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Pacific Vista Ranch #1
Nobody Else But You
From USA Today bestselling author Claire Marti comes a sizzling enemies to lovers romance with one arrogant Hollywood stuntman and a feisty horse breeder who puts him in his place.
When Holt Ericsson struts into Samantha McNeill’s secluded California horse farm, sparks fly. She doesn’t care how gorgeous he is––she wants him gone after he threatens to pull her family back into the paparazzi filled world they escaped from over a decade ago.
Holt knows Sam hates him on sight and the feeling is becoming mutual. But his entire career is riding on a favor from Sam’s legendary film director father. No way will he allow one irritating, sexy redhead to stand in his way.
Sam intends to fight him at every turn…if only her heart didn’t race when they’re together. Holt does his best to steer clear of her…except all he wants to do is hold her close. The sizzling attraction between them is either going to burn up the sheets or burn down the ranch…
When Holt Ericsson struts into Samantha McNeill’s secluded California horse farm, sparks fly. She doesn’t care how gorgeous he is––she wants him gone after he threatens to pull her family back into the paparazzi filled world they escaped from over a decade ago.
Holt knows Sam hates him on sight and the feeling is becoming mutual. But his entire career is riding on a favor from Sam’s legendary film director father. No way will he allow one irritating, sexy redhead to stand in his way.
Sam intends to fight him at every turn…if only her heart didn’t race when they’re together. Holt does his best to steer clear of her…except all he wants to do is hold her close. The sizzling attraction between them is either going to burn up the sheets or burn down the ranch…
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 7, 2022
662 people are currently reading
580 people want to read
About the author
Claire Marti
27 books738 followersClaire Marti is an award winning and USA Today Bestselling author of swoonworthy Contemporary Romance novels set in Southern California, including the Pacific Vista Ranch series and the California Suits series. She lives in San Diego with her husband, silly dog, and two clever cats.
Claire started writing stories as soon as she was old enough to pick up pencil and paper. After graduating from the University of Virginia with a BA in English Literature, Claire was sidetracked by other careers, including practicing law, selling software for legal publishers, and managing a non-profit animal rescue for a Hollywood actress.
When Claire's not writing, she's teaching yoga. You can find her sixty+ online classes on the international website www.yogadownload.com. A breast cancer survivor, Claire is a sought-after speaker on the power of yoga and meditation. She's been published in numerous magazines with articles on wellness and is the author of a memoir, Come Ride with Me Along the Big C, on her experience beating breast cancer.
Claire started writing stories as soon as she was old enough to pick up pencil and paper. After graduating from the University of Virginia with a BA in English Literature, Claire was sidetracked by other careers, including practicing law, selling software for legal publishers, and managing a non-profit animal rescue for a Hollywood actress.
When Claire's not writing, she's teaching yoga. You can find her sixty+ online classes on the international website www.yogadownload.com. A breast cancer survivor, Claire is a sought-after speaker on the power of yoga and meditation. She's been published in numerous magazines with articles on wellness and is the author of a memoir, Come Ride with Me Along the Big C, on her experience beating breast cancer.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
October 12, 2019
2.5 jaded ★★✬✩✩
⤐ Overall.
I suppose the most positive thing about this book are all the beautiful horses and the stunning setting. At least in my head, the scenery and the animals paired very well with the golden hours of the evening and the smells of used leather and stables. Complemented by the occasional hot dude, this book had some good traits.
All joking aside though, this was a fairly dull read with unremarkable characters. I was bothered most by the shallow way the plotline was illustrated. It seemed unrealistic and implausible. From the first time that sentence fell, I knew I was in for an unsurprising and uneventful ride. I wish authors would be more original, especially in the romance genre. The love stories themselves are often obvious enough, leave some excitement for the rest of the plot. The ending was so over the top I pulled faces in the tram and was asked whether I was okay. I'm not kidding. There were some major inconsistencies in there as well.
The book pretty much revolves around a family's trauma with the press about 10 years ago and they don't want anything close to that happening to them ever again. It is thus stated several times and during different times of the plot that they needn't worry since ‘there would be serious repercussions if a story were to break’. Hun, if you don't have a vault filled to the brim you can't control the press. It's simply not possible.
Also: You don't drop everything you're doing when a wildfire is about to devour you to cuddle up and geet slightly sexy and overly emotional with your s/o. You leg it the hell up and get outta there.
⤐ What’s happening.
This is how you know stuff is going on at Pacific Vista Ranch. Although Sam detests the idea in the beginning, she has to deal with the fact that her dad invited Hollywood back into their lives for a shoot on their beautiful breeding ranch. She may not like it but she has to deal not only with an entire filmset of people that pose a threat to her privacy but also with a good looking, cocky stuntman with the ability to get under her skin.
Writing quality + easy of reading = 3*
pace = 2*
plot development = 3*
characters = 2*
enjoyability = 3*
insightfulness = 2*
_____________________
This eArc was provided by Blacklit PR via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you very much!
This book is for you if… you fit the stereotype these books are aimed at: a bored to death, lonely, housewife or are just really in the mood for lots of horses, a topless male protagonist and an improbable, shallow plotline.
⤐ Overall.
I suppose the most positive thing about this book are all the beautiful horses and the stunning setting. At least in my head, the scenery and the animals paired very well with the golden hours of the evening and the smells of used leather and stables. Complemented by the occasional hot dude, this book had some good traits.
All joking aside though, this was a fairly dull read with unremarkable characters. I was bothered most by the shallow way the plotline was illustrated. It seemed unrealistic and implausible. From the first time that sentence fell, I knew I was in for an unsurprising and uneventful ride. I wish authors would be more original, especially in the romance genre. The love stories themselves are often obvious enough, leave some excitement for the rest of the plot. The ending was so over the top I pulled faces in the tram and was asked whether I was okay. I'm not kidding. There were some major inconsistencies in there as well.
The book pretty much revolves around a family's trauma with the press about 10 years ago and they don't want anything close to that happening to them ever again. It is thus stated several times and during different times of the plot that they needn't worry since ‘there would be serious repercussions if a story were to break’. Hun, if you don't have a vault filled to the brim you can't control the press. It's simply not possible.
Also: You don't drop everything you're doing when a wildfire is about to devour you to cuddle up and geet slightly sexy and overly emotional with your s/o. You leg it the hell up and get outta there.
⤐ What’s happening.
‘‘Aren't you going to finish your breakfast?’ Angela's mouth dropped open. Sam left food on her plate - exactly never.’
This is how you know stuff is going on at Pacific Vista Ranch. Although Sam detests the idea in the beginning, she has to deal with the fact that her dad invited Hollywood back into their lives for a shoot on their beautiful breeding ranch. She may not like it but she has to deal not only with an entire filmset of people that pose a threat to her privacy but also with a good looking, cocky stuntman with the ability to get under her skin.
Con:_____________________
⇢ pesky ranch guest with chin dimple
⇢ resurrecting memories
⇢ comfort zone steadily shrinks
Pro:
⇢ pesky ranch guest with chin dimples
⇢ pretty horses everywhere
⇢ comfort zone invaded by topless cutie
Writing quality + easy of reading = 3*
pace = 2*
plot development = 3*
characters = 2*
enjoyability = 3*
insightfulness = 2*
_____________________
This eArc was provided by Blacklit PR via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you very much!
October 7, 2019
One can almost feel those hot Santa Ana winds as they read this story and feel the grittiness on their skin!
Read full review in the 2019 October issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2019 October issue of InD'tale Magazine.
September 1, 2019
Nobody Else But You (Pacific Vista Ranch, #1) by Claire Marti
One must pick and choose their battles before they enter into a war. Holt and Sam are in for one epic battle. Nobody Else But You breathes fire. Marti overpowers the senses with strong personalities, engaging storytelling and a fierce battle of hearts. Neither Sam or Holt back down from a challenge. From foolish pride to a hopeful future the Pacific Vista Ranch series is off to an irresistible start.
One must pick and choose their battles before they enter into a war. Holt and Sam are in for one epic battle. Nobody Else But You breathes fire. Marti overpowers the senses with strong personalities, engaging storytelling and a fierce battle of hearts. Neither Sam or Holt back down from a challenge. From foolish pride to a hopeful future the Pacific Vista Ranch series is off to an irresistible start.
September 12, 2019
ARC kindly provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Another cute romance based on a ranch? Count me in. The glamour and dirty world of Hollywood mixed with hot stuntmen and horses, Ms Marti manages to give us a dazzling look at the best of both worlds. With a sizzling hot romance and a sweet hero and sassy heroine the book comes to near perfect with the romance. Few aspects in the story made me knock off a couple stars from my rating, mostly because the plot seemed a tiny bit repetitive but nonetheless this was a fun, simple read without much angst.
Another cute romance based on a ranch? Count me in. The glamour and dirty world of Hollywood mixed with hot stuntmen and horses, Ms Marti manages to give us a dazzling look at the best of both worlds. With a sizzling hot romance and a sweet hero and sassy heroine the book comes to near perfect with the romance. Few aspects in the story made me knock off a couple stars from my rating, mostly because the plot seemed a tiny bit repetitive but nonetheless this was a fun, simple read without much angst.
September 19, 2019
The first meeting between Holt and Samantha gets off on the wrong foot. He cracks jokes while she’s in the horse breeding barn. It’s taken a long time to build up her reputation as one of the best breeding managers in the country and she’s not about to let an egotistical Hollywood stuntman get to her. Only he does, so much so, Sam wishes she could flee, like her twin sister did. Hollywood is back in her life, whether she likes it or not. But the more she’s around Holt, her feelings change from hate to love. Turns out, he’s a good man with a heart of gold. But when the paparazzi discovers they’re filming an epic western on the property, will Samantha ever forgive Holt?
Nobody Else But You is a charming enemies-to-lovers romance unlike anything I’ve read before. The setting is in a place I visited a lifetime ago so reading this book was like returning home. Claire Marti does an impressive job plunging the reader in a ranch where horses are big business. Everything from breeding to riding to even physical therapy is explored with precise accuracy.
There’s plenty of drama in this epic romance but then considering what Sam and her family have been through, it’s understandable. The characters leap off the page and by the time I finished reading, they became a part of me. The romance between Holt and Sam is slow-burning and trust me, the wait is worth it.
I’m so excited for the next book in the series! Patience is not my strong suit, but I’ll sit on hands until I can read book two.
If you’re looking for a divine escape from the mundane, take a detour through Rancho Santa Fe, California and grab Nobody Else But You. Highly recommend!
Favorite Character/Quote: Samantha. What a fiery heroine! I connected with her right away. She’s got a huge chip on her shoulder and the last thing she needs is some hotshot stuntman telling her what to do. Turns out, he’s exactly what she needs and it was such fun watching her soften and fall in love.
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/si...
Nobody Else But You is a charming enemies-to-lovers romance unlike anything I’ve read before. The setting is in a place I visited a lifetime ago so reading this book was like returning home. Claire Marti does an impressive job plunging the reader in a ranch where horses are big business. Everything from breeding to riding to even physical therapy is explored with precise accuracy.
There’s plenty of drama in this epic romance but then considering what Sam and her family have been through, it’s understandable. The characters leap off the page and by the time I finished reading, they became a part of me. The romance between Holt and Sam is slow-burning and trust me, the wait is worth it.
I’m so excited for the next book in the series! Patience is not my strong suit, but I’ll sit on hands until I can read book two.
If you’re looking for a divine escape from the mundane, take a detour through Rancho Santa Fe, California and grab Nobody Else But You. Highly recommend!
Favorite Character/Quote: Samantha. What a fiery heroine! I connected with her right away. She’s got a huge chip on her shoulder and the last thing she needs is some hotshot stuntman telling her what to do. Turns out, he’s exactly what she needs and it was such fun watching her soften and fall in love.
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/si...
August 27, 2019
First, I want to thank Claire Marti for providing me with this book so I may bring you this review.
Claire Marti’s Nobody Else But You is by far her best book she has written! This is just book one in the Pacific Vista Ranch Series. One that I hope to continue to read and review for. If book 1 was this good I am excited to see what else she has in store for us!
Nobody Else But You’s cover is beautiful and eye catching. It represents the book perfectly. Plus, I loved the fiery redhead on the cover! Kudos to the graphic designer who designed this for Claire.
Claire would like to thank Kay Bennett for the inspiration, the encouragement and the Sarvanana.
I could tell Claire has grown as a writer from the last series that I read from her. You could tell that she wrote about topics that were extremely close to her heart. It showed in her writing. She did her research and educated her readers on rehabbing and breeding horses. I found it to be extremely interesting.
You could tell in her writing style that these characters were special to her too. The way she wrote each of their stories she seemed passionate about them. A little bit of her was in Dylan and in Sam I could tell. Even though they were total opposites.
To me this had a little of everything I love in a book! I love books that are placed in ranches or horse farms! I am a huge fan anything Hollywood so this aspect of the story I loved! Each character in this book was different and unique. Each character’s past story effected today’s story. Many of their stories made me want to hug them for what they went through. Of course every story has to have a little bit of romance!
I was a huge fan of Princess Diana fan so I loved the reference to her in the book. It was totally appropriate too!
One element that is majorly strong in this book is family! Through tragedy family sticks together to protect one another.
Claire Marti’s Nobody Else But You is by far her best book she has written! This is just book one in the Pacific Vista Ranch Series. One that I hope to continue to read and review for. If book 1 was this good I am excited to see what else she has in store for us!
Nobody Else But You’s cover is beautiful and eye catching. It represents the book perfectly. Plus, I loved the fiery redhead on the cover! Kudos to the graphic designer who designed this for Claire.
Claire would like to thank Kay Bennett for the inspiration, the encouragement and the Sarvanana.
I could tell Claire has grown as a writer from the last series that I read from her. You could tell that she wrote about topics that were extremely close to her heart. It showed in her writing. She did her research and educated her readers on rehabbing and breeding horses. I found it to be extremely interesting.
You could tell in her writing style that these characters were special to her too. The way she wrote each of their stories she seemed passionate about them. A little bit of her was in Dylan and in Sam I could tell. Even though they were total opposites.
To me this had a little of everything I love in a book! I love books that are placed in ranches or horse farms! I am a huge fan anything Hollywood so this aspect of the story I loved! Each character in this book was different and unique. Each character’s past story effected today’s story. Many of their stories made me want to hug them for what they went through. Of course every story has to have a little bit of romance!
I was a huge fan of Princess Diana fan so I loved the reference to her in the book. It was totally appropriate too!
One element that is majorly strong in this book is family! Through tragedy family sticks together to protect one another.
September 15, 2021
Summary: I've read a few ARCs from Claire Marti since this book's publication, but this one aligned perfectly for my "Hot for Hollywood" reading theme for September. What a fun twist on a "Hollywood" romance, especially since the book doesn't even take place in Hollywood, but rather on a Southern California horse ranch.
Thoughts: This is exactly what I would call a "horse girl" book. 🐎 Though I haven't released my podcast review yet (coming later this month), you better believe you'll hear the phrase "horse girl" 10+ times. I can honestly say, I never expected to read the phrase "horse semen" in a romance novel and yet, here we are...
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It seems like just about every character had a hidden artistic talent - For the heroine, it was ballet. For her father, it was film directing. Even the hero had a natural gift for music! 🎤🎸 Perhaps my FAVORITE scene is when the hero attends a ballet class! NOT for laughs, but for strength training. I absolutely loved that! There are also several steamy scenes... which you'll never hear me complaining about. 🔥
I think my main complaint is how fast the relationship moves. We go from enemies to lovers to a PROPOSAL by the end?! It didn't seem like Sam and Holt spent enough time together to warrant an "I Love You", let alone a proposal (before the epilogue). That kind of irked me... There's a LOT that happens in the last forty pages, most of which doesn't seem to be resolved (cue the random fire on the ranch that is never explained at 95%). Overall, an fun and easy read, but I've definitely got some lingering questions.
Heart: 9
Humor: 4
Heat: 7
Goodreads: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 5
Thoughts: This is exactly what I would call a "horse girl" book. 🐎 Though I haven't released my podcast review yet (coming later this month), you better believe you'll hear the phrase "horse girl" 10+ times. I can honestly say, I never expected to read the phrase "horse semen" in a romance novel and yet, here we are...
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It seems like just about every character had a hidden artistic talent - For the heroine, it was ballet. For her father, it was film directing. Even the hero had a natural gift for music! 🎤🎸 Perhaps my FAVORITE scene is when the hero attends a ballet class! NOT for laughs, but for strength training. I absolutely loved that! There are also several steamy scenes... which you'll never hear me complaining about. 🔥
I think my main complaint is how fast the relationship moves. We go from enemies to lovers to a PROPOSAL by the end?! It didn't seem like Sam and Holt spent enough time together to warrant an "I Love You", let alone a proposal (before the epilogue). That kind of irked me... There's a LOT that happens in the last forty pages, most of which doesn't seem to be resolved (cue the random fire on the ranch that is never explained at 95%). Overall, an fun and easy read, but I've definitely got some lingering questions.
Heart: 9
Humor: 4
Heat: 7
Goodreads: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2019
This is the first time I have read from this author and what captured my interest besides the blurb was the reviews so I decided to give it a shot and while I wasn't as gunho as the other reviewers I did enjoy and I am looking forward to the other stories. So in this story we meet Holt and Sam, now Sam had a temper that to me she needed to get a hold of, she just tended to overreact a bit too much especially for her age, she was not a child. Holt had a difficult past and he also needed to get in control of his emotions and stop with the hot and cold business but when these two finally put that to the side and got together they combusted and were what each other needed.
rcvd an ARc at no cost to author..(netgalley) Voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions
rcvd an ARc at no cost to author..(netgalley) Voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions
August 21, 2019
I loved Marti’s first series Finding Forever in Laguna. So I was delighted with the first release of her next one. There is always something to each of her characters giving them depth in their relationships. A little push pull with her newest Sam and Holt keep the reading easy and engaging. The McNeill ranch sounds heavenly I want to live there too. Can’t wait for the next book to see who else maybe falling in love.
December 5, 2019
Sam and Holt's story was so amazing and perfectly written! I absolutely love western/ranch romances and Nobody Else but You had me hooked! I can't wait to read more!.
May 1, 2020
Thought about DNF’ing partway through, but continued for some reason unbeknownst even to me. The plot was underwhelming, and I really, really disliked the heroine. Prickly heroines are fine, but she was pretty much a straight up bitch to the hero for a lot of the book, getting ridiculously worked up over stupid shit (like seriously, referring to your horses sex dummy that helps with collecting semen as a fluffer isn’t that big a deal. BECAUSE THAT IS WHAT IT IS. The heroine is whiny and spoiled, and I honestly don’t understand what attracted the hero to her other than her “heart-shaped” ass. The hero was fine, in the way that a generic romance hero is fine. Hot dude, but not just a pretty face because he plays guitar! Is hot for lady even though she’s bitchy because she dances nicely at ballet class (secure in his masculinity too)!
Also, her family and the trauma were ridiculous. Shitty things happen, I know, but this entire family needed therapy because they’d basically isolated themselves from the world and this is not healthy. The timeline is wrong for the emotional growth that this family and the heroine seems to show. I feel like this book might have taken course over a week or two based on how events and activities are presented in the text, and how things would work in real life. It just doesn’t work. You don’t wallow in grief and basically isolate yourself from the world for more than a decade and are fine a week later. Or even a month, if I’m being very generous with the timeline.
And finally, Westerns are dead. Unless it’s Quentin Tarantino directing, there is no clamor for Western films. Like I said, really underwhelming plot.
Also, her family and the trauma were ridiculous. Shitty things happen, I know, but this entire family needed therapy because they’d basically isolated themselves from the world and this is not healthy. The timeline is wrong for the emotional growth that this family and the heroine seems to show. I feel like this book might have taken course over a week or two based on how events and activities are presented in the text, and how things would work in real life. It just doesn’t work. You don’t wallow in grief and basically isolate yourself from the world for more than a decade and are fine a week later. Or even a month, if I’m being very generous with the timeline.
And finally, Westerns are dead. Unless it’s Quentin Tarantino directing, there is no clamor for Western films. Like I said, really underwhelming plot.
March 8, 2022
I loved this book! I gravitated towards it because it is in my neck of the woods, and it was so fascinating learning about Hollywood and horse breeding while also getting caught up in the chemistry of Samantha and Holt. I don't often read romance novels, but this hit the spot. It was well written, sophisticated, and fun. The vision of Holt was super hot, and I can't wait to learn what happens next at Pacific Vista Ranch.
June 13, 2023
2.5 Stars.
This was hard to get into for many reasons. One of them was the characters, they felt kind of bland, superficial and slightly annoying. I did not care for them, or their chemistry...wich felt flat? I liked the story somewhat and enjoyed the horses. But it did not help to give it more than these stars.
I got this eARC from netgalley
This was hard to get into for many reasons. One of them was the characters, they felt kind of bland, superficial and slightly annoying. I did not care for them, or their chemistry...wich felt flat? I liked the story somewhat and enjoyed the horses. But it did not help to give it more than these stars.
I got this eARC from netgalley
June 29, 2021
Perfect summer read
This was my first book by this author and I enjoyed it very much. The setting is well described and the characters are relatable. It’s a nice summer read.
This was my first book by this author and I enjoyed it very much. The setting is well described and the characters are relatable. It’s a nice summer read.
September 4, 2019
Claire Marti writes with heart and humor, creating characters who pull at your heartstrings and make you root for their happily ever afters. Her heroes and heroines come to life as real people, with issues to face and hangups to overcome before they can find their happy endings. I loved her previous series, Finding Forever in Laguna, and her new series is off to a wonderful start with the release of the first book, Nobody Else But You.
The story is told in alternating he said/she said third person viewpoints from two main characters, Sam McNeill and Holt Ericsson. It's a classic enemies-to-lovers contemporary story: when the pair first meet, the fiery-tempered redhead wants nothing to do with the golden-haired L.A. hottie or his movie, and they become instant enemies for the first third of the book. Their initial enmity gradually turns into grudging respect and then friendship, before exploding into steamy passion.
But each of them has their inner demons to contend with.
A decade before, Sam's parents were part of the Hollywood elite but her actress mother had a tragic on-set accident and the media feeding frenzy that followed gouged deep scars into Sam and her two sisters. Their father gave up directing to move the family out of L.A. to Southern California where they live on a 220-acre horse breeding ranch. About as far from Hollywood glitz and glam as you can get and still be in California. Until one of the father's former director friends calls in old favors and sets up to film a Western on part of the ranch, stirring all kinds of old memories, feelings, and fears.
Holt may look like a spoiled Hollywood golden boy, but the former Colorado cowboy is a movie stuntman, and with this particular movie he's got a lot at stake. In addition to being in charge of the horses and stunts, he's invested his entire savings into the picture, hoping his investment will pay off and allow him to retire from his current job to open an agency of his own. But there's something about Sam that draws him in and makes him lose sight of his priorities.
The tension between the main couple is palpable as Sam and Holt ride an emotional rollercoaster, neither one totally sure where things are going or where they may end. Marti delivers a strong storyline and believeable characters, while the ups and downs of their journey keep the pages turning and keep the reader rooting for a happily ever after.
The story is told in alternating he said/she said third person viewpoints from two main characters, Sam McNeill and Holt Ericsson. It's a classic enemies-to-lovers contemporary story: when the pair first meet, the fiery-tempered redhead wants nothing to do with the golden-haired L.A. hottie or his movie, and they become instant enemies for the first third of the book. Their initial enmity gradually turns into grudging respect and then friendship, before exploding into steamy passion.
But each of them has their inner demons to contend with.
A decade before, Sam's parents were part of the Hollywood elite but her actress mother had a tragic on-set accident and the media feeding frenzy that followed gouged deep scars into Sam and her two sisters. Their father gave up directing to move the family out of L.A. to Southern California where they live on a 220-acre horse breeding ranch. About as far from Hollywood glitz and glam as you can get and still be in California. Until one of the father's former director friends calls in old favors and sets up to film a Western on part of the ranch, stirring all kinds of old memories, feelings, and fears.
Holt may look like a spoiled Hollywood golden boy, but the former Colorado cowboy is a movie stuntman, and with this particular movie he's got a lot at stake. In addition to being in charge of the horses and stunts, he's invested his entire savings into the picture, hoping his investment will pay off and allow him to retire from his current job to open an agency of his own. But there's something about Sam that draws him in and makes him lose sight of his priorities.
The tension between the main couple is palpable as Sam and Holt ride an emotional rollercoaster, neither one totally sure where things are going or where they may end. Marti delivers a strong storyline and believeable characters, while the ups and downs of their journey keep the pages turning and keep the reader rooting for a happily ever after.
September 7, 2019
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
NOBODY ELSE BUT YOU is the first story in the Pacific Vista Ranch series, and it is a powerful introduction to characters who will capture not only your imagination but your heart as well. When tragedy struck their family, Sam’s father moved his three daughters far away from the media frenzy that is rampant in Hollywood to the peaceful, beautiful country in another part of California. They will rebuild their lives, move on to happiness and a great future – right up until Hollywood came knocking again in the form of Holt Ericsson determined to have their ranch be the setting for a movie he’s sunk his life savings into. He never expected the fiery hellcat who fights him at every turn or could have believed that enemies could one day be intense lovers as well.
Sam has no love for this Hollywood face or his desire to use their ranch for his movie. They had left the craziness of Tinsel Town far behind and here he comes bringing back memories that she’d thought were finally healed. She will fight him every step of the way until one kind of emotion turns into the love of a lifetime.
Their arguing and butting heads type of banter is so realistic that you can feel the tension through the pages, the sexual tensions as well since they might not agree on using the ranch but there certainly is a sizzle simmering between Holt and Sam. There is some world building in NOBODY ELSE BUT YOU, there has to be in the first story of a series but everything we learn flows naturally through the dialogue and narrative. I never felt an information dump (which I cannot stand) at any point. The secondary characters add so much to this story as we meet the people who will be part of this series. I was easily swept away to this beautiful ranch and into the lives of Holt and Sam. If you enjoy an enemies-to-lovers type of romance, then you’ll want to pick this one up now. I enjoyed my time in this world and will be waiting for the next release.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
NOBODY ELSE BUT YOU is the first story in the Pacific Vista Ranch series, and it is a powerful introduction to characters who will capture not only your imagination but your heart as well. When tragedy struck their family, Sam’s father moved his three daughters far away from the media frenzy that is rampant in Hollywood to the peaceful, beautiful country in another part of California. They will rebuild their lives, move on to happiness and a great future – right up until Hollywood came knocking again in the form of Holt Ericsson determined to have their ranch be the setting for a movie he’s sunk his life savings into. He never expected the fiery hellcat who fights him at every turn or could have believed that enemies could one day be intense lovers as well.
Sam has no love for this Hollywood face or his desire to use their ranch for his movie. They had left the craziness of Tinsel Town far behind and here he comes bringing back memories that she’d thought were finally healed. She will fight him every step of the way until one kind of emotion turns into the love of a lifetime.
Their arguing and butting heads type of banter is so realistic that you can feel the tension through the pages, the sexual tensions as well since they might not agree on using the ranch but there certainly is a sizzle simmering between Holt and Sam. There is some world building in NOBODY ELSE BUT YOU, there has to be in the first story of a series but everything we learn flows naturally through the dialogue and narrative. I never felt an information dump (which I cannot stand) at any point. The secondary characters add so much to this story as we meet the people who will be part of this series. I was easily swept away to this beautiful ranch and into the lives of Holt and Sam. If you enjoy an enemies-to-lovers type of romance, then you’ll want to pick this one up now. I enjoyed my time in this world and will be waiting for the next release.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
October 31, 2019
Nobody Else But You
This is my first time reading Claire Marti, and I am now a fan and will be reading more. It takes place on Pacific Vista Ranch in CA. The McNeill family moved to the ranch over 10 years ago after their mom/wife, an actress was killed in a freak accident on the set of a movie Chris McNeill was directing. The media and paparazzi frenzy that followed had them moving out of LA. They have built their life on the ranch. Holt comes to the ranch to meet with Chris to see if they can use the ranch for a movie that is being filmed that their is a problem with the ranch they had planned to use. Holt goes to the breeding barn and makes a joke and Sam and him are instant enemies. Sam and her sisters don't want their dad to allow the movie to happen on their ranch, but Chris decides to allow it. It turns out he really misses directing. Sam and Holt end up at the same ballet class the night Holt moves into the guest house. They both think the other one is hot, but they still get along like oil and vinegar. Sam's perception of Holt is changed after he offers his ear and their hate quickly turns to lust. Will they be able to overcome their initial hatred of each other? Will they be able to talk and find out more about each other? What happens if the paparazzi show up? This book is full of angst, twists/turns, suspense, steam, chemistry and some hot sex. Can hate turn to lust turn to love? Read for yourself, you won't be sorry you picked this one up. I was enthralled from page 1 to the last page, and whoa, there were some surprises and the last chapter and epilogue are off the charts. Looking forward to the next in the series!
This is my first time reading Claire Marti, and I am now a fan and will be reading more. It takes place on Pacific Vista Ranch in CA. The McNeill family moved to the ranch over 10 years ago after their mom/wife, an actress was killed in a freak accident on the set of a movie Chris McNeill was directing. The media and paparazzi frenzy that followed had them moving out of LA. They have built their life on the ranch. Holt comes to the ranch to meet with Chris to see if they can use the ranch for a movie that is being filmed that their is a problem with the ranch they had planned to use. Holt goes to the breeding barn and makes a joke and Sam and him are instant enemies. Sam and her sisters don't want their dad to allow the movie to happen on their ranch, but Chris decides to allow it. It turns out he really misses directing. Sam and Holt end up at the same ballet class the night Holt moves into the guest house. They both think the other one is hot, but they still get along like oil and vinegar. Sam's perception of Holt is changed after he offers his ear and their hate quickly turns to lust. Will they be able to overcome their initial hatred of each other? Will they be able to talk and find out more about each other? What happens if the paparazzi show up? This book is full of angst, twists/turns, suspense, steam, chemistry and some hot sex. Can hate turn to lust turn to love? Read for yourself, you won't be sorry you picked this one up. I was enthralled from page 1 to the last page, and whoa, there were some surprises and the last chapter and epilogue are off the charts. Looking forward to the next in the series!
August 29, 2019
A smoking hot stuntman. A fiery horse breeder. And a 220-acre ranch too small for both of them sums up this book perfectly.
Years ago a tragic accident on a Hollywood set left the McNeil family broken and grief stricken. Chris McNeil the father left the bright lights and settled his three young girls, Samantha, Dylan and Amanda on a California ranch far removed from the scene of the accident and scandal.
The years have been good to them, Chris remarried and his girls are now an equine veterinarian, the ranch manager, and an artist when the unthinkable happens. Chris agrees to allow part of the ranch to be used at a set for a movie. Bringing the very thing to their doorstep they sought to escape, drudging up painful memories, and threat of a media invasion the women are furious.
First on the scene, stuntman, Holt Ericsson’s initial meeting with Samantha McNeil was didn’t go as planned. They were like oil and water from the very beginning. Yet the sizzling attraction between them won’t be denied.
I loved this book. Ms. Marti’s characters are bigger than life in a descriptive setting that makes you feel like you are right there with them in the thick of things, which is the way I like books. The twists and turns keep you turning the pages of this exciting romance until the very end. I have to admit, I was sorry to see it end. A satisfying read that I highly recommend.
Five well earned stars!
Years ago a tragic accident on a Hollywood set left the McNeil family broken and grief stricken. Chris McNeil the father left the bright lights and settled his three young girls, Samantha, Dylan and Amanda on a California ranch far removed from the scene of the accident and scandal.
The years have been good to them, Chris remarried and his girls are now an equine veterinarian, the ranch manager, and an artist when the unthinkable happens. Chris agrees to allow part of the ranch to be used at a set for a movie. Bringing the very thing to their doorstep they sought to escape, drudging up painful memories, and threat of a media invasion the women are furious.
First on the scene, stuntman, Holt Ericsson’s initial meeting with Samantha McNeil was didn’t go as planned. They were like oil and water from the very beginning. Yet the sizzling attraction between them won’t be denied.
I loved this book. Ms. Marti’s characters are bigger than life in a descriptive setting that makes you feel like you are right there with them in the thick of things, which is the way I like books. The twists and turns keep you turning the pages of this exciting romance until the very end. I have to admit, I was sorry to see it end. A satisfying read that I highly recommend.
Five well earned stars!
September 3, 2019
I was lucky enough to read an ARC of NOBODY ELSE BUT YOU and I adored Samantha and Holt's story! Claire Marti has written a steamy, intense, engaging story featuring two stubborn protagonists meant for each other. Sam McNeill is the smart, no-nonsense breeding manager at Pacific Vista Ranch, which is owned by her father, who was a famous Hollywood director. But when a horrible accident struck the family, he retreated from the limelight to raise his daughters in the quiet horse country of Rancho Santa Fe, California. Sam is determined her family won't be sucked back into the toxic Hollywood scene and all the painful memories it holds.
And in strolls Holt Ericsson, a sexy as sin stuntman determined to convince Sam's father to allow Pacific Vista Ranch to serve as the filming location for a movie he's sunk his life savings into. He's not at all prepared for the hellcat that is Sam, and reading their head to head 'sparring' matches was so fun! The author used a deft hand in writing these confrontations to showcase Sam and Holt's motivations, and weaved in just the right amount of sexual tension to make the scenes truly gripping. When they finally claimed their HEA, I cheered and I think readers who enjoy a page-turning, steamy romance will cheer, too!
And in strolls Holt Ericsson, a sexy as sin stuntman determined to convince Sam's father to allow Pacific Vista Ranch to serve as the filming location for a movie he's sunk his life savings into. He's not at all prepared for the hellcat that is Sam, and reading their head to head 'sparring' matches was so fun! The author used a deft hand in writing these confrontations to showcase Sam and Holt's motivations, and weaved in just the right amount of sexual tension to make the scenes truly gripping. When they finally claimed their HEA, I cheered and I think readers who enjoy a page-turning, steamy romance will cheer, too!
September 7, 2019
Sam runs a very successful horse breeding business from her family’s ranch along with her father and sisters they have been able to stay out of the public eye for over a decade. When this very handsome man shows up to talk to her dad about filming a movie on the ranch all the terrifying memories come back and Sam is gonna fight that tooth and nail.
When she meets Holt the stuntman she is more than cold because she is afraid of her feelings, she has built up such high walls after her mother’s death that Holt will have to be one good stuntman to make it over. Sam and her sisters feel safe on the ranch until her father agrees to let them film and direct a few scenes himself but she is trying with the movie and with Holt until someone threatens to shatter her perfect world.
I have never been in the situation that Sam is in but the author puts you right there in the emotions, thank goodness it didn’t have a cliffhanger.
When she meets Holt the stuntman she is more than cold because she is afraid of her feelings, she has built up such high walls after her mother’s death that Holt will have to be one good stuntman to make it over. Sam and her sisters feel safe on the ranch until her father agrees to let them film and direct a few scenes himself but she is trying with the movie and with Holt until someone threatens to shatter her perfect world.
I have never been in the situation that Sam is in but the author puts you right there in the emotions, thank goodness it didn’t have a cliffhanger.
July 29, 2019
A Passionately Charged, Tender, and Romantic Story!
I was looking for a character driven contemporary romance with passion, fun, a rich back story, and a fabulous location. Well, I got it all and more with Claire Marti’s Nobody Else But You. Samantha McNeill and Holt Ericsson, the romantic leads immediately won me over, and I thoroughly enjoyed the McNeill family. Vulnerabilities rise to the surface as their story unfolds, and as each character reveals their personality, I found myself unable to put down my phone. I got off the train and continued reading walking down the streets of Manhattan.
Pacific Vista Ranch, albeit a fictional place, is a spot I’d love to visit one day. No spoilers here, but I also loved the bit with ballet thrown in! I look forward to reading book two of the Pacific Vista Ranch series, which continues with Sam’s sister Amanda’s journey.
I was looking for a character driven contemporary romance with passion, fun, a rich back story, and a fabulous location. Well, I got it all and more with Claire Marti’s Nobody Else But You. Samantha McNeill and Holt Ericsson, the romantic leads immediately won me over, and I thoroughly enjoyed the McNeill family. Vulnerabilities rise to the surface as their story unfolds, and as each character reveals their personality, I found myself unable to put down my phone. I got off the train and continued reading walking down the streets of Manhattan.
Pacific Vista Ranch, albeit a fictional place, is a spot I’d love to visit one day. No spoilers here, but I also loved the bit with ballet thrown in! I look forward to reading book two of the Pacific Vista Ranch series, which continues with Sam’s sister Amanda’s journey.
September 4, 2019
Nobody Else But You is the first book in Claire Marti's new Pacific Vista Ranch series. Sam is a horse breeder and ranch manager; Holt is a Hollywood stuntman sent to secure Sam's family's ranch as a film location.
The two start out on the wrong foot immediately, and their next few meetings aren't much better. While they seem to rub each other the wrong way, you can definitely tell there is some chemistry between the two of them! I loved that this was a bit of a slow burn. Holt and Sam don't really like each other at first but they each realize that they made some snap judgments where the other person is concerned.
This was a quick, sweet romance and I read it in one sitting. If you are looking for a quick read definitely pick this one up! Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The two start out on the wrong foot immediately, and their next few meetings aren't much better. While they seem to rub each other the wrong way, you can definitely tell there is some chemistry between the two of them! I loved that this was a bit of a slow burn. Holt and Sam don't really like each other at first but they each realize that they made some snap judgments where the other person is concerned.
This was a quick, sweet romance and I read it in one sitting. If you are looking for a quick read definitely pick this one up! Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
September 5, 2019
Holy is a stuntman for movies who walked into Sam’s horse breeding barn and crack a few jokes. Which Sam was not to pleased about. Holt wanted to talk to Sam’ dad about a proposition from a buddy of his. This one thing opened up a world that was closed for over a decade. Sam and her twin Dylan and their sister Amanada have a Hollywood pass that has made them stronger but their hearts heavy. Since Sam McNeil is on a huge ranch that her dad owns and runs Hollywood’s pass comes back. They want to make a western on their property because the one they were using had some issues. Since Chris, Sam’s dad, owe Harry, a producer, one they had agreed. Holt and Sam did not see eye to eye but when a touching moment happened everything fell away. This is an amazing story of family love and hearts healing and more love. Absolutely great!!!
September 10, 2019
An enemies to lovers story full of great banter and interesting characters.
A really enjoyable read, with the main characters Sam and Holt , that for me are a perfect match because they are so different in everything from their beliefs to their feelings and how each other sees their future.
I am really not a fan of cowboys or farms stories but I love pushing my boundaries and discover a new author and i’m so glad that I’ve chosen this story.
It’s very well written and kept me invested in the story at all times.
I did felt the end a bit rushed and that’s why I can’t give it a full 5 stars. Maybe because I wanted more of their time together.
Looking forward to the next books in the series as the secondary characters from this story are adding up so much and I want to read their own books.
A really enjoyable read, with the main characters Sam and Holt , that for me are a perfect match because they are so different in everything from their beliefs to their feelings and how each other sees their future.
I am really not a fan of cowboys or farms stories but I love pushing my boundaries and discover a new author and i’m so glad that I’ve chosen this story.
It’s very well written and kept me invested in the story at all times.
I did felt the end a bit rushed and that’s why I can’t give it a full 5 stars. Maybe because I wanted more of their time together.
Looking forward to the next books in the series as the secondary characters from this story are adding up so much and I want to read their own books.
November 1, 2019
This was a fun read for me, growing up in California I can totally picture the horrible Santa Anna winds to a T. My heart broke for this family the emotions and what they faced just jumped off the pages. Sam was so feisty and she reminded me of one of those sour patch kids sour then sweet you never knew what you were going to get but you know where you stood with her for sure. Holt's childhood was no cake walk either but neither acted like a victim. Even though the author wrote about some rich people all the characters seemed completely relatable and fun. This book does have some curse words and sex so may not be suitable for all readers. Overall this book was super fun read I had a hard time putting it down and well worth the read. I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley. I was under no obligation to post a review and have given my honest opinion
August 25, 2019
This is a very good book with lots of drama, action and two people trying to ignore what’s right in front of them. Holt Ericsson, aka Mr. Too Hot Hollywood, has met his match when he meets red headed, hot tempered Samantha McNeill, aka Sam. Sam runs her father’s quarter horse breeding ranch and has had to deal with plenty of jerks but none as handsome as movie stuntman Holt. He has come to convince her father to let their ranch be used for the site of a new western blockbuster he has invested in. The McNeill’s lived through their actress wife/mother being killed in a freak accident while filming a movie her husband was directing and the paparazzi frenzy after. They found peace on the ranch 12 years ago and they wonder if it can be maintained.
September 5, 2019
4 1/2 Star Review.....
Nobody Else But You is not only the first book in Claire Marti’s Pacific Vista Ranch series, but also my first read by this talented author. This was a story that pulled at the heartstrings, had laughter and tears, and raised the readers hope that love and devotion could override the deep-seated reservations the main characters had towards long-term commitment. And let’s not neglect the beautifully descriptive account of the McNeill Ranch; I for one, want to be there! This was an easy read; with a credible storyline and engaging characters whose personalities grew throughout the book. I'm excited to have discovered Ms Marti's writing, and I highly recommend this book and look forward to the next in the series.
Nobody Else But You is not only the first book in Claire Marti’s Pacific Vista Ranch series, but also my first read by this talented author. This was a story that pulled at the heartstrings, had laughter and tears, and raised the readers hope that love and devotion could override the deep-seated reservations the main characters had towards long-term commitment. And let’s not neglect the beautifully descriptive account of the McNeill Ranch; I for one, want to be there! This was an easy read; with a credible storyline and engaging characters whose personalities grew throughout the book. I'm excited to have discovered Ms Marti's writing, and I highly recommend this book and look forward to the next in the series.
September 7, 2019
I really enjoyed reading this lovely romance! It is set in the San Diego area of California but has a Hollywood connection. Samantha lives on a beautiful ranch with her father and two sisters, they all have emotional scars from a time when they lived and breathed Hollywood. Holt is movie stuntman and his presence brings unwanted turmoil to the ranch. The story develops naturally so when the romance blossoms you are hoping that it all works out for Sam and Holt. It is beautifully written and I can't wait to read the next book in the Pacific Vista Ranch series! Lovely romance story by author Claire Marti!
September 28, 2019
If you love a enemies to lovers book, this ones for you. Right off the bat, these 2 don't get along. It doesn't help when Holt keeps putting his foot in his mouth when he talks to Sam. Holt is a stuntman on a film that needs a new location and he needs to talk with her father to see about using their ranch. Their family use to be into films. Her father was a director, her mother was and actress and she just loved being on set with her parents. They left it all behind after her mother died on a set. Now Holt is bringing back all the feelings that they all left behind. I love the banter between Sam and Holt. I couldn't stop laughing. Great book
August 19, 2019
This was my first foray into anything by this Claire Marti, but it won’t be my last. Sam and Holt have a slightly angsty, almost yo-yo relationship from jump. A dismal first impression of Holt for Sam and a completely wrong snap judgment of Sam for Holt start the race from “did he SERIOUSLY just say/do that?” to HEA, and it sure is an entertaining one. I wanted to slap Holt a few times, but he redeems himself and proves to be a man of good character, love, and loyalty. Thanks to Sam and Holt, I’m hooked and can’t wait to see what comes next for the McNeill family.
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