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Hidden Springs #1
Here to Stay
*** Mature themes. This story contains sex and violence, including violence against women. May not be suitable for all readers. Not recommended for readers under 18 years of age***
"Love doesn't have to be old-fashioned"
Read the Hidden Springs series - historical romance with a contemporary twist
Sam Mackenzie rode into the town of Hidden Springs looking for a place to belong. He takes a job at Ryan’s Ranch and is immediately attracted to the ranch’s pretty, female, owner.
Kate Ryan is a woman determined to make it on her own. Chafing at the thought of having to hire help, she nonetheless falls for the handsome stranger who answers her ad.
When they meet, sparks fly and they are drawn to each other. But life in 1867 Arizona Territory isn’t easy. When a secret from Kate’s past comes to light, they are each faced with the challenge of making a difficult decision.
Will they turn and run or are they here to stay?
"Love doesn't have to be old-fashioned"
Read the Hidden Springs series - historical romance with a contemporary twist
Sam Mackenzie rode into the town of Hidden Springs looking for a place to belong. He takes a job at Ryan’s Ranch and is immediately attracted to the ranch’s pretty, female, owner.
Kate Ryan is a woman determined to make it on her own. Chafing at the thought of having to hire help, she nonetheless falls for the handsome stranger who answers her ad.
When they meet, sparks fly and they are drawn to each other. But life in 1867 Arizona Territory isn’t easy. When a secret from Kate’s past comes to light, they are each faced with the challenge of making a difficult decision.
Will they turn and run or are they here to stay?
193 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 6, 2013
302 people are currently reading
770 people want to read
About the author
Kristine Raymond
24 books176 followersIt wasn’t until later in life that Kristine Raymond figured out what she wanted to be when she grew up, an epiphany that occurred in 2013 when she sat down and began writing her first novel. Over a dozen books in multiple genres later, there are a multitude of ideas floating around in her head thus assuring she’ll never be idle.
When a spare moment does present itself, she fills it by navigating the publishing and promotional side of the business. When not doing that, she spends time with her husband and furbabies (not necessarily in that order) at their home in south-central Kentucky, gardens, reads, or binge-watches Netflix.
To find out more, please visit her website at www.kristineraymond.com and follow her on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and BookBub.
Kristine is represented by Mickey Mikkelson at Creative Edge Publicity.
When a spare moment does present itself, she fills it by navigating the publishing and promotional side of the business. When not doing that, she spends time with her husband and furbabies (not necessarily in that order) at their home in south-central Kentucky, gardens, reads, or binge-watches Netflix.
To find out more, please visit her website at www.kristineraymond.com and follow her on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and BookBub.
Kristine is represented by Mickey Mikkelson at Creative Edge Publicity.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
December 24, 2016
Kate Ryan is a woman on her own in the Arizona territory with dreams of a horse ranch. Sam MacKenzie is a drifter looking for a place to belong. He takes a job at Kate’s ranch and falls for the smart, determined, pretty young woman that is his boss.
Kate has a tragic past and hopes her future in Hidden Springs will be better. And it is – for a time. She and Sam have an immediate connection and the sparks fly. However, a secret from Kate’s past is about to rip them apart.
This was a good read. It’s the first in the Hidden Springs series and I plan to read the next one.
Rating: 3.5 Stars (Rounded to 4 for GR)
Kate has a tragic past and hopes her future in Hidden Springs will be better. And it is – for a time. She and Sam have an immediate connection and the sparks fly. However, a secret from Kate’s past is about to rip them apart.
This was a good read. It’s the first in the Hidden Springs series and I plan to read the next one.
Rating: 3.5 Stars (Rounded to 4 for GR)
November 10, 2013
This amazing story was part one of several to come.
As this is Kristines first novel, I couldn't wait to get on board to support a fellow Author, to my delight this story was beautiful in every aspect of the word. The story line, different to all of those going around, was magnificent. Her characters were beautiful and beautifully written into the story. This book is amazing, her story flows without falter and it is written as such that you can visualise many of the scenes depicting countryside, rivers, streams and towns.
I seriously cannot wait for the next instalment.
Im telling you, Indie Authors are killing it at the minute. So many wonderful stories. Kristine, congratulations and well done... please keep going :-)
As this is Kristines first novel, I couldn't wait to get on board to support a fellow Author, to my delight this story was beautiful in every aspect of the word. The story line, different to all of those going around, was magnificent. Her characters were beautiful and beautifully written into the story. This book is amazing, her story flows without falter and it is written as such that you can visualise many of the scenes depicting countryside, rivers, streams and towns.
I seriously cannot wait for the next instalment.
Im telling you, Indie Authors are killing it at the minute. So many wonderful stories. Kristine, congratulations and well done... please keep going :-)
November 27, 2013
A. *I was given a copy of this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
This is a well written book. The author flawlessly added descriptions to the scenery, what they wore, and how they felt. It was like I was right there in the book with characters. It was exactly what I like in a book. It's a love story between Kate and Sam with many triumphs and heartache along the way. Kate rides into Hidden Springs and has a dark secret. Sam is determined to get her to love him. Just when she does, something terrible happens and their world is shattered. Will they ever get past it?
B. *This review has been done in conjunction with A Girl Amongst Books Blog. For more information on our reviews, please visit our Facebook site: www.facebook.com/agirlamongstbooks*
January 13, 2025
This was the first book I'd read which was set in a historical time period but was written more like a contemporary. A sweet story of a woman who'd been raped and thought she'd never marry, never find a man who loved her even with her past. She's wealthy and has her own ranch. He thinks he has nothing to give a woman who already has plenty of money, enough to buy whatever she wants. Far from a typical historical romance this book shows a strong woman building a life for herself on her ranch. There is one rape scene in the book so if that's a thing that triggers you, you'll need to know that, But in the end she has her happy ever after with her hero which is what all good romances must do.
November 13, 2013
What a great debut novel. This book didn't disappoint me at all. This book was so good, and it drew me right in. The characters and story felt so real. Kate is a strong women who came into hidden springs. She wanted to open up a ranch, so she hired some people. That's when she met Sam. Without giving alot away, Kate went thru something horrible and it was hard for her to get close to sam. Will she be able to get close to him...??? I suggest you read this amazing book. You will not be disappointed. Great job!!
November 20, 2013
This is a great story about a young woman's struggle to find love after horrific events occur in her life. I was brought to tears at times as you take the journey with Kate, no one should have to endure so much at such a young age. I am definitely looking for more great books from this author.
November 19, 2013
Great book. Very emotional read. You laugh and cry. Sex scenes you can almost feel. Great first book for the author. Please check it out!
March 19, 2017
I wanted to like this book, I really did, but I was disappointed from page one. Right from the start I found the writing weak and inconsequential.
The plot is fairly good and follows a logical path (even if not always entirely realistic), but there is almost no character development. I couldn't connect to either Sam or Kate and other than the physical attraction I also couldn't feel the connection between them.
In addition, I never really felt I was reading an historical romance. If I hadn't been situated in the 19th century at the beginning of the book, I might have not realized the difference.
So, all in all, I can't rate Here to Stay with more than two stars. Still, Here to Stay is book one in the Hidden Springs series and maybe in the future I'll give the next books a try to see if I can enjoy them a bit more.
The plot is fairly good and follows a logical path (even if not always entirely realistic), but there is almost no character development. I couldn't connect to either Sam or Kate and other than the physical attraction I also couldn't feel the connection between them.
In addition, I never really felt I was reading an historical romance. If I hadn't been situated in the 19th century at the beginning of the book, I might have not realized the difference.
So, all in all, I can't rate Here to Stay with more than two stars. Still, Here to Stay is book one in the Hidden Springs series and maybe in the future I'll give the next books a try to see if I can enjoy them a bit more.
April 18, 2016
I got about halfway through this one and thought, "okay, cute but nothing really special." But then Ms. Raymond went and got deep on me.
Kate is convinced that no man will want her because she was raped about a year before the book starts. Oh, come on, that's not a spoiler. It's obvious from the very first time she thinks something like, "He can't possibly want me because of what happened." Sam is, of course, an awesome guy and loves Kate exactly as she is. But you know from the prologue that something happens to make them separate.
Major spoilers hereafter:
It was all really nicely done and the journey was definitely worth the time. I will seek out more from Ms Raymond.
Kate is convinced that no man will want her because she was raped about a year before the book starts. Oh, come on, that's not a spoiler. It's obvious from the very first time she thinks something like, "He can't possibly want me because of what happened." Sam is, of course, an awesome guy and loves Kate exactly as she is. But you know from the prologue that something happens to make them separate.
Major spoilers hereafter:
It was all really nicely done and the journey was definitely worth the time. I will seek out more from Ms Raymond.
December 9, 2013
For a debut novel this author has done a bang up job. Enjoy reading romance novels with romance in another time period as a change of pace. This is when things were still new and exciting but many challenges coupled with adventure around the corner. In this small but growing quaint new town called Hidden Springs-she has filled the place with a lot of colorful characters. The two main ones-Sam and Kate are loveable, intense and you have a thrilling time seeing them meet each other and watch their relationship grow. Good flowing storyline and great supporting characters. No holes to fall into so not left wondering "huh" which is does not happen here oh joy or would have stopped reading. The romance is to die for and hot enough to burn with class. A little mystery thrown into this story too adds drama. Someone from her past reappears and a heart wrenching scene that brings a tear or two. No happy days after that, gotta love the drama. Soul searching happens for both these characters and when they come together at the end and a smile gets smacked on your face excellent epilogue included. Most definately hope to see more from this author. received a arc for a honest review.
December 15, 2013
I love historical romance books. Love them.
This is Kristine Raymond's debut, but I completely loved it.
I found the characters, Kate and Sam, endearing, the plot interesting, the characters well developed, and my emotions were engaged.
Everything I look for in a good book!
I will certainly read more from this author and if you are a fan of historical, sexy romance you don't want to pass this read up!
4.5 stars and I of course rounded up!
This is Kristine Raymond's debut, but I completely loved it.
I found the characters, Kate and Sam, endearing, the plot interesting, the characters well developed, and my emotions were engaged.
Everything I look for in a good book!
I will certainly read more from this author and if you are a fan of historical, sexy romance you don't want to pass this read up!
4.5 stars and I of course rounded up!
March 24, 2016
A Western historical romance novel that I got for free as an ebook. Am I catching on that part of the style of western historical romances is overly simple speech? It seems to be with the few I’ve read. That said, the characters were somewhat interesting and there was a decent plot, I just wasn’t super enthused. I would consider reading more in the series because of the characters, but won’t be chomping at the bit. 3/5
February 14, 2016
A very good story
A very good story with lots of twists and turns to keep you interested. The background stories of the main characters just add to the book's interest. The editing is very good which adds to making this book above average for me. Looking forward to reading book 2.
A very good story with lots of twists and turns to keep you interested. The background stories of the main characters just add to the book's interest. The editing is very good which adds to making this book above average for me. Looking forward to reading book 2.
March 22, 2019
I enjoyed this book very much. I thought that it had a great storyline. I liked the characters and thought they were well developed. I wanted to rate it 4 or 5 stars. What I didn't like is there was way too much graphic sex in this book. It just isn't necessary to make a good story. And, actually the best books I have read haven't had it in it. I actually think that Authors that do not include graphic sex in their books are much more talented at their craft. Approximately 3 chapters of this book is primarily graphic sex. And, I don't think that it takes a lot of talent to write graphic sex into a book. It ends up just being filler. In all the books that I have read that contained graphic sex there is not a lot of difference in the way it is written regardless of the setting for the book, whether being historical or modern. I think gifted writers have the ability to intimate what is going on without being so graphic. And in this book this author demonstrates she has that talent. The focus in the book is on Kate and Sam. And all the graphic sex written in this book has to do with them. However, Daniel which is Kate's foreman at the ranch is married to Carly and the book includes much about their romance and affection yet there isn't any graphic sex regarding them yet you pick up on the romance, affection, and love they enjoy in one another. So the author demonstrated she can write it so that it doesn't have to be quite so graphic and take up so much room in the story.
One of the passages I did like in the book was in Chapter 3 where Sam and Kate are going on their first date. "Fairly certain she could trust him, she tucked her Colt in her bag, just in case." I got a kick out of that line.
One of the passages I did like in the book was in Chapter 3 where Sam and Kate are going on their first date. "Fairly certain she could trust him, she tucked her Colt in her bag, just in case." I got a kick out of that line.
May 5, 2018
When Sam takes a job putting up fences at Kate Ryan’s farm, it’s not just the pay and promise of a hot meal that makes him want to work her land, it’s her that really draws him in. She’s unlike anyone he’s ever met and before long, he finds himself wanting to blur the line between business and pleasure. But secrets lie behind the peaceful pastures of this Arizona town, secrets that may destroy everything Kate has built.
I’m a historian and struggle to enjoy a historical book when timelines don’t add up and there are things like lightbulbs decades before their invention. But I didn’t have that big of a problem with Raymond’s novel. But things like that are easy to overlook when you’re enjoying the book. It had the feel of the late 1800s, and to me, that’s more than enough.
I liked Kate and Sam together. Their romance was strained at times, but is there such a thing as a bump-free road to love? Some might say there is, but a drama free read is hardly interesting. You want them to talk things out, to come clean, to share the parts of themselves that no one else can touch. They’re flawed, but it makes them human, and the same can be said of the side characters that added levity at some points and drama in the next. Overall, I really enjoyed reading this and recommend it to fans who like a little history and a lot of sex with their cowboys.
I’m a historian and struggle to enjoy a historical book when timelines don’t add up and there are things like lightbulbs decades before their invention. But I didn’t have that big of a problem with Raymond’s novel. But things like that are easy to overlook when you’re enjoying the book. It had the feel of the late 1800s, and to me, that’s more than enough.
I liked Kate and Sam together. Their romance was strained at times, but is there such a thing as a bump-free road to love? Some might say there is, but a drama free read is hardly interesting. You want them to talk things out, to come clean, to share the parts of themselves that no one else can touch. They’re flawed, but it makes them human, and the same can be said of the side characters that added levity at some points and drama in the next. Overall, I really enjoyed reading this and recommend it to fans who like a little history and a lot of sex with their cowboys.
November 3, 2019
Kate Ryan is a beautiful young woman who has a strong will/desire to see her dreams of running and owning her own horse ranch come true. Due to a tragic event that fell upon her and her family, her heart is hers and hers alone. She keeps what happened to her a secret and is not ready to tell anyone anytime soon.
Sam Mackenzie is handsome young man who has just been discharged from the Army and with no family to speak of ends up in the town of Hidden Springs looking for work.
Wouldn’t you know it, but Kate is looking for help to help put up fencing and is posting advertisements in town when Sam spots her.
Sam and Kate have an immediate attraction and develop feelings for one another. Kate is still hesitant to let her heart be won over, but Sam has every intention to do so.
I liked this story as it flowed nicely. No rush in telling us the story and the romance was a nice build up. Loved the whole small town feel and the fact that everyone there feels like one big family.
The only thing I would have liked to have had more of was Kate’s story about her time in San Francisco and the development of the reason she wanted to return to Hidden Springs. I am sure it was mostly about the love she had for Sam, but to me there seems to be some tidbits missing.
Sam Mackenzie is handsome young man who has just been discharged from the Army and with no family to speak of ends up in the town of Hidden Springs looking for work.
Wouldn’t you know it, but Kate is looking for help to help put up fencing and is posting advertisements in town when Sam spots her.
Sam and Kate have an immediate attraction and develop feelings for one another. Kate is still hesitant to let her heart be won over, but Sam has every intention to do so.
I liked this story as it flowed nicely. No rush in telling us the story and the romance was a nice build up. Loved the whole small town feel and the fact that everyone there feels like one big family.
The only thing I would have liked to have had more of was Kate’s story about her time in San Francisco and the development of the reason she wanted to return to Hidden Springs. I am sure it was mostly about the love she had for Sam, but to me there seems to be some tidbits missing.
July 21, 2025
"Gripping, tender, and totally unputdownable!"
From the moment Sam Mackenzie rode into Hidden Springs, I knew I was in for a ride, and Kristine Raymond did not disappoint. This book is the perfect blend of grit, romance, and emotional depth. The chemistry between Sam and Kate? Off the charts. Their banter, their struggles, their growth, it all felt so raw and real.
Raymond masterfully brings 1867 Arizona Territory to life, weaving in mature themes with care and a sense of realism that’s often missing in historical romance. The characters aren’t just charming, they’re complex, layered, and totally unforgettable.
Also, can we talk about how Kate is a total boss? A fiercely independent woman running a ranch on her own in the wild west? Yes, please. 💪
This book doesn’t shy away from the rough edges of frontier life, but it balances that beautifully with moments of tenderness and hope. Here to Stay isn’t just a romance, it’s a story about trust, resilience, and choosing to stay when it’s easier to run.
Highly recommended for fans of historical romance who like their love stories with heat, heart, and a good dose of drama. I’m already diving into Book 2!
From the moment Sam Mackenzie rode into Hidden Springs, I knew I was in for a ride, and Kristine Raymond did not disappoint. This book is the perfect blend of grit, romance, and emotional depth. The chemistry between Sam and Kate? Off the charts. Their banter, their struggles, their growth, it all felt so raw and real.
Raymond masterfully brings 1867 Arizona Territory to life, weaving in mature themes with care and a sense of realism that’s often missing in historical romance. The characters aren’t just charming, they’re complex, layered, and totally unforgettable.
Also, can we talk about how Kate is a total boss? A fiercely independent woman running a ranch on her own in the wild west? Yes, please. 💪
This book doesn’t shy away from the rough edges of frontier life, but it balances that beautifully with moments of tenderness and hope. Here to Stay isn’t just a romance, it’s a story about trust, resilience, and choosing to stay when it’s easier to run.
Highly recommended for fans of historical romance who like their love stories with heat, heart, and a good dose of drama. I’m already diving into Book 2!
January 13, 2019
While this book started off a bit slow for me, I quickly found myself wrapped up in the town and characters. I enjoy historical romances because I enjoy how people lived long before the technical advances we have today. With this one I learned more about how people lived in the wild west. I really enjoyed the horse round-up.
I can't wait to continue the series and see how some of the other characters I met find their one true love.
I can't wait to continue the series and see how some of the other characters I met find their one true love.
May 2, 2019
Kristine Raymond’s “Here to Stay” is not your normal western romance and adventure. It’s packed with intrigue and violence but when the simmering attraction between rancher Kate Ryan and admirer Sam Mackenzie reaches a crescendo, the descriptions are explicit and nothing short of sizzling. Raymond says: “Love doesn’t have to be old-fashioned.” She proves it in this novel. There is nothing hiding in Hidden Springs. I loved it and plan to read more of Ms. Raymond’s works.
January 10, 2019
THAT FEELING WHEN YOU JUST DIGESTED AN AMAZING BOOK. NO KIDDING THIS WAS IT👍. IT WAS SO WAS WELL WRITTEN
PLOT WAS ON POINT ✔ THE EVENTS JUST FLOWED
CHARACTERIZATION BEAUTIFULLY CONSTRUCTED✔ (ONE THING THAT IMPRESSED ME WAS THAT THE H AND h DIDN'T ACT THERE AGE. I MEAN TALK ABOUT 24 AND 21, YOU GET TO SEE LOTS OF MATURITY ESPERCIALLY ON THE HERO SIDE I THINK.).
I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT
PLOT WAS ON POINT ✔ THE EVENTS JUST FLOWED
CHARACTERIZATION BEAUTIFULLY CONSTRUCTED✔ (ONE THING THAT IMPRESSED ME WAS THAT THE H AND h DIDN'T ACT THERE AGE. I MEAN TALK ABOUT 24 AND 21, YOU GET TO SEE LOTS OF MATURITY ESPERCIALLY ON THE HERO SIDE I THINK.).
I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT
April 29, 2019
A thrilling read
When tragedy has filled your life, it is difficult to move forward. It is even more difficult when one finds happiness and the past seeks to destroy it. Yet, ultimately good must overcome evil.
When tragedy has filled your life, it is difficult to move forward. It is even more difficult when one finds happiness and the past seeks to destroy it. Yet, ultimately good must overcome evil.
December 21, 2017
Here to stay
Very good story about love and life on the frontier. I enjoy learning about different lifestyles. It's a bonus with good characters.
Very good story about love and life on the frontier. I enjoy learning about different lifestyles. It's a bonus with good characters.
September 12, 2019
Romantic. A little unrealistic and predictable, but still sweet. At least the entire story didn't take place within two months. :)
December 9, 2020
In depth story of grieving and coming through a tragic event
May 13, 2021
I loved this book and series.
July 13, 2023
Kate and Sam fall in love. However, the past comes to haunt them. This is a book that is sexually explicit.
March 11, 2019
Loved the story and the characters. Loved that the story was around a strong, independent woman who could do anything she set her mind to do.
March 8, 2017
Here to stay:Hidden Springs #1
Could not put it down long. This is definitely a story of trust and heartache. How no matter what you go through if you love someone fate will always find a way to put you two together. Friends even have a way to play a part in that.
Could not put it down long. This is definitely a story of trust and heartache. How no matter what you go through if you love someone fate will always find a way to put you two together. Friends even have a way to play a part in that.
March 3, 2017
I like the writing because it was written in third person and I actually knew whose head I was in. it was a little predictable, though.
Characters: Kate was a strong woman after all. But I felt in love more with Daniel and Carly's love.
End: Hopefully is was a HEA:)
Characters: Kate was a strong woman after all. But I felt in love more with Daniel and Carly's love.
End: Hopefully is was a HEA:)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 6, 2017
Tried reading it, but it was beginning to get monotonous in the first 1\3 of the book. Then checked out some Amazon reviews, which confirmed my suspicions. Moving on to another book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews