron and Rob together were an equal mix of sexy and comedy. Even though there was nothing funny about Rob’s situation, Aaron was all about getting himself laid and getting laid with Rob. No matter what Rob said verbally, and he said a lot, his eyes spoke the truth. Aaron is like a determined puppy and Rob is his new toy. Rob never stood a chance. But, Aaron doesn’t know about the secrets in Rob’s life. Secrets that can end any hope of forever before they ever get started.
I enjoyed this installment of the Montana series, even though men with children are not a favorite trope of mine. But in this case, the kids were the only thing that brought Rob to the ranch, and by extension, to Aaron. They play an intrical part, but they do not take away from the blooming romance between these two alpha males. My heart really did go out for Rob, and I sometimes really wanted to smack Justin for being such a jackass to him, but…. there is always a but. In the end, though is seemed unlikely, Aaron and Rob get their hard won happy ending, and Justin earned a few brownie points.
Overall Impression: I really liked it
I kinda loved Rob. Even though he is a pretty scary guy, and a part of me hated how he “turned” on Justin in book three, I understood. I understood him, I understood his and Justin’s past, and I understood his need to reach out to the only person he could trust, Justin. Justin didn’t want any part of his past coming to Montana or coming to threatened his life with Sam, but he also understood that Rob was desperate…and he came with two small children who needed help. Something that Second Chance Ranch can provide.
Aaron and Rob together were an equal mix of sexy and comedy. Even though there was nothing funny about Rob’s situation, Aaron was all about getting himself laid and getting laid with Rob. No matter what Rob said verbally, and he said a lot, his eyes spoke the truth. Aaron is like a determined puppy and Rob is his new toy. Rob never stood a chance. But, Aaron doesn’t know about the secrets in Rob’s life. Secrets that can end any hope of forever before they ever get started.
I enjoyed this installment of the Montana series, even though men with children are not a favorite trope of mine. But in this case, the kids were the only thing that brought Rob to the ranch, and by extension, to Aaron. They play an intrical part, but they do not take away from the blooming romance between these two alpha males. My heart really did go out for Rob, and I sometimes really wanted to smack Justin for being such a jackass to him, but…. there is always a but. In the end, though is seemed unlikely, Aaron and Rob get their hard won happy ending, and Justin earned a few brownie points.
Overall Impression: I really liked it
August 16, 2018
What I like in a book is great story line, and strong characters that I can love, root for and envision as the story unfolds.
This book has all that and more. As the story unfolded I could "see" Bran and Toby, the young boys in this story, how they physically reacted to their Uncle and those they met . I felt so sad for them even though Bran tried , at 8, to appear strong for his little brother. They took care of each other.
Rob, at first seemed cold. It wasn't til I found out why he was how he was that I could see the true him . I soon loved his character and wanted him to grab those boys and never let go.
Aaron was amazing both with his family and with Rob and his nephews. Rob and Aaron's attraction was quick and strong. The way Aaron took care of Rob was both endearing and in some cases really hot :P
Trust me when I say that kleenex will be needed while reading this and at one point I was saying, out loud...." No..no..no..no!"
I don't want to give away any more about the book. All I will say is it was wonderful to see characters from the previous books, see how they are now and what they are doing . I always enjoy that.
Rj gave us 4 more people to love and root for and she helped Rob to be redeem himself for things he has done in the past.
I received/ was given an Advanced Readers Copy for my honest review.
This book has all that and more. As the story unfolded I could "see" Bran and Toby, the young boys in this story, how they physically reacted to their Uncle and those they met . I felt so sad for them even though Bran tried , at 8, to appear strong for his little brother. They took care of each other.
Rob, at first seemed cold. It wasn't til I found out why he was how he was that I could see the true him . I soon loved his character and wanted him to grab those boys and never let go.
Aaron was amazing both with his family and with Rob and his nephews. Rob and Aaron's attraction was quick and strong. The way Aaron took care of Rob was both endearing and in some cases really hot :P
Trust me when I say that kleenex will be needed while reading this and at one point I was saying, out loud...." No..no..no..no!"
I don't want to give away any more about the book. All I will say is it was wonderful to see characters from the previous books, see how they are now and what they are doing . I always enjoy that.
Rj gave us 4 more people to love and root for and she helped Rob to be redeem himself for things he has done in the past.
I received/ was given an Advanced Readers Copy for my honest review.
September 1, 2018
4.5 stars
I just LOVE Crooked Tree Ranch. This book was just as great as all the other books in this series. After meeting both Rob and Aaron in the previous books, I wanted each of their stories and was excited when I found out they were going to get their HEA. I also adored Toby and Bran in this book. It was emotional seeing them being so closed off at first towards Rob and basically other adults but it was super sweet to see them come around.
All of the times that Rob and Aaron came together were HOT. Their relationship was unconventional because it was basically just them lusting after each other and then the feelings slowly growing. I pretty much loved Aaron after he was there for Rob when he needed it. A lot of the book is focused on Rob and the kids versus Rob and Aaron building their relationship. I was okay with that though. I think we needed to see Rob's character development because while he did not have the same demons that Justin had, he had similar hangups about himself. It was nice to see Bran, Toby and then Aaron really break into Rob's tough exterior. This was another solid book from this series and I hope we see more of Crooked Tree Ranch!!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
I just LOVE Crooked Tree Ranch. This book was just as great as all the other books in this series. After meeting both Rob and Aaron in the previous books, I wanted each of their stories and was excited when I found out they were going to get their HEA. I also adored Toby and Bran in this book. It was emotional seeing them being so closed off at first towards Rob and basically other adults but it was super sweet to see them come around.
All of the times that Rob and Aaron came together were HOT. Their relationship was unconventional because it was basically just them lusting after each other and then the feelings slowly growing. I pretty much loved Aaron after he was there for Rob when he needed it. A lot of the book is focused on Rob and the kids versus Rob and Aaron building their relationship. I was okay with that though. I think we needed to see Rob's character development because while he did not have the same demons that Justin had, he had similar hangups about himself. It was nice to see Bran, Toby and then Aaron really break into Rob's tough exterior. This was another solid book from this series and I hope we see more of Crooked Tree Ranch!!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
January 25, 2022
Note: This one might stand alone better than some of the others… but this series is best read in order and the stories make more sense when you’ve read the previous books. This review may contain spoilers to earlier books.
This might be my favorite of the series (though I still love Nate & Jay). Lots of my favorite tropes: kids, age gap (Rob is 31 & Aaron is 43), older MCs, ex-military.
Rob is reluctant guardian to his nephews after the death of his sister. Convinced he can’t be a parent and desperate to find a forever home for them - Rob runs to Justin and Crooked Tree Ranch. Not only was he not planning on falling for the boys, but sexy paramedic Aaron wasn’t on his list either.
I loved the story of these two. Rob and Aaron are both ex-military, opinionated, strong willed, and things between them are fireworks. I don’t want to spoil anything so it’s hard to share how desperate Rob is to leave and how much everyone, especially Aaron works to have him stay.
And the epilogue! I love epilogues and this one was great.
Content Warning:
⚠️ Contains spoilers ⚠️
This might be my favorite of the series (though I still love Nate & Jay). Lots of my favorite tropes: kids, age gap (Rob is 31 & Aaron is 43), older MCs, ex-military.
Rob is reluctant guardian to his nephews after the death of his sister. Convinced he can’t be a parent and desperate to find a forever home for them - Rob runs to Justin and Crooked Tree Ranch. Not only was he not planning on falling for the boys, but sexy paramedic Aaron wasn’t on his list either.
I loved the story of these two. Rob and Aaron are both ex-military, opinionated, strong willed, and things between them are fireworks. I don’t want to spoil anything so it’s hard to share how desperate Rob is to leave and how much everyone, especially Aaron works to have him stay.
And the epilogue! I love epilogues and this one was great.
Content Warning:
⚠️ Contains spoilers ⚠️
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