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The Stones of Heart Falls #1
Au cœur du ranch (Le Ranch de Silver Stone)
This cowboy has given up on love, but the new nanny might just make him change his mind. The first in a brand-new series from New York Times bestselling author Vivian Arend.
Caleb Stone is wearing too many hats and it’s making him crankier than usual. He’s a cowboy, a father, and the head of his large family—and has been since tragedy claimed his parents over ten years ago. The ranch is struggling, but it's the title of single dad that’s got him tangled up in knots. He needs a full-time, live-in nanny at the Silver Stone homestead in Heart Falls, Alberta, to help with his two little girls, but the woman about to arrive on his doorstep? Tantalizing, tempting, and trouble with capital T’s.
Tamara Coleman doesn’t regret the choices that led to losing her job, but she definitely needs a fresh start. When a friend recommends her for a nanny position in a new town, she swears this time it’ll be different. No more acting on impulse—except sexy, gruff Caleb is exactly the kind of man who pushes all her buttons. And what’s more, it’s so much fun to push his in return. Sparks fly between Tamara and her gorgeous boss, but she can’t risk her position, and he doesn’t dare risk his heart.
With two people fighting their true natures, something’s going to give. Luckily, there’s more than one way to capture a rancher’s heart.
Caleb Stone is wearing too many hats and it’s making him crankier than usual. He’s a cowboy, a father, and the head of his large family—and has been since tragedy claimed his parents over ten years ago. The ranch is struggling, but it's the title of single dad that’s got him tangled up in knots. He needs a full-time, live-in nanny at the Silver Stone homestead in Heart Falls, Alberta, to help with his two little girls, but the woman about to arrive on his doorstep? Tantalizing, tempting, and trouble with capital T’s.
Tamara Coleman doesn’t regret the choices that led to losing her job, but she definitely needs a fresh start. When a friend recommends her for a nanny position in a new town, she swears this time it’ll be different. No more acting on impulse—except sexy, gruff Caleb is exactly the kind of man who pushes all her buttons. And what’s more, it’s so much fun to push his in return. Sparks fly between Tamara and her gorgeous boss, but she can’t risk her position, and he doesn’t dare risk his heart.
With two people fighting their true natures, something’s going to give. Luckily, there’s more than one way to capture a rancher’s heart.
356 pages, Paperback
First published November 16, 2017
1661 people are currently reading
1510 people want to read
About the author
Vivian Arend
157 books2,623 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Vivian Arend loves to share the products of her over-active imagination with her readers. She writes contemporary, western, and light-hearted paranormal romances. The stories are humorous yet emotional, usually with a large cast of family or friends, and a guaranteed happily-ever-after. Vivian lives in British Columbia, Canada, with her husband of many years—her inspiration for every hero and a willing companion for all sorts of adventures.
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November 7, 2017
A Rancher’s Heart is book one in a brand new series, Heart Falls, by Vivian Arend. When I saw this cover, I knew I had to read this book. I love a good story about a man in a Stetson, or in this case, a family of them. But add in two adorable little girls, and I’m a goner.
Caleb Stone is thirty-five years old and is the head of his family, the oldest of six children. They lost their parents over ten years ago and he was forced to not only take over as head of Silver Stone Ranch in Heart Falls, Alberta but also become parent to his siblings. Eventually he married and had two adorable little girls but his wife was not cut out to be a rancher’s wife nor did she enjoy motherhood. So, she left. His siblings try to help but being a single father on top of everything else has tipped the scales. Caleb decides it’s time for a full time nanny.
Tamara Coleman was a nurse and loved helping people. She knew she had broken the rules but she would do the same thing all over again. So, she lost her job and her certification. When her friend recommended her for the nanny position to two little girls, she thought it would be the perfect opportunity for a fresh start in a new town. What she didn’t prepare for, though, was the grumpy but oh so sexy cowboy that would be her new boss, and his wonderful little girls.
She loved Sasha and Emma from the start, ages nine and seven. She had been told in advance that Emma rarely spoke. A previous baby sitter had tried to “fix” Emma but Tamara knew from her experience with children while nursing that Emma would speak when she was good and ready.
One other thing that neither Tamara or Caleb was prepared for was the electricity that seemed to be surging between them. The attraction was there, easy enough for them both to recognize. But Tamara’s job was to keep these little girls safe, happy and fed. She would not jeopardize that by giving in to whatever this was between she and her boss. She needed this job and these little girls needed her. End of story.
I loved the Stone brothers. Caleb’s three younger brothers, Luke, Walker and Dusty all won my heart. Especially the way they looked after their nieces. And these little girls! They along with their father had been deeply hurt by the actions of their mother. They didn’t trust that Tamara was there to stay, expecting her to leave just like their mother did. Watching Tamara with these little girls was magical. She seemed to know just how to handle them. To watch her slowly gain their trust was a beautiful thing.
Caleb was so torn. He wanted Tamara something fierce but knew it would be the wrong thing to do. The question was how long would he be able to fight the growing feelings he was having?
“He wanted Tamara. He trusted her with his children. Why was it so hard to trust her with his heart?”
This was such a sweet story. I have to admit, Tamara’s brash manner was at times off putting. But anything less wouldn’t have been a good fit for Caleb. It was her way with the girls that I loved. The connection between Tamara and Caleb is a slow build. I do want to say that at the end, there was one little thing that did make my eyes water. I’ll remember that moment for a long time.
All in all, I enjoyed the book. I really did love this family. I am especially intrigued by the next book in the series, A Rancher’s Song, which will be Walker’s story. The author left us with just enough to get me hooked.
Caleb Stone is thirty-five years old and is the head of his family, the oldest of six children. They lost their parents over ten years ago and he was forced to not only take over as head of Silver Stone Ranch in Heart Falls, Alberta but also become parent to his siblings. Eventually he married and had two adorable little girls but his wife was not cut out to be a rancher’s wife nor did she enjoy motherhood. So, she left. His siblings try to help but being a single father on top of everything else has tipped the scales. Caleb decides it’s time for a full time nanny.
Tamara Coleman was a nurse and loved helping people. She knew she had broken the rules but she would do the same thing all over again. So, she lost her job and her certification. When her friend recommended her for the nanny position to two little girls, she thought it would be the perfect opportunity for a fresh start in a new town. What she didn’t prepare for, though, was the grumpy but oh so sexy cowboy that would be her new boss, and his wonderful little girls.
She loved Sasha and Emma from the start, ages nine and seven. She had been told in advance that Emma rarely spoke. A previous baby sitter had tried to “fix” Emma but Tamara knew from her experience with children while nursing that Emma would speak when she was good and ready.
One other thing that neither Tamara or Caleb was prepared for was the electricity that seemed to be surging between them. The attraction was there, easy enough for them both to recognize. But Tamara’s job was to keep these little girls safe, happy and fed. She would not jeopardize that by giving in to whatever this was between she and her boss. She needed this job and these little girls needed her. End of story.
I loved the Stone brothers. Caleb’s three younger brothers, Luke, Walker and Dusty all won my heart. Especially the way they looked after their nieces. And these little girls! They along with their father had been deeply hurt by the actions of their mother. They didn’t trust that Tamara was there to stay, expecting her to leave just like their mother did. Watching Tamara with these little girls was magical. She seemed to know just how to handle them. To watch her slowly gain their trust was a beautiful thing.
Caleb was so torn. He wanted Tamara something fierce but knew it would be the wrong thing to do. The question was how long would he be able to fight the growing feelings he was having?
“He wanted Tamara. He trusted her with his children. Why was it so hard to trust her with his heart?”
This was such a sweet story. I have to admit, Tamara’s brash manner was at times off putting. But anything less wouldn’t have been a good fit for Caleb. It was her way with the girls that I loved. The connection between Tamara and Caleb is a slow build. I do want to say that at the end, there was one little thing that did make my eyes water. I’ll remember that moment for a long time.
All in all, I enjoyed the book. I really did love this family. I am especially intrigued by the next book in the series, A Rancher’s Song, which will be Walker’s story. The author left us with just enough to get me hooked.
November 22, 2017
4.25 stars
The woman he wanted more than his next breath was interested and yet utterly unavailable.
After losing her job because of choices she made (which she refuses to regret), Tamara Coleman is about to start a new life as a nanny in a new town. Determined to make her new life last she decides to supress her impulsive nature but being around the sexy and gruff Caleb makes it impossible to stick to her new rules, especially seeing as pushing his buttons makes the closed-off Caleb come alive.
Caleb Stone is trying to be the best father he can be for his two little girls while trying to keep their struggling ranch afloat. He desperately needs help which is why he hired a nanny, except Tamara is turning out to be both a saving grace and a dangerous temptation he finds very hard to resist.
The more time they spend together the hotter the chemistry between them becomes, but Tamara can’t risk her job and Caleb can’t risk his children’s heart and his own. Or can they?
It was fine to want the woman. Any man would want someone as beautiful and direct as Tamara. But this felt like more than sexual desire, watching her with his children.
I always find cowboys very sexy and I loved the grouchy Caleb who has such a big heart. This is a hero who had no problem taking responsibility for his young siblings when his parents died over ten years ago, working hard and giving everything he had to take care of them and then of his daughters later on. His ex-wife made him and his daughters wary of trusting again and it was a lot of fun seeing him so unsure around Tamara, not knowing what to do with the desire he felt for her.
Too many longings tugged Tamara in new directions, and she wasn’t ready to look them square in the eye, and that alone was the most frightening fact she’d faced.
Tamara was an awesome heroine, so feisty, opinionated, loving and definitely not shy. I loved how playful she was with Caleb and his daughters and how she changed things for them, healed the hurt that they carried inside.
I do enjoy a good slow burning romance and this one was excellent. The intense attraction was there from the start but both tried to ignore it even though they didn’t really succeed which was a lot of fun for me as a reader. I loved that there was no unnecessary angst, just lots of emotion, humor and some very hot sexy times near the end.
Both Tamara and Caleb have wonderful families and I loved their interactions with their siblings, the funny banter and teasing and also the fantastic loyalty. His two young daughters, Sasha and Emma, was adorable, I especially loved little Emma. I’m really looking forward to reading more books in this series.
This was my first book by this author and I’m so happy to have found another author whose books I can love. For those who enjoy cowboy books with a sweet romance, no drama and great characters, this book is for you.
November 14, 2017
4.5 stars
Vivian Arend kicks off her new Heart Falls series with the emotional, heartwarming, and sensual story of a single dad hoping to make his daughter’s lives better by hiring a nanny to help them as they grow and mature. So yes, A Rancher’s Heart is a single dad falling for the nanny, but it is anything but typical. This was an enjoyable, well balanced story that moved at a realistic pace for the situation and as a first book in a series we are introduced to a lot of characters, the relationship between the two main characters didn’t get lost in the shuffle, it was always front and center as it should be.
After losing her nursing license for what she perceived as doing the right thing Tamara Coleman was at a crossroads in her life when she is offered a nanny position at the Silver Stone ranch in Heart Falls, far enough away from home that she won’t have to deal with the questions and backlash. She knows it will be a big change in her life and routine but she is up for the challenge of the two little girls and their handsome but grumpy father. The one thing Tamara is set on is being a professional one hundred percent of the time and curbing her impulsive actions, something that she should remember when she jumps in a freezing cold lake to “save” a man who doesn’t need saving and just happens to be her new boss Caleb Stone.
From the minute Tamara and Caleb meet it is obvious there are sparks, but they both choose to ignore them. Tamara because she needs the job and wants to prove she isn’t always impulsive and Caleb because his girls come first and he knows that acting on the attraction will only bring heartache for them and possibly him once again. There was so much I enjoyed about this couple especially the way they brought out the best in one another. Tamara forced Caleb to lighten up, let go of his tight rein on everyone and everything, and to relax and enjoy life a bit. Caleb made Tamara realize she was competent in many aspects of life, she had the ability to drawn out the best in everyone, and she brought warmth and happiness into his home. It is impossible to review this book without mentioning Caleb’s girls, the precocious 9 year old, Sasha and the precious 7 year old, Emma. I love that Tamara was enamored with the girls from the first moment she met them, that she didn’t let the bossy and overly dramatic Sasha get away with her manipulative ways, and she provided Emma with everything she needed to make her comfortable and know she was loved. I appreciated that Caleb let her find her own way with the girls and while they talked about them, he never once made her feel like she had to ask his permission on how to handle situations that arose. He trusted her right away with his girls; it took him much longer to trust her with his heart.
It takes this couple a long time to get to the physical aspect of a relationship, sure they have a few make out sessions in which one or the other realizes what they are doing and they pull back, but it takes them awhile to act on their attraction, but it was realistic. First and foremost they both were thinking about the impact of them messing up the stable routine they had set by getting physical, and secondly Caleb was still not ready to admit his feelings. I actually liked that it took them awhile to get to that point in their relationship because during that time, they build a friendship, they begin to enjoy the life and routine they build, and most of all they really get to know one another, giving them a great foundation for their future.
A Rancher’s Heart was a spectacular start to this new series and I am very excited to see what comes next for the rest of the Heart Falls crew.
February 11, 2019
Well this one hit the spot!
Caleb hires Tamara to be a nanny for his kids, cook, clean... She was recommended by his sister and he's desperate, otherwise, he wouldn't have hired a woman who he's so attracted to.
I enjoyed the daily play by play between the MCs and the kids and his brothers etc... All the side characters were well written and the kids were believable.
Caleb is a little gunshy about women after the number his ex-wife did on him and their kids, but he's not an ass. He has his jackass moments but then so does she. They are both quick to jump to conclusions but any misunderstandings get sorted out quickly because they DO communicate.
He's not really romantic... well ok, not at all, but he's super sexy and so hot for her.
Safety is all good.
Caleb hires Tamara to be a nanny for his kids, cook, clean... She was recommended by his sister and he's desperate, otherwise, he wouldn't have hired a woman who he's so attracted to.
I enjoyed the daily play by play between the MCs and the kids and his brothers etc... All the side characters were well written and the kids were believable.
Caleb is a little gunshy about women after the number his ex-wife did on him and their kids, but he's not an ass. He has his jackass moments but then so does she. They are both quick to jump to conclusions but any misunderstandings get sorted out quickly because they DO communicate.
He's not really romantic... well ok, not at all, but he's super sexy and so hot for her.
Safety is all good.
October 30, 2018
Well, that was nice. The sex scenes were pretty steamy, but otherwise it was just kinda ... nice. No drama, no crazy ex-lovers, no family members butting in and making things worse, no traumas to overcome, it was just kinda... nice. I liked it, but I literally finished it five minutes ago and I'm already forgetting it.
10 months later... A friend commented on this review and I realized I couldn't remember anything about it, even after reading the blurb - nothing. So I reread it and there was no trigger that made me go "Oh yeah, this is that story." Aside from one moment when I remembered what a particular hint was referring to, it was like I'd never even read the book. That's so weird. I'm not having the same issue with immediately forgetting it like I did last time and I have a feeling I'll always remember it now that I've noticed the oddity in it. But it's just weird.
10 months later... A friend commented on this review and I realized I couldn't remember anything about it, even after reading the blurb - nothing. So I reread it and there was no trigger that made me go "Oh yeah, this is that story." Aside from one moment when I remembered what a particular hint was referring to, it was like I'd never even read the book. That's so weird. I'm not having the same issue with immediately forgetting it like I did last time and I have a feeling I'll always remember it now that I've noticed the oddity in it. But it's just weird.
June 14, 2024
Sweet Start to the Series
This is a wonderful start to the Six Pack Ranch / Rocky Mountain House spinoff series. I really like it, and I'm looking forward to more.
After Dr. Dillweed (my name for him) blew Tamara Coleman's career to smithereens, I like that she picks herself up and moves on (it gets explained, but you can also read Six Pack Ranch if desired). She's a straight shooter, and I love getting to know her better.
I love single dad Caleb Stone's faith in those he cares for. It's not blind faith. It's respect and surrounding himself with people who have earned his trust. He's definitely a forever kind of guy who has been handed a few bad breaks, which he conquers the best way he can.
Wendy, the mother unextraordinaire to Sasha and Emma, is the kind of person I'd like to find in a deserted dark alley. My heart breaks for those girls, and the hand they were dealt with their egg donor. Seeing them both flourish with Tamara is so sweet, even when they fight it.
I read along with the audio book. The narrator is Tatiana Sokolov, who is always great to listen to.
Story: 4.5 stars
Narration: 4 stars
Listening Speed: 1.6x
H = 35; h = about 30
This is a wonderful start to the Six Pack Ranch / Rocky Mountain House spinoff series. I really like it, and I'm looking forward to more.
After Dr. Dillweed (my name for him) blew Tamara Coleman's career to smithereens, I like that she picks herself up and moves on (it gets explained, but you can also read Six Pack Ranch if desired). She's a straight shooter, and I love getting to know her better.
“Dare wouldn’t let you come within two inches of my little girls if she didn’t know everything, and still trust you. I don’t suppose I need details.”
-- Caleb Stone
I love single dad Caleb Stone's faith in those he cares for. It's not blind faith. It's respect and surrounding himself with people who have earned his trust. He's definitely a forever kind of guy who has been handed a few bad breaks, which he conquers the best way he can.
Wendy, the mother unextraordinaire to Sasha and Emma, is the kind of person I'd like to find in a deserted dark alley. My heart breaks for those girls, and the hand they were dealt with their egg donor. Seeing them both flourish with Tamara is so sweet, even when they fight it.
I read along with the audio book. The narrator is Tatiana Sokolov, who is always great to listen to.
Story: 4.5 stars
Narration: 4 stars
Listening Speed: 1.6x
H = 35; h = about 30
January 6, 2018
This book was exactly what I was expecting, and exactly what I was in the mood for. Nothing over the top - just a sweet romance between a single dad (of 2 sweet little girls in need of some major maternal love), and a really likable female lead who shakes things up in the best way. Looking forward to the rest of the series!
November 22, 2017
Oh what a sweet satisfying story! I love this author and can’t wait for her next book! My full review coming soon.
November 16, 2017
When I think back on my favorite cowboy stories, I don't have to think far to think about Vivian Arend. Her Six Pack Ranch series always hits the top of that list! So when I saw she was spinning off from that into this new series, I was beyond excited. Even if I'm a little behind on finishing reading that one.This series is about the Stone siblings and we are kicking things off with the eldest, Caleb. He's had a lot of responsibility on his shoulders from a very early age. Taking care of the ranch and raising his siblings after his parents died, marrying his then girlfriend after getting her pregnant because knew that's what he was supposed to do. But life hasn't worked out peachy for him and after his wife up and left him with his two daughters, it's now become more than he can handle alone and it's time to hire a nanny.
Oh but Caleb is everything delicious you could want in a grumpy cowboy hero. He's a simple man with simple desires and that can be both good and bad at times. Sometimes he sees the obvious, sometimes he's oblivious to what his next step should be. I adored him! He's the kind of real hero that can make your insides a little gushy and melty. Especially when you see how he truly cares for his family and that extends to every single member of it.
Tamara is our Six Pack Ranch transplant and she's looking for the place she belongs. This was meant to be a temporary stepping stone for her to figure out what that place should be. Except it turned into the right place for her. It felt natural to me, the way she integrated with the family and the way she fit in. I loved seeing her there from the very beginning!
A RANCHER'S HEART gave us that family feel that Ms. Arend is so good at. It made me care for everyone we got to meet and has left me anxious to read the next one.
*ARC provided by author
Reviewed by Francesca❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
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November 26, 2017This is definitely the case of "it's me and not the book"? It's never a good thing when I fall asleep reading a book. I found it boring, I couldn't concentrate and the result? Falling asleep. Maybe I'll go back and finish it but for now I'll put it on hold.
November 17, 2017
5 stars
I loved loved loved everything about this one. If you are in the market for a feel-good, incredibly endearing slow-burn, and still a super hot romance, this one is for you.
Caleb is operating a ranch and trying to make it stay afloat while taking care of his two girls after his wife left and shoulders the responsibility of being the patriarch to the entire family. Tamara lost her nursing job in an unfortunate way and is looking for a fresh start and takes on a nanny position for Caleb's girls, Sasha and Emma.
They have quite the fun meet cute and it only gets better from there. Honestly, this was just a good ole fashioned feel good for me. They have insta-lust off the bat but realize boundaries must be set and their actual romance has such a good slow burn. When they finally hit the sack together, the scenes are super hot and super satisfying after reading their story unfold. The love story between Tamara and the girls will punch you in the feels in the best kind of way.
Everyone in this book is great. Caleb and Tamara are literally everything I love in MCs and the rest of the families on both sides were equally as awesome. There's no angst or suspense; really you just get to read a totally satisfying and endearing romance between a family and get to see how everyone beautifully comes together and comes out of their shell.
I loved loved loved everything about this one. If you are in the market for a feel-good, incredibly endearing slow-burn, and still a super hot romance, this one is for you.
Caleb is operating a ranch and trying to make it stay afloat while taking care of his two girls after his wife left and shoulders the responsibility of being the patriarch to the entire family. Tamara lost her nursing job in an unfortunate way and is looking for a fresh start and takes on a nanny position for Caleb's girls, Sasha and Emma.
They have quite the fun meet cute and it only gets better from there. Honestly, this was just a good ole fashioned feel good for me. They have insta-lust off the bat but realize boundaries must be set and their actual romance has such a good slow burn. When they finally hit the sack together, the scenes are super hot and super satisfying after reading their story unfold. The love story between Tamara and the girls will punch you in the feels in the best kind of way.
Everyone in this book is great. Caleb and Tamara are literally everything I love in MCs and the rest of the families on both sides were equally as awesome. There's no angst or suspense; really you just get to read a totally satisfying and endearing romance between a family and get to see how everyone beautifully comes together and comes out of their shell.
November 21, 2017
As a fan of the series featuring the Coleman family it was with high expectations that I happily dived into this book. I can confirm that it's still as heartwarming, still features strong cowboys who need some good loving oh and yes when it comes to good loving these Stone guys seem set to set the pages on fire !
The genius here is we've previously met both Caleb Stone , his brothers and of course Tamara Coleman. Which meant I was really excited to find out just what the somewhat taciturn rancher would make of the very outspoken former nurse who was about to totally bamboozle his family. Caleb might not be the best with words but he is such a lynchpin to all his family. Having lost his parents when only just in his twenties he has brought up his younger brothers and now is struggling with his two young daughters who clearly need a more feminine touch. His ex wife didn't just hurt Caleb though she trod on the young hearts of their sweet little girls and so trust doesn't come that easily. So Tamara is a breath of fresh air, plus she's quite a force of nature but breaking through defences long in place isn't a walk in the park but something's are definitely worth it. The scene is set, the pieces put in play and you just know that love will conquer all, eventually!
O my such a cauldron of hot and steamy goodness. This couple might not touch but boy do they want to . Caleb is so focused on not overstepping the boundaries that he twists himself up in knots. Then there's Tamara who clearly really likes what she sees , although she might need to put on her glasses at times ! You see that right there with our spectacle wearing heroine is why I love this authors work as few can make characters as warm, funny and believable. There's no real conflict here just a couple who deserve a chance and all set in a world that just comes to life on the page.
This voluntary take is of an advance copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
The genius here is we've previously met both Caleb Stone , his brothers and of course Tamara Coleman. Which meant I was really excited to find out just what the somewhat taciturn rancher would make of the very outspoken former nurse who was about to totally bamboozle his family. Caleb might not be the best with words but he is such a lynchpin to all his family. Having lost his parents when only just in his twenties he has brought up his younger brothers and now is struggling with his two young daughters who clearly need a more feminine touch. His ex wife didn't just hurt Caleb though she trod on the young hearts of their sweet little girls and so trust doesn't come that easily. So Tamara is a breath of fresh air, plus she's quite a force of nature but breaking through defences long in place isn't a walk in the park but something's are definitely worth it. The scene is set, the pieces put in play and you just know that love will conquer all, eventually!
O my such a cauldron of hot and steamy goodness. This couple might not touch but boy do they want to . Caleb is so focused on not overstepping the boundaries that he twists himself up in knots. Then there's Tamara who clearly really likes what she sees , although she might need to put on her glasses at times ! You see that right there with our spectacle wearing heroine is why I love this authors work as few can make characters as warm, funny and believable. There's no real conflict here just a couple who deserve a chance and all set in a world that just comes to life on the page.
This voluntary take is of an advance copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
November 22, 2017
What a waste of a perfectly good blurb and an interesting premise.
I feel cheated, and that explains my low rating on this.
The story was not dismal, but the idea of it was poorly executed with many, many bad writing decisions. The heroine was annoying and rude when she was supposed to be such a super-nanny and a lifesaver for the hero's daughters; she was referred to as "stubborn" and all her actions were actually flexible and accomodating of her surroundings (which is a good thing, but not in tune with how she was described by others). The hero was another lost guy way over his head with issues about family, the ranch, bussiness and raising two little girls... as the story was told, he would have fallen for the first person who came along and offered to take the girls off his back for an hour!
Caleb and Tamara were not particularly compatible as well, they were both convenient for eachother... does that suggest to you the makings of a good love-story?? -- I didn't think so...
I feel cheated, and that explains my low rating on this.
The story was not dismal, but the idea of it was poorly executed with many, many bad writing decisions. The heroine was annoying and rude when she was supposed to be such a super-nanny and a lifesaver for the hero's daughters; she was referred to as "stubborn" and all her actions were actually flexible and accomodating of her surroundings (which is a good thing, but not in tune with how she was described by others). The hero was another lost guy way over his head with issues about family, the ranch, bussiness and raising two little girls... as the story was told, he would have fallen for the first person who came along and offered to take the girls off his back for an hour!
Caleb and Tamara were not particularly compatible as well, they were both convenient for eachother... does that suggest to you the makings of a good love-story?? -- I didn't think so...
January 7, 2025
I love this one ❤️ And after the 60% mark or so it fires up! Great story. I need to read more of this series!
November 11, 2018
A cowboy left with his heart broken and with two little girls to raise hires a nanny and something special blossoms between them. I really like this book it was a very sweet, family oriented story, the characters were very likable. The story line predictable but very enjoyable I will definitely be reading the next books and find out what's in store for the other sexy Stone brothers.
November 20, 2017
Los libros así son mi placer culposo, son tan faciles de leer y tan ñoños que cada que encuentro un libro así no me resisto y lo leo de inmediato, la diferencia es que este libro no fue para nada lo que yo esperaba.
Si a mi me dicen vaquero me imagino a un macho alfa machista con la necesidad de probar su hombria siempre, pero no fue así!!! y estoy muy feliz de poder ver que las autoras de este género esten dejando de lado los esteriotipos machistas y creando hombres "fuertes" sin la necesidad de hacerlos cerdos misóginos YAY, además la historia fue muy tierna y no hubo insta-love y la manera en que se manejaron las cosas fue tan madura y realista que me quede con ganas de aplaudirle a Vivian Arend y de contactarla para que dicte clases sobre como escribir romance contemporaneo a ciertas autoras que al parecer se criaron en la selva y nunca antes han visto interactuar a una pareja.
Si a mi me dicen vaquero me imagino a un macho alfa machista con la necesidad de probar su hombria siempre, pero no fue así!!! y estoy muy feliz de poder ver que las autoras de este género esten dejando de lado los esteriotipos machistas y creando hombres "fuertes" sin la necesidad de hacerlos cerdos misóginos YAY, además la historia fue muy tierna y no hubo insta-love y la manera en que se manejaron las cosas fue tan madura y realista que me quede con ganas de aplaudirle a Vivian Arend y de contactarla para que dicte clases sobre como escribir romance contemporaneo a ciertas autoras que al parecer se criaron en la selva y nunca antes han visto interactuar a una pareja.
November 9, 2017
***4.5 ‘Slow Build’ Stars***
I was one of those that was bummed when it was announced that the Rocky Mountain House series was coming to an end. The Coleman clan had wormed their way into my heart and, despite the fact that I could barely keep who was who and whom belonged to whom straight, I knew I’d miss them. So when it was announced that there would be a spinoff I was all kinds of excited and couldn’t wait to get my hands on it and I was not disappointed in any way. I’m not all too sure what I enjoyed most, the slow build/burn of Caleb and Tamara’s journey to their HEA or the cast of characters I got to meet throughout the book, but I thoroughly enjoyed A Rancher’s Heart and didn’t want it to end.
Caleb is all kinds of gruff cowboy who keeps himself, and his emotions in check more than he should, but with all the responsibility he’s taken on over the years ~ all by choice and because he loves his family deeply ~ it’s taken it’s toll on him and the future he could have. Outside of the whole single father thing, which made my heart all kinds of melty and swoony, Caleb is simply a good man with a huge heart. That heart has been bruised and battered, but it still has a spark that, if given the opportunity, can become a fire.
Tamara is impetuous, but means well even when that impetuousness gets her into trouble. Leaving a career she loved and her loud, boisterous and nosey family has been difficult, but she’s a Coleman and determined to carve out a new future. I loved Tamara’s fire. She wasn’t afraid to speak her mind and, with a few exceptions, did it with only the best of intentions. I loved her snark, sass, patience and heart and how well she handle two very precocious little girls.
The slow build/burn of Tamara and Caleb’s relationship, while a little frustrating because I wanted things to happen faster, was very well done because of the situation they found themselves in. Not only did the employer/employee issue come into play, but more importantly the emotional well being of two little girls who’d already been through the wringer. But it is because of this slow build that we get to see who both Tamara and Caleb are at their very cores and how well the fit. In some ways they are opposites, in others they are extremely similar that made it clear that if they did cross the line that they’d be one hell of a team. And as for the chemistry? Hot, Hot, Hot!
A Rancher’s Heart was a fun read that showcases what makes Vivian Arend’s words so addictive. The writing was engaging, the characters were well written and the drama never ventured into the OTT angsty realm. I loved the Stone men, though there is one I want to knock some sense into. The women we meet are all kinds of fun and I’m hoping they all get their HEA’s as the series progresses. If you haven’t read the Rocky Mountain House series which encompasses the Six Pack Ranch and Thompson & Sons series, you won’t feel all that lost, but you may want to at least read Rocky Mountain Home since it introduces the Stone clan. While this is a spinoff it is still a first in series, so we meet a lot of new characters and get the lay of the land, but it was all done very well and has me wanting to get my hands on the next book~
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
I was one of those that was bummed when it was announced that the Rocky Mountain House series was coming to an end. The Coleman clan had wormed their way into my heart and, despite the fact that I could barely keep who was who and whom belonged to whom straight, I knew I’d miss them. So when it was announced that there would be a spinoff I was all kinds of excited and couldn’t wait to get my hands on it and I was not disappointed in any way. I’m not all too sure what I enjoyed most, the slow build/burn of Caleb and Tamara’s journey to their HEA or the cast of characters I got to meet throughout the book, but I thoroughly enjoyed A Rancher’s Heart and didn’t want it to end.
Caleb is all kinds of gruff cowboy who keeps himself, and his emotions in check more than he should, but with all the responsibility he’s taken on over the years ~ all by choice and because he loves his family deeply ~ it’s taken it’s toll on him and the future he could have. Outside of the whole single father thing, which made my heart all kinds of melty and swoony, Caleb is simply a good man with a huge heart. That heart has been bruised and battered, but it still has a spark that, if given the opportunity, can become a fire.
Tamara is impetuous, but means well even when that impetuousness gets her into trouble. Leaving a career she loved and her loud, boisterous and nosey family has been difficult, but she’s a Coleman and determined to carve out a new future. I loved Tamara’s fire. She wasn’t afraid to speak her mind and, with a few exceptions, did it with only the best of intentions. I loved her snark, sass, patience and heart and how well she handle two very precocious little girls.
The slow build/burn of Tamara and Caleb’s relationship, while a little frustrating because I wanted things to happen faster, was very well done because of the situation they found themselves in. Not only did the employer/employee issue come into play, but more importantly the emotional well being of two little girls who’d already been through the wringer. But it is because of this slow build that we get to see who both Tamara and Caleb are at their very cores and how well the fit. In some ways they are opposites, in others they are extremely similar that made it clear that if they did cross the line that they’d be one hell of a team. And as for the chemistry? Hot, Hot, Hot!
A Rancher’s Heart was a fun read that showcases what makes Vivian Arend’s words so addictive. The writing was engaging, the characters were well written and the drama never ventured into the OTT angsty realm. I loved the Stone men, though there is one I want to knock some sense into. The women we meet are all kinds of fun and I’m hoping they all get their HEA’s as the series progresses. If you haven’t read the Rocky Mountain House series which encompasses the Six Pack Ranch and Thompson & Sons series, you won’t feel all that lost, but you may want to at least read Rocky Mountain Home since it introduces the Stone clan. While this is a spinoff it is still a first in series, so we meet a lot of new characters and get the lay of the land, but it was all done very well and has me wanting to get my hands on the next book~
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
December 3, 2017
4 "Easy breezy." Stars
I liked this one. It had two good characters. The H's second chance at love. Stoic H, feisty h, sweet kids. Low angst, no real drama. Just a sweet story about two people falling in love. Great depiction of ranch life and good side characters. I'll continue this series. Happy reading!
I liked this one. It had two good characters. The H's second chance at love. Stoic H, feisty h, sweet kids. Low angst, no real drama. Just a sweet story about two people falling in love. Great depiction of ranch life and good side characters. I'll continue this series. Happy reading!
January 14, 2018
This was OK but didn't blow my socks off.
Caleb was hot and all but I wanted more. Tamara was a little too analytical. Kids were great.
Caleb was hot and all but I wanted more. Tamara was a little too analytical. Kids were great.
February 24, 2022
Das war eine schöne, einfühlsame und auch humorvolle Geschichte.
Hier stehen die Kids an erster Stelle und somit stellt Caleb sein mögliches Glück hinten an.
Auch Tamara ist mit ihm da einer Meinung als sie den Job als Nanny antritt, denn die zwei süßen Mäuse haben schon genug mitgemacht.
Dumm nur, dass es immer feuriger zwischen ihnen wird und sie bald nicht mehr wissen, was sie machen sollen. Der Zwiespalt ist gut spürbar. Vor allem, als sich zwischen den leidenschaftlichen Gefühlen für einander noch ganz andere einschleichen.
Ich fand die Mädchen ganz zauberhaft. Jede auf ihre Art. Auch Tamara und Caleb sind zwei angenehme Charaktere. Ihre Geschichte zu verfolgen, hat mir Spaß gemacht.
Hier lernen wir auch die Brüder und Schwestern von Caleb kennen. Ihre Storys könnten auch interessant werden. Ich mag diese Familienbanden immer sehr gerne.
Insgesamt bietet dieses Buch sehr gute Unterhaltung und macht neugierig auf mehr.
Hier stehen die Kids an erster Stelle und somit stellt Caleb sein mögliches Glück hinten an.
Auch Tamara ist mit ihm da einer Meinung als sie den Job als Nanny antritt, denn die zwei süßen Mäuse haben schon genug mitgemacht.
Dumm nur, dass es immer feuriger zwischen ihnen wird und sie bald nicht mehr wissen, was sie machen sollen. Der Zwiespalt ist gut spürbar. Vor allem, als sich zwischen den leidenschaftlichen Gefühlen für einander noch ganz andere einschleichen.
Ich fand die Mädchen ganz zauberhaft. Jede auf ihre Art. Auch Tamara und Caleb sind zwei angenehme Charaktere. Ihre Geschichte zu verfolgen, hat mir Spaß gemacht.
Hier lernen wir auch die Brüder und Schwestern von Caleb kennen. Ihre Storys könnten auch interessant werden. Ich mag diese Familienbanden immer sehr gerne.
Insgesamt bietet dieses Buch sehr gute Unterhaltung und macht neugierig auf mehr.
May 19, 2024
Family!
Things can bring a man to his knees when it comes to his family but darn did it take all of them down. This was sweet, sad, and angry for them but also fun and happy. Tamara was definitely good for this family. They needed someone as feisty like her to bring them from their anger and fear which made them open up too.
Things can bring a man to his knees when it comes to his family but darn did it take all of them down. This was sweet, sad, and angry for them but also fun and happy. Tamara was definitely good for this family. They needed someone as feisty like her to bring them from their anger and fear which made them open up too.
November 19, 2017
Sweet romance between Tamara Coleman and Caleb Stone of the Silver Stone Ranch in Heart Falls, Alberta, Canada. (This is about 300 miles from the Six Pack Ranch Colemans).
Tamara has lost her nursing job, and license, for telling her friend that her mother is terminally ill... a breach of Patient Confidentiality. (I had strong feelings about this having been through the same scenario with one of my parents and not knowing the situation until we received a phone call. It is horrible.) Anyway, the ensuing gossip at home gives Tamara reason to leave Rocky Mountain House, so she takes a Nanny/Housekeeper position at the Silver Stone Ranch for two little girls whose mother has walked out of their lives. They are emotionally wounded, and so is their father.
Caleb Stone is the eldest brother. His parents were both killed in a car accident eleven years earlier. His marriage to a woman that wasn't cut out to be a rancher's wife ended in disaster when she abandoned him and their two little girls. On top of that, Caleb has raised his sister, the daughter of his parents' best friends (also killed in the crash), and his three brothers, Walker, Luke, and Dustin.
This was a sweet story. Neither main character is perfect, but both are pretty nice people. There is the usual area Veterinarian/best friend, the elder Ranch Foreman, a girl that just showed up and became an employee, and the mean girl gossips in town. Tamara's sisters, Karen and Lisa also pop in and out, as well as a trip to the annual Coleman family reunion. There's no big drama, though. No dangerous happenings. This is a totally character-driven love story.
Tamara has lost her nursing job, and license, for telling her friend that her mother is terminally ill... a breach of Patient Confidentiality. (I had strong feelings about this having been through the same scenario with one of my parents and not knowing the situation until we received a phone call. It is horrible.) Anyway, the ensuing gossip at home gives Tamara reason to leave Rocky Mountain House, so she takes a Nanny/Housekeeper position at the Silver Stone Ranch for two little girls whose mother has walked out of their lives. They are emotionally wounded, and so is their father.
Caleb Stone is the eldest brother. His parents were both killed in a car accident eleven years earlier. His marriage to a woman that wasn't cut out to be a rancher's wife ended in disaster when she abandoned him and their two little girls. On top of that, Caleb has raised his sister, the daughter of his parents' best friends (also killed in the crash), and his three brothers, Walker, Luke, and Dustin.
This was a sweet story. Neither main character is perfect, but both are pretty nice people. There is the usual area Veterinarian/best friend, the elder Ranch Foreman, a girl that just showed up and became an employee, and the mean girl gossips in town. Tamara's sisters, Karen and Lisa also pop in and out, as well as a trip to the annual Coleman family reunion. There's no big drama, though. No dangerous happenings. This is a totally character-driven love story.
November 4, 2017
This one had a slow burn, but paid off great in the end. It was interesting to see Tamara win over everyone at the Stone Ranch. It wasn't easy, the girls were very hesitant and Caleb was fighting his feelings and the past. But every time Tamara made progress with everyone you smiled. There were times Tamara took an unusual path, but it was what everyone needed.
I loved the ending, loved that everyone was involved in the change that was happening to the family.
I loved the ending, loved that everyone was involved in the change that was happening to the family.
March 21, 2022
Family plays a huge role in this second chance at love and romance.
From little 7 and 9 year old girls to the longtime ranch foreman the Stones are a tight knit group.
However there is a hole to fill and new Nanny Tamara is just the woman for that job!
Especially for Caleb and his young daughters Emma and Sasha.
Heartwarming story that has a lot of moving pieces worth exploring more of past this excellent start to the series.
From little 7 and 9 year old girls to the longtime ranch foreman the Stones are a tight knit group.
However there is a hole to fill and new Nanny Tamara is just the woman for that job!
Especially for Caleb and his young daughters Emma and Sasha.
Heartwarming story that has a lot of moving pieces worth exploring more of past this excellent start to the series.
November 27, 2017
2.5 stars rounded up
For a sweet, quick read but with too much caricature for me : there was nothing the almost saint-like heroin couldn’t achieve or understand ...
Some good secondary characters.
For a sweet, quick read but with too much caricature for me : there was nothing the almost saint-like heroin couldn’t achieve or understand ...
Some good secondary characters.
March 9, 2023
Well, cowboys are just what the doctor ordered.
November 1, 2017
This story is a slow burn, with little flashes of passion, but it is set to simmer for the first two-thirds before the fireworks start. This book is about falling in love, trusting in love, and finding that love, when you had been so disasteredly let down by love before
Caleb had done everything right, yet ended up so wrong. His parents, and their friends, died suddenly in a car crash and he was left with his three younger siblings, and their friends daughter, to raise. His brother was barely an adult to help him out. Add in a new wife and two daughters of his own shortly afterward, and he made it, but barely. Both his marriage and his girls suffered, but his wife is gone now. She did damage while she was there, but she made a lasting hole and turmoil when she left. Neither Caleb or the girls trust they won't be left behind again. So despite his firey attraction to Tamara Coleman, he locks it down, well, as best he can
This story leaves you with the feeling of being wrapped in a warm blanket. It is heartwarming, it is sad, it has laughs, and it has you cheering for the characters. It also has some extremely sexy scenes, and a few times with some handsomely made cowboys, so all good!
Caleb had done everything right, yet ended up so wrong. His parents, and their friends, died suddenly in a car crash and he was left with his three younger siblings, and their friends daughter, to raise. His brother was barely an adult to help him out. Add in a new wife and two daughters of his own shortly afterward, and he made it, but barely. Both his marriage and his girls suffered, but his wife is gone now. She did damage while she was there, but she made a lasting hole and turmoil when she left. Neither Caleb or the girls trust they won't be left behind again. So despite his firey attraction to Tamara Coleman, he locks it down, well, as best he can
This story leaves you with the feeling of being wrapped in a warm blanket. It is heartwarming, it is sad, it has laughs, and it has you cheering for the characters. It also has some extremely sexy scenes, and a few times with some handsomely made cowboys, so all good!
June 12, 2018
Arend took a plot that could have been just another typical romance complete with overused scenarios and hit it out of the park with this heart-felt, slow-burn romance involving a hot rancher who hires a nanny to care for his two adorable little girls and then fights falling for her every step of the way. He was burned once and doesn't intend to make the same mistake twice. The attraction between hero/heroine is immediate, but both fight it choosing to place concern for the girls first. This is a family over-flowing with love, but fighting trust issues stemming from the hero's ex and the girl's mother abandoning them early in their lives. The plot, setting, and characters feel real, and I was glad to see the author avoid needless drama just for the sake of drama. The story unfolds in a way that makes you feel it all - their love and trust growing and . . . oh the sexual tension between H/h threatening to explode any minute. A Rancher's Heart is a well-written, welcome break from the ordinary romance in any genre. A Must Read! I can't wait to continue with book 2, A Rancher's Song.
November 30, 2017
3 1/2 Stars!
This one is a very, VERY slow burn. But that's not my problem with it, not really. My problem is it's a slow burn for SO LONG and then it's a freakin' rush to wrap up the book and HEA. The combination left me underwhelmed and disappointed. Still, I did enjoy the overall story, and cannot wait for the rest of this series.
~ * ~ * ~ * ~
I will be talking about the book on my next Whatcha Reading? podcast which will go up on TBQ's Book Palace Saturday (12/2).
If you wish to look at some quotes/thoughts I highlighted, please check out my Twitter feed
This one is a very, VERY slow burn. But that's not my problem with it, not really. My problem is it's a slow burn for SO LONG and then it's a freakin' rush to wrap up the book and HEA. The combination left me underwhelmed and disappointed. Still, I did enjoy the overall story, and cannot wait for the rest of this series.
~ * ~ * ~ * ~
I will be talking about the book on my next Whatcha Reading? podcast which will go up on TBQ's Book Palace Saturday (12/2).
If you wish to look at some quotes/thoughts I highlighted, please check out my Twitter feed
February 2, 2018
I love Arend's Granite Lake Wolves series, so I was hoping for some smokin' hot cowboy loving!
A Rancher's Heart is just...nice. No drama, no meddling family, no meddling ex....just two older (30's and almost 40) people and the kids that threw them together in this situation. For me, I never felt the chemistry between them. I wanted HOT! I got lukewarm.
I'm not saying this isn't something you should pick up, but if you're looking for something steamy, this isn't it. I won't be reading any more in this series.
A Rancher's Heart is just...nice. No drama, no meddling family, no meddling ex....just two older (30's and almost 40) people and the kids that threw them together in this situation. For me, I never felt the chemistry between them. I wanted HOT! I got lukewarm.
I'm not saying this isn't something you should pick up, but if you're looking for something steamy, this isn't it. I won't be reading any more in this series.
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