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The Cade Ranch #2
Broken
A Cade Ranch Novel
IT’S BEEN SEVEN YEARS
Dean Cade has come home to Cade Ranch from his time as a sniper with the US Military, seven years after he lied and pushed Carolyn Masterson away. But when she returns from veterinary school in England to work at their local clinic, he can’t make himself stay away from her.
He needs her.
But Oly’s a different woman now, and Dean came back broken, harboring a secret that could destroy his brothers. What can he offer her?
HOME AGAIN
Oly’s back in Wisper, and all she wants to do is live her life, take care of horses, and avoid Dean Cade like the freakin’ plague. But she can’t get that brooding, stubborn cowboy out of her head. She knows he’s different—damaged—after his time with the Marines, but she can’t stop thinking about him and about the white-hot night they shared.
When Dean is hired to protect her from a mysterious threat in both their lives, she knows she can’t walk away, but if Dean doesn’t open up and let her in, that’s exactly what she’ll have to do…
And it would break her.
The second book in The Cade Ranch series, BROKEN, is a steamy, second-chance romance about coming home again and learning to forgive.
Contains adult situations and language. Warriors of anxiety/panic attacks/ptsd may be triggered, but there is a guaranteed HEA and good ol' down home cowboy lovin'!
IT’S BEEN SEVEN YEARS
Dean Cade has come home to Cade Ranch from his time as a sniper with the US Military, seven years after he lied and pushed Carolyn Masterson away. But when she returns from veterinary school in England to work at their local clinic, he can’t make himself stay away from her.
He needs her.
But Oly’s a different woman now, and Dean came back broken, harboring a secret that could destroy his brothers. What can he offer her?
HOME AGAIN
Oly’s back in Wisper, and all she wants to do is live her life, take care of horses, and avoid Dean Cade like the freakin’ plague. But she can’t get that brooding, stubborn cowboy out of her head. She knows he’s different—damaged—after his time with the Marines, but she can’t stop thinking about him and about the white-hot night they shared.
When Dean is hired to protect her from a mysterious threat in both their lives, she knows she can’t walk away, but if Dean doesn’t open up and let her in, that’s exactly what she’ll have to do…
And it would break her.
The second book in The Cade Ranch series, BROKEN, is a steamy, second-chance romance about coming home again and learning to forgive.
Contains adult situations and language. Warriors of anxiety/panic attacks/ptsd may be triggered, but there is a guaranteed HEA and good ol' down home cowboy lovin'!
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 5, 2021
155 people are currently reading
402 people want to read
About the author
Greta Rose West
17 books186 followersInternationally bestselling author of The Cade Ranch Series, Greta Rose West, was a floundering artsy flake until cowboy Jack Cade showed up, knocking on the door of her brain, pounding on it, and then he just plain kicked it down. She's a boy mom to a grown freakin' man who recently gifted her with the title Granny! She comes from the "Region' of NW Indiana, but now resides in the Denver, Colorado area with her husband and her two precocious kitties, Geoff Trouble and Sally Mae Midnight. When she’s not writing, she’s reading and devouring music or she's exploring the rockies. She enjoys indie films no one else likes, and her favorite food is Aver’s Veggie Revival pizza.
Check out her website for more, to listen to each book's playlist, and join her newsletter for free short stories, extra scenes, and snippets. Jack and Evvie's wedding story is there!
https://www.gretarosewest.com
Check out her website for more, to listen to each book's playlist, and join her newsletter for free short stories, extra scenes, and snippets. Jack and Evvie's wedding story is there!
https://www.gretarosewest.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
May 27, 2021
Greta Rose West’ second book is coming,and it’s just as delicious as her first!
This is the story of Dean and the love of his life,Oly.
And what a story it is….
His brother Jack may have bagage,but Dean has more….
His secrets are dark,and he buried them deep. Thinking he would stand in the way of the bright future he knows Oly deserves,he pushed her away and joined the Marines.
What he saw,and did,there eats away at him,and the only thing keeping him going is thinking of Oly. Now that he’s home,he’s lost….he doesn’t have a clue what to do with the rest of his life.
And then Oly comes back….
Seeing her makes him yearn to be close,makes him ache with the need to be with her.
But he knows he can’t…..she doesn’t need a broken man.
Oly is back in Wisper,her education finished,and she’s ready to start at the All Animals clinic.
What she’s not ready for,is seeing Dean.
She tries to keep her distance,but that man is só damn hard to resist!
When she starts getting strange calls and the tires of her carr are slashed,all bets are off,though….
Even her parents agree she’s safest at the Cade ranch,and she has no other choice than to do as they ask.
Dean hates the thought of his Oly getting hurt,and stays as close as he can.
Taking the advice of his new friend Bigsy,he tries to explain why he did what he did,but most of the words won’t come out right…..
Will he manage to tell her his darkest secrets? Knowing this might be his last chance to make amends?
How will Oly react,hearing what he’s done?
Will she hate him for it,or will she understand? Only,then something happens that changes everything…..
This was a story i enjoyed very much!
I really wanted Dean to open up,for Oly to catch him and be there for him.
She deserved to have the choice of being with him…or not.
And what happened at the end…..that alone makes me want to read the next story!
(Not to mention the fact that there are still 3 brothers…..)
This is the story of Dean and the love of his life,Oly.
And what a story it is….
His brother Jack may have bagage,but Dean has more….
His secrets are dark,and he buried them deep. Thinking he would stand in the way of the bright future he knows Oly deserves,he pushed her away and joined the Marines.
What he saw,and did,there eats away at him,and the only thing keeping him going is thinking of Oly. Now that he’s home,he’s lost….he doesn’t have a clue what to do with the rest of his life.
And then Oly comes back….
Seeing her makes him yearn to be close,makes him ache with the need to be with her.
But he knows he can’t…..she doesn’t need a broken man.
Oly is back in Wisper,her education finished,and she’s ready to start at the All Animals clinic.
What she’s not ready for,is seeing Dean.
She tries to keep her distance,but that man is só damn hard to resist!
When she starts getting strange calls and the tires of her carr are slashed,all bets are off,though….
Even her parents agree she’s safest at the Cade ranch,and she has no other choice than to do as they ask.
Dean hates the thought of his Oly getting hurt,and stays as close as he can.
Taking the advice of his new friend Bigsy,he tries to explain why he did what he did,but most of the words won’t come out right…..
Will he manage to tell her his darkest secrets? Knowing this might be his last chance to make amends?
How will Oly react,hearing what he’s done?
Will she hate him for it,or will she understand? Only,then something happens that changes everything…..
This was a story i enjoyed very much!
I really wanted Dean to open up,for Oly to catch him and be there for him.
She deserved to have the choice of being with him…or not.
And what happened at the end…..that alone makes me want to read the next story!
(Not to mention the fact that there are still 3 brothers…..)
July 14, 2023
2.5 stars rounded up to very generous 3
But damn, damn, damn!!!!
I am so NOT happy with this one...
I loooooved book 1 in the series,Burned.
It was absolutely wonderful.
And so my expectations towards this one were pretty darn high.
And from the synopsis I expected a wonderful second chance romance, a strong heroine who knows her worth and a broody hero who finally came to his senses and decided to fight for the heroine.
Unfortunately, what I got was a very annoying doormat heroine, a very insecure hero, sexing right from the get go, zero communication between the characters and all that sprinkled with some suspense here and there.
And the romance was the most disappointing part for me because I wanted depth and strength from the heroine, I wanted some grovel from the hero. And I got nada.
The hero was clearly suffering from PTSD throughout the story, was struggling with a lot of guilty conscience and and very low self esteem thanks to his fucked up parents who screw them all over.
And that lack of self worth was the reason why he dumped the heroine 7 years earlier. Because she was going away to uni and he wanted her to see the world without having to worry about some redneck waiting for her at home (his words not mine) and completely ignored Oly when she told him she wanted to be only with him and do the long distance thing. But he refused, dumped her and joined the military.
And so the story picks up 7 years later, now that Oly, the heroine is done with studies and comes back home to work as a vet.
And I think my biggest disappointment was that Oly came back home only because she heard that Dean was back in town, and they had a night of hot sexing 3 years before and she wanted more.
So it didn't matter that Dean treated her like a cheap skank that night and left her without a word, nope. This girl was so in love with him, she decided it didn't matter.
That he was so hot and the sexing was so good.
Ugh.
And that was one of the reasons why I hated her character. She was whiny, aggressive and quarrelsome, muleheaded, kinda stupid and really, really annoying.
And an absolute doormat on top of all that.
Plus, there were a lot of memories written in italics which I hate with passion, so that cooled down my enthusiasm about this book even more.
I did, however, like Dean's weepy ass. He was cute as hell, all manly and broody but he was too whiny and indecisive for too long. But still, he was sooo much better than Oly.
But the relationship between Dean and Oly was too chaotic, had too much back and forth, got physical way too soon and lacked the emotional support that was so damn needed.
They were like a bunch of blind kids trying to play tag in a garden full of trees.
And it wasn't exactly what I'd signed up for.
But a huuuuge plus was for short reappearances from Jack and Evvie and the whole family.
And maybe it's just me, maybe I expected something different and that is the reason why this book didn't floor me like the one before.
Dunno.
What I do know for sure, however, is that book 3 Busted is Kevin's story and this is MM romance so imma skip it. I don't read MM/ FF/ MFM/ FMF/ queer etc.
That ain't my game, sorry.
Maybe I'll go for book 4 Braved which is Jay's story but I'm not sure.
Because the girl in this one is Billie. And we met Billie in book 1 and she swore like a sailor non stop and was generally very aggressive and really not to my liking.
So that book is still a maybe.
We'll see.
But damn, damn, damn!!!!
I am so NOT happy with this one...
I loooooved book 1 in the series,Burned.
It was absolutely wonderful.
And so my expectations towards this one were pretty darn high.
And from the synopsis I expected a wonderful second chance romance, a strong heroine who knows her worth and a broody hero who finally came to his senses and decided to fight for the heroine.
Unfortunately, what I got was a very annoying doormat heroine, a very insecure hero, sexing right from the get go, zero communication between the characters and all that sprinkled with some suspense here and there.
And the romance was the most disappointing part for me because I wanted depth and strength from the heroine, I wanted some grovel from the hero. And I got nada.
The hero was clearly suffering from PTSD throughout the story, was struggling with a lot of guilty conscience and and very low self esteem thanks to his fucked up parents who screw them all over.
And that lack of self worth was the reason why he dumped the heroine 7 years earlier. Because she was going away to uni and he wanted her to see the world without having to worry about some redneck waiting for her at home (his words not mine) and completely ignored Oly when she told him she wanted to be only with him and do the long distance thing. But he refused, dumped her and joined the military.
And so the story picks up 7 years later, now that Oly, the heroine is done with studies and comes back home to work as a vet.
And I think my biggest disappointment was that Oly came back home only because she heard that Dean was back in town, and they had a night of hot sexing 3 years before and she wanted more.
So it didn't matter that Dean treated her like a cheap skank that night and left her without a word, nope. This girl was so in love with him, she decided it didn't matter.
That he was so hot and the sexing was so good.
Ugh.
And that was one of the reasons why I hated her character. She was whiny, aggressive and quarrelsome, muleheaded, kinda stupid and really, really annoying.
And an absolute doormat on top of all that.
Plus, there were a lot of memories written in italics which I hate with passion, so that cooled down my enthusiasm about this book even more.
I did, however, like Dean's weepy ass. He was cute as hell, all manly and broody but he was too whiny and indecisive for too long. But still, he was sooo much better than Oly.
But the relationship between Dean and Oly was too chaotic, had too much back and forth, got physical way too soon and lacked the emotional support that was so damn needed.
They were like a bunch of blind kids trying to play tag in a garden full of trees.
And it wasn't exactly what I'd signed up for.
But a huuuuge plus was for short reappearances from Jack and Evvie and the whole family.
And maybe it's just me, maybe I expected something different and that is the reason why this book didn't floor me like the one before.
Dunno.
What I do know for sure, however, is that book 3 Busted is Kevin's story and this is MM romance so imma skip it. I don't read MM/ FF/ MFM/ FMF/ queer etc.
That ain't my game, sorry.
Maybe I'll go for book 4 Braved which is Jay's story but I'm not sure.
Because the girl in this one is Billie. And we met Billie in book 1 and she swore like a sailor non stop and was generally very aggressive and really not to my liking.
So that book is still a maybe.
We'll see.
May 29, 2021
5+ Stars!
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review!
This is the second book in The Cade Ranch Series and features Dean and Oly. The best way to sum up how I felt about this book in a GIF...
Dean was a sniper with the Marines and carries the harsh realities of that job with him every day. Carolyn Masterson was Dean’s love growing up but upon pushing her away and joining the Marines because he thinks she deserves better, she goes to England to study veterinary science. However, people that are meant to be together always find their way back to each other and years later, both are back in their hometown.
Dean wants nothing more than to wrap Oly in his arms and never let her go but he knows things will not be that easy since he broke her heart all those years ago. Oly wants nothing more than to avoid the man that she can’t let go but her heart just won't. When dangerous events start happening and Oly is in the center, Dean steps in to keep her safe. Can Dean let down his walls and let Oly in? Can Dean and Oly communicate effectively enough that they realize they were always end game? Will Dean be able to protect Oly? Will Oly love Dean despite his scars?
Sooo, I thought I couldn’t love any of the brothers more than Jack and then Dean came into the picture and he is hands down one of my favorite heroes to date now. Sweet, loyal, and broken...he is a man that loves others (especially Oly) with his entire soul but forgets to love himself. His past is riddled with traumatic events that he struggles to process and move forward from and I can’t blame him. Oly is such a beautiful woman...she is strong, whip-smart and stubborn to her core. I LOVED Dean and Oly together and I loved how they seemed to heal each other in different ways.
This story was so beautiful. I wish there was a better way or less cliche way to say how much I loved their journey. Greta has a unique ability of balancing angst and feels so wonderfully. You really experience the full spectrum of emotions. I mean it totally sucked me in...I finished this story within 24 hours. I loved the secondary characters and don’t even get me started on the twist in this because I did NOT see that coming so way to go Greta! And the steamy bits….I love nothing more than reading about a couple who passionately love one another. Their sexual tension and intimate scenes were hot as hell since they spoke to each other best through sex. Dean was the sexy alpha male and Oly was the strong submissive in a way I suppose and it worked so well. Overall, if you like suspenseful, steamy and emotional cowboy second-chance romances, then I highly suggest grabbing this one. And if you haven't already go pick up the first book in this series which is also fantastic. I promise you won’t regret it!
P.S. I can’t wait for Kev’s story…..
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review!
This is the second book in The Cade Ranch Series and features Dean and Oly. The best way to sum up how I felt about this book in a GIF...
Dean was a sniper with the Marines and carries the harsh realities of that job with him every day. Carolyn Masterson was Dean’s love growing up but upon pushing her away and joining the Marines because he thinks she deserves better, she goes to England to study veterinary science. However, people that are meant to be together always find their way back to each other and years later, both are back in their hometown.
Dean wants nothing more than to wrap Oly in his arms and never let her go but he knows things will not be that easy since he broke her heart all those years ago. Oly wants nothing more than to avoid the man that she can’t let go but her heart just won't. When dangerous events start happening and Oly is in the center, Dean steps in to keep her safe. Can Dean let down his walls and let Oly in? Can Dean and Oly communicate effectively enough that they realize they were always end game? Will Dean be able to protect Oly? Will Oly love Dean despite his scars?
Sooo, I thought I couldn’t love any of the brothers more than Jack and then Dean came into the picture and he is hands down one of my favorite heroes to date now. Sweet, loyal, and broken...he is a man that loves others (especially Oly) with his entire soul but forgets to love himself. His past is riddled with traumatic events that he struggles to process and move forward from and I can’t blame him. Oly is such a beautiful woman...she is strong, whip-smart and stubborn to her core. I LOVED Dean and Oly together and I loved how they seemed to heal each other in different ways.
This story was so beautiful. I wish there was a better way or less cliche way to say how much I loved their journey. Greta has a unique ability of balancing angst and feels so wonderfully. You really experience the full spectrum of emotions. I mean it totally sucked me in...I finished this story within 24 hours. I loved the secondary characters and don’t even get me started on the twist in this because I did NOT see that coming so way to go Greta! And the steamy bits….I love nothing more than reading about a couple who passionately love one another. Their sexual tension and intimate scenes were hot as hell since they spoke to each other best through sex. Dean was the sexy alpha male and Oly was the strong submissive in a way I suppose and it worked so well. Overall, if you like suspenseful, steamy and emotional cowboy second-chance romances, then I highly suggest grabbing this one. And if you haven't already go pick up the first book in this series which is also fantastic. I promise you won’t regret it!
P.S. I can’t wait for Kev’s story…..
May 30, 2021
"You don't need her. You have me."
Greta Rose West takes us back to Cade Ranch for Dean and Carolyn's romance story that will pull at each and every one of your heart strings, and have you devouring all the words in one sitting.
Dean has loved Carolyn (aka Oly) since Kindergarten. However, after high school Dean not only joined the Marines, but wanting Carolyn to follow her dreams and not feel stuck, he broke up with her, obliterating her heart in the process.
Many years later both have returned to Wisper. However, neither of them are still the same. Hearts are still broken, souls have been darkened, secrets have been deeply buried, and yet the love and connection between these two (be still my beating heart) it burns brighter than ever.
But......
Can love really heal everything? Can it mend there hearts? And fix a man who feels he is now broken? Or when secrets are revealed will these two lose everything all over again?
Oh what a story and journey for these two. It was emotional, heartbreaking, humorous, steamy, a little suspenseful, heartwarming, and at times damn frustrating. While reading I laughed, I cried, I swooned, I got a little frustrated, I bit my nails with anticipation, and gasped in shock and surprise when I was hit with a twist and a turn. And oh my with a sneaky peek of what's to come Bring on Book 3 I am soooooo ready!!!!
Another truly wonderful and addictive addition to The Cade Ranch Series!!!
Greta Rose West takes us back to Cade Ranch for Dean and Carolyn's romance story that will pull at each and every one of your heart strings, and have you devouring all the words in one sitting.
Dean has loved Carolyn (aka Oly) since Kindergarten. However, after high school Dean not only joined the Marines, but wanting Carolyn to follow her dreams and not feel stuck, he broke up with her, obliterating her heart in the process.
Many years later both have returned to Wisper. However, neither of them are still the same. Hearts are still broken, souls have been darkened, secrets have been deeply buried, and yet the love and connection between these two (be still my beating heart) it burns brighter than ever.
But......
Can love really heal everything? Can it mend there hearts? And fix a man who feels he is now broken? Or when secrets are revealed will these two lose everything all over again?
Oh what a story and journey for these two. It was emotional, heartbreaking, humorous, steamy, a little suspenseful, heartwarming, and at times damn frustrating. While reading I laughed, I cried, I swooned, I got a little frustrated, I bit my nails with anticipation, and gasped in shock and surprise when I was hit with a twist and a turn. And oh my with a sneaky peek of what's to come Bring on Book 3 I am soooooo ready!!!!
Another truly wonderful and addictive addition to The Cade Ranch Series!!!
September 16, 2021
I have a feeling that Greta is going to provide me with a long list of sexy cowboy book boyfriends, and I'm so here for it!
Dean is a tortured former marine that made my heart melt. There's nothing like watching a good man battle his demons and learning and growing from his mistakes.
Oly is a feisty heroine who I adored. I want to be her friend and gab about the stupid sexy cowboys in Whisper, Wyoming all night long.
The way they couldn't keep their hands off each other, no matter how hard they tried, was so fun to read. And when they finally give in, its smoldering. Get your glass of water ready.
The twist at the end was a fantastic element to the story and I can't wait to see how it plays out in future books.
Another phenomenal must read story by Greta Rose West!!
Dean is a tortured former marine that made my heart melt. There's nothing like watching a good man battle his demons and learning and growing from his mistakes.
Oly is a feisty heroine who I adored. I want to be her friend and gab about the stupid sexy cowboys in Whisper, Wyoming all night long.
The way they couldn't keep their hands off each other, no matter how hard they tried, was so fun to read. And when they finally give in, its smoldering. Get your glass of water ready.
The twist at the end was a fantastic element to the story and I can't wait to see how it plays out in future books.
Another phenomenal must read story by Greta Rose West!!
June 17, 2021
Broken is Greta Rose West’s second book in the Cade Ranch series and features Dean and Oly.
Dean has secrets so dark he has to bury them deep. He pushed the love of his life away seven years ago, and now she’s back. He doesn’t think he can push her away a second time, but how can she want a lost and broken man?
Oly is back and seeing Dean again is messing with her mind. She’s trying to resist, but he’s too damn sexy. Can Oly get through to Dean or is he just too damaged?
I really enjoyed this story and I loved Oly and Dean. It was such an emotional journey for them and they deserved their second chance. If you love a good second chance cowboy romance, then definitely read Broken.
Dean has secrets so dark he has to bury them deep. He pushed the love of his life away seven years ago, and now she’s back. He doesn’t think he can push her away a second time, but how can she want a lost and broken man?
Oly is back and seeing Dean again is messing with her mind. She’s trying to resist, but he’s too damn sexy. Can Oly get through to Dean or is he just too damaged?
I really enjoyed this story and I loved Oly and Dean. It was such an emotional journey for them and they deserved their second chance. If you love a good second chance cowboy romance, then definitely read Broken.
August 6, 2021
I LOVED THIS BOOK! I'm really LOVING this series! I just relate to these boys so much. And I love all these characters and new ones keep popping up to fall in love with.
It's a second chance love story, thriller, spicey book all in one! And I swear I just want a RH with all of them! 😂😂 Or mix all of them into one person for me? 😂
This one broke my heart and has left me speechless really.
It's a second chance love story, thriller, spicey book all in one! And I swear I just want a RH with all of them! 😂😂 Or mix all of them into one person for me? 😂
This one broke my heart and has left me speechless really.
August 4, 2022
RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
STEAM: 🔥🔥🔥
Dean Cade and Carolyn "Oly" Masterson have loved each other since they were children. But when Dean realized that he was only going to hold Oly back, he broke her heart and left for the Marines. Oly tried to mend her shattered heart by going away to veterinarian school.
Years later, both have come back to Wisper with scars, secrets, and a lingering love that they are more than willing to shake. Despite their futile attempts to stay away from each other, a sinister entity threatening Oly brings out Dean's protectiveness.
I was not ready for the angst from this read, but it was oh-so-good. The Cade brothers are certainly a big broody bunch with Dean possibly the broodiest of them all. Despite his grumpy personality, he is loyal to the ones he loves.
I love that Oly is his match in every way. She is driven and smart, and she brings out a different side of him that was also fun to watch. She too rides or dies with the people she cares about.
Despite their silly attempts at animosity and distance, you can feel their chemistry from the get-go. That fire only burned even more when these two dirty talkers finally got their act together.
I know we all came here for the angst, spice, and most importantly, cowboys, but the suspense was definitely a nice surprise that will keep you turning the pages.
STEAM: 🔥🔥🔥
Dean Cade and Carolyn "Oly" Masterson have loved each other since they were children. But when Dean realized that he was only going to hold Oly back, he broke her heart and left for the Marines. Oly tried to mend her shattered heart by going away to veterinarian school.
Years later, both have come back to Wisper with scars, secrets, and a lingering love that they are more than willing to shake. Despite their futile attempts to stay away from each other, a sinister entity threatening Oly brings out Dean's protectiveness.
I was not ready for the angst from this read, but it was oh-so-good. The Cade brothers are certainly a big broody bunch with Dean possibly the broodiest of them all. Despite his grumpy personality, he is loyal to the ones he loves.
I love that Oly is his match in every way. She is driven and smart, and she brings out a different side of him that was also fun to watch. She too rides or dies with the people she cares about.
Despite their silly attempts at animosity and distance, you can feel their chemistry from the get-go. That fire only burned even more when these two dirty talkers finally got their act together.
I know we all came here for the angst, spice, and most importantly, cowboys, but the suspense was definitely a nice surprise that will keep you turning the pages.
August 13, 2022
Book two in The Cade Ranch, Broken is a powerful, engaging read. A second chance romance, Dean Cade has brought his demons of war back home with him and is determined to keep everyone at arm’s length. Even Carolyn ‘Oly’ Masterson the women he gave his heart too when he was eight.
But as trouble comes to Whisper and Oly is put in danger Dean will have to look at himself and see the truth if he is to save Oly and himself.
This is a magnificent story and one I highly recommend
But as trouble comes to Whisper and Oly is put in danger Dean will have to look at himself and see the truth if he is to save Oly and himself.
This is a magnificent story and one I highly recommend
June 28, 2021
REVIEW ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Broken by Greta Rose West is the second installment in the Cade Ranch series, which is centered around Dean Cade who has recently returned to Wisper from his time as a sniper with the Marines. Also returning to town is Carolyn “Oly” Masterson who has possessed Cade’s heart since childhood. Oly is now a veterinarian who intends to avoid Cade at all cost, but fate keeps bringing them together. And try as she might, she cannot deny her feelings for this brooding cowboy. Dean’s time with the Marines has left him broken and consumed by guilt and a secret that could cost him not only Oly but his brothers as well. While tasked with protecting Oly from a mysterious threat he realizes that he must unburden his soul even if it means losing Oly forever. ⠀
⠀
This second book in the Cade Ranch series reads more like a traditional romance where the first was more of a romantic thriller, but by no means does it lose the intensity of Ms West’s masterful storytelling. Her characters are heroic yet flawed, powerfully strong yet vulnerable. The book can definitely stand alone but is also a fluid continuation of the first. I was so drawn in by this story and these characters I finished it in the course of an afternoon not wanting to break the momentum of this story filled with angst and emotion. The next in the series will tell the story of Kevin and Luuke, and I can hardly wait to see how Greta Rose West handles a MM romance. ⠀
⠀
This second book in the Cade Ranch series reads more like a traditional romance where the first was more of a romantic thriller, but by no means does it lose the intensity of Ms West’s masterful storytelling. Her characters are heroic yet flawed, powerfully strong yet vulnerable. The book can definitely stand alone but is also a fluid continuation of the first. I was so drawn in by this story and these characters I finished it in the course of an afternoon not wanting to break the momentum of this story filled with angst and emotion. The next in the series will tell the story of Kevin and Luuke, and I can hardly wait to see how Greta Rose West handles a MM romance. ⠀
June 7, 2021
Broken by Greta Rose West
5/5
Broken is the second book in the Cade Rach series. This book can be read as a standalone or in the series order.
Dean is struggling with PTSD and anxiety from his time as a sniper in the Marine Corps. He is floundering through life in an angry, anxious, dark cloud. Everything begins to change for better and worse well Oly moves back into Wisper. Oly is Wisper local and is working as a veterinarian at the All Animals Clinic, with a specialty in equine studies. Dean and Oly grew up together and were high school sweethearts, and many awkward meetings ensue as they find themselves back in each other’s lives.
I loved so many aspects of this book. I really resonated with Dean and his anxiety. So many of his feelings and insecurities stem from PTSD and anxiety. Every time he had a panic attack I just wanted to hold the big cowboy and comfort him. Greta does an excellent job conveying his lack of control and mounting panic. It is refreshing to read about the literal wall some people put down in their minds to try and control their anxiety symptoms.
Oly was also a fun and strong character. I loved her determination to be an adult and do as much as she could on her own. Meanwhile, she's a total mess inside and feeling wonton because of her conflicting feelings about Dean.
I recommend this book to anyone who is looking for romance, smutty scenes, the power of mental health (good and bad) in plain view, and a dash of mystery/suspense.
5/5
Broken is the second book in the Cade Rach series. This book can be read as a standalone or in the series order.
Dean is struggling with PTSD and anxiety from his time as a sniper in the Marine Corps. He is floundering through life in an angry, anxious, dark cloud. Everything begins to change for better and worse well Oly moves back into Wisper. Oly is Wisper local and is working as a veterinarian at the All Animals Clinic, with a specialty in equine studies. Dean and Oly grew up together and were high school sweethearts, and many awkward meetings ensue as they find themselves back in each other’s lives.
I loved so many aspects of this book. I really resonated with Dean and his anxiety. So many of his feelings and insecurities stem from PTSD and anxiety. Every time he had a panic attack I just wanted to hold the big cowboy and comfort him. Greta does an excellent job conveying his lack of control and mounting panic. It is refreshing to read about the literal wall some people put down in their minds to try and control their anxiety symptoms.
Oly was also a fun and strong character. I loved her determination to be an adult and do as much as she could on her own. Meanwhile, she's a total mess inside and feeling wonton because of her conflicting feelings about Dean.
I recommend this book to anyone who is looking for romance, smutty scenes, the power of mental health (good and bad) in plain view, and a dash of mystery/suspense.
August 4, 2021
Damn! This book was fabulous! It hit close to home being a Marines wife but this showed the side not many people see with what is going on in their heads. Dean and Oly are so perfectly matched I just can’t get enough of this series! *chefs kiss**
March 12, 2022
I cannot even believe I'm saying this, but I've officially read my second cowboy book and I'm going on to the third... #seriouslyshocked
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I'm seriously in love with Cade ranch and the boys.
This book is about Dean and Oly. Childhood best friends turned high school sweethearts then separated for several years now back around eachother and cannot stay away. The chemistry in this book is electric ⚡️
Dean is this quiet, broody, hot, marine (sniper) who is also obviously a cowboy. He broke things off with the love of his life before she went away to college so he wouldn't hold her back in life. He went his own way, joined the marines and has been through sooo much. Even through everything in his life he continued to love oly with every fiber of his soul. Totally swoon worthy!!
Oly aka Caroline is smart, ambitious, beautiful and an extremely family oriented women. She felt her world crumble when her love, Dean, split up with her and decided to join the marines. While she was away for school she put all her focus on her schooling and finally because a vet. Now she is back in whisper and all she can think about is Dean.
This entire book was just amazing. Dean was my fave brother in the first book and this book just solidified that claim. There are so many thing I want to say about him but I don't want to give too much away. Oly was a great character, but she wasn't my fave female character. Evvie is still better and I have a feeling that Billie is going to be my spirit character 😆. I just felt like oly was a bit whiny but I guess that actually worked for this book. Well either way Dean and oly = perfect!!! We also get a little more about the cade boys and their mother/ past. This past then chases them to the future and causes a lot of suspense and drama.
Story - 4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters - M/F 4 💙💖💙💖
Violence - 1.5🩸
Spice - 3🌶🌶🌶
Triggers - None that I could pick up on.
The other characters in Cade series are totally involved in this book, which I absolutely love ❤️. Greta has done an amazing job of keeping all the characters engaged in the story even if it centers about Dean & Oly. I absolutely cannot wait to read more about the new Vet 🙌 😍.
💯 recommend reading this book and off I go into the next ... Kevin, here I come!
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I'm seriously in love with Cade ranch and the boys.
This book is about Dean and Oly. Childhood best friends turned high school sweethearts then separated for several years now back around eachother and cannot stay away. The chemistry in this book is electric ⚡️
Dean is this quiet, broody, hot, marine (sniper) who is also obviously a cowboy. He broke things off with the love of his life before she went away to college so he wouldn't hold her back in life. He went his own way, joined the marines and has been through sooo much. Even through everything in his life he continued to love oly with every fiber of his soul. Totally swoon worthy!!
Oly aka Caroline is smart, ambitious, beautiful and an extremely family oriented women. She felt her world crumble when her love, Dean, split up with her and decided to join the marines. While she was away for school she put all her focus on her schooling and finally because a vet. Now she is back in whisper and all she can think about is Dean.
This entire book was just amazing. Dean was my fave brother in the first book and this book just solidified that claim. There are so many thing I want to say about him but I don't want to give too much away. Oly was a great character, but she wasn't my fave female character. Evvie is still better and I have a feeling that Billie is going to be my spirit character 😆. I just felt like oly was a bit whiny but I guess that actually worked for this book. Well either way Dean and oly = perfect!!! We also get a little more about the cade boys and their mother/ past. This past then chases them to the future and causes a lot of suspense and drama.
Story - 4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters - M/F 4 💙💖💙💖
Violence - 1.5🩸
Spice - 3🌶🌶🌶
Triggers - None that I could pick up on.
The other characters in Cade series are totally involved in this book, which I absolutely love ❤️. Greta has done an amazing job of keeping all the characters engaged in the story even if it centers about Dean & Oly. I absolutely cannot wait to read more about the new Vet 🙌 😍.
💯 recommend reading this book and off I go into the next ... Kevin, here I come!
December 17, 2021
Another triumph!
Wow, book 2 certainly lived up to the long immense shadow left by book 1. It was great! Dean and Olys story rattled at the emotional chains and had me wanting more more more of the Cade brothers - I want one of my own, is that too much to ask?!
Wow, book 2 certainly lived up to the long immense shadow left by book 1. It was great! Dean and Olys story rattled at the emotional chains and had me wanting more more more of the Cade brothers - I want one of my own, is that too much to ask?!
December 8, 2024
I really liked the first book in this series but this one fell very short for me. I love a good second chance but this one was just not it. We get Dean and Oly who were childhood/teenage sweethearts before Dean broke things off because he didn’t think he was good enough for her. Years later they meet again when both are back home and while I wasn’t expecting them to get right back together, I do wish it hadn’t taken so long for them to. Literally the entire book was them being back and forth with each other with some mild drama thrown in at the end with Dean’s mom that should have been sprinkled into the story earlier than it was because it felt really out of place by the time it came around. We don’t even get to really see these two as a couple so it was hard to root for them.
July 4, 2023
This is the second book in the series and although it could be read as a standalone, I would recommend reading the first book because there are so many characters and backstories. I was invested in these characters from reading book one. I feel like I am in the minority with my opinion on this book though. I loved the first book so much, so when this one left me needing more I was disappointed. This is Dean and Oly’s story.
Dean Cade is a retired Marine and is the second oldest of the five brothers. We meet him in book one and he keeps to himself and doesn’t say too much. He is recently back home from his time in the military and it is obvious that he saw and did things that have left him scared. He also has pined for the love of his life for over 7 years and he let her go because he thought she deserved better, even before he went into the military. He, like his brother Jack, was left with relationship and abandonment issues when their mother up and left them all when they were young. Now Oly is back in their small town to work at the veterinary clinic. He isn’t ready to face her or the fact that he never stopped loving her.
Carolyn, “Oly”, is back in her small town to stay and work at the veterinary clinic. Her dream has always been to be a Veterinarian and work with horses. She worked hard to get where she is and had to give up the love her life to do it. Although not her choice to give him up, Dean remains the love of her life despite the years that have passed. She tried to move on, but he is imbedded in her heart. Now that she is home she has no idea how she can avoid seeing him again.
It is obvious that these two belong together, but they can’t let go of the past to move forward. They battle their feelings for almost the entire book. I was drawn into their story and felt for both of them. They grew up together and were best friends. She was there for him when his mother left. They were the first of everything for each other and you could feel their love and pain. Dean really hurt her and he is well aware, but can’t seem to figure out how to fix it. Between the hurt from his mother and the scars from his time in the military, he is broken. There are some good secondary characters that help bring him around and I loved finally seeing him break through. Oly wants the life they were supposed to have together, but can she get him to trust her and not turn her away again?
I battled with this one a bit because of the constant push and pull between them. Once they finally figured it out it was too late for me because the story literally just ends. I wouldn’t say it was a cliffhanger, but I feel like it might be. There were several things left open and I won’t give them away, but I was so disappointed. I am thinking they continue in Kevin’s story, but I don’t think that I want to take a chance to find out. ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dean Cade is a retired Marine and is the second oldest of the five brothers. We meet him in book one and he keeps to himself and doesn’t say too much. He is recently back home from his time in the military and it is obvious that he saw and did things that have left him scared. He also has pined for the love of his life for over 7 years and he let her go because he thought she deserved better, even before he went into the military. He, like his brother Jack, was left with relationship and abandonment issues when their mother up and left them all when they were young. Now Oly is back in their small town to work at the veterinary clinic. He isn’t ready to face her or the fact that he never stopped loving her.
Carolyn, “Oly”, is back in her small town to stay and work at the veterinary clinic. Her dream has always been to be a Veterinarian and work with horses. She worked hard to get where she is and had to give up the love her life to do it. Although not her choice to give him up, Dean remains the love of her life despite the years that have passed. She tried to move on, but he is imbedded in her heart. Now that she is home she has no idea how she can avoid seeing him again.
It is obvious that these two belong together, but they can’t let go of the past to move forward. They battle their feelings for almost the entire book. I was drawn into their story and felt for both of them. They grew up together and were best friends. She was there for him when his mother left. They were the first of everything for each other and you could feel their love and pain. Dean really hurt her and he is well aware, but can’t seem to figure out how to fix it. Between the hurt from his mother and the scars from his time in the military, he is broken. There are some good secondary characters that help bring him around and I loved finally seeing him break through. Oly wants the life they were supposed to have together, but can she get him to trust her and not turn her away again?
I battled with this one a bit because of the constant push and pull between them. Once they finally figured it out it was too late for me because the story literally just ends. I wouldn’t say it was a cliffhanger, but I feel like it might be. There were several things left open and I won’t give them away, but I was so disappointed. I am thinking they continue in Kevin’s story, but I don’t think that I want to take a chance to find out. ⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 20, 2022
I did not like this one nearly as much as the first one.
There will be spoilers, but really, how do I properly write this review without them?
I don’t, that’s how.
So read on at your own peril.
Oly. Good lord, OLY. I did not like her. The problem was, she was fine to start with, the not-liking came gradually. Then, by the end, it was full out, don’t-give-a-shit-about-this-couple-anymore.
Oly was childish. Annoying in her refusal to do things that were for her own safety.
Her attitude, a lot of times, was immature. She was stubborn, and not about the right things. I struggled to understand what Dean saw in her.
Dean. Ugh. God, the self-pity and loathing he had for himself was way too over the top. I couldn’t take it anymore.
It felt like West needed some conflict to make the story longer, so she added in heaps of drama between Dean and Oly.
Jesus Christ, they could have gotten together so much sooner.
Then we have the mother showing up. WHAT THE EVER-LIVING HELL?!
Yeah. I was pissed. LIKE, WHY???? Why, West, did you feel it prudent to bring that woman back?
And not only did she bring her back, but she tried to make the reader have some fucking compassion for a woman who LEFT — did you effing hear that??— she LEFT HER FIVE SONS. As in, she abandoned them and never even sent a goddamn postcard.
And Oly, fucking Oly, in the last chapter, has the nerve to ask Dean to give this fucking woman (their mother) a chance. To keep an “open mind”.
Oh my god. Are you serious Oly??
We were also subjected to the sickening scene where Oly and the mother of the Cade boys, are having a little “heart-to-heart”. Eww. Just, please spare me.
Why did all of that need to be packed into the end of the book?
Oly had both of her parents growing up. She had no idea what it was like to be abandoned by one, so excuse me for thinking that , hmmm, maybe Oly doesn’t know jack-shit about that?? So maybe she’s the last person who should ask Dean to keep an open mind about her.
The Cade brothers had an asshole of a father, so, that’s another point against their mother. Why leave your babies with a man like that?
I hate the way West portrayed their mother. Like the reader is supposed to have some sort of sympathy for her. Fuck that.
I was really looking forward to reading the next book in this series, but now I’m really debating that. Because I don’t want more of this “mother-coming-back-and-living-in-same-small-town-as-the-sons-she-fucking-abandoned” shit.
I’m so disappointed. I really loved the first book in this series. But West really messed up with one.
There will be spoilers, but really, how do I properly write this review without them?
I don’t, that’s how.
So read on at your own peril.
Oly. Good lord, OLY. I did not like her. The problem was, she was fine to start with, the not-liking came gradually. Then, by the end, it was full out, don’t-give-a-shit-about-this-couple-anymore.
Oly was childish. Annoying in her refusal to do things that were for her own safety.
Her attitude, a lot of times, was immature. She was stubborn, and not about the right things. I struggled to understand what Dean saw in her.
Dean. Ugh. God, the self-pity and loathing he had for himself was way too over the top. I couldn’t take it anymore.
It felt like West needed some conflict to make the story longer, so she added in heaps of drama between Dean and Oly.
Jesus Christ, they could have gotten together so much sooner.
Then we have the mother showing up. WHAT THE EVER-LIVING HELL?!
Yeah. I was pissed. LIKE, WHY???? Why, West, did you feel it prudent to bring that woman back?
And not only did she bring her back, but she tried to make the reader have some fucking compassion for a woman who LEFT — did you effing hear that??— she LEFT HER FIVE SONS. As in, she abandoned them and never even sent a goddamn postcard.
And Oly, fucking Oly, in the last chapter, has the nerve to ask Dean to give this fucking woman (their mother) a chance. To keep an “open mind”.
Oh my god. Are you serious Oly??
We were also subjected to the sickening scene where Oly and the mother of the Cade boys, are having a little “heart-to-heart”. Eww. Just, please spare me.
Why did all of that need to be packed into the end of the book?
Oly had both of her parents growing up. She had no idea what it was like to be abandoned by one, so excuse me for thinking that , hmmm, maybe Oly doesn’t know jack-shit about that?? So maybe she’s the last person who should ask Dean to keep an open mind about her.
The Cade brothers had an asshole of a father, so, that’s another point against their mother. Why leave your babies with a man like that?
I hate the way West portrayed their mother. Like the reader is supposed to have some sort of sympathy for her. Fuck that.
I was really looking forward to reading the next book in this series, but now I’m really debating that. Because I don’t want more of this “mother-coming-back-and-living-in-same-small-town-as-the-sons-she-fucking-abandoned” shit.
I’m so disappointed. I really loved the first book in this series. But West really messed up with one.
December 5, 2021
Since I'm trying to sneak in some reading time with Cade Ranch #3 I'll keep this short: Dean & Oly's book is second-chance perfection. I couldn't put it down.
December 1, 2021
If you like feisty women and intense sex scenes, this is the book for you. The world is crafted masterfully. The details are very vivid and it was easy to ‘see’ the events as I read. It plays off of book 1 beautifully. It was it’s own story, yet I felt like book 1 was still moving forward in the background. I’m a big fan of the Cade brothers and of Greta Rose West. I’m looking forward to the future books in the series.
November 20, 2021
Author Greta Rose West has lassoed me into the love lives of the Cade brothers and I won’t even try to break free! I thought I loved Jack and Evvie in book #1 (Burned) but now I’m crushing hard on Dean and Carolyn “Oly” in book #2 (Broken). This second chance romance was a real page turner, teased in the first book and played out for real in the sequel. I love these genuine characters, this family and everything they stand for, I love the ranch setting, and the sweet, homey Christmas scenes. I loved the unexpected, heart wrenching revelations and the jaw-dropping conclusion. And the heat?? OMG, the heat. Seriously. This woman knows how to write aching, panting, writhing, sweaty scenes and still have you coming back for more. I’m definitely making room for brother Kevin’s story (Busted/Book #3) in this series ASAP.
November 16, 2021
*****5 WOW Stars*****
Greta knocked this one right out the park. I wasn’t ready for all these emotions to play through while I was reading. Dean and his brothers have been dealt crappy hand. Oly and Dean have known each other since Kindergarten and have been in love just as long. After high school things changed not for the good; Dean joins the Marines and Oly goes off to college. Seven years later Oly and Dean are back home and they are not the same people anymore. Oly is feisty and strong and determine to stay clear from Dean. Dean has been struggling since been home full time and when final lays his eye’s Oly everything feels like it might be okay. But Dean has dark secrets that are destroying him from letting himself finally be happy. So when the past comes back tries to take the one thing Dean can’t live without he will fight to protect what’s his. Man part of Dean secret will blow your mind and the twist in the last few chapters I can’t wait to see how it plays out.
*****ARC from author for review*****
Greta knocked this one right out the park. I wasn’t ready for all these emotions to play through while I was reading. Dean and his brothers have been dealt crappy hand. Oly and Dean have known each other since Kindergarten and have been in love just as long. After high school things changed not for the good; Dean joins the Marines and Oly goes off to college. Seven years later Oly and Dean are back home and they are not the same people anymore. Oly is feisty and strong and determine to stay clear from Dean. Dean has been struggling since been home full time and when final lays his eye’s Oly everything feels like it might be okay. But Dean has dark secrets that are destroying him from letting himself finally be happy. So when the past comes back tries to take the one thing Dean can’t live without he will fight to protect what’s his. Man part of Dean secret will blow your mind and the twist in the last few chapters I can’t wait to see how it plays out.
*****ARC from author for review*****
September 24, 2021
I thought the author will have a tough time writing a better hero than Jack.Dean if not better is different, loyal to the core and above all lovable.
He has been in love with Oly all his life but circumstances made them go different ways.
Both have changed .Dean is back from working as a marine and Oly is a vet,a strong and independent woman.
It was heartwarming to read how they care about other .how they want the best for the other.
At times I wanted to shake both of them and hurry them towards their happy ending.
Only one complaint though ,in between the pace of the story drops a little.
The chemistry between them was amazing.
Waiting for the next cade brother to have a go.
He has been in love with Oly all his life but circumstances made them go different ways.
Both have changed .Dean is back from working as a marine and Oly is a vet,a strong and independent woman.
It was heartwarming to read how they care about other .how they want the best for the other.
At times I wanted to shake both of them and hurry them towards their happy ending.
Only one complaint though ,in between the pace of the story drops a little.
The chemistry between them was amazing.
Waiting for the next cade brother to have a go.
August 16, 2021
Dean is an ex-marine that is in love with the same girl since he was 5 years old. But Oly is so special that he is convinced that she deserves someone better then him. Oly first and forever love is Dean but he has been pushing her away for years. Now that they are both back in town for good they will either make it or brake it for good! Loved book number two and all the mysteries and plot twists that we could also savor on book 1. I really like that Greta’s books are so much more than the happily ever after.
June 28, 2023
This book was a mix for me. There were times when Oly got on my nerves because she became the little girl she tried so hard not to be. Dean got on my nerves because he wouldn't talk to Oly. I did enjoy Bigsy and the relationship he had with Dean. There was so much packed in the end and most unresolved. So, be warned, you will be left hanging...just not with Dean and Oly's relationship.
August 23, 2024
Carolyn just came off really immature to me. She was just childish and angry the entire book and couldn’t seem to understand that Dean had been through it. Also, the nickname Duck just didn’t do it for me. I didn’t really buy into the whole Dean thinks Carolyn is too good for him thing. It just didn’t feel like it fit.
March 24, 2022
I like the characters, mostly. I don’t like the sex scenes at all. Dominance and roughness are not appealing to me. That whole plot with his mother is just confusing. Hoping the next one clears up some of that.
December 6, 2023
DNF
## I made it to 25% and gave up. The flashbacks were too long and I got bored. I just couldn't get into this one. I can't stand it when the hero dumps the heroine because he feels he's not good enough, yet she still has sex with him? Puh-leez. Sorry, can't recommend.
## I made it to 25% and gave up. The flashbacks were too long and I got bored. I just couldn't get into this one. I can't stand it when the hero dumps the heroine because he feels he's not good enough, yet she still has sex with him? Puh-leez. Sorry, can't recommend.
February 11, 2022
Dean has loved Oly forever but pushed her away many years ago because he thought she deserved better and didn’t want to hold her back. Now she’s back in their small home town, a veterinarian, who joins the town’s Vet clinic. He still loves her and no one else has ever taken her place in his heart but he still believes that he is no good for her, he can’t tell her his secrets and shame, afraid if he does she will turn her back on him forever. But now that she’s home it’s hard not to run into her everywhere and when it seems like she’s a target for someone, Dean will do everything and anything to keep her safe…no matter how much Oly protests and tries to get rid of him.
Oh Dean, grumpy, grunty big oaf who is loyal, loveable and very worthy…Oh Oly, kind, forgiving, strong who loves her big oaf to pieces. These two have been through a lot together since they were kids and were meant to be together, everyone in their town knows it and have a hand in helping them along. I liked the fact that Dean’s past with o/w wasn’t mentioned but it had me curious….was he ever with o/w….was he loyal to Oly…if not, was he gentle or rough with them….I very much appreciate not mentioning past lovers and am hoping he was loyal to Oly….but it was not confirmed either way. I liked the bits and pieces of their past, creating their back story and the emotions that poured off the pages that at times made me misty eyed.
A great read with steam, a touch of suspense, heartache and heartbreak, emotional scenes, great characters, and a twist that was so surprising, I did not see coming…WOW. There were a few unanswered questions in this book that leave you hanging….BUT Dean and Oly get their well deserved HEA.
Oh Dean, grumpy, grunty big oaf who is loyal, loveable and very worthy…Oh Oly, kind, forgiving, strong who loves her big oaf to pieces. These two have been through a lot together since they were kids and were meant to be together, everyone in their town knows it and have a hand in helping them along. I liked the fact that Dean’s past with o/w wasn’t mentioned but it had me curious….was he ever with o/w….was he loyal to Oly…if not, was he gentle or rough with them….I very much appreciate not mentioning past lovers and am hoping he was loyal to Oly….but it was not confirmed either way. I liked the bits and pieces of their past, creating their back story and the emotions that poured off the pages that at times made me misty eyed.
A great read with steam, a touch of suspense, heartache and heartbreak, emotional scenes, great characters, and a twist that was so surprising, I did not see coming…WOW. There were a few unanswered questions in this book that leave you hanging….BUT Dean and Oly get their well deserved HEA.
September 4, 2023
Who says cowboys don’t need saving sometimes? Especially when it involves a past love.♥️
Dean Cade, a solemn retired sniper, dutifully works his family’s horse ranch and aching for the one who got away. A good woman who has big aspirations shouldn’t be held back from achieving her dreams, not even if she’s the love of his life.
Carolyn (Oly) has graduated from veterinary school in the UK and is returning to her small Wyoming town after many years away in school. Coming home means working with the horse she’s always wanted to and reuniting with family and friends. But there’s one man she’s not ready to reunite with, and she’s doing all she can to avoid Dean Cade and broken heart he left her with.
Problem with a small town is it’s impossible to avoid the residents for long. And being a horse veterinarian means you work the horse farms, even the one owned by Dean’s family. Dean knows he should leave her be, but he can’t help himself. Oly knows she should push him away and guard her heart, but she can’t fight her old feelings for him.
When someone threatens Oly’s safety, her family insists she stay in the safest place available, and that place just happens to be with her retired-sniper ex. Their pull-and-give comes to a head, leaving Dean left with a choice: confess the sins of his past or say goodbye to Oly for good.
This book played with my heart. The angst is real with this one. The suspense will keep you guessing. The steam was abundant. The way these two love each other will hit you in your feels. And that HEA was so deserved for the small town couple everyone was routing for.
My rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dean Cade, a solemn retired sniper, dutifully works his family’s horse ranch and aching for the one who got away. A good woman who has big aspirations shouldn’t be held back from achieving her dreams, not even if she’s the love of his life.
Carolyn (Oly) has graduated from veterinary school in the UK and is returning to her small Wyoming town after many years away in school. Coming home means working with the horse she’s always wanted to and reuniting with family and friends. But there’s one man she’s not ready to reunite with, and she’s doing all she can to avoid Dean Cade and broken heart he left her with.
Problem with a small town is it’s impossible to avoid the residents for long. And being a horse veterinarian means you work the horse farms, even the one owned by Dean’s family. Dean knows he should leave her be, but he can’t help himself. Oly knows she should push him away and guard her heart, but she can’t fight her old feelings for him.
When someone threatens Oly’s safety, her family insists she stay in the safest place available, and that place just happens to be with her retired-sniper ex. Their pull-and-give comes to a head, leaving Dean left with a choice: confess the sins of his past or say goodbye to Oly for good.
This book played with my heart. The angst is real with this one. The suspense will keep you guessing. The steam was abundant. The way these two love each other will hit you in your feels. And that HEA was so deserved for the small town couple everyone was routing for.
My rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 8, 2024
⭐⭐⭐½
Dean Cade—veteran sniper—has returned home from his time in the Marines to Cade Ranch seven years after he lied and pushed his lifelong friend and highschool sweetheart Carolyn “Oly” Masterson away. Now that Oly has returned from veterinary school in England to work at Wisper’s local clinic, he can’t avoid her, and he can’t deny that he still needs her. But Oly is a changed woman, and Dean—harbouring a secret he fears could destroy his brothers—came home broken. All Oly wants to do now that she’s home in Wisper is dive into work and avoid Dean, lest he break her heart again, but the brooding, stubborn cowboy won’t leave her thoughts. She knows he’s different—damaged—yet she can’t stop thinking about him or the passionate night they shared three years ago before Dean pushed her away for good. But with danger lurking nearby, Dean intends to protect her, whether she likes it or not. Oly can’t walk away, but if Dean doesn’t open up and let her in, that’s exactly what she’ll have to do—even knowing it would break her.
Broken is a solid fit for fans of angst, but it didn’t have the engaging or emotional punch that was so addictive in the first novel, Burned. The dialogue was repetitive at times, and the awkwardly forced forced-proximity plot in the latter half and the “plot twist” felt rushed. The childhood/highschool sweetheart aspect of the romance was pleasant and I did feel like the FMC Carolyn and MMC Dean had solid romantic and sexual chemistry/history, but I became very frustrated at the repeated fuck-and-run trend. Whilst I appreciate that Dean had some serious issues to work through, he treats Oly poorly, and Oly—a supposedly strong, feisty woman—acted like a total doormat for half the story until she finally remembered her backbone. I did however appreciate plot points and interactions between Dean and fellow veteran, Biggsy; their friendship and the character growth that resulted from it felt more significant than the romance at times and was a highlight of the story.
Dean Cade—veteran sniper—has returned home from his time in the Marines to Cade Ranch seven years after he lied and pushed his lifelong friend and highschool sweetheart Carolyn “Oly” Masterson away. Now that Oly has returned from veterinary school in England to work at Wisper’s local clinic, he can’t avoid her, and he can’t deny that he still needs her. But Oly is a changed woman, and Dean—harbouring a secret he fears could destroy his brothers—came home broken. All Oly wants to do now that she’s home in Wisper is dive into work and avoid Dean, lest he break her heart again, but the brooding, stubborn cowboy won’t leave her thoughts. She knows he’s different—damaged—yet she can’t stop thinking about him or the passionate night they shared three years ago before Dean pushed her away for good. But with danger lurking nearby, Dean intends to protect her, whether she likes it or not. Oly can’t walk away, but if Dean doesn’t open up and let her in, that’s exactly what she’ll have to do—even knowing it would break her.
Broken is a solid fit for fans of angst, but it didn’t have the engaging or emotional punch that was so addictive in the first novel, Burned. The dialogue was repetitive at times, and the awkwardly forced forced-proximity plot in the latter half and the “plot twist” felt rushed. The childhood/highschool sweetheart aspect of the romance was pleasant and I did feel like the FMC Carolyn and MMC Dean had solid romantic and sexual chemistry/history, but I became very frustrated at the repeated fuck-and-run trend. Whilst I appreciate that Dean had some serious issues to work through, he treats Oly poorly, and Oly—a supposedly strong, feisty woman—acted like a total doormat for half the story until she finally remembered her backbone. I did however appreciate plot points and interactions between Dean and fellow veteran, Biggsy; their friendship and the character growth that resulted from it felt more significant than the romance at times and was a highlight of the story.
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