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Farthingdale Ranch #5

The Cook and the Gangster

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“Time cannot erase the love I feel for you, my friend.”

Levi has worked very hard to find a private corner of the world where his past can’t catch up to him. His life, with its fourteen-hour days working in the ranch’s kitchen, is a little humdrum, but he likes it that way. And it’s safe, because he lets no one get close.

While cutting onions one day, Cassidy sees a clip of a documentary on TV, and lo, he sees his old friend Levi, who he’s been looking for for years. The next day, he’s traveling west to Wyoming, taking a job as a chef at a guest ranch.

When Cassidy shows up in his kitchen, Levi’s world is turned upside-down.


A gay m/m cowboy romance with opposites attract, emotional scars, grumpy/sunshine, friends from childhood, and desire that simply won’t go away. A little sweet, a little steamy, with a guaranteed HEA.

First published February 22, 2022

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168 people want to read

About the author

Jackie North

49 books381 followers
Jackie North has been writing stories since grade school and spent years absorbing the mainstream romances that she found at her local grocery store. She also wanted to put her English degree to good use and write romance novels, because for years she’s had a never-ending movie of made-up love stories in her head that simply wouldn’t leave her alone.

As fate would have it, she discovered m/m romance and decided that men falling in love with other men was exactly what she wanted to write books about.

She creates characters who are a bit flawed and broken, who find themselves on the edge of society, and maybe a few who are a little bit lost, but who all deserve a happily ever after. (And she makes sure they get it!)

She likes long walks on the beach, the smell of lavender and rainstorms, and enjoys sleeping in on snowy mornings. She is especially fond of pizza and beer and, when time allows, long road trips with soda fountain drinks and rock and roll music. In her heart, there is peace to be found everywhere, but since in the real world this isn’t always true, Jackie writes for love.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
Profile Image for Lelyana's Reviews.
3,416 reviews400 followers
February 28, 2022

I was looking forward to Levi's story since the first time I'd met him in the previous books. A silent lone figure cook whose always longing for something he didn't even realized before he met his childhood crush, Cassidy.
Cassidy was not really a gangster, his family did.
But then, Levi also had something he's hiding of, keep on running and never stayed for too long at one place, until he worked at The Farthingdale Ranch. A sanctuary for the loss.
I was prepared for the action and more scary story because, well, gangster :)
But this one was actually sweet, even sweeter that Brody and Kit's story, except for Eddie.
And speaking of Kit. Oh that sweet, sweet Kit and his eagerness to give whatever he do the best!
I adored Kit even more in this story.
And I loved that Cassidy had finally reunited with his prince, Levi, the prettiest boy in the class when they're kids.
Adorable.

Profile Image for Denise H..
3,246 reviews269 followers
May 26, 2025
reread May 24, 2025
It's been over ten years, now in their mid twenties, and Cassidy can't wait to see Levi again. Cassidy and Levi were best friends at 14, and they had a first kiss, but then Levi was gone, moved away and Cassidy couldn't find him.
Levi, (cover), dark hair, blue eyes, steady,

stern and proud and is the head Chef at the ranch.
Cassidy, dark short hair, lean muscles,

green eyes, shows up from New York to find his old friend, and first love. Cassidy's family contains mob members, and he inherited the family's Italian restaurant.

Levi is shocked to see Cassidy, because he's afraid trouble will follow, but it's more than that.
We learn each guy's history, with flashbacks, and memories. Cassidy loved Levi, "the prettiest boy in the school," but Cassidy does not know what happened that last day for Levi.

As Cassidy gets acclimated to the ranch kitchen, we get more bits to their story. With daily work, the cattle drive,


meeting the staff, and getting to talk things out, is fun to watch. Cassidy gets to save Kit from being attacked, and then Levi shows his strength and love.

Our men are going to give their relationship a try, and each man hopes it works out.
Hot sexy times are theirs to enjoy, and the ranch likes the romance.



I liked each guy, so wonderful together, the shared past, and the intense passions that still run deep.
How will it work if Cassidy must go back to New York?
Loved it !
Enjoy !

=====
Profile Image for Fay MMBookworm.
3,081 reviews66 followers
February 19, 2022
4.5 stars A good start as Levi prepares for another day in the kitchens.
Levi was the head chef at the ranch but now needed a replacement worker for Julio. Levi didn't do connections with anyone and liked it that way.. Yah that's until he gets some new employees from Leyland that he had okayed..
Once school friends Levi and Cassidy would meet again.
I loved their reunion meet especially Levi reaction with all ol feelings coming back for him..
Cassidy family where a mobster business in his young years which Levi remembers.
The book picks up after the last book with the film crew and the Eddie dramas and sad to say Eddie causes trouble again
Levi had his baggage and secrets which left him a bit lonesome I think just waiting for some one special like his old friend.
A great story for these guys to reconnect but it ain't easy with Levi's wall he'd built up around himself.
An HEA ending with dual Pov's included.

#sexyscenes #cityVcountry #emotions #humor #dangers and more #seriesreccd

*also reviewed on mmbookwormreviews.com
Profile Image for Dan.
1,738 reviews50 followers
March 22, 2025
I liked it. Calling Cassidy a gangster is as much of a misnomer as calling Kit an orphan, but the book itself was really good
Profile Image for Susan.
2,349 reviews458 followers
May 4, 2022
I keep reading this series, because every book has this potential. But somehow I never really get into the story and the characters.

There were also some strange sentences and the conversations felt a bit off at times (“You can go after you tell me I’m pretty.” Why would any man ever say that to their potential boyfriend in a serious matter when there is no hurt/comfort trauma to back that statement up so it makes more sence??)

Also Cassidy told Levi about knowing his father and grandfather died twice. Both times Levi acted surprised and asked how he knew that…

There is also a lot of inner monologue in these books. I skimmed pages and pages of thought and thought and more thoughts.

So while the premise keeps drawing me in and there is so much potential in these books, they keep falling a bit flat for me.
Profile Image for Sandra .
1,986 reviews347 followers
December 4, 2022
A lovestory 13 years in the making...

Levi and Cassidy were best friends at 14 in a town in New York state, shared a first kiss, and then something bad happened that made Levi's mom pack up their stuff and leave in the middle of the night, never to see Cassidy again.

Until Cassidy stumbles upon Levi in a YouTube video about Farthingdale Ranch, where Levi is the cook, stoic, silent, keeping to himself. He finds a way to get hired at the ranch for the kitchen staff and then pursues the "prettiest boy in school" much like he did when they were teenagers.

Truth must out and secrets are revealed...

This was probably the most romantic in the series with the trope it used, and I enjoyed every minute of it.

Profile Image for Gustaf.
1,444 reviews195 followers
April 3, 2022
I knew it was a bad idea starting this book after midnight. I knew I probably wouldn't be able to put it down until I'd finished it. But who needs sleep, right?

I have loved every single book in this series, but this right here might just be my favorite. It's beautiful. And I don't mean beautiful, I mean B E A U T I F U L. And romantic. Seriously, my heart almost couldn't handle it. This is friends to lovers, with a touch of second chance done completely right.

Levi has been this mystery man throughout the series and I couldn't wait to read his story to finally know what he was all about but I have to be honest, Cassidy stole the show for me. From the very first flashback to when they first met as teenagers I was hooked. I went awww and then a little teary eyed.

I could go on and on about how I loved this book. And how much it made me feel. And how beautiful I found this book to be. But I won't. Just pick this series up, it will be worth your time. Personally I think Jackie North outdid herself with this one.
Profile Image for Anne Barwell.
Author 23 books108 followers
February 26, 2022
I love this series, and enjoyed not only reading Levi and Cassidy’s story, but catching up with everyone else at Farthingdale Ranch. This latest in the series is a sweet, second chance romance, and I liked them not only their finding each other again in present day, but reading about how they first met and their friendship then.

I liked how Cassidy patiently draws Levi out of his shell, like he did when they were kids, and how he puts his life on hold to see if they can have a future together. I love how neither of them stopped thinking about the other. Although both their pasts have darkness in them—Cassidy’s restaurant ties with the mob, and Levi and his mother constantly on the run—I liked how they were handled differently. Cassidy’s family, despite the criminal element, is full of love, while Levi’s is fearful. I liked Cassidy’s relationship with his Uncle Mac who is more like a father to him. I thought Cassidy’s reaction when he finds out the truth about why Levi left is realistic.

The scenes between Levi and Cassidy are sweet, and I love how the past repeats in many ways, especially with Levi stepping up to protect Cassidy from harm. That scene totally rocked.

One of the things I love about this series is the found family feel. They’re not only protective of each other, but tease and have the not so easy talks too. I loved how Cassidy slowly is accepted and becomes part of Farthingdale Ranch. His friendship with Kit was a highlight of the story too. I liked seeing Bea again too.

The descriptions of the ranch and its surroundings are poetic and paint a wonderful peaceful and welcoming backdrop.

I loved their HEA, and would also recommend the bonus epilogue.
Profile Image for Juniper.
3,398 reviews24 followers
February 20, 2022
This is a second chance romance, one in which the shadow of their lost first chance hangs over every interaction between Levi and Cassidy. Some of these shadows are poignant and have a kind of beauty of their own– it’s sweet, as well as little odd, to hear two adults use the same language of play and endearment they did as teenagers (be prepared for a lot of “my prince” and declarations of affection in fake archaic speech). Some shadows are darker, and testify to scars both mental and physical. While Cassidy has indelibly been marked by losing Levi, it’s Levi who seems the most damaged. He’s been shaped by the events of the past, and by the choices of a mother whose fear and paranoia have crushed any hint of normalcy from his life, even years later. It’s hard to know what to make of her, as a character: she exists so far on the margins of the story, but also somehow at the heart of Levi’s psyche, that I would have liked to see more of a reckoning with her legacy. Overall, however, this is a story of rediscovery and love and healing, with the past a kind of palimpsest for a kinder, happier future, one with lovers reunited and new futures built. The ranch, as in all the other books in the series, is a setting vibrant enough to be a character in and of itself, and the other inhabitants offer glimpses of familiar faces from other works, faces that it’s always good to see again.

*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Cheryl_cajun .
1,213 reviews29 followers
February 20, 2022
Thank you for the ARC read, I voluntarily give this book an honest review. This, this right here is truly a emotional reading, Jackie North has taken a standoffish but loveable man that has made something for himself from the good memories he has locked away, never dreaming to see the one boy that forced his way into his personal space on day one. Cassidy playing mini detective over the years to find Levi, for a chance glance at the television. Is it ramification that him traveling to track down the man you loved as a boy type of fate and destiny.   Fear of the unknown has lead a large part in both their loves but for totally different reason. I loved the youth memory. As adult reality is so much more moving. 
 It super the way Levi is helping Leland on the stress factor scale even while, Levi's kitchen is falling apart around him, the freezer is on the fritz.. now it's the midsummer and he had to replace Julio who was moving onto greener pastures. After all the standoffish Chef is about to get a surprise in his little bubble of home he has made, no more one foot ready to run.
When a news clip captures his attention, Cassidy is swirled back to his eight grade, what had started off as as a hard won friendships bloomed in to puppy love, after kiss in the cemetery  he is left questions unanswered the boy he loved was gone.
Only adult Cassidy has an inheritance that great..great pain in the rear, after all his came with a big stipulation called the Mob! When Levi spots him in his kitchen memories flood back of the youth that fell, only to have to hide again. Secrets was bound to come out, Surprisingly One chef is getting hot under the collar all in the right ways, but one thing it can't last!?! After all Cassidy real life is in Tarrytown.
Profile Image for Demetra Roussakis.
1,515 reviews14 followers
February 20, 2022
I really love this series and sooooo happy that it was Levi’s turn for his happy ever after. Levi and Cassidy met when they were 14. After a year, they became friends but tragedy struck and Levi disappeared. Years later, Cassidy saw a documentary that showcased Farthingdale Ranch and caught a glimpse of Levi “the prettiest boy in the class with blue eyes”. Loved the meeting so many years later, the steam and their plans for the future. This is the fifth book in the series and you need to read them in order.

I received a copy of this book for my review.
504 reviews10 followers
February 24, 2022
Jackie North once again has done it! She wove a masterful and a wonderful story that is a part of the Farthingdale Ranch series. With her impeccable storytelling style, Levi and Cassidy came to life!
Levi was the head cook on the ranch and ran the kitchen his way. Cassidy was a “gangster” chef who owned a restaurant back east. How the heck did they meet on the ranch, you ask? They knew each others when they were younger. Cassidy was in love with Levi. An event caused Levi to depart from Cassidy’s life. Ever since, Cassidy had been searching for Levi.
It so happened Cassidy watched a documentary online about Farthingdale Ranch and spotted his childhood friend.
He found that there was an opening in the kitchen and he applied for it.
To find out what happened, I strongly encourage you to buy the book (ebook or paperback)! It’ll be worth your time and money, trust me!
In case you didn’t know, this one is the 5th book in the Farthingdale Ranch series. It can be a standalone but it’s much nicer reading the books to get a glimpse of the characters. The covers of the books are to die for!!! Wonderful color choices and the eye candy as well!
257 reviews2 followers
February 25, 2022
This book has all the feelings! As the fifth book in the series, you’d think this author would be challenged to outdo herself, but she continues to deliver excellent additions to the amazing Farthingdale Ranch. Levi’s and Cassidy’s story is powerful, emotional, poignant, and just wonderful.

Levi’s been around, but we really haven’t seen much of him and he has always seemed a bit separate. We finally find out why, and it makes so much sense, but is also sad, reflecting challenges from his younger years. Cassidy is a new character in the story, but not new to Levi, as they knew each other well when they were younger. Cassidy has his own troubles, but being aloof is not one of them!

When the two get back together, there’s definitely some challenges they both have to work through, from within and without, but the love they both obviously have for one another, that only grows now that they’re reunited, carries them through.

Absolutely adored this book, as I do with all of Jackie’s books, especially this Farthingdale series.
1,044 reviews10 followers
February 25, 2022
The Cook and the Gangster is Book 5 in the Farthingdale Ranch series. This is one of my favorite series and this book is a wonderful addition. Though there is a main character focus, I love seeing the other characters from around the ranch. Jackie North is such an amazing detail writer; I feel like I'm right there on the ranch. I get so absorbed in each book and I don't want them to end. In this book Levi, the head chef on the ranch, and his childhood friend, Cassidy, find their way back to each other. Leland hires Cassidy even knowing who he is to Levi. It's like those on the ranch just want Levi to be happy. I loved Levi's reaction to seeing Cassidy again. He could've reacted totally different. I love how protective Levi is of Cassidy, I wasn't expecting that. I really enjoyed watching Levi and Cassidy get their happy ending, having their truths come out, and finding a way to stay together. Cassidy is such a great character. He knows what he wants, and he finds a way to make things happen. I definitely recommend this book and series.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Profile Image for T Channell.
99 reviews4 followers
February 25, 2022
I received an ARC of The Cook and the Gangster by Jackie North

Levi and Cassidy are soulmates from the day they set eyes on each other at the age of fourteen. Levi never felt safe in his childhood because of the fear that ruled his mother that she passed on to him. So when he met Cassidy he did what he was taught by staying as far away as he can from the boy that smiled at him every time he saw him. Cassidy knew that he loved Levi the moment he saw the prettiest boy in school with blue eyes. Levi was a mystery he wanted to solve and woo him until he had the prettiest boy by his side.

Cassidy was patient and his wooing skills finally had Levi noticing the bad boy everyone knew may or may not be dealing with the mob. For one year of their life, they became close and for once Levi wanted to be with his friend Cassidy. A moment in life left Cassidy and Levi ten years later a hollow space only the other can fill. Cassidy never stopped looking for Levi and now that he found him there was nothing he would do to keep the prettiest boy in school forever by his side.

The Farthingdale Ranch series are full of characters you can't help but fall in love with. Seeing Levi's story and how long he loved Cassidy come to light lets us know why Levi was the way he was but why he always seemed to be waiting for someone. Levi was waiting for his prince...Cassidy.
Profile Image for Hilcia.
1,377 reviews24 followers
February 23, 2022
This is an A- read for me. It’s a romantic, emotional, sweet second chance romance. The setting is the Farthingdale Ranch with its beautiful western charm. It begins with a “grand romantic gesture” from Cassidy as he finally finds his best friend and love of his life Levi after years of separation. Cassidy had me at hello. Levi had me at Eddie Piggot - read and find out.

Unlike the other books in this series, this is not a slow-burn romance. Instead, the love and passion are already there, it just takes a while for Levi to come to terms with years of hiding and being secretive about his life. It ends with a sweet HEA for our favorite chef, Levi.

My one niggle is the lack of real information about Levi’s mother. She is an off-page character, but her actions had a deep impact on Levi and his life choices. Regardless, I just love this series by Jackie North!

PS: There is also a Bonus story that serves as an epilogue. Under the same title as the book, you can find it at Prolificworks.com.
Profile Image for Mary Mary.
1,034 reviews49 followers
February 19, 2022
oh boy, I don't know what to say... all these FEELINGS..
I love cowboys, I adore Jackie North's books and her writing style, but what she did in her Farthingdale Ranch series is truly magical.
Each book was better than the previous one, and I was happy to see more and more people from Farthingdale happily in love. At the same time, Levi, a calm, hardworking chef, was always lonely and distant. From the book #1, the story of Leland and Jamie, I waited for his HEA and finally he also found his Prince :)

This book is different than other Farthingdale Ranch stories - it is just as beautifully written, emotional and sweet as all of them but since it is a second chance romance the heat level is much higher. Moreover, it is not a slow burn - Levi and Cassidy lost more than a decade and after meeting again they try to make up for the lost time. There is also much less horses and "cowboy stuff" because Cassidy is a city boy and "might be allergic to horses".

The story was SWEET. It felt absolutely right that Cassidy and Levi were still in love after years of separation. Cassidy's plans for the future made me extremely happy, his idea for a future place for the two princes was very romantic.

I can't wait for Quint's story (and hopefully more cowboy stories because I am NOT ready to say goodbye to Farthingdale Ranch!)

* I received an ARC copy of this beautiful story and this is my honest review *
Profile Image for Enirehtak  Melas.
745 reviews34 followers
February 20, 2022
Ever since the first book in the series, I was always hoping to learn more about the three enigmatic characters in the background: Brody, Levi, and Quint. Brody got his book, now it’s Levi’s turn.

Levi seemed to be a lost soul. He was included in a lot of the activities, but there was something about him that just felt like he was lost and searching for something—or someone. When Cassidy comes across a commercial featuring the ranch, he stumbles upon a familiar face. I have to say, I love how forthright Cassidy was. He knew what he wanted, and he went for it. He wanted Levi—“the prettiest boy in school”—so he was going to find him and fight for him.

It was heartwarming to see a bit of the ice melt from Levi’s cold reserve when concerning Cassidy, especially when Cassidy comes to harm. It was obvious what these men felt for each other. The way they spoke each other and their little endearments like “my prince”, oh it was so romantic! I’m a sucker for that.

I can’t wait to find out more about Quint, the most mysterious of the three. I have a feeling the guy is a giant teddy bear 🧸 when it comes down to it.

*ARC provided and I have given my honest and voluntary review.*
Profile Image for Heather.
479 reviews4 followers
March 29, 2022
Levi, the ranch's cook, is a quiet, solitary man. After a literal lifetime of running, he's finally found place to call home where he feels safe and settled. So what if he's lonely? It's a small price to pay.

Cassidy has never forgot his best friend, the one boy he was on the cusp of falling in love with at 14. When Levi disappeared from his life one night without a word, he searched for him for years without a single hit. But a chance viewing of the local news led him right to Levi and he's willing to give up everything - his business, his home - to reclaim his lost friend.

Like every book in this delightful series, Levi and Cassidy's story is sweet and soft and quietly joyful. Watching Levi and Cassidy find and rediscover their missing half was heartfelt and touching.
Profile Image for Janet.
65 reviews3 followers
February 19, 2022
Levi and Cassidy, oh how I love thee! I’ve been rooting for Levi to find his HEA throughout all the Farthingdale Ranch books, but he’s been aloof, a mystery and very difficult to understand. And now we know why.

Levi and his mother have been on the run, hiding from his father his entire life. He’s been taught to keep to himself, fly under the radar. When he shows up in the wrong homeroom at his new school, Cassidy is immediately drawn to “the most beautiful boy in the school”. After a year of adventures, drawing closer to one another, tragedy strikes and Levi disappears.

A decade later, through a twist of fate, the are reunited at the Farthingdale Ranch. Secrets are revealed, love is rekindled, and as adults they are able to choose their future and each other.

This books has all the feels. I cried, I laughed and my heart stopped a few times. The dialog between these two is so warm and genuine, they really want what is best for the other and their commitment to each other is beautiful. There is a perfect balance between sweet and sexy, and very scene unfolds at a perfect pace. And the cameos by previous MC’s, especially Kit, who I adore, makes this book pitch perfect.
Profile Image for Jackie.
1,631 reviews7 followers
March 30, 2022
loved!!

We finally got Levi’s story. The reclusive head chef and it was *chefs kiss* magnificent. Cassidy was the perfect balance for Levi. He brought sass and humor to Levi’s world allowing him to unwind and relax. Loved all the return of fave characters. Thank god evil Eddie is finally gone!!!! Although poor Cassidy was hurt. But it’s all turned out ok. Loved all the steamy moments and slow burn of Levi finally opening up. Cassidy played the long game just like he did when they were kids. Loved the end. ‘I licked it, so you’re mine’. Lol
317 reviews10 followers
February 23, 2022
It was fun to experience a different aspect of Farthingdale Ranch in this story – namely, the kitchen, where all of the amazing food that has been described in the series thus far originates. Levi is the head chef, and his best friend/the boy he loved in high school, Cassidy, has tracked him down to the Ranch. I always enjoy a second chance story, though to be fair these two never really had much of a first chance at love before they were separated one fateful day, not to see each other again for ten years. Despite the secret that had Levi on the run and kept them apart, Levi and Cassidy together as men is a satisfying and sweet story, told with all of the tenderness and sensitivity you expect from a Jackie North book. I found this one to be pleasantly a bit steamier than her usual, but rest assured that all of the feels are there. The beauty and inclusiveness of Farthingdale Ranch is the perfect setting for two men who have suffered the absence of the other, as though a part of them had been missing, to be made whole.
Profile Image for Mariansen.
395 reviews19 followers
February 22, 2022
Another great story in this universe of cowboys and ranch life.

I’ve been thinking about Levi and what his backstory was. Previous in this series I’m not sure I liked him all that much, but he definitely grew on me in this story. His personality and the way he turned into who he is, made me really care for him. He’s surprisingly confident in the bedroom, and that’s a big win in my book!!!
Precious, caring, beautiful Cassidy stole my heart from the start! He’s patience and let’s Levi take things in his own pace. Of course Cassidy fits right in with the other people on the ranch. The ranch life suits the gangster!

We get to see other familiar characters as well, and Jackie writes the surroundings in her beautiful, describing way. It’s amazing how she takes us into the story.

I did hope for a longer HEA, but there’s a bonus scene I haven’t read yet, so I’ll probably be satisfied after that one.




Profile Image for Janet Hunt.
3,538 reviews46 followers
February 22, 2022
Loved, loved, loved Levi and Cassidy to much! Their story began as kids, circumstances beyond their control separated them. I loved the reunion between them! Prickly Levi and sunshiny Cassidy!! Each story gets better and better! I think every time I read one of this author stories that nothing can top the previous, but Jackie proves me wrong every time! The world the author has created feels so real. The world building is phenomenal! The story kept me engaged, hooked me from the beginning and didn’t let go. Overall, an outstanding read, I cannot wait for the next one! The story was really well written, the pacing was fast and flowed smoothly, highly recommend. I am voluntarily leaving a review form an advanced copy that I received. My reviews are solely based on my thoughts and opinions.
Profile Image for Sue Milkovich.
1,732 reviews16 followers
February 24, 2022
A.M.A.Z.I.N.G.!!!!!

This is Book #5 in the FARTHINGDALE RANCH SERIES. The quiet ranch chef Levi has a mysterious past. Cassidy is not a surprise he's ready for. This Book swept me away. I had no idea the depths Levi was hiding. Cassidy was a breathe of fresh air. I loved these two characters together. These Books can be read separately but JACKIE NORTH has created a MAGNIFICENT Series that just makes you feel good through and through. I want to go to FARTHINGDALE. I HIGHLY, HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND THIS AMAZING FARTHINGDALE RANCH SERIES!!!!!!!!!!
Profile Image for Sarah Sargent.
Author 2 books12 followers
February 23, 2022
Since the beginning, I have been reading this series, and I have to say Jacki doesn’t disappoint with the Cook and the Gangster. From the previous books, Levi is always looking for someone when he goes out. But we don’t know for who or for what. Cassidy has been looking for the man who left in the middle of the night. Who knew that Levi would wind up working in Wyoming? Cassidy does the logical thing and applies to work in the kitchens to be closer to Levi. At first, Levi doesn’t want anything to do with Cassidy. The pair were friends when they were 14; they shared their first kiss. I read this book too fast for my liking. But to know that those who caused harm finally got what they deserved made it worth it. I will be back to Farthingdale when this book hits Audio.
Profile Image for Raven and Chris.
3,297 reviews30 followers
February 16, 2022
Levi has always seemed so distant and sad to me in the previous books. Now we know why. The ranch is really the first place he has been able to stay for any length of time in his life and whether he wants to admit it or not, he has always been waiting for Cassidy to find him. And now he has.

“Not to pry or anything, but Clay would invite you, and I would wonder why, because all that you did was mope over your beer and watch the door like a hound dog. Like you were waiting for someone. And now I know who.”

This book is just as good as the others in this series! Oh my gosh, the interaction between Levi and Cassidy is so beautiful! Levi disappeared from Cassidy’s life and he never really knew why and kept waiting for him to come back. Now Cassidy has finally found Levi and he doesn’t plan on letting him go anytime soon. I absolutely loved this book and can’t recommend it enough. Levi is skittish and Cassidy is calm and determined. I just couldn’t get enough and didn’t want it to end. All the stars for this one!
Profile Image for Merissa (Archaeolibrarian).
4,193 reviews119 followers
July 3, 2023
THE COOK AND THE GANGSTER is the fifth book in the Farthingdale Ranch series, and this time, we have Levi's story. We find out just why Levi has always been a bit separate from the others, even when he tries to join in. We also learn about his youth and the friendship he had with Cassidy - the one Cassidy is yearning for again. Now, I will say, this review also includes the bonus, so be prepared.

This was written with heart and soul, giving each of the characters depth and feeling. I loved catching up with the others in their cameos, although Kit played a bigger (necessary) role here than the others. The relationship between Levi and Cassidy is on from the start, simply because they already know each other, they have 'history'! Of course, that includes why Levi left so suddenly.

I had a couple of niggles with this book - nothing major and totally just me, but it wouldn't be a completely honest review if I didn't mention them. So, here we go:

1) - "My Prince" - every time either one of them said this, I couldn't help but think of The Little Prince. I know it came from their childhood, but why so often?

2) - Levi is one who holds onto things. He is still being careful even though he doesn't know why his mum ran from his dad all those years ago. It happened, she was scared, so he keeps on the low-down. And yet, in the midst of holding on, he accepts Cassidy's word that Uncle Mack is sorry. I would have been a bit leerier until I knew the truth for myself.

And there you go. Ninety-eight per cent of this book is absolutely perfect but those two niggles just got me. Sorry, Ms North! I loved the bonus chapter and thought it finished the story perfectly. I really hope we see more of these two as the series continues. Plus, I want to see the Tavern!

I was drawn into this sweet and sometimes steamy novel, set in beautiful surroundings and with great people. I absolutely recommend it. Another corker from Jackie North.

** same worded review will appear elsewhere **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!

Feb 22, 2022
Profile Image for Emily.
784 reviews
February 26, 2022
This was good, but not great.

For one, Cassidy is hardly a gangster. His family had ties to the mob, but that’s about it. Not what I was expecting given the title.

I also feel like these books don’t have enough dialogue. There is way too much narrative/monologue. I skipped over multiple pages, sometimes in a row, of just big chunks of text and didn’t miss out on the story at all.

I did really like Cassidy and Levi reuniting though, and I especially loved the “prince” nicknames/imagery. It was so sweet!
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986 reviews58 followers
March 15, 2022
“I’ve got you, my prince, said Cassidy. I’ve got you”

The Cook and the Gangster is the penultimate book in Jackie North’s Farthingdale Ranch series, and I have to say it’s my second favourite of the series (so far). Second only because it would take something pretty special to knock The Blacksmith and the Ex-Con off the first place pedestal!

Levi (the cook) has been a background character throughout the entire series. Always present, but moving in and out of the spotlight, just enough to tease, but not enough to really get a grasp of his character. I had absolutely no expectations going into this book. Apart from knowing it was a childhood friends to lovers story, I had absolutely no clue who the 'gangster' would be and how someone, with possibly a dark background, could fit into the Farthingdale family.

“Cassidy was like a wild thing that could not be tamed, only gentled by sweet touches and kind words”

I had faith that Jackie North knew what she was doing, though, and my faith was rewarded. I think I fell a little in love with Cassidy myself from his first introduction. His absolute loyalty to Levi, even to the point where he never really stopped searching for him, then when he found him, his patience and perseverance really was a thing of beauty to witness.

"I licked it, he said, feeling possessive and jealous all at once. You're mine now."
“Always have been, said Cassidy … Always will.”


As per previous books in this series, Jackie North shows her keen eye for detail and her flair for landscape imagery by giving us another glorious view of the Ranch, this time through the eyes of city slicker, Cassidy. Through him, we begin to appreciate, all over again, the rugged beauty of the Ranch, as well as the gorgeous personalities that live there.

Friends to lovers, especially childhood friends, is one of my favourite tropes, and it’s done beautifully in The Cook and the Gangster. The whole story is simply a pleasure to read. I'd classify it as low angst, although it does have its emotional moments, but these are never overwhelmingly heavy. There is too much humour for that to be the case. It's not always laugh out loud, snarky brash humour, but the type that will have you smiling, unaware that you're doing so.

The thing that makes the Farthingdale Ranch series hard to forget is its characters. All of them are truly good people. They all have their own personalities that range from pure sunshine to grumpy jerk, but underneath they are family, and they look after their own. That feeling of family and love, both romantic and platonic, keeps me coming back to this series. I'm simultaneously eager for and dreading the final book in the series. It will be bittersweet saying goodbye to the Ranch and the men and women who live on it, but I know it will be an unforgettable journey.

The final book, The Trailboss and the Brat, is released on 22 March 2022, so now is the perfect time to make sure you're up to date. The Cook and the Gangster is a swoon-worthy romance guaranteed to tug on the heartstrings but leave you on a happy sigh with its beautiful HEA.

“I’m so glad I found you again, whispered Cassidy against Levi’s warm skin. So damn glad. It's like all the pieces of me came together.

Mine too, said Levi, low, his breath whispering across Cassidy’s cheek.

All the pieces of us”




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