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Augustus Ambrose never planned to return to the United States after graduation. His mother’s final letter, with its dire threats about what would await if he did, had been more than enough to keep him away. But when his Aunt Grace dies unexpectedly and leaves him her ranch in the New Mexico Territory, he can’t ignore it. Grace gave him everything, and he can’t let her legacy suffer for his childish fear of his mother.
Griffith Taylor doesn’t want much. Quiet nights on the range, a big blue sky, and no rattlesnakes in his boots. He definitely doesn’t want to travel to Boston to take care of his late boss’s heir. When he lays eyes on his charge, everything changes. Not just because Augie is the best looking greenhorn he’s ever clapped eyes on, oh no.
Someone wants Griff’s new boss dead, and they’re not afraid to use forbidden magic to get the job done. Griff can handle himself in a fight, but this job might be more than he’s prepared for.
Griffith Taylor doesn’t want much. Quiet nights on the range, a big blue sky, and no rattlesnakes in his boots. He definitely doesn’t want to travel to Boston to take care of his late boss’s heir. When he lays eyes on his charge, everything changes. Not just because Augie is the best looking greenhorn he’s ever clapped eyes on, oh no.
Someone wants Griff’s new boss dead, and they’re not afraid to use forbidden magic to get the job done. Griff can handle himself in a fight, but this job might be more than he’s prepared for.
208 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 10, 2020
20 people are currently reading
86 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
June 18, 2020
Sam Burns' Ruby Run is my favourite so far in this paranormal cowboy series that I have to admit, I wasnt sure I'd like.
Well, colour me chastened, because each one has been thoroughly enjoyable and I love the shared world the authors are working in.
This one's my fave because it's too of my best tropes, the strong hero type and the younger, appearing weaker one who actually has a core of steel at his heart.
It's also super hot and features a few really memorable side characters who just added to the narrative.
Well, colour me chastened, because each one has been thoroughly enjoyable and I love the shared world the authors are working in.
This one's my fave because it's too of my best tropes, the strong hero type and the younger, appearing weaker one who actually has a core of steel at his heart.
It's also super hot and features a few really memorable side characters who just added to the narrative.
July 13, 2021
3.5 Stars
Review:
Old West + elemental witches + mlm romance that was too quickly focused on sex for my taste but still cute!
Augie was kind of soft and inexperienced, not cut out for danger and violence and blood. Griff was the opposite, hard and gruff, perfectly comfortable sleeping on the floor and stitching up his own wounds. They were unique, but believable enough as a couple.
The anosmia (lack of smell and therefore also taste) was unexpected, and it seemed to be portrayed well. It made sense that he wouldn't care much about food, but that he liked food with unique textures, like hardtack and burnt bread.
There was a bit of plot about Augie's mother trying to kill him, but it was mostly there for a bit of action a few times in the book. The real focus was the romance.
Overall a cute, quick read.
*The books in this series are set in the same world but each one functions as a standalone about completely different characters, written by different authors. It helps to understand certain things about magic and the town if you read in order, but I think you could read these in any order without any real issue.*
*Rating: 3.5 Stars // Read Date: 2021 // Format: Ebook*
Recommended For:
Anyone who likes the Old West, witches, light mlm romance, and quick reads.
More Reviews @ Metaphors and Moonlight
Review:
Old West + elemental witches + mlm romance that was too quickly focused on sex for my taste but still cute!
Augie was kind of soft and inexperienced, not cut out for danger and violence and blood. Griff was the opposite, hard and gruff, perfectly comfortable sleeping on the floor and stitching up his own wounds. They were unique, but believable enough as a couple.
The anosmia (lack of smell and therefore also taste) was unexpected, and it seemed to be portrayed well. It made sense that he wouldn't care much about food, but that he liked food with unique textures, like hardtack and burnt bread.
There was a bit of plot about Augie's mother trying to kill him, but it was mostly there for a bit of action a few times in the book. The real focus was the romance.
Overall a cute, quick read.
*The books in this series are set in the same world but each one functions as a standalone about completely different characters, written by different authors. It helps to understand certain things about magic and the town if you read in order, but I think you could read these in any order without any real issue.*
*Rating: 3.5 Stars // Read Date: 2021 // Format: Ebook*
Recommended For:
Anyone who likes the Old West, witches, light mlm romance, and quick reads.
More Reviews @ Metaphors and Moonlight
May 12, 2020
4.5 stars! Sam Burns is one of those authors who I just always click with. I don’t even usually like westerns, but with this one I was hooked immediately and had to force myself to put the book down to get some sleep. While this book is most definitely a western, it’s more than that too. I absolutely adored Augie and Griff. Their romance was incredibly sweet, and developed very naturally throughout the story and their trek out west. The magic was interesting, although it probably could’ve been expanded on a little (this might have happened in the other books in this shared world, but I’ll probably only read this one). There was definitely a fair amount of heat, and a constant sense of adventure. It really is a book that has it all.
October 6, 2020
This was my first book by Sam Burns, and I liked it a lot!! Hot menz? Checked! Magic and Fantasy? Checked! Believable, red hot romance? Checked and checked again!!
The book was easy to read, with likeable characters, interesting worldbuilding, and I am faintly disappointed that I don't have a cool talking-horse guardian.
My first Sam Burns was a total success, I am now on the hunt for more of her books.
The book was easy to read, with likeable characters, interesting worldbuilding, and I am faintly disappointed that I don't have a cool talking-horse guardian.
My first Sam Burns was a total success, I am now on the hunt for more of her books.
June 13, 2020
A M-M paranormal historical romance that is long on the romance and short on the paranormal. The insta-attract between Augie and Griff stretches out across their road-trip across several states on train (Pullman carriage no less) and horseback till their final destination in New Mexico. Witch-powers are mentioned (magical skills including necromancy, mental connections with animal familiars) but surprisingly little detail on the mechanisms of such magical craft. I'm not sure I'd try the others in the series.
June 14, 2022
It's a Sam Burns book, so I suppose it's no surprise I devoured it in a day. Loved this. Love the world and the feel of it. Loved the characters. I totally wanted more. I know there are more in this world, and I plan on checking out the other books, but I want more of Sam's view of this world.
4.5 rounded up.
4.5 rounded up.
May 15, 2020
4.5 Stars
Range witch Griff took pride in being a scowling, rude, mean brute when it suited him. It kept unwanted attention at bay, allowing him to be just by himself and only with the company of his equally mean, bad tempered guardian(familiar) horse, Walt. Traveling all those miles from home just to fetch what he'd expected a prissy, fancy, greenhorn dandy heir has only increased his fowl mood and filled him with dread imagining the ride back. But, the heir turned out to be the complete opposite of a snob dandy. Augie Ambrose, in fact, was unpretentious, earnest...and dangerous to Griff's peace of mind.
If I ever imagined someone to portray the saying "the bigger they are, the harde they fall ", I found it in Griff. Augie's sweet smiles became the big guy's kryptonite, and I laughed every time he went out of way just to keep the younger man happy. One look at those wide, innocent green eyes and he'd have done anything in his power to keep them sparkling with joy. Especially when someone was trying to dim that sparkle for ever.
Angie, on the other hand, was immediately attracted to Griff's casual confidence, stunning body and wicked smile. And he liked how safe Griff made him feel, how, for the first time in his life he felt wanted and appreciated for himself, as opposed to only being taken advantage of and ridiculed.
Their journey towards The Lost Ranch started with a first attempt at Augie's life, causing an overall tone of wariness and fear to their departure. But the close proximity also allowed them to act on their attraction, and while their chemistry was steaming hot, what I enjoyed most was their moments filled with tenderness, and the downright cute ones when Griff would kiss Augie's cheek or the latter would cuddle close to Griff's bigger body. Whatever gestures of public affection they might have shown were never met with censure or disgust, which I really appreciated... mostly because it allowed Griff to state his claim to the sweet man who has become "his Augie" and no longer only his boss.
I admit that books with grouchy, tough men turning soft and caring when in love are my catnip, and this one is incredibly well written, heart-warming, sweet and entertaining. The Wild West atmosphere didn't hurt either and the attempts to Augie's life and who was behind them added danger and suspense to the story. I loved Griff, Augie and their romance, the light, humorous writing style and the laughs, many of which thanks to the opinionated fourlegged companions. But, if I were to make an observation, if would be regarding the use of magic, or lack thereof, in the story. I wish the author had given a better understanding of range witches and their powers, and of Augie's magic as well. Apart from that, I found Ruby Run an absolutely lovely, charming reading experience.
Range witch Griff took pride in being a scowling, rude, mean brute when it suited him. It kept unwanted attention at bay, allowing him to be just by himself and only with the company of his equally mean, bad tempered guardian(familiar) horse, Walt. Traveling all those miles from home just to fetch what he'd expected a prissy, fancy, greenhorn dandy heir has only increased his fowl mood and filled him with dread imagining the ride back. But, the heir turned out to be the complete opposite of a snob dandy. Augie Ambrose, in fact, was unpretentious, earnest...and dangerous to Griff's peace of mind.
If I ever imagined someone to portray the saying "the bigger they are, the harde they fall ", I found it in Griff. Augie's sweet smiles became the big guy's kryptonite, and I laughed every time he went out of way just to keep the younger man happy. One look at those wide, innocent green eyes and he'd have done anything in his power to keep them sparkling with joy. Especially when someone was trying to dim that sparkle for ever.
Angie, on the other hand, was immediately attracted to Griff's casual confidence, stunning body and wicked smile. And he liked how safe Griff made him feel, how, for the first time in his life he felt wanted and appreciated for himself, as opposed to only being taken advantage of and ridiculed.
Their journey towards The Lost Ranch started with a first attempt at Augie's life, causing an overall tone of wariness and fear to their departure. But the close proximity also allowed them to act on their attraction, and while their chemistry was steaming hot, what I enjoyed most was their moments filled with tenderness, and the downright cute ones when Griff would kiss Augie's cheek or the latter would cuddle close to Griff's bigger body. Whatever gestures of public affection they might have shown were never met with censure or disgust, which I really appreciated... mostly because it allowed Griff to state his claim to the sweet man who has become "his Augie" and no longer only his boss.
I admit that books with grouchy, tough men turning soft and caring when in love are my catnip, and this one is incredibly well written, heart-warming, sweet and entertaining. The Wild West atmosphere didn't hurt either and the attempts to Augie's life and who was behind them added danger and suspense to the story. I loved Griff, Augie and their romance, the light, humorous writing style and the laughs, many of which thanks to the opinionated fourlegged companions. But, if I were to make an observation, if would be regarding the use of magic, or lack thereof, in the story. I wish the author had given a better understanding of range witches and their powers, and of Augie's magic as well. Apart from that, I found Ruby Run an absolutely lovely, charming reading experience.
May 17, 2020
4.5 stars
From the very beginning the MC's were interesting and complex. They're not remotely similar to one another and yet there's something more that brings them together. Their personalities are endearing in their own ways and for very different reasons. The overall plot moved forward at an acceptable pace that allowed us to focus on the MC's, their pasts, their current difficulties, and what kind of life they would look toward when they finally reached Ruby Gulch.
I think what I liked the most was the honesty. Griff was admittedly a grouch but he never let that stand in the way of how interesting, adorable, and endearing he thought Augie was. Walt was really a reflection of his owner and yet his heart was soft as well. They made a great guardian/range witch pairing. Add in the adorably vulnerable yet eager Augie with his compassionate soul and earnest heart and they were a wonderful match. I enjoyed how their relationship grew and that there weren't any angsty bits with past lovers or misunderstood intentions. Their honesty made their path relatively smooth.
As for the magic and the plot, there was a huge tilt in the balance toward the explanations and romance and not the mystery that followed them. Because we knew who the antagonist was and that they would eventually have their reckoning, the journey was used to build a foundation between Griff and Augie as well as give us a thorough transition from an uncertain future to a solid plan with intention. The confrontation was between exactly who it needed to be between and it hinted at a whole lot of magically awesome things that are to come for Augie in his new life. I wish we had more of their story after that point, but the epilogue was sweet and clear enough that there were no mysteries as to how their life is progressing, I just wish I got to see the settling down at the ranch.
I truly enjoyed this story and am quite excited to see what else this series has in store. The other books are all by different authors and in the same setting, though I'm not sure how much crossover we'll get between the characters. I have certain hopes that we'll see a larger picture of the ranch and the world they all created though, so I'll be back for more for sure. Except I really hope for a little more explicit definitions as to the type of witches because using the basic "range witch" and "book witch" descriptions just weren't enough to understand the scope of what the witches are and are capable of.
From the very beginning the MC's were interesting and complex. They're not remotely similar to one another and yet there's something more that brings them together. Their personalities are endearing in their own ways and for very different reasons. The overall plot moved forward at an acceptable pace that allowed us to focus on the MC's, their pasts, their current difficulties, and what kind of life they would look toward when they finally reached Ruby Gulch.
I think what I liked the most was the honesty. Griff was admittedly a grouch but he never let that stand in the way of how interesting, adorable, and endearing he thought Augie was. Walt was really a reflection of his owner and yet his heart was soft as well. They made a great guardian/range witch pairing. Add in the adorably vulnerable yet eager Augie with his compassionate soul and earnest heart and they were a wonderful match. I enjoyed how their relationship grew and that there weren't any angsty bits with past lovers or misunderstood intentions. Their honesty made their path relatively smooth.
As for the magic and the plot, there was a huge tilt in the balance toward the explanations and romance and not the mystery that followed them. Because we knew who the antagonist was and that they would eventually have their reckoning, the journey was used to build a foundation between Griff and Augie as well as give us a thorough transition from an uncertain future to a solid plan with intention. The confrontation was between exactly who it needed to be between and it hinted at a whole lot of magically awesome things that are to come for Augie in his new life. I wish we had more of their story after that point, but the epilogue was sweet and clear enough that there were no mysteries as to how their life is progressing, I just wish I got to see the settling down at the ranch.
I truly enjoyed this story and am quite excited to see what else this series has in store. The other books are all by different authors and in the same setting, though I'm not sure how much crossover we'll get between the characters. I have certain hopes that we'll see a larger picture of the ranch and the world they all created though, so I'll be back for more for sure. Except I really hope for a little more explicit definitions as to the type of witches because using the basic "range witch" and "book witch" descriptions just weren't enough to understand the scope of what the witches are and are capable of.
July 16, 2021
4.5 stars rounding up!
I'm not a historical romance fan but this here is the kind I love to read! Filled with magic, mayhem and 2 MCs that are perfect for each other!
Augustus is a young, bashful almost doctor that left US to go to Oxford to study, leaving behind his toxic mother and his beloved brother. He comes back only because of his dear aunt's last bequest. Griffith was a soldier and now a cowpuncher that works at Augustus aunt's ranch and is in Boston to see what the new boss will want to do. And what he sees when he meets Augustus is nothing like he expected but everything that he was missing in his life. Augustus doesn't know what to expect when he reaches Boston but even under the threat of his mother killing him if he ever returned to the US, his aunt's bequest has only good things happening to him starting from inheriting the ranch to finding the kind of man he didn't know he needed.
I loved everything about this. From Augie's and Griff's interactions, to their experiences getting to the ranch, to swapping life stories, to their heated encounters. It was just perfect and everything I loved in MF historical romances that I just can't find in MM ones!*
The 1/2 star that I pulled from the rating is because I wanted to see Augie a bit more established with his magic and what he could do and to what degree especially after Drew said that .
*a bit of a caveat: I know there are quite a lot MM historical/regency romances out there but I prefer to read ones that are AU and/or PNR/SPN which means that the author can take a creative license how homosexuality is viewed on that period and it's likely more tolerant than it really was in actuality.
I'm not a historical romance fan but this here is the kind I love to read! Filled with magic, mayhem and 2 MCs that are perfect for each other!
Augustus is a young, bashful almost doctor that left US to go to Oxford to study, leaving behind his toxic mother and his beloved brother. He comes back only because of his dear aunt's last bequest. Griffith was a soldier and now a cowpuncher that works at Augustus aunt's ranch and is in Boston to see what the new boss will want to do. And what he sees when he meets Augustus is nothing like he expected but everything that he was missing in his life. Augustus doesn't know what to expect when he reaches Boston but even under the threat of his mother killing him if he ever returned to the US, his aunt's bequest has only good things happening to him starting from inheriting the ranch to finding the kind of man he didn't know he needed.
I loved everything about this. From Augie's and Griff's interactions, to their experiences getting to the ranch, to swapping life stories, to their heated encounters. It was just perfect and everything I loved in MF historical romances that I just can't find in MM ones!*
The 1/2 star that I pulled from the rating is because I wanted to see Augie a bit more established with his magic and what he could do and to what degree especially after Drew said that .
*a bit of a caveat: I know there are quite a lot MM historical/regency romances out there but I prefer to read ones that are AU and/or PNR/SPN which means that the author can take a creative license how homosexuality is viewed on that period and it's likely more tolerant than it really was in actuality.
May 10, 2020
So much to love about this story. I loved the mix of the old west, magic, and zombies, which is genius. The world building is fabulous and very well thought out. That and the characters pulled me into the story, and didn’t let go until the last page. I thought it was a sweet story yet with plenty of action, and romance.
I loved the characters. I felt for Augie with his upbringing and crazy mother, and how his self doubt because of it. Having him not being able to taste or smell is an interesting original twist. I really liked how he became more confident in himself and his abilities as the story progressed. Although I guessed where his strength in magic lay, it didn’t detract from the story, as I enjoyed reading about his journey to that point. I love him and Griff together. They’re good for each other. I liked how Griff just took everything in his stride and wanted Augie right from first sight. I loved him in action in a gun fight too.
Walt, of course, deserves a mention. He’s a great character and steals every scene he’s in. I was very happy with the way Cerebus’ storyline pans out too. I would have loved to have met Augie’s aunt as she sounds like an amazing lady. I liked how this alternative west has some very capable women as part of it.
The magic is interesting and different, yet perfect for the setting. Although I enjoyed the epilogue and the closure it gave, I’d love to see another story with Augie and Griff.
I loved the characters. I felt for Augie with his upbringing and crazy mother, and how his self doubt because of it. Having him not being able to taste or smell is an interesting original twist. I really liked how he became more confident in himself and his abilities as the story progressed. Although I guessed where his strength in magic lay, it didn’t detract from the story, as I enjoyed reading about his journey to that point. I love him and Griff together. They’re good for each other. I liked how Griff just took everything in his stride and wanted Augie right from first sight. I loved him in action in a gun fight too.
Walt, of course, deserves a mention. He’s a great character and steals every scene he’s in. I was very happy with the way Cerebus’ storyline pans out too. I would have loved to have met Augie’s aunt as she sounds like an amazing lady. I liked how this alternative west has some very capable women as part of it.
The magic is interesting and different, yet perfect for the setting. Although I enjoyed the epilogue and the closure it gave, I’d love to see another story with Augie and Griff.
May 12, 2020
I'll start by saying I think Ruby Run is the best of the three books in the Tin Star Witches multi-author, shared-world series I have read so far. Action, adventure, mystery, witches, the undead and true love (of course) in the wild west...what's not to love?
I really liked Augie and Griff (and of course Walt, Griff's horse Guardian). Both men, despite their outward differences, have qualities they don't believe they have. Augie believes himself a coward and a poor witch because of the emotional harm he suffered in his childhood, whilst Griff believed himself nothing more than a rough and ready range witch with no capacity for softer skills (like comforting Augie). Both prove themselves to be far more than they thought.
The story of their trek across the country and them facing both the perils of the trail and the malevolent creature that's hunting Augie is well-woven. As I mentioned, I've read both of the preceeding books in this multi-author series and it feels like this author finally really captures the essence of the world they are building.
Despite being part of a series, Ruby Run can absolutely stand alone, and is a great quick read. 5*
An ARC was provided by GRR in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked Augie and Griff (and of course Walt, Griff's horse Guardian). Both men, despite their outward differences, have qualities they don't believe they have. Augie believes himself a coward and a poor witch because of the emotional harm he suffered in his childhood, whilst Griff believed himself nothing more than a rough and ready range witch with no capacity for softer skills (like comforting Augie). Both prove themselves to be far more than they thought.
The story of their trek across the country and them facing both the perils of the trail and the malevolent creature that's hunting Augie is well-woven. As I mentioned, I've read both of the preceeding books in this multi-author series and it feels like this author finally really captures the essence of the world they are building.
Despite being part of a series, Ruby Run can absolutely stand alone, and is a great quick read. 5*
An ARC was provided by GRR in exchange for an honest review.
May 4, 2020
Augie was an Oxford trained doctor who got sick at the sight of blood. Mostly afraid of his own shadow, he surprised himself when he made it all the way to Boston to claim an inheritance from his aunt. Griff was there to escort Augie to New Mexico. He was a range witch who could talk with his guardian horse Walt. Griff wasn’t at all expecting the quiet, shy man waiting for him. Both men were pleased with who they’d be spending weeks with. Neither man had expected death to follow them though.
“Something about Augie was different. Something that made him want to be soft and gentle in a way he’d never been much good at”.
I fell in love with these people and this story. Set in the old west it didn’t require a lot of universe building. The characters were well rounded, the use of magic a given (although there really wasn’t much magic in this book). I liked that there was no homophobia. Augie and Griff settled into their relationship quietly and sweetly. That’s not to say there wasn’t some serious boot knocking going on though.
I seldom give a first book in a series 5 stars but I liked this one so much I had no other choice.
I received an arc of this book.
“Something about Augie was different. Something that made him want to be soft and gentle in a way he’d never been much good at”.
I fell in love with these people and this story. Set in the old west it didn’t require a lot of universe building. The characters were well rounded, the use of magic a given (although there really wasn’t much magic in this book). I liked that there was no homophobia. Augie and Griff settled into their relationship quietly and sweetly. That’s not to say there wasn’t some serious boot knocking going on though.
I seldom give a first book in a series 5 stars but I liked this one so much I had no other choice.
I received an arc of this book.
May 19, 2020
If you are looking for a light-hearted, quick read with a paranormal western edge then this is the perfect book (and series) to dive in to. Ruby Run is part of the Tin Star Witches: The Witches of Ruby Gulch series, each novel written by a different author.
Griff and Augie are complete opposites of each other. Griff is a Range Witch working at the Lost Chance ranch. Augie has just inherited the Lost Chance ranch from his aunt. The journey to Lost Chance bring a lot more trouble then a city boy not being able to cut it in the west.
These two character are so cute together. Augie is unsure of himself, he knows nothing about ranching but this is the first opportunity to find a home. He can't pass that up. Griff likes Augie just as he is, caring, kind, and perfect for him in every way.
The chemistry between Griff and Augie is instantaneous and burns brightly. There are a few spicy scenes which were great. There were some flirty scenes that just had me grinning. Griff and Augie, I just love them. This was a great read.
Griff and Augie are complete opposites of each other. Griff is a Range Witch working at the Lost Chance ranch. Augie has just inherited the Lost Chance ranch from his aunt. The journey to Lost Chance bring a lot more trouble then a city boy not being able to cut it in the west.
These two character are so cute together. Augie is unsure of himself, he knows nothing about ranching but this is the first opportunity to find a home. He can't pass that up. Griff likes Augie just as he is, caring, kind, and perfect for him in every way.
The chemistry between Griff and Augie is instantaneous and burns brightly. There are a few spicy scenes which were great. There were some flirty scenes that just had me grinning. Griff and Augie, I just love them. This was a great read.
May 11, 2020
Magic, the Old West, witches and guardians all combine for a good story! I enjoyed the story-line and read it in one sitting. The characters were delightful and both charming in their own way. The writing flowed well and i definitely enjoyed the mixing of the paranormal and the old west theme. I truly loved the banter between Griff and his guardian horse Walt. I loved the gruffness of Griff. i was really touched by the an interaction with Jules, Augie's brother later in the book, really was intense and beautiful.
Augie and Griff are not what they expect of the other and the surprise is really delightful. Both men find a forever connection in a quiet and intense way.
This book is part of a multi-author series where each book can be read as a stand-alone. The Tin Star Witches series has a shared world of Ruby Gulch.
I was gifted this book from Gay Romance Reviews and i freely give my honest opinion and review.
Augie and Griff are not what they expect of the other and the surprise is really delightful. Both men find a forever connection in a quiet and intense way.
This book is part of a multi-author series where each book can be read as a stand-alone. The Tin Star Witches series has a shared world of Ruby Gulch.
I was gifted this book from Gay Romance Reviews and i freely give my honest opinion and review.
May 12, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
Ruby Run was just about everything I enjoy in a book. A tad angsty, with well-developed characters and an evenly paced story. It’s a western, at its core, and that appealed to me right away. Additionally, the book also had real heart and that made Ruby Run enjoyable from start to finish. I will say, it’s the third of the Tin Star Witches, a multi-author series, but I had no knowledge of that when I started. This book seemed to stand well enough on its own, so I don’t think it’s critical to read the others in the series first.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
4.75 stars
Ruby Run was just about everything I enjoy in a book. A tad angsty, with well-developed characters and an evenly paced story. It’s a western, at its core, and that appealed to me right away. Additionally, the book also had real heart and that made Ruby Run enjoyable from start to finish. I will say, it’s the third of the Tin Star Witches, a multi-author series, but I had no knowledge of that when I started. This book seemed to stand well enough on its own, so I don’t think it’s critical to read the others in the series first.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
May 17, 2020
Augustus Ambrose has nothing. No job, no family, no money. He returns to the US after studying to be a witch doctor in UK to claim the inheritance of his aunt, only to find himself a rich man all of a sudden. But to claim his inheritance, he has to survive the trip to Texas to claim his ranch. He has the help of handsome and capable Griffith Taylor. But Augie’s deranged mother will stop at nothing to end him, even raising the dead…
I’ve enjoyed this story quite a lot. It is quite simple, but the mixture of supernatural, adventures, wild west, with two opposite characters who fall in love putting the romantic element, worked pretty well for me.
Enjoyable
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
I’ve enjoyed this story quite a lot. It is quite simple, but the mixture of supernatural, adventures, wild west, with two opposite characters who fall in love putting the romantic element, worked pretty well for me.
Enjoyable
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
November 1, 2020
So good I died
This book was so fantastic I almost died. Maybe really dramatic, but I enjoyed this so much I feel like a bit of drama is necessary.
I don't usually get into multi-author series but this has been one gem after another. This might be my favorite though just because the "rough cowboy/ innocent green horn" trope is just sooooo... Yeah.
Augie was ADORABLE. He was a perfect blend of cynical and naive. Griff was a surly cowboy with a serious soft spot. They just worked so well. It was insta-lust but the love happened very organically. the story itself was superb and the world building was fantastic.
Highly, HIGHLY recommended. If you like western + steamy romance + paranormal twist this is PURE GOLD.
Hig
This book was so fantastic I almost died. Maybe really dramatic, but I enjoyed this so much I feel like a bit of drama is necessary.
I don't usually get into multi-author series but this has been one gem after another. This might be my favorite though just because the "rough cowboy/ innocent green horn" trope is just sooooo... Yeah.
Augie was ADORABLE. He was a perfect blend of cynical and naive. Griff was a surly cowboy with a serious soft spot. They just worked so well. It was insta-lust but the love happened very organically. the story itself was superb and the world building was fantastic.
Highly, HIGHLY recommended. If you like western + steamy romance + paranormal twist this is PURE GOLD.
Hig
May 11, 2020
A place to call home
I can’t get enough of paranormals and when you add in a western historical theme, it’s love at first neigh. Augie is the best. He’s sweet, shy and has more to him than even he knows. Griff, I found to be quite the charmer but I am a fan of grumpy, sexy men. Together they are perfect, dusty or not. I want to visit Lost Chance to meet them and of course, the horses. I adore the guardians in this series. They are the driving force behind the people. I hope we see Augie and Griff again as I think they have more to share. Witches, magic, a quietly intense love and everlasting connection, I think I found my new vacation place in New Mexico and Ruby Gulch.
I can’t get enough of paranormals and when you add in a western historical theme, it’s love at first neigh. Augie is the best. He’s sweet, shy and has more to him than even he knows. Griff, I found to be quite the charmer but I am a fan of grumpy, sexy men. Together they are perfect, dusty or not. I want to visit Lost Chance to meet them and of course, the horses. I adore the guardians in this series. They are the driving force behind the people. I hope we see Augie and Griff again as I think they have more to share. Witches, magic, a quietly intense love and everlasting connection, I think I found my new vacation place in New Mexico and Ruby Gulch.
May 13, 2020
This was a fast read, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Griff and Augie fit together so well from the moment they met. I loved watching Augie grow and accept his new lot in life. And Griff is the perfect partner and quite spectacular in his own right.
Basically this was a road trip romance set in the old west with the occasional only one bed and characters who had zero issues with that.
It’s a part of a series, but I didn’t know that. It reads fine as a standalone (and I am always demanding to read books in proper series order).
Basically this was a road trip romance set in the old west with the occasional only one bed and characters who had zero issues with that.
It’s a part of a series, but I didn’t know that. It reads fine as a standalone (and I am always demanding to read books in proper series order).
May 17, 2020
This was my third read from Sam Burns and I have to say, I really love it so far.
This one was great from start to finish. I knew from the first chapter on that I wouldn't be able to stop and I was right.
It had the right amount of adventure, falling in love, magic, mayhem, and heat.
It was a great pace, so well written you get lost in the adventure with them.
Griff and Augie were amazing characters that I really enjoyed making this journey with. I loved how they were with each other. It felt so simple, normal and beautiful.
Great great book that I really recommend
This one was great from start to finish. I knew from the first chapter on that I wouldn't be able to stop and I was right.
It had the right amount of adventure, falling in love, magic, mayhem, and heat.
It was a great pace, so well written you get lost in the adventure with them.
Griff and Augie were amazing characters that I really enjoyed making this journey with. I loved how they were with each other. It felt so simple, normal and beautiful.
Great great book that I really recommend
May 20, 2020
Amazing! This series features a different author for every book. This one was by Sam Burns, an author I have read before and loved. One of the things that make this so enjoyable is the feel of the “Old West” in each book. It truly drops you right into the Wild West and just keep going from there. The characters in this book were wonderful. Angie and Griff had work to do in order to get their HEA, but all throughout the book their romance was sweet and sincere. Truly a great read that I’ll be recommending to everyone I know! Plus, look at the covers!!
June 27, 2020
This is book 3 and oh these books are addictive. Augustus/Auggie is returning home from England as his Aunt Grace died and left him her ranch. Griffith has come to put him on the train to send him on his own to the ranch. The plan goes awry as an undead is out to kill Auggie. Griffith and Auggie head across country, staying ahead of the necromancer and the undead, falling in love and learning that you are braver then you think. Auggie was just so sweet, innocent and is so much more the anyone ever told him, including himself. The ending was surprising and perfect.
April 3, 2021
I wanted to like this. There was hunky witch cowboys after all. However, Augie was a hard character to like. He was just written as this small (not physically, but that too) character with zero self-esteem and trying his hardest to be a wallflower except in bed, which doesn't really make for an interesting read. I get that he had a shitty past and awful mother, but he's just so uninteresting as a character and it made no sense why Griff wanted to be with him beyond sexual attraction. I usually enjoy Sam Burn books, but this one is fairly forgettable
May 11, 2020
A good setting the scene as the book begins Augie is about to explore his new ranch and all that goes with it. Both MCs are silently attracted to each other.. An okay story that is read with good guys vs bad guys and including everything that happened. I liked the story but it didn't really pull me to love it.
Augie 25 was in Boston to hear his aunts Will unknowingly what he'd hear. Griff was sent to escort Augie to the ranch. Trouble wasn't far away.
Augie 25 was in Boston to hear his aunts Will unknowingly what he'd hear. Griff was sent to escort Augie to the ranch. Trouble wasn't far away.
May 18, 2020
I love multiauthor series because usually every author put his/her style into the book they wrote giving to a single topic different points of view and different ways to carry on the story. Now is the turn of Sam Burns that brougt us a magical adventure in her characteristic style. Augie and Griff’s story is a complex and interesting western full of action, danger, and betrayal while learning about each other trying to stay alive long enough to get their forever. A wonderful reading!!
October 2, 2020
I wasn't familiar with this series, and witchy stories are not exactly my go-to, but I decided to check out this 3rd installment because I wanted to read more from Burns and also, cowboys...
This started out fun. But at some point the plot took a turn that just wasn't my cup of tea. Also I enjoy paranormal romance / suspense but there was hardly anything paranormal about this, until things started picking up towards the end. I did enjoy the last 20 % or so.
Personally I also wasn't a huge fan of the relationship dynamics here, and at times the writing felt very "fanfic-y", and not in any good way.
So, overall I just wasn't feeling this. Meh.
This started out fun. But at some point the plot took a turn that just wasn't my cup of tea. Also I enjoy paranormal romance / suspense but there was hardly anything paranormal about this, until things started picking up towards the end. I did enjoy the last 20 % or so.
Personally I also wasn't a huge fan of the relationship dynamics here, and at times the writing felt very "fanfic-y", and not in any good way.
So, overall I just wasn't feeling this. Meh.
January 7, 2021
This book is probably my favorite Sam Burns book, but the climax of the story was so anti-climactic I had to dock off a star. Perhaps if Burns had wanted to write a longer book, the story would've been a bit more fleshed out and she could've provided more layers to the "villain." Nevertheless, the first three-quarters of the book was such good fun. I'm disappointed there won't be more in the world.
June 9, 2021
Not a fan of witches and supernatural stories, too many real outstanding features of life, but this was an amusing story of Augie travelling to Boston for the reading of his Aunt's will, where he learns that he has inherited her ranch. At that time he is joined by Griff who has been sent to bring Augie to The Lost Chance. Both characters are likeable and their journey to New Mexico is jazzed up with attempts on Audie's life.
August 27, 2021
MM - paranormal - western?? Yes, please and thank you.
Sam Burns has been on my list for a long time… They have had so many books I’ve been interested in but never actually pulled the trigger on any of them. Until now obviously… and will most likely do so again in the near future.
Magical cowboys are 100% my jam, and this book didn’t disappoint… I am going to be fiend now…
I had a few irks here and there but nothing that really detoured me from enjoying it. And boy did I enjoy it…
Sam Burns has been on my list for a long time… They have had so many books I’ve been interested in but never actually pulled the trigger on any of them. Until now obviously… and will most likely do so again in the near future.
Magical cowboys are 100% my jam, and this book didn’t disappoint… I am going to be fiend now…
I had a few irks here and there but nothing that really detoured me from enjoying it. And boy did I enjoy it…
December 3, 2021
This was a fluffy delight. A magical and queer-friendly post-Civil War adventure. (Though I always want to know, if you're including magic in actual real-world settings dealing with injustice, how magic may or may not be part of that.) The characters were into each other so quickly - I'm fine with that, btw! - that the only tension was the travel and the anticipated showdown with Augustus' mother.
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