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Wild Ones #2
Signs of Spring
Their unlikely connection grows stronger every day, but to stay together they have to believe not only in each other, but also in themselves.
Lance never believed the stars could align for him to have a real chance with Robbie, and even though they’ve spent every day—and night—together for weeks, a part of him still isn’t convinced it’s all real. But until the inevitable moment he loses Robbie, Lance intends to savor what they share. When Lance is dragged back to Chicago, he’s both relieved and terrified when Robbie offers to come with him.
Robbie loves his family’s Nebraska ranch, but he’s also been solely responsible for keeping it afloat since he was eighteen. He’s always wanted to experience life outside his rural hometown. His glimpse into Lance’s friends and work in Chicago is bittersweet. On the one hand, it’s all too easy to picture a future in Lance’s city and at Lance’s side. On the other hand, it seems impossible given Robbie’s responsibilities to the ranch, and he doesn’t want to hold Lance back from the life and career he’s made.
Signs of Spring is the conclusion to Robbie and Lance’s love story, which began in Long Winter. The books include complicated family relationships, animal characters, an age gap, a best friend’s little brother, pining, hurt/comfort, and lace. The books must be read in order.
Lance never believed the stars could align for him to have a real chance with Robbie, and even though they’ve spent every day—and night—together for weeks, a part of him still isn’t convinced it’s all real. But until the inevitable moment he loses Robbie, Lance intends to savor what they share. When Lance is dragged back to Chicago, he’s both relieved and terrified when Robbie offers to come with him.
Robbie loves his family’s Nebraska ranch, but he’s also been solely responsible for keeping it afloat since he was eighteen. He’s always wanted to experience life outside his rural hometown. His glimpse into Lance’s friends and work in Chicago is bittersweet. On the one hand, it’s all too easy to picture a future in Lance’s city and at Lance’s side. On the other hand, it seems impossible given Robbie’s responsibilities to the ranch, and he doesn’t want to hold Lance back from the life and career he’s made.
Signs of Spring is the conclusion to Robbie and Lance’s love story, which began in Long Winter. The books include complicated family relationships, animal characters, an age gap, a best friend’s little brother, pining, hurt/comfort, and lace. The books must be read in order.
275 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 12, 2021
63 people are currently reading
232 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Ember
28 books202 followersRachel was born and raised in the midwest USA, and now lives there voluntarily, a life choice she only sometimes questions. On the small farm her menagerie calls home, she happily juggles her voracious reading and writing habits with caring for her kids and pets.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
September 17, 2021
This one sadly did not work for me. I enjoyed seeing Robbie and Lance’s love grow and seeing their lives come together, which is what I wanted and expected picking up this book.
What I didn’t expect was the two side plots taking away from the romance. I was really not that interested in Lance’s work, not enough anyway to want to read all these detailed descriptions and events. His Chicago friends seemed shallow and were hard to really like, but they took up so much space. I would have loved more of Nora and less of all these other people.
And the uncle? What the hell was up with that weird story? And am I crazy to think book 3 is about him? And what about Johnny? What the hell is wrong with Johnny? I was hoping to see some complicated scenes where Robbie and Lance come out to Danny and Johnny. But nope, that was smooth sailing and took two seconds. Instead we get that weird ass plot.
Finally, the flashbacks for the first half of the book killed me. It was too much, too many different timelines, two many different places. I was so annoyed and confused I almost gave up, until I decided to just skim anything that wasn’t present tense and enjoyed myself much more.
I’m curious about the rest of the series, and will probably give those books a try, although I am unsure how the author will redeem Johnny in book 4.
What I didn’t expect was the two side plots taking away from the romance. I was really not that interested in Lance’s work, not enough anyway to want to read all these detailed descriptions and events. His Chicago friends seemed shallow and were hard to really like, but they took up so much space. I would have loved more of Nora and less of all these other people.
And the uncle? What the hell was up with that weird story? And am I crazy to think book 3 is about him? And what about Johnny? What the hell is wrong with Johnny? I was hoping to see some complicated scenes where Robbie and Lance come out to Danny and Johnny. But nope, that was smooth sailing and took two seconds. Instead we get that weird ass plot.
Finally, the flashbacks for the first half of the book killed me. It was too much, too many different timelines, two many different places. I was so annoyed and confused I almost gave up, until I decided to just skim anything that wasn’t present tense and enjoyed myself much more.
I’m curious about the rest of the series, and will probably give those books a try, although I am unsure how the author will redeem Johnny in book 4.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2022
Oooo lace😌
Read
February 9, 2022When I started writing about Lance and Robbie, I hadn’t really grasped what a particular challenge it would be to write about a couple where both people are the quiet, introspective type. I love writing banter and most of the romances I consider personal favorites are plotty. But that wasn’t the way that Robbie and Lance’s story evolved, and I quickly learned that when I fought the natural inertia of their tale, it rang false.
Long Winter is a long night around the campfire, deeply intimate and an escape from the wider world. Signs of Spring is the hike back to reality the next morning. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it. 🤍
Long Winter is a long night around the campfire, deeply intimate and an escape from the wider world. Signs of Spring is the hike back to reality the next morning. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it. 🤍
January 3, 2022
3.5 stars
“…and for the first time in his life, Lance sees Robbie Chase shed a few tears.
Johnny’s words echo in head. Robbie only cries when he’s happy. Lance hugs him more tightly and wonders if anyone’s heart has ever felt as full as his does right now.”
I liked this but couldn’t help comparing it to Long Winter and it just didn’t have the same magic. Yet you can still expect beautiful writing, wonderful characters, and an entertaining read.
It’s nice to see Robbie and Lance together, who still need to work through several obstacles to their relationship. Robbie is tied down to the farm, while Lance needs to separate his business dealings from a sleazy, ex-boyfriend who manages his career. They also need to balance their disparate lives in small town Nebraska and artsy, urbane Chicago.
Robbie is literally the perfect book boyfriend—sexy, supportive, and protective—but Lance’s emotional baggage and insecurities from growing up with an alcoholic father affect their relationship. He’s quick to doubt Robbie’s love and keeps expecting their relationship to fail any day. But having known Lance since he was a kid, Robbie understands him and accepts him as he is, loving him unconditionally.
Other storylines emerge, such as a reappearance by Johnny, Robbie’s brother, who left the farm years ago. And Lance unexpectedly discovers a mysterious woman and child living in his father’s abandoned house. Plus there may be more than meets the eye behind a series of misfortunes at Robbie's farm.
“…and for the first time in his life, Lance sees Robbie Chase shed a few tears.
Johnny’s words echo in head. Robbie only cries when he’s happy. Lance hugs him more tightly and wonders if anyone’s heart has ever felt as full as his does right now.”
I liked this but couldn’t help comparing it to Long Winter and it just didn’t have the same magic. Yet you can still expect beautiful writing, wonderful characters, and an entertaining read.
It’s nice to see Robbie and Lance together, who still need to work through several obstacles to their relationship. Robbie is tied down to the farm, while Lance needs to separate his business dealings from a sleazy, ex-boyfriend who manages his career. They also need to balance their disparate lives in small town Nebraska and artsy, urbane Chicago.
Robbie is literally the perfect book boyfriend—sexy, supportive, and protective—but Lance’s emotional baggage and insecurities from growing up with an alcoholic father affect their relationship. He’s quick to doubt Robbie’s love and keeps expecting their relationship to fail any day. But having known Lance since he was a kid, Robbie understands him and accepts him as he is, loving him unconditionally.
Other storylines emerge, such as a reappearance by Johnny, Robbie’s brother, who left the farm years ago. And Lance unexpectedly discovers a mysterious woman and child living in his father’s abandoned house. Plus there may be more than meets the eye behind a series of misfortunes at Robbie's farm.
July 30, 2021
I really like these characters and enjoyed the book, there wasn't the drama-llamas I was wary off, it's a cosy read.
Certain issues (the potential llamas) were dealt with very quickly, easily managed more off page than I would have liked really. Other problems that are discovered are forgotten and unresolved which I didn't like because I'm not clear if that means it's an arc that will continue in the next book or if it was literally forgotten. That did bug me.
There's a little kink introduced into the sex and, I kind of got impression it was added because Ember felt she needs that bit extra to draw readers in. It was skippable, if it's your thing yay, personally I just like the relationship and attraction between the two and didn't think it needed. Which isn't to say it's a bad scene, simply it's an extra thrown in.
We meet a few characters I hope will get their own books and while it was clear each has a story they didn't intrude too much into this one, it was well written to garner interest in them without that annoying -look here, look here- feeling found in a lot of series.
The book continuing where the first story left off is still trope-tastic but never lazy, it impresses me by not following expected lines. A couple of details missing from the first have been expanded on. The main and side characters feel real and are facetted. The setting comes vividly to life. And Robbie and Lance are both exactly what the other needs. I love how they compliment each other. The relationship, how both men are written is everything here.
Really looking forward to more from Ember, think she'll gain strength as an author.
Certain issues (the potential llamas) were dealt with very quickly, easily managed more off page than I would have liked really. Other problems that are discovered are forgotten and unresolved which I didn't like because I'm not clear if that means it's an arc that will continue in the next book or if it was literally forgotten. That did bug me.
There's a little kink introduced into the sex and, I kind of got impression it was added because Ember felt she needs that bit extra to draw readers in. It was skippable, if it's your thing yay, personally I just like the relationship and attraction between the two and didn't think it needed. Which isn't to say it's a bad scene, simply it's an extra thrown in.
We meet a few characters I hope will get their own books and while it was clear each has a story they didn't intrude too much into this one, it was well written to garner interest in them without that annoying -look here, look here- feeling found in a lot of series.
The book continuing where the first story left off is still trope-tastic but never lazy, it impresses me by not following expected lines. A couple of details missing from the first have been expanded on. The main and side characters feel real and are facetted. The setting comes vividly to life. And Robbie and Lance are both exactly what the other needs. I love how they compliment each other. The relationship, how both men are written is everything here.
Really looking forward to more from Ember, think she'll gain strength as an author.
August 3, 2022
Wonderful follow up with Robbie and Lance
This picks up almost directly from where book one ended with Robbie and Lance working the property and settling into their relationship.
I'll say from the off I was very pleased we didn't get any messing around with their happy ending other than with external tension.
Lance knows he needs to settle things in Chicago and Robbie's still finding his feet with Johnny being back on the Ranch.
The trials and tribulations throughout this second entry are mostly to do with each man cementing his role and them working out how they mesh together.
There are a few ends still left untied but as we have Johnny's book still to come, I'm guessing that will happen there.
I'm still not 100% down with the tense choices that Rachel has used here but it's not as skippy around as book one.
Everything else was just fab though.
This picks up almost directly from where book one ended with Robbie and Lance working the property and settling into their relationship.
I'll say from the off I was very pleased we didn't get any messing around with their happy ending other than with external tension.
Lance knows he needs to settle things in Chicago and Robbie's still finding his feet with Johnny being back on the Ranch.
The trials and tribulations throughout this second entry are mostly to do with each man cementing his role and them working out how they mesh together.
There are a few ends still left untied but as we have Johnny's book still to come, I'm guessing that will happen there.
I'm still not 100% down with the tense choices that Rachel has used here but it's not as skippy around as book one.
Everything else was just fab though.
July 16, 2022
So much more plot but
still all the swoon. Wild ponies,
gentle men, hot sex.
still all the swoon. Wild ponies,
gentle men, hot sex.
August 21, 2021
3+
Och... w tej części było to wszystko, czego nie było w pierwszej, czyli sporo się działo, było zdecydowanie więcej dialogów i seksu. Nie było praktycznie żadnych wspomnień i gubienia się bohaterów we własnych głowach. Nie był to już teatr dwóch aktorów, interakcja ze światem zewnętrznym była duża. I jednocześnie w tym wszystkim... sporo magii wyparowało 🙁
W pierwszej mniej więcej połowie były też ponownie retrospekcje - jednakże, tym razem robiły mi to, co prawie zawsze - czyli irytowały. Nie były potrzebne - ale to moje zdanie...
I najgorsze w tym wszystkim było to, w jaki sposób zostali potraktowani nasi główni bohaterowie. Ciągle niezmiennie kocham ich jako parę, ale chciałabym, aby było ich więcej RAZEM. Tymczasem przez większość książki, a już zwłaszcza w pierwszej pi razy oko połowie, ciężko można ich było uchwycić we wspólnej scenie. A jeżeli już, to zazwyczaj był to seks... Zresztą, przez całą książkę, pewnie ze 70% wspólnego ich czasu to były sceny seksu. Gorącego zdecydowanie, absolutnie nie nudnego, ale jednak wolałabym zobaczyć coś więcej...
Pierwsza część była magiczna, druga po prostu zwyczajna...
Choć oczywiście czekam na dalszy ciąg, bo nie wątpię, że musi nastąpić, zbyt dużo niewiadomych zostało - co z braćmi Robbiego, zwłaszcza z Johnnym; czy zobaczymy jeszcze Cama, czy kowboj, który pojawił się w epilogu jako pracownik, będzie tylko pracownikiem 😉 Jak się rozwiązała sprawa diabelskiego wujka chłopaków i sąsiada, który mu pomagał, czy ponieśli konsekwencje za swoje czyny... Tak, zdecydowanie będę wyglądała dalszych części 😁
Och... w tej części było to wszystko, czego nie było w pierwszej, czyli sporo się działo, było zdecydowanie więcej dialogów i seksu. Nie było praktycznie żadnych wspomnień i gubienia się bohaterów we własnych głowach. Nie był to już teatr dwóch aktorów, interakcja ze światem zewnętrznym była duża. I jednocześnie w tym wszystkim... sporo magii wyparowało 🙁
W pierwszej mniej więcej połowie były też ponownie retrospekcje - jednakże, tym razem robiły mi to, co prawie zawsze - czyli irytowały. Nie były potrzebne - ale to moje zdanie...
I najgorsze w tym wszystkim było to, w jaki sposób zostali potraktowani nasi główni bohaterowie. Ciągle niezmiennie kocham ich jako parę, ale chciałabym, aby było ich więcej RAZEM. Tymczasem przez większość książki, a już zwłaszcza w pierwszej pi razy oko połowie, ciężko można ich było uchwycić we wspólnej scenie. A jeżeli już, to zazwyczaj był to seks... Zresztą, przez całą książkę, pewnie ze 70% wspólnego ich czasu to były sceny seksu. Gorącego zdecydowanie, absolutnie nie nudnego, ale jednak wolałabym zobaczyć coś więcej...
Pierwsza część była magiczna, druga po prostu zwyczajna...
Choć oczywiście czekam na dalszy ciąg, bo nie wątpię, że musi nastąpić, zbyt dużo niewiadomych zostało - co z braćmi Robbiego, zwłaszcza z Johnnym; czy zobaczymy jeszcze Cama, czy kowboj, który pojawił się w epilogu jako pracownik, będzie tylko pracownikiem 😉 Jak się rozwiązała sprawa diabelskiego wujka chłopaków i sąsiada, który mu pomagał, czy ponieśli konsekwencje za swoje czyny... Tak, zdecydowanie będę wyglądała dalszych części 😁
February 9, 2022
This sequel was like an evening stroll through the development of Robbie and Lance’s relationship. It was slow and unhurried while also being a bit boring because nothing new happened.
I enjoyed reading the scenes with Lance and Robbie. I love exploring their connection, traumas, and fears. The acknowledgment of Lance’s daddy issues was necessary and I’m glad it wasn’t overlooked. It made those final scenes with what happened to his father’s house lovely.
Besides Nora and Alice, the side characters were the weakness of this book. I’m glad that Lance has a solid support group in Chicago because it makes him feel less dependent on Robbie, but those scenes dragged. There isn’t much depth to them and they don’t drive the plot forward at all. I definitely skimmed some of those interactions.
There isn’t much plot in this book and some of it is strangely left unresolved. I really hope to hear more about the whole uncle situation going forward. That felt so strange.
I hate Johnny. He’s awful. How is he going to be redeemed?! I want to know, but I don’t want to read his book either. Grrrr…
I enjoyed reading the scenes with Lance and Robbie. I love exploring their connection, traumas, and fears. The acknowledgment of Lance’s daddy issues was necessary and I’m glad it wasn’t overlooked. It made those final scenes with what happened to his father’s house lovely.
Besides Nora and Alice, the side characters were the weakness of this book. I’m glad that Lance has a solid support group in Chicago because it makes him feel less dependent on Robbie, but those scenes dragged. There isn’t much depth to them and they don’t drive the plot forward at all. I definitely skimmed some of those interactions.
There isn’t much plot in this book and some of it is strangely left unresolved. I really hope to hear more about the whole uncle situation going forward. That felt so strange.
I hate Johnny. He’s awful. How is he going to be redeemed?! I want to know, but I don’t want to read his book either. Grrrr…
March 3, 2021
They grew up knowing each other now they can grow old together.
by and1515
Mornings always come quicker especially when you got up at o' dark hour at least Robbie was being trying nice to be quiet and not wake his new bed buddy.
He had a never ending list of chores that always needed tending to.
So once dressed and ready to go he was meet by a trio of spoiled entitled felines who ruled their home and if he wasn't careful the might try for world domination.
Lance had been surprised to find out his father no longer lived in the house he escaped from but the sister he never knew he had did with his niece.
Now he spent some of his time helping his new sister and niece make his old home better; not just livable but hopefully more comfortable for them.
Lance often felt guilty because he wasn't
able contribute much at the moment but he hoped to change that soon.
Robbie had been stunned and really hurt when his one brother left and he refused to even respond to any and all attempts to talk with him; so having him show back up was kind of weird.
Lance could understand why Robbie's
brother thought it was his place to say something to him; not that he ever planned to hurt the one guy he was totally crazy for.
Lance knew he had few options opened to him; he could either fight for what was rightfully his or let it all go.
However once he'd explained his plans; he'd been surprised when his best guy insisted on going with him Not that he'd ever argue with him over his choices.
Lance should have known sooner or later they would eventually run into his last ex-boyfriend and he should have realized he would make there run in as painful as possible because that's the kind of horrible egotistical person he was.
Robbie should have known the sound of his cellphone was a bad omen but once he understood there was trouble brewing on the home front and it was only getting worse.
So with no other choice Robbie's forced to leave Lance behind so he can make a mad dash for home.
But once all the fires are finally put out and loneliness finally starts to take over Robbie knows he needs his guy.
So it's road trip time but he's in for one special surprise.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
by and1515
Mornings always come quicker especially when you got up at o' dark hour at least Robbie was being trying nice to be quiet and not wake his new bed buddy.
He had a never ending list of chores that always needed tending to.
So once dressed and ready to go he was meet by a trio of spoiled entitled felines who ruled their home and if he wasn't careful the might try for world domination.
Lance had been surprised to find out his father no longer lived in the house he escaped from but the sister he never knew he had did with his niece.
Now he spent some of his time helping his new sister and niece make his old home better; not just livable but hopefully more comfortable for them.
Lance often felt guilty because he wasn't
able contribute much at the moment but he hoped to change that soon.
Robbie had been stunned and really hurt when his one brother left and he refused to even respond to any and all attempts to talk with him; so having him show back up was kind of weird.
Lance could understand why Robbie's
brother thought it was his place to say something to him; not that he ever planned to hurt the one guy he was totally crazy for.
Lance knew he had few options opened to him; he could either fight for what was rightfully his or let it all go.
However once he'd explained his plans; he'd been surprised when his best guy insisted on going with him Not that he'd ever argue with him over his choices.
Lance should have known sooner or later they would eventually run into his last ex-boyfriend and he should have realized he would make there run in as painful as possible because that's the kind of horrible egotistical person he was.
Robbie should have known the sound of his cellphone was a bad omen but once he understood there was trouble brewing on the home front and it was only getting worse.
So with no other choice Robbie's forced to leave Lance behind so he can make a mad dash for home.
But once all the fires are finally put out and loneliness finally starts to take over Robbie knows he needs his guy.
So it's road trip time but he's in for one special surprise.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 4, 2021
Aww... So so good. Knowing the characters already from book one just made the continuation of their love story all the better. Family comes calling for Robbie while Lance works on improving his relationship with his sister. Lance's past forces him to travel back to Chicago, and what could have been a disaster becomes the start of something new.
Wonderful characters and dialogue, praise-worthy descriptions, and the unique writing style kept me reading this amazing conclusion to Robbie and Lance's story.
Wonderful characters and dialogue, praise-worthy descriptions, and the unique writing style kept me reading this amazing conclusion to Robbie and Lance's story.
January 5, 2022
Loved it. A little bit of a mystery thrown in, and some brilliant friends. Niall can go and jump off a short pier as far as I'm concerned, controlling arseh*le that he is. Lance and Robbie make a great couple. The strange thing is...this duet of stories is written in present tense and I normally hate that, but the writing is so good.
March 26, 2021
A Joyfully Jay review.
3 stars
Signs of Spring is the direct follow up to Long Winter in the Wild Ones series. It continues Lance and Robbie’s story and the books should be read in order. I liked their story in the first book and when they were left with a HFN, I did want to see them get to their HEA.
This book starts as a soft, quiet story as we mostly see the men day to day on Robbie’s ranch. They are growing closer and, while Lance wants to stay, he doesn’t think that he can ever have Robbie for all time and Lance has things to settle with his ex-boyfriend back in Chicago. Everything Lance has is tied up with his ex, including personal items, money, and a photography project that is Lance’s passion. He needs to go to Chicago and when Robbie offers to go with him, he’s both excited and nervous.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
3 stars
Signs of Spring is the direct follow up to Long Winter in the Wild Ones series. It continues Lance and Robbie’s story and the books should be read in order. I liked their story in the first book and when they were left with a HFN, I did want to see them get to their HEA.
This book starts as a soft, quiet story as we mostly see the men day to day on Robbie’s ranch. They are growing closer and, while Lance wants to stay, he doesn’t think that he can ever have Robbie for all time and Lance has things to settle with his ex-boyfriend back in Chicago. Everything Lance has is tied up with his ex, including personal items, money, and a photography project that is Lance’s passion. He needs to go to Chicago and when Robbie offers to go with him, he’s both excited and nervous.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
December 5, 2022
Signs of Spring (Wild Ones Book 2)
This is a sequel to Book 1 “Long Winter” by Rachel Ember. Both stories are set in the wilds of Trace County, Nebraska’s farming territory.
Robbie is the eldest of 3 brothers, and is the only one remaining on the ranch, Riverside. He is now in his 3O’s having broken off with his longtime girlfriend Megan, the local Veterinary. All this and more in covered in Book one.
Lance is now in his mid 20’s, he grew up as Robbie’s neighbour, left rather suddenly when he was 16, after a dramatic declaration to Robbie. He ends up in Chicago working as a model and photographer.
Six years later he returns to Trace County under unusual circumstances and ends up being rescued by Robbie.
They are now living under one roof in a relationship but there is stuff going on in both mens lives that could possibly break them apart.
Will Lance return to his luxurious lifestyle with his “sugar daddy” in Chicago.?
Can Robbie continue to fulfil the stipulations of his grandfather’s will in order to maintain ownership of the ranch.?
Will his brothers return to help him.?
Will Lance ever return to him and live together on Riverside Ranch?
*******************************
It’s important to read Book 1 first to understand where the story of Lance and Robbie began and get more background on other family members in both Lance and Robbie’s story.
There are more books in this series but they are standalone but I think they are set in the same area, Nebraska.
This was a nice change of scenery for me, set on a Horse Ranch, in a small town, Dell, in Nebraska. Robbie is a solid good guy, Lance is much younger, with huge father issues following a childhood growing up with an alcoholic, neglectful father.
Well worth the time spent reading both books.
This is a sequel to Book 1 “Long Winter” by Rachel Ember. Both stories are set in the wilds of Trace County, Nebraska’s farming territory.
Robbie is the eldest of 3 brothers, and is the only one remaining on the ranch, Riverside. He is now in his 3O’s having broken off with his longtime girlfriend Megan, the local Veterinary. All this and more in covered in Book one.
Lance is now in his mid 20’s, he grew up as Robbie’s neighbour, left rather suddenly when he was 16, after a dramatic declaration to Robbie. He ends up in Chicago working as a model and photographer.
Six years later he returns to Trace County under unusual circumstances and ends up being rescued by Robbie.
They are now living under one roof in a relationship but there is stuff going on in both mens lives that could possibly break them apart.
Will Lance return to his luxurious lifestyle with his “sugar daddy” in Chicago.?
Can Robbie continue to fulfil the stipulations of his grandfather’s will in order to maintain ownership of the ranch.?
Will his brothers return to help him.?
Will Lance ever return to him and live together on Riverside Ranch?
*******************************
It’s important to read Book 1 first to understand where the story of Lance and Robbie began and get more background on other family members in both Lance and Robbie’s story.
There are more books in this series but they are standalone but I think they are set in the same area, Nebraska.
This was a nice change of scenery for me, set on a Horse Ranch, in a small town, Dell, in Nebraska. Robbie is a solid good guy, Lance is much younger, with huge father issues following a childhood growing up with an alcoholic, neglectful father.
Well worth the time spent reading both books.
March 15, 2021
I loved this book as much as Long Winter, which really should be read first as this is a continuation of the story. In this book, Lance has to return to "the real world" for a time to pack up and settle things back in Chicago. I wasn't really looking forward to chapters where the guys were separated, so I was pleased when Robbie decided he could take a break from the ranch to go with Lance. Since Lance had seemed so alone in Long Winter, I was happy to see he had several great friends in Chicago. I loved the scenes where we got to know the guys better by seeing them hang out with Lance's friends. Lance's photography work is highlighted more here as well.
Unfortunately, reality struck with trouble back at the ranch, and Robbie had to depart for home. This was the oddest part of the book, with secret plots and hidden agendas from people back in Robbie's world, as well as his brother Johnny really letting him down. Here we did get some of that separation of the main characters, but the author did a great job making me care about what was going on in each of their lives, so I was still engrossed in the story. And the book ended with some sweet moments. I loved it!
I'm hoping there will be future books in the series to delve into the underhanded plots going on, and that we find out what's really up with both Johnny and Danny. Perhaps some Happy Ever Afters for those two guys as well? I look forward to more.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately, reality struck with trouble back at the ranch, and Robbie had to depart for home. This was the oddest part of the book, with secret plots and hidden agendas from people back in Robbie's world, as well as his brother Johnny really letting him down. Here we did get some of that separation of the main characters, but the author did a great job making me care about what was going on in each of their lives, so I was still engrossed in the story. And the book ended with some sweet moments. I loved it!
I'm hoping there will be future books in the series to delve into the underhanded plots going on, and that we find out what's really up with both Johnny and Danny. Perhaps some Happy Ever Afters for those two guys as well? I look forward to more.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 12, 2021
First I must say that this book can't be read as a standalone, so start with Long Winter but I promise that you'll devour both in one sitting. Sleep is sometimes overrated. This is not the type of story I would usually go for although it holds some of the elements I prefer in my reads, like family found, ranching, some angst, overcoming past, etc. The titles I usually pick are much darker, but I'm really glad that I didn't miss this one. It landed on my reread list and that's saying a lot considering my huge TBR list. Rachel Ember managed to elevate what could be just another a bit angsty and sweet story to something so much more, something that will stay with you for a long time and will put a smile on your face and warmth in your heart. There are some truly "Hallmark moments" in Signs of Spring but without diabetes inducing sweetness - I would love to see them in a movie. I was practically sold from the first few pages of Long winter and couldn't wait to put my hands on Signs of spring. Subtle and seemingly effortless character development with rare depth is an art and she's mastered it. I got the feeling that she just let the characters take the life of their own and the result is a very memorable read. That goes for every single character in both books. I won't repeat the blurb, I can't do it better than the author and I don't want to add any spoilers. Let me just say that Lance and Robbie get their HEA, but there are still some issues in the family unresolved, so I'm really hoping that the brothers will get their own stories. I would preorder now if I could.
March 5, 2022
As we know in this first book, Lance came to town to visit his dying Dad, gets arrested for car theft, and Robbie gets him out, plus he finds his sister and niece. Robbie lives on his family farm, works hard and the two men get to talk and figure out themselves and their place in the world.
Robbie
Now they are established as a couple, tend the calf they found, and the horses, etc.
Lance gets to see his sister and niece a lot, and Robbie and Lance are super sizzling hot together.
We see Robbie's brother Johnny come home after years away, the trip to Chicago together for Lance to settle business with his ex, and he gets some surprises there.
We get to see his friends, and how much he misses Robbie when Robbie had to go home for a horse matter. Robbie finds some of the answers to why his farm had the fire and then why the horses got loose.
Each man his headed to get to the other, and through a phone call get yet another sexy surprise.
This story is amazing, beautifully written, deep characters, lovely descriptions and mutual love.
We are so happy the guys are settled now, good things are happening, and the epilogue is genuine and sweet.
Loved it.
ENJOY !
==========
Robbie
Now they are established as a couple, tend the calf they found, and the horses, etc.
Lance gets to see his sister and niece a lot, and Robbie and Lance are super sizzling hot together.
We see Robbie's brother Johnny come home after years away, the trip to Chicago together for Lance to settle business with his ex, and he gets some surprises there.
We get to see his friends, and how much he misses Robbie when Robbie had to go home for a horse matter. Robbie finds some of the answers to why his farm had the fire and then why the horses got loose.
Each man his headed to get to the other, and through a phone call get yet another sexy surprise.
This story is amazing, beautifully written, deep characters, lovely descriptions and mutual love.
We are so happy the guys are settled now, good things are happening, and the epilogue is genuine and sweet.
Loved it.
ENJOY !
==========
March 3, 2021
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. I absolutely loved book 1 in the series where we meet Lance and Robbie for the first time so I was really looking forward to book 2... and I have to say I wasn't disappointed!
This book had so many of the great features found in book one with the added benefit of even more Lance and Robbie! The flashbacks really let you get to know the characters and put everything into perspective and there's such a great mix of emotions throughout. The story starts where book one finished - Lance is still staying with Robbie, Felony is growing bigger by the day and Nora and Alice are building up their relationship with Lance too. We end up with a few twists and turns though when Johnny turns up unexpectedly, there are problems at the ranch and Lance has to return to the city. I won't give away any big spoilers about what happens but I was hooked from start to finish and would definitely recommend this book to others.
I hope this isn't the end of the series; I really want to find out what happens with Johnny in the future and unravel the mystery there a bit more. Fingers crossed we get a book 3 but, until then, if you like MM romance definitely give books 1 and 2 a try!
This book had so many of the great features found in book one with the added benefit of even more Lance and Robbie! The flashbacks really let you get to know the characters and put everything into perspective and there's such a great mix of emotions throughout. The story starts where book one finished - Lance is still staying with Robbie, Felony is growing bigger by the day and Nora and Alice are building up their relationship with Lance too. We end up with a few twists and turns though when Johnny turns up unexpectedly, there are problems at the ranch and Lance has to return to the city. I won't give away any big spoilers about what happens but I was hooked from start to finish and would definitely recommend this book to others.
I hope this isn't the end of the series; I really want to find out what happens with Johnny in the future and unravel the mystery there a bit more. Fingers crossed we get a book 3 but, until then, if you like MM romance definitely give books 1 and 2 a try!
March 12, 2021
Lance and Robbie finally get their well-deserved HEA in the second instalment of their story. It is very much a solid and satisfying conclusion, with the same swoony romantic and moving moments that I devoured book 1 for. The writing is terrifically paced and the characters continue to have so much emotional depth. Even though they get a HFN at the end of the first book, there’s a lot to hold on to and overcome in this one.
Lance has finally gotten everything he could ever have dreamed of living a life of domestic bliss with Robbie. But, he’s so scared that he’ll lose this with his old life calling back in Chicago. As for Robbie - who is also blissfully happy with Lance - worries threaten to overrun him when his brother makes a surprising return, and he can’t help thinking if the ranch will be enough for Lance. There is some drama that comes with this, of course, but throughout it all, it’s refreshing to see their relationship only deepen. The trust and communication demonstrated between Lance and Robbie is wonderfully heartwarming! I can’t get over just how gorgeous this series is, and I highly recommend giving it a go!
Lance has finally gotten everything he could ever have dreamed of living a life of domestic bliss with Robbie. But, he’s so scared that he’ll lose this with his old life calling back in Chicago. As for Robbie - who is also blissfully happy with Lance - worries threaten to overrun him when his brother makes a surprising return, and he can’t help thinking if the ranch will be enough for Lance. There is some drama that comes with this, of course, but throughout it all, it’s refreshing to see their relationship only deepen. The trust and communication demonstrated between Lance and Robbie is wonderfully heartwarming! I can’t get over just how gorgeous this series is, and I highly recommend giving it a go!
March 13, 2021
Part two of Robbie and Lance’s story picks up where part one ended: with a ton of chemistry, some baggage to unpack, and some very real feelings to acknowledge on the way to an HEA. Lance and Robbie are both such beautifully real characters— they make choices, good and bad, and do the best they can, for themselves and for each other. I love how they manage, together, to overcome obstacles both external and internal on their way to being together. I also love how their lives are realistically messy around the edges: there’s no one over-the-top confrontation or resolution with problems like Robbie’s uncle or Lance’s ex, which just makes the closure they do get feel that much more realistic and satisfying. They don’t get all the answers, and not everything works out the way they want it to— but things do get better, and they do get each other. Also, they both have an awesome group of supportive friends, and it was nice to see them, the good parts of Lance’s life before he showed up on Robbie’s doorstep, in more detail. All in all, a very satisfying read.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
January 12, 2022
The second half of Robbie and Lance's story brought just as much enjoyment as the first. I knew Lance had some business to settle in Chicago, and I was glad to see him get some closure in this book. It was fascinating to learn a bit more about what Lance's life used to be like, and honestly I would have loved to know even more about it. Robbie adapted surprisingly well to big city life, and it was sweet to see how quickly he won over all of Lance's friends. I don't know why I was expecting the confrontation with Niall to be a bigger part of the story, but it really wasn't at all. It felt almost anticlimactic how easily all those concerns were brushed away, but I can't complain when it meant that Lance and Robbie could ride off into the sunset together. I wasn't as satisfied with the way Robbie's storyline resolved itself--there's so much more I want to know about his brothers and his uncle, but I don't think I'll get the chance. The most urgent mysteries did get solved, at least, and any last concerns I had about Lance and Robbie's relationship lasting were laid to rest.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
March 10, 2021
You're going to love this book (the second in a series) and the perfect way the author takes you to Nebraska in the winter. If you're from that part of the country, and grew up outside of town, you'll definitely relate. Felony is so funny!
The lengths Robbie goes to keep his family ranch viable and his family close is heart wrenching. As is Lance's efforts to build a future with Robbie. Neighbors are often closer than family, and that's clear in the way Rachel writes about them. Just as often, friends can become more supportive than family.
The mystery comes into play with misplaced horses, suspicious cars and absent neighbors. Ex's also play a nefarious role! Thank goodness for honest businessmen and lawyers.
Read the books in order for the greatest impact! The steam between Robbie and Lance is consistent.
The lengths Robbie goes to keep his family ranch viable and his family close is heart wrenching. As is Lance's efforts to build a future with Robbie. Neighbors are often closer than family, and that's clear in the way Rachel writes about them. Just as often, friends can become more supportive than family.
The mystery comes into play with misplaced horses, suspicious cars and absent neighbors. Ex's also play a nefarious role! Thank goodness for honest businessmen and lawyers.
Read the books in order for the greatest impact! The steam between Robbie and Lance is consistent.
March 19, 2021
Beautifully Woven Fabric of Love
Robbie and Lance are now together and their next challenges are all around them--but not what you might have expected from the denouement in the wonderfully creative and smoldering first book.
This one tosses several plot lines out there: the return of a prodigal brother, a trip to Chicago, a surprising confession from an unlikely source and lots and lots of can't-keep-my-hands-off-you encounters between our completely enchanting lovers.
There are a couple of holes in the plot, however, that one suspects are left there to tantalize us with the potential for one or two other sequels. They don't spoil this one, however. They just serve to show us that Ms. Ember is a writer with a deep imagination and deft way with words that will keep you turning the pages with high anticipation and ultimate satisfaction.
Robbie and Lance are now together and their next challenges are all around them--but not what you might have expected from the denouement in the wonderfully creative and smoldering first book.
This one tosses several plot lines out there: the return of a prodigal brother, a trip to Chicago, a surprising confession from an unlikely source and lots and lots of can't-keep-my-hands-off-you encounters between our completely enchanting lovers.
There are a couple of holes in the plot, however, that one suspects are left there to tantalize us with the potential for one or two other sequels. They don't spoil this one, however. They just serve to show us that Ms. Ember is a writer with a deep imagination and deft way with words that will keep you turning the pages with high anticipation and ultimate satisfaction.
March 20, 2021
This will be a time of testing for Lance and Robbie. They finally had their chance to connect, yet I don’t think either was sure that it would last forever, even if they hoped it would. So when Lance must go back to Chicago for unfinished business, he’s both relieved and terrified when Robbie offers to come with him. Robbie is torn between his duties on the ranch and keeping his connection with Lance.
There are so many things impacting the two of them, and they haven’t had a long time to make their own connection strong. Is their bond enough to hold them together through what the Chicago visit will put them through? And what will they decide on for their future – together or alone? Grab your copy and experience their turmoil to see whether it tears them apart, or joins them irrevocably together.
There are so many things impacting the two of them, and they haven’t had a long time to make their own connection strong. Is their bond enough to hold them together through what the Chicago visit will put them through? And what will they decide on for their future – together or alone? Grab your copy and experience their turmoil to see whether it tears them apart, or joins them irrevocably together.
January 22, 2022
Everything I said in the review of the first book applies here ... decent supportive cast of secondary characters ... and yes the random flipping back forth between past and present still impacting my reading flow and enjoyment! This book continues directly on from book 1 and really, no significant progression to the plot arc happens until a little past the half way mark when the MCs take a trip back to Chicago where Lance has to face up to a few unresolved issues.
Best thing about the book are Maisie, Elliott, Nora & Megan and now Michael ... great characters. I could have done with less M-M action scenes (with a particularly putting off segment involving which I could've done without personally) and more ranching/photography scenes. 2.5 stars very generously rounded up to 3.
Best thing about the book are Maisie, Elliott, Nora & Megan and now Michael ... great characters. I could have done with less M-M action scenes (with a particularly putting off segment involving which I could've done without personally) and more ranching/photography scenes. 2.5 stars very generously rounded up to 3.
March 19, 2021
Signs of Spring give us a chance to see what happens to Robbie and Lance after the first book and they are blissfully happy. Lance is helping his sister fix up their father's house and Robbie is taking care of his family ranch. The relationship is shown through both their point of views via the past and present. Lance has to deal with the past to get his money and art back and they both go to Chicago but Robbie is having difficulties at home. He left his brother in charge of the ranch when he left but he's mia. The book is sweet, romantic, funny, great likeable characters, some angst, and their sexy times are hot. I read this book in one sitting and I couldn't put it down. I enjoyed both books and I'm hoping to see what happens to the brothers.
June 26, 2022
I loved revisiting Lance & Robbie. It’s been a bit since I read the first book and I had skipped over this one and read the others in the series. I’m glad I finally picked this one up. I love their relationship, Robbie is swoon worthy!!!!!
Read
February 20, 2021I received an ARC. Not rated because I consider the author a personal friend, but if I did rate it, I'd give it ALL THE STARS.
What a brilliant conclusion to Robbie and Lance's story! The imagery is as vivid as that of Long Winter, and it made me feel as though I were actually in Nebraska. It's very well written and very sweet, with just the right amount of angst to suit me. (It's not that much. My angst tolerance is like my spice tolerance—non-existent.)
I fell in love with this story starting from the very first chapter. After Robbie and Lance, my favorite character is Felony with Maisie as a close second! In this book, we get to explore some of Lance's life in Chicago, and I loved seeing the city life and all the scenes they spent together just having fun and enjoying each other's company.
I can't wait to see if we get more in this series. I'd love a story with Maisie/Ethany and also more Johnny and Danny! Highly recommended to anyone looking for a sweet, fun read.
What a brilliant conclusion to Robbie and Lance's story! The imagery is as vivid as that of Long Winter, and it made me feel as though I were actually in Nebraska. It's very well written and very sweet, with just the right amount of angst to suit me. (It's not that much. My angst tolerance is like my spice tolerance—non-existent.)
I fell in love with this story starting from the very first chapter. After Robbie and Lance, my favorite character is Felony with Maisie as a close second! In this book, we get to explore some of Lance's life in Chicago, and I loved seeing the city life and all the scenes they spent together just having fun and enjoying each other's company.
I can't wait to see if we get more in this series. I'd love a story with Maisie/Ethany and also more Johnny and Danny! Highly recommended to anyone looking for a sweet, fun read.
March 13, 2021
Signs of Spring, the continuation of Lance and Robbie's story in Long Winter, was an amazing sequel. I recieved an ARC from the author which I am really grateful for.
The Story:
Robbie and Lance's story ended in a happy but unfinished way in the first book and a lot of questions remained unanswered. This book brought those answers in a similarly constructed way.
Lance won a battle against his ex but his future is still unsure because he still needs to untangle himself from the mess he is in. His quiet winter with Robbie on the ranch is sweet, but he has unfinished business.
Robbie has Lance for the moment, but he wonders how long he can keep the younger man. The ranch requires him to stay so he might not be able to give Lance what he needs.
But than one of his brothers comes home and he sees an opportunity to help Lance close his past once and for all.
The Characters:
Lance, young, but definately not naive, is still the somewhat scared guy who he was in the first book. But now he struggles with combining two lives, two pasts. One he left behind when he was sixteen and found again this winter. And one he built when he left his hometown.
In this book we see more of the second one with glimpses back to the past and see that though he escaped one bad place he found himself in another.
His art is amazing. It took me a little while to understand it but it kind of described his life in a perfect way.
Robbie, is still the quiet, solemn type. Typical cowboy. He has some issues with his past too, the weight of raising two brothers, taking care of a ranch and baring a disaster make him uncertain of a good future.
His love for Lance is stronger than he lets the other see and his pure feelings are just beautiful.
I actually found this story a bit better than the first one. Storylines were closed, true love bloomed, families were united (mostly) and of course mustangs roamed the land.
The way we saw glimpses back to the past made the story telling exciting and informative.
I did find it slow though for some reason. Maybe because of the long scenes and frequent emotional deepdives.
4 strong stars for this beautiful story.
The Story:
Robbie and Lance's story ended in a happy but unfinished way in the first book and a lot of questions remained unanswered. This book brought those answers in a similarly constructed way.
Lance won a battle against his ex but his future is still unsure because he still needs to untangle himself from the mess he is in. His quiet winter with Robbie on the ranch is sweet, but he has unfinished business.
Robbie has Lance for the moment, but he wonders how long he can keep the younger man. The ranch requires him to stay so he might not be able to give Lance what he needs.
But than one of his brothers comes home and he sees an opportunity to help Lance close his past once and for all.
The Characters:
Lance, young, but definately not naive, is still the somewhat scared guy who he was in the first book. But now he struggles with combining two lives, two pasts. One he left behind when he was sixteen and found again this winter. And one he built when he left his hometown.
In this book we see more of the second one with glimpses back to the past and see that though he escaped one bad place he found himself in another.
His art is amazing. It took me a little while to understand it but it kind of described his life in a perfect way.
Robbie, is still the quiet, solemn type. Typical cowboy. He has some issues with his past too, the weight of raising two brothers, taking care of a ranch and baring a disaster make him uncertain of a good future.
His love for Lance is stronger than he lets the other see and his pure feelings are just beautiful.
I actually found this story a bit better than the first one. Storylines were closed, true love bloomed, families were united (mostly) and of course mustangs roamed the land.
The way we saw glimpses back to the past made the story telling exciting and informative.
I did find it slow though for some reason. Maybe because of the long scenes and frequent emotional deepdives.
4 strong stars for this beautiful story.
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March 6, 2021I absolutely love horses, cowboys, ranching and these MEN! Robbie and Lance are both special people. Robbie is devoted to his horses and has been fairly settled for years. Lance grew up with Robbie and his brothers but left for a time. He ran from his life back to the ranch and of course Robbie. It did not take long for repressed feelings to surface and then watch out, these guys are hot! They had some mysterious things happening and I am certainly hoping for another book in this series. I suggest reading Long Winter before this one!
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