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Blood Ties #0.5
One Last Kiss
Colorado rancher Sam Bridger will do anything for a friend, even if it means babysitting a rich city girl who knows more about high fashion than horses. Blond, beautiful Liberty Hale looks like a model—and acts like a spoiled brat—but Sam senses another side to the young woman who has lost so much of her family, and he can’t deny the heat just one look at her ignites.
Libby is determined to get through her time on the ranch—her inheritance depends on her putting in a solid month’s work. She hadn’t imagined her boss would be a sexy, straightforward cowboy—and she’s surprised to discover just how much she wants him. As life in the Colorado sunshine begins to burn away her grief, Libby and Sam’s attraction to each other starts to sizzle.
A three-day pack trip into the mountains will test them both—especially when one of the ranch’s guests takes a sinister interest in Libby. Suddenly their unexpected chance at love is overshadowed by the terrifying possibility that their very lives are at risk . . .
Libby is determined to get through her time on the ranch—her inheritance depends on her putting in a solid month’s work. She hadn’t imagined her boss would be a sexy, straightforward cowboy—and she’s surprised to discover just how much she wants him. As life in the Colorado sunshine begins to burn away her grief, Libby and Sam’s attraction to each other starts to sizzle.
A three-day pack trip into the mountains will test them both—especially when one of the ranch’s guests takes a sinister interest in Libby. Suddenly their unexpected chance at love is overshadowed by the terrifying possibility that their very lives are at risk . . .
107 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 31, 2021
136 people are currently reading
685 people want to read
About the author
Kat Martin
188 books3,172 followersKathleen Kelly Martin (aka Kathy Lawrence, Kasey Mars)
Kathleen Kelly was born on 14 July 1947 in the Central Valley of California, USA. She obtained a degree in Anthropology and also studied History at the University of California in Santa Barbara. She was a real estate broker, when she met her future husband, Larry Jay Martin. A short time after the two became acquainted, Larry asked her to read an unpublished manuscript of an historical western he'd written. Kat fell in love with both the book and the author! Then, after doing some editing for him, she thought she'd try her own hand at writing. She moved on to become a full time writer.
Published since 1988, she signed her books with her married name, Kat Martin, but she also used two pseudonyms: Kathy Lawrence for a book in collaboration with her husband Larry Jay Martin, and Kasey Mars for her first contemporary romances. The New York Times bestselling writer, among her many awards, has won the prestigious RT Book Review Magazine Career Achievement Award. To date, Kat has over eleven million copies of her books in print. She has been published in seventeen foreign countries, including England, South Africa, Spain, Argentina, Germany, Italy, Greece, Norway, Sweden, Russia, Bulgaria, China, and Korea.
Currently residing with her husband, a Western-writer and photographer, in Missoula, Montana, USA. But when they are not writing, they also enjoy skiing and traveling, particularly to Europe.
"I've always loved books. I was an avid reader, with any number of my own stories rolling around in my head. Writing them down seemed a logical step."
"I love anything old," Kat says. "I love to travel and especially like to visit the places where my books are set. My husband and I often stay in out-of-the-way inns and houses built in times past. It's fun and it gives a wonderful sense of a by-gone era."
Kathleen Kelly was born on 14 July 1947 in the Central Valley of California, USA. She obtained a degree in Anthropology and also studied History at the University of California in Santa Barbara. She was a real estate broker, when she met her future husband, Larry Jay Martin. A short time after the two became acquainted, Larry asked her to read an unpublished manuscript of an historical western he'd written. Kat fell in love with both the book and the author! Then, after doing some editing for him, she thought she'd try her own hand at writing. She moved on to become a full time writer.
Published since 1988, she signed her books with her married name, Kat Martin, but she also used two pseudonyms: Kathy Lawrence for a book in collaboration with her husband Larry Jay Martin, and Kasey Mars for her first contemporary romances. The New York Times bestselling writer, among her many awards, has won the prestigious RT Book Review Magazine Career Achievement Award. To date, Kat has over eleven million copies of her books in print. She has been published in seventeen foreign countries, including England, South Africa, Spain, Argentina, Germany, Italy, Greece, Norway, Sweden, Russia, Bulgaria, China, and Korea.
Currently residing with her husband, a Western-writer and photographer, in Missoula, Montana, USA. But when they are not writing, they also enjoy skiing and traveling, particularly to Europe.
"I've always loved books. I was an avid reader, with any number of my own stories rolling around in my head. Writing them down seemed a logical step."
"I love anything old," Kat says. "I love to travel and especially like to visit the places where my books are set. My husband and I often stay in out-of-the-way inns and houses built in times past. It's fun and it gives a wonderful sense of a by-gone era."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
September 25, 2021
This is an entertaining, fast paced, well-written, steamy, romantic suspense novella. It has likable, engaging characters, sizzling chemistry, a beautiful, vividly described setting, and a happily ever after ending. I am looking forward to reading the next entry in Ms. Martin's outstanding, new "Blood Ties" series with great anticipation. She never disappoints her readers!
September 2, 2021
Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an fair and honest review.
Romantic-Suspense novellas are a lot of fun. They are quick, have a fast, hot romance and a suspense plot. Kat Martin writes a really,really good one. As an intro to her new series, we get to see a wonderful setting and meet some great characters.
Poor little rich girl, Liberty Hale, is being forced to spend a month as an employee at a working dude ranch in Colorado as part of the terms of her uncle's will. Liberty is not a happy camper until she get a look at the ranch owner.
Sam Bridger loves his life and his ranch that has been in his family for generations. His working ranch supplements the income by taking in visitors during the summer for a real western experience. When an old friend dies and requests that he hire Liberty for a month, Sam isn't sure just what a rich, beautiful model is going to think. But when she blows his every preconception, he is smitten and not liking it at all.
When Liberty is threatened, Sam knows that he and his friends are her best chance to survive. There is no other alternative because Sam is in love with her and he is going to make sure she knows that.
re at risk .
Romantic-Suspense novellas are a lot of fun. They are quick, have a fast, hot romance and a suspense plot. Kat Martin writes a really,really good one. As an intro to her new series, we get to see a wonderful setting and meet some great characters.
Poor little rich girl, Liberty Hale, is being forced to spend a month as an employee at a working dude ranch in Colorado as part of the terms of her uncle's will. Liberty is not a happy camper until she get a look at the ranch owner.
Sam Bridger loves his life and his ranch that has been in his family for generations. His working ranch supplements the income by taking in visitors during the summer for a real western experience. When an old friend dies and requests that he hire Liberty for a month, Sam isn't sure just what a rich, beautiful model is going to think. But when she blows his every preconception, he is smitten and not liking it at all.
When Liberty is threatened, Sam knows that he and his friends are her best chance to survive. There is no other alternative because Sam is in love with her and he is going to make sure she knows that.
re at risk .
August 10, 2021
3.5 Stars
One Last Kiss was a quick read that serves as an introduction to the author's new Blood Ties series.
To receive her inheritance, Liberty Hale must spend one month working on a Colorado ranch under the supervision of rancher Sam Bridger. After Libby arrives, her and Sam get off on the wrong foot leading to a tense start of life to the ranch. But as Libby spends more time on the ranch, she begins to work through the grief over losing her family. And as an attraction blossoms between her and Sam, Libby finds herself feeling more at home on the ranch than she's ever felt anywhere else. But one of the ranch guests has taken an interest in Libby and he's not willing to take no for an answer.
Libby initially comes across as very spoiled which makes her hard to like at first. But as the book goes on, we see that she's putting on a facade to keep from getting close to anyone for fear of losing them like her family. Sam at first believed the show Libby was putting on which meant their relationship was slow to get off the ground despite their mutual attraction to one another. But as Libby's true self came out, Sam was quick to fall for the real her and admired her determination. I did have a bit of a hard time with how quick the pair's feelings developed but that was mostly due to it being a novella and the time jumps to keep the story moving. But I did really enjoy the steamier scenes between the pair which were excellent. The suspense element doesn't really come into this story until close to the end but it was mostly well done. I will say there was one thing I didn't like which was when the bad guy attempted to as I felt it was unnecessary.
Overall One Last Kiss was an enjoyable read and I'm looking forward to reading the first full-length installment in the series, The Last Goodnight, soon.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
One Last Kiss was a quick read that serves as an introduction to the author's new Blood Ties series.
To receive her inheritance, Liberty Hale must spend one month working on a Colorado ranch under the supervision of rancher Sam Bridger. After Libby arrives, her and Sam get off on the wrong foot leading to a tense start of life to the ranch. But as Libby spends more time on the ranch, she begins to work through the grief over losing her family. And as an attraction blossoms between her and Sam, Libby finds herself feeling more at home on the ranch than she's ever felt anywhere else. But one of the ranch guests has taken an interest in Libby and he's not willing to take no for an answer.
Libby initially comes across as very spoiled which makes her hard to like at first. But as the book goes on, we see that she's putting on a facade to keep from getting close to anyone for fear of losing them like her family. Sam at first believed the show Libby was putting on which meant their relationship was slow to get off the ground despite their mutual attraction to one another. But as Libby's true self came out, Sam was quick to fall for the real her and admired her determination. I did have a bit of a hard time with how quick the pair's feelings developed but that was mostly due to it being a novella and the time jumps to keep the story moving. But I did really enjoy the steamier scenes between the pair which were excellent. The suspense element doesn't really come into this story until close to the end but it was mostly well done. I will say there was one thing I didn't like which was when the bad guy attempted to as I felt it was unnecessary.
Overall One Last Kiss was an enjoyable read and I'm looking forward to reading the first full-length installment in the series, The Last Goodnight, soon.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
August 27, 2021
Liberty Hale is a model in New York, and in order to receive her inheritance, she must work for one month on a ranch in Colorado. Being at the ranch brings back a ton of happy memories of her childhood, and it forces Liberty to face her grief over the loss of her parents. She also begins to fall for the ranch owner, Sam. However, there are some suspicious people staying at the ranch who seem to take an interest in Liberty, much to her dismay. Can Liberty and Sam’s budding relationship survive a dangerous and possibly deadly situation?
Liberty is so much more than the superficial socialite that people mistake her for. Constantly judged for her looks, Liberty keeps men at a distance until she meets Sam. He’s the first man who has treated her as more than just a pretty face and hasn’t made her feel objectified. Liberty is so drawn to the smart, sure, and hard-working man she gets to know at the ranch, and Sam is also drawn to Liberty. He sees past the makeup and fancy clothes and finds a kind, caring, and grief-torn woman. I like their instant connection and how that connection grows throughout the novella. They seem to really understand each other, and their chemistry is fantastic.
The secondary characters are also really interesting, and I’m eager to learn more about them as they weren’t super developed in this story. The ranch hands, Sam’s aunt, and Sam’s best friend are all compelling characters who help Sam and Liberty. They are dependable and capable, and they clearly care for Sam. I think this says a lot about them and a lot about the kind of man Sam is – a man who inspires loyalty and admiration.
This is a quick novella, and there are parts of the story that I wish were developed a bit more, especially in relation to the intrigue. However, the romance is great, and Liberty and Sam are well-developed. Thanks so much to NetGalley, Kensington Books, and the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
Liberty is so much more than the superficial socialite that people mistake her for. Constantly judged for her looks, Liberty keeps men at a distance until she meets Sam. He’s the first man who has treated her as more than just a pretty face and hasn’t made her feel objectified. Liberty is so drawn to the smart, sure, and hard-working man she gets to know at the ranch, and Sam is also drawn to Liberty. He sees past the makeup and fancy clothes and finds a kind, caring, and grief-torn woman. I like their instant connection and how that connection grows throughout the novella. They seem to really understand each other, and their chemistry is fantastic.
The secondary characters are also really interesting, and I’m eager to learn more about them as they weren’t super developed in this story. The ranch hands, Sam’s aunt, and Sam’s best friend are all compelling characters who help Sam and Liberty. They are dependable and capable, and they clearly care for Sam. I think this says a lot about them and a lot about the kind of man Sam is – a man who inspires loyalty and admiration.
This is a quick novella, and there are parts of the story that I wish were developed a bit more, especially in relation to the intrigue. However, the romance is great, and Liberty and Sam are well-developed. Thanks so much to NetGalley, Kensington Books, and the author for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
August 18, 2021
OUTSTANDING!!! One Last Kiss by Kat Martin is book 2 in the Blood Ties series and though in a series this book can be read as a standalone. I have been reading Kat’s books for the past 20 years staring with her historical romances and she has alway been a favorite of mine so when she started writing contemporary novels I just had to read them. Her writing is so incredible and One Last Kiss will keep you on the very edge of your seat with this city girl meets cowboy. I just could not put this book down and read it in one sitting. It is great from page one to the very end. Kat is really has a true talent for writing. This story has a very rich city girl who is a model, death, a cause in a will, a very hot cowboy, expecting the worst, wonderful new friends, some pretty shady characters, going on a camping trip, attempted rape, needing to protect and falling in love but can a city girl and a ranch owner ever come together? You will just have to read this book for yourself to find out and I am highly recommending that you do!!!
***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
September 6, 2021
Not generally a reader of romances but being a CO girl myself, I always like books that are set in my home state. Not much to say "this is Colorado" but I really did enjoy the story. Libby, NYC model, who was raised by her Uncle Marty after her parents died is used to the rich life. When Uncle Marty dies he inexplicitly requires that she can only get her inheritance only after she spends one month working on his friends dude ranch. She is not at all happy about doing this but her only other option is to forego her portion of his vast wealth. She takes a private jet and 5 suitcases to get this silly requirement over with. Enter Sam Bridger, the owner of the ranch she's to work. Initially he is as unimpressed with her entitlement as she is with this cowboy.
I'm sure from there you can guess where this goes. But it is not without a good chunk of action (more my style). This novella had it all. I'm actually going to have to check out next two in the series.
Thank you to #NetGalley and Kensington-Zebra for this copy of #OneLastKiss in exchange for an honest review.
I'm sure from there you can guess where this goes. But it is not without a good chunk of action (more my style). This novella had it all. I'm actually going to have to check out next two in the series.
Thank you to #NetGalley and Kensington-Zebra for this copy of #OneLastKiss in exchange for an honest review.
August 31, 2021
When Libby's uncle passed away, she learned that he had left her everything, which is quite a bit. All she has to do to collect her inheritance is spend 1 month at a working ranch, owned by his friend Sam Bridger.
The last thing Sam wants is to have to babysit a rich city girl who will probably cry when she snags a fingernail.
Both of them are going to be very surprised, especially as their attraction to each other seems to escalate by the day.
A three-day pack trip into the mountains will test them both—especially when one of the ranch’s guests takes a sinister interest in Libby.
It's a quick read full of a nice blend of suspense and romance on steroids. The characters are warm and loving, the plot and story line are filled with a few twists and turns. This is one of the best go-to authors for romantic suspense.
Many thanks to the author / Kensington Books / Netgalley for the digital copy of this Romantic Suspense. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
The last thing Sam wants is to have to babysit a rich city girl who will probably cry when she snags a fingernail.
Both of them are going to be very surprised, especially as their attraction to each other seems to escalate by the day.
A three-day pack trip into the mountains will test them both—especially when one of the ranch’s guests takes a sinister interest in Libby.
It's a quick read full of a nice blend of suspense and romance on steroids. The characters are warm and loving, the plot and story line are filled with a few twists and turns. This is one of the best go-to authors for romantic suspense.
Many thanks to the author / Kensington Books / Netgalley for the digital copy of this Romantic Suspense. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
August 29, 2021
One Last Kiss by Kat Martin
Blood Ties #0.5
Novella length story that sees Libby Hale required to spend time working on a ranch for a month to inherit from her uncle. Having settled into a life of shopping, modeling makeup and living in the city this is not her first choice of fun things to do but it will be worth it in the end…she hopes. Sam Bridger is the owner of the ranch she will work on and chemistry sparks between them immediately. Though predictable this is a delightful, fun, easy read with just enough romance, a taste of suspense, and characters that introduced that very easily could have stories of their own in this series.
What I liked:
* Libby: more than the poor little rich girl without focus that she appears at first to be
* Sam: rancher, hard worker, thoughtful, capable and caring – perfect for Libby
* Aunt Clara, Big John and a few others that work on the ranch
* Kade: a neighbor that my show up in the next book
* The capabilities that some of the men have due to what they did before ranching
* That the bad guys were dealt with
* The HEA for Libby and Sam – even though we didn’t see it in final form
What I didn’t like:
* The bad guys…scum of the earth
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington-Zebra for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
Blood Ties #0.5
Novella length story that sees Libby Hale required to spend time working on a ranch for a month to inherit from her uncle. Having settled into a life of shopping, modeling makeup and living in the city this is not her first choice of fun things to do but it will be worth it in the end…she hopes. Sam Bridger is the owner of the ranch she will work on and chemistry sparks between them immediately. Though predictable this is a delightful, fun, easy read with just enough romance, a taste of suspense, and characters that introduced that very easily could have stories of their own in this series.
What I liked:
* Libby: more than the poor little rich girl without focus that she appears at first to be
* Sam: rancher, hard worker, thoughtful, capable and caring – perfect for Libby
* Aunt Clara, Big John and a few others that work on the ranch
* Kade: a neighbor that my show up in the next book
* The capabilities that some of the men have due to what they did before ranching
* That the bad guys were dealt with
* The HEA for Libby and Sam – even though we didn’t see it in final form
What I didn’t like:
* The bad guys…scum of the earth
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington-Zebra for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
September 4, 2021
One Last Kiss💋
Libby’s uncle dies and in his will he makes a stipulation that for her to inherit she needs to go live on a ranch for a month and work as an employee. Libby reluctantly does and is instantly attracted to Sam, the owner of the ranch😍
Unfortunately, bad luck seems to follow Libby and puts her and some of the other guests in danger😢
An enjoyable story and only my second one by this author❣️
Libby’s uncle dies and in his will he makes a stipulation that for her to inherit she needs to go live on a ranch for a month and work as an employee. Libby reluctantly does and is instantly attracted to Sam, the owner of the ranch😍
Unfortunately, bad luck seems to follow Libby and puts her and some of the other guests in danger😢
An enjoyable story and only my second one by this author❣️
September 5, 2021
Bah. Waste of my time.
January 2, 2024
I didn't finish this book. It got really corny.
June 26, 2024
Super short, and interesting because of the dude ranch. It follows the standard romance plot line but isn't that what is required?
I enjoyed the quick read.
3 stars
Happy Reading!
I enjoyed the quick read.
3 stars
Happy Reading!
August 25, 2021
One Last Kiss
Cat Martin
August 31, 2021
Liberty Hale, an only child, was left alone when her parents died in an accident. She was twelve years old with no one to adopt her. She was born and raised in a small town in Kansas, parents were farmers. She was loved and cared for and grew up loving the outdoors. She helped her mom and dad with the chores and loved their animals. Shortly after the accident she was given to her Uncle Marty to raise her. He was an older gentleman and although she was happy to move into his home she knew her life would never be the same. He was the wealthy brother of her grandfather. He loved her, gave her whatever she wished for, and was sent to the best schools. Upon his death Libby was heartbroken. Upon the reading of his will, it was disclosed that some of his wealth would go to an Animal Foundation and the rest to Liberty. There was however a codicil that stated Libby would spend one month in Colorado working on a dude ranch. She would not be a guest. She would be part of the help, cooking, cleaning and raking out horse stalls. According to her Uncle´s attorney she had no choice. If she declined the offer, all of his fortune would go to the animals. She packed her bags and left her Manhattan apartment. What else could she do but fly off to the Bridger Dude Ranch?
Martinś latest in her Blood Ties series is a great novella. It makes for a wonderful afternoon or evening read. It was fun yet suspenseful and romantic. I have become a great fan of Cat Martinś thrillers. This one is terrific. I plan to send it to a couple of friends as a gift. One Last Kiss will be published by Kensington Publishing Corporation on August 31, 2021. I appreciate their allowing me to read and review this prequel to her latest novel, The Last Goodbye and first in the Blood Ties series. Do pick this one up and by all means enjoy!
Cat Martin
August 31, 2021
Liberty Hale, an only child, was left alone when her parents died in an accident. She was twelve years old with no one to adopt her. She was born and raised in a small town in Kansas, parents were farmers. She was loved and cared for and grew up loving the outdoors. She helped her mom and dad with the chores and loved their animals. Shortly after the accident she was given to her Uncle Marty to raise her. He was an older gentleman and although she was happy to move into his home she knew her life would never be the same. He was the wealthy brother of her grandfather. He loved her, gave her whatever she wished for, and was sent to the best schools. Upon his death Libby was heartbroken. Upon the reading of his will, it was disclosed that some of his wealth would go to an Animal Foundation and the rest to Liberty. There was however a codicil that stated Libby would spend one month in Colorado working on a dude ranch. She would not be a guest. She would be part of the help, cooking, cleaning and raking out horse stalls. According to her Uncle´s attorney she had no choice. If she declined the offer, all of his fortune would go to the animals. She packed her bags and left her Manhattan apartment. What else could she do but fly off to the Bridger Dude Ranch?
Martinś latest in her Blood Ties series is a great novella. It makes for a wonderful afternoon or evening read. It was fun yet suspenseful and romantic. I have become a great fan of Cat Martinś thrillers. This one is terrific. I plan to send it to a couple of friends as a gift. One Last Kiss will be published by Kensington Publishing Corporation on August 31, 2021. I appreciate their allowing me to read and review this prequel to her latest novel, The Last Goodbye and first in the Blood Ties series. Do pick this one up and by all means enjoy!
September 7, 2021
One Last Kiss is a novella by Kat Martin in her new Blood Ties series. Kat Martin has once again proven that she is an incredible story teller. She definitely did not disappoint with One Last Kiss and has once again delivered an incredible story filled with everything that I love in her stories. I could not out it down and I loved every page of this page turner. Who doesn't love hot sexy men, and strong females? Kat Martin continues to deliver all that and so much more. One Last Kiss is the story of Sam Bridger, rancher and Liberty “Libby” Hale, cosmetic model and heir to her late uncle’s estate. Liberty is orphaned as a child, and Martin Hale raises her. In order to collect her inheritance from her Uncle Marty, Libby must spend one month working at Sam’s ranch. Sam will collect $50,000 from Martin Hale’s estate for employing Libby. Sam and Libby meet when Sam picks up Libby and her Louis Vuitton luggage at the airport. They are both immediately attracted to one another. As they spend time together as Libby works on the ranch and helps out with the summer visitors, Sam and Libby realize that they have feelings for one another. I love that Libby remembers some good times that she shared with her parents, which was probably the reason Marty required her stay and work at the ranch. Love the plot twists and the surprises that Kat Martin includes even in her novellas. One Last Kiss is filled with all those things that I have come to love and expect in a Kat Martin romantic thriller. I love Kat Martin’s description of the ranch, makes me want to visit. Love that following the unexpected plot twist, Sam and Libby admit their real feelings for one another, and that Libby realizes that she is home. Great read! Highly recommend this romantic thriller.
August 28, 2021
Liberty Hale grew up on a farm in Kansas until a tragic accident killed her parents when she was 12. Her great uncle Marty took her in and raised her and she became a successful model in New York. But after her uncle's death, she finds out that she has to spend a month working at a Colorado ranch to receive her inheritance.
Sam Bridger would have done a favor for longtime friend Marty for free, but to earn the fifty thousand dollars his ranch badly needs, he's ordered to treat Libby the same as his other ranch hands. But at his first sight of her, he knows he has his work cut out for him. Then as time goes on, he realizes there's more to her than a pretty face. The ranch brings back memories of her childhood on the farm, and she finally works through her grief of losing her parents so young. And her budding relationship with Sam is an added bonus. But on a three day packing trip, their lives are in danger from a threatening guest.
I swear if I had to read how pretty Libby was one more time I was going to scream. Regardless of that, I liked the chemistry between her and Sam. I loved how strong and capable (and patient) Sam's character was. The ranch was described so beautifully. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the Blood Ties series.
I received an advance reader copy of this book through NetGalley. My review is given voluntarily. See this and more of my reviews on mibookobsession.blogspot.com
Sam Bridger would have done a favor for longtime friend Marty for free, but to earn the fifty thousand dollars his ranch badly needs, he's ordered to treat Libby the same as his other ranch hands. But at his first sight of her, he knows he has his work cut out for him. Then as time goes on, he realizes there's more to her than a pretty face. The ranch brings back memories of her childhood on the farm, and she finally works through her grief of losing her parents so young. And her budding relationship with Sam is an added bonus. But on a three day packing trip, their lives are in danger from a threatening guest.
I swear if I had to read how pretty Libby was one more time I was going to scream. Regardless of that, I liked the chemistry between her and Sam. I loved how strong and capable (and patient) Sam's character was. The ranch was described so beautifully. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the Blood Ties series.
I received an advance reader copy of this book through NetGalley. My review is given voluntarily. See this and more of my reviews on mibookobsession.blogspot.com
August 27, 2021
It´s been a while since I’ve read Kat Martin’s books and this was a beautiful surprise. Sweet and full of nice moments, it was a perfect short love story.
Colorado rancher Sam Bridger will do anything for a friend, even if it means babysitting a rich city girl. Blond, beautiful Liberty Hale looks like a model, but Sam senses another side to the young woman who has lost so much of her family, and he can’t deny the heat just one look at her ignites.
Libby is determined to get through her time on the ranch—her inheritance depends on her putting in a solid month’s work. She hadn’t imagined her boss would be a sexy, straightforward cowboy—and she’s surprised to discover just how much she wants him. As life in the Colorado sunshine begins to burn away her grief, Libby and Sam’s attraction to each other starts to sizzle.
This story has a lot of great dialogs and sweet moments. I loved the relationship between Libby and Sam. It’s honest, emotional and steamy. There are great sexy times and a bit of action.
It´s easy to read and I totally recommended it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Colorado rancher Sam Bridger will do anything for a friend, even if it means babysitting a rich city girl. Blond, beautiful Liberty Hale looks like a model, but Sam senses another side to the young woman who has lost so much of her family, and he can’t deny the heat just one look at her ignites.
Libby is determined to get through her time on the ranch—her inheritance depends on her putting in a solid month’s work. She hadn’t imagined her boss would be a sexy, straightforward cowboy—and she’s surprised to discover just how much she wants him. As life in the Colorado sunshine begins to burn away her grief, Libby and Sam’s attraction to each other starts to sizzle.
This story has a lot of great dialogs and sweet moments. I loved the relationship between Libby and Sam. It’s honest, emotional and steamy. There are great sexy times and a bit of action.
It´s easy to read and I totally recommended it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 2, 2021
Liberty Hale has to spend one month working on a ranch in order to get her inheritance from her uncle. She is a successful model and has no real idea how a ranch works. Sam is the owner of the ranch and while he would always help his friends, $50,000 is on the line if he doesn't help Liberty. When he meets her, he believes she is another spoiled, stuck up, rich woman. But as he gets to know her, he realizes that there is more to her than just her looks. And when they decide to take a trip to the mountains-he also has to keep the woman he is falling for safe.
I really liked this novella. I didn't realize though that it was going to be a novella, and I think it would have been better served as a full length novel. There were little things that slightly got to me. Like how much it was harped on about Liberty's looks. That was the biggest thing. Yes, we know she is pretty or beautiful-she is a model. I liked that Liberty wasn't afraid of hard work and that she had substance to her. Sam is the typical good guy and I really liked that about him. They had chemistry and definitely showed that opposites do attract. On a whole, I definitely enjoyed it and will be reading the next one!
I really liked this novella. I didn't realize though that it was going to be a novella, and I think it would have been better served as a full length novel. There were little things that slightly got to me. Like how much it was harped on about Liberty's looks. That was the biggest thing. Yes, we know she is pretty or beautiful-she is a model. I liked that Liberty wasn't afraid of hard work and that she had substance to her. Sam is the typical good guy and I really liked that about him. They had chemistry and definitely showed that opposites do attract. On a whole, I definitely enjoyed it and will be reading the next one!
August 7, 2021
Get ready to go beyond what meet the eye here. Libby is so much more than Sam wants to believe, while some folks around Sam’s ranch are so much worse than they appear. While Sam thought Libby to be entitled and was certain his deal with her deceased uncle was a bad idea, he couldn’t help but admire her determination to do her best. Or her pure joy when it came to the simple things in his life. But will Libby stay when her time is done?
As for Libby, she doesn’t want to go. But she also doesn’t want to overstay her welcome. After all, men tend to be one thing in her life, and that one thing isn’t exactly good or dependable. So she’s afraid to beg Sam to keep her, but also afraid to leave the one place she feels truly free to be herself.
When danger comes far too close for comfort, it’s the perfect opportunity to let hearts and their desires be known. It’s also the perfect way to introduce readers to who will get their story next. This was an enjoyable, quick read to give us a taste of this new series and to make us all want more!
As for Libby, she doesn’t want to go. But she also doesn’t want to overstay her welcome. After all, men tend to be one thing in her life, and that one thing isn’t exactly good or dependable. So she’s afraid to beg Sam to keep her, but also afraid to leave the one place she feels truly free to be herself.
When danger comes far too close for comfort, it’s the perfect opportunity to let hearts and their desires be known. It’s also the perfect way to introduce readers to who will get their story next. This was an enjoyable, quick read to give us a taste of this new series and to make us all want more!
August 29, 2021
Liberty Hale lost her parents when she was twelve and went to live with her Uncle Martin Hale, a wealthy businessman. Now her Uncle Marty is dead and to receive her inheritance she must work for Sam Bridger, owner of the Bridger Ranch in Colorado for one month. Her uncle spent two weeks each year at the Bridger Ranch with Sam, but Sam is not the elderly rancher she expected. Knowing that Liberty was raised among the wealthy, Sam expected a rich spoiled woman, but she is so much more than he expected. As she settles in to life at the ranch, the attraction between them is palpable, but she is leaving when her month is up. His ranch relies on paying guests and Liberty works in the kitchen and cleans the guest cabins. When her life is threatened, will she find a way to stay safe until Sam can rescue her? An interesting story of two characters who find the love that they didn’t know they were looking for. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (by paytonpuppy)
August 8, 2021
This is the second book in the series, which I kind of consider it the first since this couple was in the first book. This was Sam' and Liberty's book, it was a short book, not a complete one, but entertaining all the same. Liberty is a model in New York, but her rich uncle died and left instructions in his will that in order for her to receive his money she had to fulfill the requirements set out for her left with Sam at his ranch. Sam got the surprise of his life when Libby got there, but she was not what he thought her to be, yes originally she was that, even in her mind, and yes Libby was dead set against staying at a ranch, but staying there brought back a whole lot of good memories of when she was young and her parents were alive and staying with Sam gave them a chance of falling in love....Enjoy!
rcvd an ARC at no cost to author...(netgalley) voluntarily reviewed with my thoughts and opinions
rcvd an ARC at no cost to author...(netgalley) voluntarily reviewed with my thoughts and opinions
August 31, 2021
From all appearances Liberty seems to have it all. She lost her parents when she was young and most recently her Uncle Martin who treated her like a princess. She is a make up model and looks her bast all the time. After battling the relatives to let her uncle's will stand, she will have to stay at a ranch in Colorado for one month in order to get her inheritance. Liberty has no real interest in going to a ranch but has determined she will make the most of it and work hard to get her inheritance. Liberty soon sees the beauty of the land and night skies as she stargazes.
Sam intends to fulfill his bargain with Martin and have Liberty (Libby) work hard for her inheritance on his ranch. But after first impressions he begins to see there is more to Libby than he first believed.
This is a wonderfully written sweet romance. I highly recommend it.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
Sam intends to fulfill his bargain with Martin and have Liberty (Libby) work hard for her inheritance on his ranch. But after first impressions he begins to see there is more to Libby than he first believed.
This is a wonderfully written sweet romance. I highly recommend it.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
September 4, 2021
3.5 ★
One last kiss is a short story that serves as an introduction to Kat Martin’s new series Blood ties.
In this story, we’ve got to meet rancher Sam Bridger who, as a favour to an old family friend, accepts to give a job to socialite Liberty Hale for a month being a non negotiable clause in her uncle’s will. If she spends a whole month working at the Bridger ranch, she’ll get her inheritance. However, nothing prepares them for the sizzling attraction for each other and the trouble that surrounds them. Sam will have to do everything in his power to protect Libby if he wants to stand a chance in having a relationship with her. Furthermore, there’s the question if, at the end of the month, will she stay with him or will she go back to the city as a well established woman? Could love be enough?
I was really caught up by the story: it’s well written and checks all the marks of a great book,leaving the reader wanting for more, perhaps an epilogue of sorts. I’m a fan of Kat’s books (i’ve read most of them twice at least) and i’m looking forward to reading this new series
One last kiss is a short story that serves as an introduction to Kat Martin’s new series Blood ties.
In this story, we’ve got to meet rancher Sam Bridger who, as a favour to an old family friend, accepts to give a job to socialite Liberty Hale for a month being a non negotiable clause in her uncle’s will. If she spends a whole month working at the Bridger ranch, she’ll get her inheritance. However, nothing prepares them for the sizzling attraction for each other and the trouble that surrounds them. Sam will have to do everything in his power to protect Libby if he wants to stand a chance in having a relationship with her. Furthermore, there’s the question if, at the end of the month, will she stay with him or will she go back to the city as a well established woman? Could love be enough?
I was really caught up by the story: it’s well written and checks all the marks of a great book,leaving the reader wanting for more, perhaps an epilogue of sorts. I’m a fan of Kat’s books (i’ve read most of them twice at least) and i’m looking forward to reading this new series
Read
August 11, 2021One Last Kiss (Blood Ties #0.5) by Kat Martin
This is the first book in a new series and I am hooked already.
Colorado rancher Sam Bridger and Liberty Hale (Libby) have a wonderful story. He is doing a favor for a long time friend and she has to leave her spoiled life in the city and work on his ranch for a month in order to get her inheritance. She doesn't expect her boss to be a good looking cowboy and he doesn't expect her to be a spoiled brat. There is angst, danger, laughter, tears, Libby coming to terms with her past, Sam finding out there is more to her than a pretty face, finding love and lots of steam to get us to a very HEA. I can't wait for the next book The Last Goodnight (Blood Ties, The Logans) in October.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Great world building Funny Action-packed Unpredictable Easy-to-read Page-turner Happily Ever After Witty Scary Wonderful characters Entertaining Steamy Tear-jerker Romantic
This is the first book in a new series and I am hooked already.
Colorado rancher Sam Bridger and Liberty Hale (Libby) have a wonderful story. He is doing a favor for a long time friend and she has to leave her spoiled life in the city and work on his ranch for a month in order to get her inheritance. She doesn't expect her boss to be a good looking cowboy and he doesn't expect her to be a spoiled brat. There is angst, danger, laughter, tears, Libby coming to terms with her past, Sam finding out there is more to her than a pretty face, finding love and lots of steam to get us to a very HEA. I can't wait for the next book The Last Goodnight (Blood Ties, The Logans) in October.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Great world building Funny Action-packed Unpredictable Easy-to-read Page-turner Happily Ever After Witty Scary Wonderful characters Entertaining Steamy Tear-jerker Romantic
November 4, 2021
This novella started off strong with a good premise but then it just became so predictable I skimmed the end of it. The plot was predictable and I honestly did not like the whole “pretty heroine gets attacked by a man because he finds her pretty” plot line.
Our heroine is a city girl with a city life until her uncle’s will states that she needs to spend time working on a ranch for a month to claim her inheritance. Our hero has been saddled with this city girl on his ranch and fully intends to make sure she works, he just never expected to fall for the city girl.
I’m always complaining about the pace of novellas as to me it seems hard to hit the sweet spot- this one started slow then at about 3/4 way through sped through so quickly with a suspense plot line (kind of out of nowhere) I got whiplash. The main characters started off their relationship growing but then it was BAM love in a couple of days and didn’t feel realistic at all. Overall I was really disappointed.
Our heroine is a city girl with a city life until her uncle’s will states that she needs to spend time working on a ranch for a month to claim her inheritance. Our hero has been saddled with this city girl on his ranch and fully intends to make sure she works, he just never expected to fall for the city girl.
I’m always complaining about the pace of novellas as to me it seems hard to hit the sweet spot- this one started slow then at about 3/4 way through sped through so quickly with a suspense plot line (kind of out of nowhere) I got whiplash. The main characters started off their relationship growing but then it was BAM love in a couple of days and didn’t feel realistic at all. Overall I was really disappointed.
September 14, 2021
In order to receive her inheritance from her late uncle, Libby has to spend a month working on a ranch in Colorado. Sam Bridger is the owner of the ranch and a friend to Libby's late uncle, so he is forced to take the task on. One of the guests takes sort of a sinister interest in Libby, so that adds an element of suspense.
What I liked:
-I liked Libby. At the beginning, Libby comes off as silly and shallow, but of course we find out once she gets on the ranch that that's not the case at all.
-The city girl takes on rural life trope is hit or miss for me, but I liked this one. I liked both the H and h.
-Sam's Native American ranch hand, John, was stoic and not in the story much, but he added a lot to it.
What I didn't like:
-Too short. The story had a lot of depth, and it felt like the author tried to cram in too much in too short a book.
What I liked:
-I liked Libby. At the beginning, Libby comes off as silly and shallow, but of course we find out once she gets on the ranch that that's not the case at all.
-The city girl takes on rural life trope is hit or miss for me, but I liked this one. I liked both the H and h.
-Sam's Native American ranch hand, John, was stoic and not in the story much, but he added a lot to it.
What I didn't like:
-Too short. The story had a lot of depth, and it felt like the author tried to cram in too much in too short a book.
April 12, 2025
As someone who isn't really into novellas, I quite liked this one.
The book was fast paced and the plot itself was fun to read.
Sam and Libby were nice characters. Both weren't completely fleshed out, but considering that it was a novella and everything was happening so quick, it wasn't a deal breaker to me.
However, I really wish it was a full length book. The storyline had so much potential and there were a lot of parts that could've been expanded.
I also think one story arc took too much time. Namely, the guest who got obsessed with Libby. It was a nice touch of suspense, but it took a lot of space that could've went to the romance arc and development of their relationship.
Although the book had some things I wish were changed, I still like it as it is, so, definitely recommend!
*I received an ARC of this book through netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
The book was fast paced and the plot itself was fun to read.
Sam and Libby were nice characters. Both weren't completely fleshed out, but considering that it was a novella and everything was happening so quick, it wasn't a deal breaker to me.
However, I really wish it was a full length book. The storyline had so much potential and there were a lot of parts that could've been expanded.
I also think one story arc took too much time. Namely, the guest who got obsessed with Libby. It was a nice touch of suspense, but it took a lot of space that could've went to the romance arc and development of their relationship.
Although the book had some things I wish were changed, I still like it as it is, so, definitely recommend!
*I received an ARC of this book through netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
November 24, 2025
2 Star
If Kat Martin can recycle her plots I am can recycle my review of hers.
If you’ve read one Kat Martin book, you’ve basically read them all—and that’s not entirely a bad thing. Her stories have the same,slightly dated charm as those old Harlequin paperbacks your grandma used to keep stacked by the couch. You can almost smell this book: that well-lived-in house scent, where too many paperbacks have slowly withered into the air.
Don’t go in expecting depth or surprises. The plots are familiar, the characters feel recycled, and the whole thing reads like it might’ve been repurposed from something written in the 1980s for Harlequin or Silhouette (I could be wrong, but that’s how it feels).
It’s mindless, comforting reading—nothing special, nothing new, but not exactly bad either. If you’ve read one, you’ve pretty much read them all.
If Kat Martin can recycle her plots I am can recycle my review of hers.
If you’ve read one Kat Martin book, you’ve basically read them all—and that’s not entirely a bad thing. Her stories have the same,slightly dated charm as those old Harlequin paperbacks your grandma used to keep stacked by the couch. You can almost smell this book: that well-lived-in house scent, where too many paperbacks have slowly withered into the air.
Don’t go in expecting depth or surprises. The plots are familiar, the characters feel recycled, and the whole thing reads like it might’ve been repurposed from something written in the 1980s for Harlequin or Silhouette (I could be wrong, but that’s how it feels).
It’s mindless, comforting reading—nothing special, nothing new, but not exactly bad either. If you’ve read one, you’ve pretty much read them all.
August 8, 2021
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you to Kensington Books for providing me this arc via Netgalley!
Firstly, I didn't realize this was a novella until I started reading it. I'm not usually a fan of those, unless they are written to complement a book or a series. So, I had really low expectations from the beginning.
Unfortunately, throughout the book, my suspicions were confirmed. This felt very shallow, and there isn't anything really that I can point out as something I liked about this.
If you are a fan of novellas, tho, perhaps you might like this, since there isn't exactly anything wrong with this book. It just wasn't for me.
Thank you to Kensington Books for providing me this arc via Netgalley!
Firstly, I didn't realize this was a novella until I started reading it. I'm not usually a fan of those, unless they are written to complement a book or a series. So, I had really low expectations from the beginning.
Unfortunately, throughout the book, my suspicions were confirmed. This felt very shallow, and there isn't anything really that I can point out as something I liked about this.
If you are a fan of novellas, tho, perhaps you might like this, since there isn't exactly anything wrong with this book. It just wasn't for me.
August 17, 2021
One Last Kiss it the first book in Kat Martin new Blood Ties series. It is a short romantic suspense that takes places in beautiful Colorado.
The death of a good friend and a loved one bring Colorado rancher Sam Bridger and model Liberty Hale together. They couldn’t be more different but the chemistry between them is intense and as time passes their attraction and feelings grow. Can their love for each survive their differences and the danger that comes for Libby? Read it and find out!
This story was really well written with great characters and an interesting storyline. Once started, I couldn’t put it down until I was finished. I can’t wait for the next book in this new amazing series.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The death of a good friend and a loved one bring Colorado rancher Sam Bridger and model Liberty Hale together. They couldn’t be more different but the chemistry between them is intense and as time passes their attraction and feelings grow. Can their love for each survive their differences and the danger that comes for Libby? Read it and find out!
This story was really well written with great characters and an interesting storyline. Once started, I couldn’t put it down until I was finished. I can’t wait for the next book in this new amazing series.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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