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Four Corners Ranch #4
The Rough Rider
Return to Maisey Yates’s fan-favorite Four Corners for a marriage of convenience between two unlikely souls—a hopeless romantic and a man who has long given up hope
When Alaina finds herself pregnant and alone, she knows she’s in a tight spot. Small towns like hers tend to raise eyebrows at unwed mothers and she knows the vicious gossip mill will soon be churning. Thankfully, her ruggedly stoic childhood protector, Gus McCloud, knows a thing or two about guarding secrets. Offering Alaina a marriage on paper is the least he can do.
As a hardworking rancher, Gus is well equipped to provide for Alaina and her baby. And despite plans for a solitary life, he wants to. He knows what it’s like to be an outsider, especially after a traumatic childhood left him with scars inside and out. Alaina has long dreamed of a fairy-tale romance, but as the growing fire between her and Gus starts feeling real enough to burn, she questions what that means. Maybe her fake marriage to Gus is the real love she’s been missing all along.
When Alaina finds herself pregnant and alone, she knows she’s in a tight spot. Small towns like hers tend to raise eyebrows at unwed mothers and she knows the vicious gossip mill will soon be churning. Thankfully, her ruggedly stoic childhood protector, Gus McCloud, knows a thing or two about guarding secrets. Offering Alaina a marriage on paper is the least he can do.
As a hardworking rancher, Gus is well equipped to provide for Alaina and her baby. And despite plans for a solitary life, he wants to. He knows what it’s like to be an outsider, especially after a traumatic childhood left him with scars inside and out. Alaina has long dreamed of a fairy-tale romance, but as the growing fire between her and Gus starts feeling real enough to burn, she questions what that means. Maybe her fake marriage to Gus is the real love she’s been missing all along.
379 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published July 25, 2023
127 people are currently reading
3090 people want to read
About the author
Maisey Yates
1,161 books2,995 followersNew York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Maisey Yates lives in rural Oregon with her three children and her husband, whose chiseled jaw and arresting features continue to make her swoon. She feels the epic trek she takes several times a day from her office to her coffee maker is a true example of her pioneer spirit. In 2009, at the age of twenty-three Maisey sold her first book.
Since then it’s been a whirlwind of sexy alpha males and happily ever afters, and she wouldn’t have it any other way. Maisey divides her writing time between dark, passionate category romances set just about everywhere on earth and light sexy contemporary romances set practically in her back yard.
She believes that she clearly has the best job in the world.
Since then it’s been a whirlwind of sexy alpha males and happily ever afters, and she wouldn’t have it any other way. Maisey divides her writing time between dark, passionate category romances set just about everywhere on earth and light sexy contemporary romances set practically in her back yard.
She believes that she clearly has the best job in the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
December 6, 2024
I knew Gus’s story would be the heart cutter. The pain he experienced went deeper than the burns and scars his body and face revealed. I do love a scarred hero, both emotionally and physically. Alaina was his match in every way, even though she was 23 and he was 36. Marriage of convenience too! The abuse Gus suffered from his Father made him such a fierce protector of his siblings and Alaina which is one of the reasons he “volunteered as tribute” when she had her oops moment (gotta read to find out) no spoilers. These books are just such ooey gooey goodness with the emotional depth that intensifies the reading experience. Maisey Yates is becoming a favorite fast!!
July 25, 2023
All through this series, I knew Gus would break my heart. I was right. He’s a character you want to take back to childhood and give him love and affection and, most of all, protection. Being the oldest in an abusive home turned Gus into a fierce protector from an early age. When their mom left, it put an even great burden on the child to be the first line of defense. But who was protecting Gus?
Alaina is one of those people Gus has put under his protective umbrella. He likes to act as though he only cares about his brothers and his land, but Gus cares deeply about a lot. Such as his neighbor Alaina. There’s a bit of an age gap between Alaina and Gus, but she always struck him as a firecracker ready to explode. He didn’t ever want to tamp down that flame, but still always felt led to keep her safe. Until one day he looked up and realized she was no longer a child, but a woman. He still tried to protect her by shoving his new feelings way down, never allowing anyone to even suspect his desires because Gus feels he is not worthy. He does not feel lovable or important enough to ever deserve someone so alive and wonderful.
I have my issues with parts of Alaina’s story. I definitely look at surprise pregnancy stories differently than I did 10 or even 5 years ago. There are parts of this particular story that are beautiful when it comes to how Gus is all in on being the father and his feelings toward this as yet unborn baby are never questioned. But this isn’t Gus’s biological baby, he steps in to marry Alaina to help her to save face when she gets pregnant from a one-night stand. That’s fine. I have no problems with that either. In fact, I appreciate the thoughts and feelings Alaina has about that incident. It’s more so that there’s never really any discussion about options. That made the beginning of this story, until I settled into the feelings between Gus and Alaina and that part of the story, a bit hard for me to swallow.
That all being said, this is an amazing story. I love the connection Alaina and Gus have and have always had. I’m glad Alaina was able to speak up for her wants and needs and demand what she deserves. This book started with the possibility of falling into a rut of a young woman needing a man to make her way in life and to deal with her troubles, instead, it turned into a woman demanding equal footing both physically and emotionally.
**I received an ARC of this book courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely**
You can find more of my reviews at All In Good Time.
Alaina is one of those people Gus has put under his protective umbrella. He likes to act as though he only cares about his brothers and his land, but Gus cares deeply about a lot. Such as his neighbor Alaina. There’s a bit of an age gap between Alaina and Gus, but she always struck him as a firecracker ready to explode. He didn’t ever want to tamp down that flame, but still always felt led to keep her safe. Until one day he looked up and realized she was no longer a child, but a woman. He still tried to protect her by shoving his new feelings way down, never allowing anyone to even suspect his desires because Gus feels he is not worthy. He does not feel lovable or important enough to ever deserve someone so alive and wonderful.
I have my issues with parts of Alaina’s story. I definitely look at surprise pregnancy stories differently than I did 10 or even 5 years ago. There are parts of this particular story that are beautiful when it comes to how Gus is all in on being the father and his feelings toward this as yet unborn baby are never questioned. But this isn’t Gus’s biological baby, he steps in to marry Alaina to help her to save face when she gets pregnant from a one-night stand. That’s fine. I have no problems with that either. In fact, I appreciate the thoughts and feelings Alaina has about that incident. It’s more so that there’s never really any discussion about options. That made the beginning of this story, until I settled into the feelings between Gus and Alaina and that part of the story, a bit hard for me to swallow.
That all being said, this is an amazing story. I love the connection Alaina and Gus have and have always had. I’m glad Alaina was able to speak up for her wants and needs and demand what she deserves. This book started with the possibility of falling into a rut of a young woman needing a man to make her way in life and to deal with her troubles, instead, it turned into a woman demanding equal footing both physically and emotionally.
**I received an ARC of this book courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely**
You can find more of my reviews at All In Good Time.
March 18, 2024
This is the 4th book in the Four Corners Series and the first I read. Definitely can be read as a standalone but this was so good I will be backtracking to read the previous books. Your heart will go out to Gus, the oldest of his siblings and the protector of his little brothers from their physically abusive father. When their mother decided to leave before her husband kills her, he turns his anger on his boys. Trying to save his brother from a beating has Gus running for his life. The scars are still with Gus inside and on the outside. Everyone keeps their distance from him and he is fine with that, but little Alaina, the spitfire always has a smile for him. Never afraid of the scars that cover his face and then she grows up and the sweet little girl is now a woman. A woman that now has Gus lusting for.
Alaina is the youngest of four sisters and never really fits in. Always a daddy girl, but then daddy left and mom left a couple years afterwards, she couldn’t live with the memories. Fi the oldest sister has kept the ranch and girls all together but it wasn’t what Alaina saw as her future. Taking things into her own hands she has a one night stay that left her pregnant and the man doesn’t want or care. When Gus sees Alaina throwing up at a town’s meeting and discovers she is pregnant his protector instants takes over and the last thing he ever thought he would do. He tells her we are getting married.
Many topics are covered in this story, physical and mental abuse, trust issues, growing up and learning to stand up for what you want. It’s a gripping story that has you turning pages. I only thing that I thought was Alaina seemed very immature for someone who is 24 years old, but she does finally realize it’s time to grow up and stand up for what she wants. Thank you NetGalley for this eARC. I am voluntarily posting an honest review after reading an Advance Reader Copy of this story. #NetGalley #TheRoughRider
Alaina is the youngest of four sisters and never really fits in. Always a daddy girl, but then daddy left and mom left a couple years afterwards, she couldn’t live with the memories. Fi the oldest sister has kept the ranch and girls all together but it wasn’t what Alaina saw as her future. Taking things into her own hands she has a one night stay that left her pregnant and the man doesn’t want or care. When Gus sees Alaina throwing up at a town’s meeting and discovers she is pregnant his protector instants takes over and the last thing he ever thought he would do. He tells her we are getting married.
Many topics are covered in this story, physical and mental abuse, trust issues, growing up and learning to stand up for what you want. It’s a gripping story that has you turning pages. I only thing that I thought was Alaina seemed very immature for someone who is 24 years old, but she does finally realize it’s time to grow up and stand up for what she wants. Thank you NetGalley for this eARC. I am voluntarily posting an honest review after reading an Advance Reader Copy of this story. #NetGalley #TheRoughRider
April 10, 2025
3.5⭐️
August 1, 2023
ARC received from Netgalley
As I was reading this and got more involved I realized why I was enjoying it so much. Yes, I loved the characters - Gus is someone I could definitely spend time with. And the story itself, whereas slightly predictable is thoroughly enjoyable. But for me this was all about how my amazing Aunt has given many of her books and I have read them over the years. This made me so happy and I am so glad I got to read this book.
As I was reading this and got more involved I realized why I was enjoying it so much. Yes, I loved the characters - Gus is someone I could definitely spend time with. And the story itself, whereas slightly predictable is thoroughly enjoyable. But for me this was all about how my amazing Aunt has given many of her books and I have read them over the years. This made me so happy and I am so glad I got to read this book.
July 25, 2023
I don't understand why so many western romances have the baby boomer generation being so abusive to their children, as I have been reading too many of them from this author and others. I hope it isn't a real thing, as I am a baby boomer and I don't think that is what we were about.
I did not read the three previous stories, but could easily fill in the lines from the back stories the author provided. That only encourages me to go read those too. As I wrote above, the parents of the main two characters were mentally and physiaclly abusive and left scars on their children. Gus was the oldest of his brothers. First their mother abandoned them, before their abusive father killed her, but she left her boys behind, promising Gus that she would come back for them. She didn't. The other neighbors did nothing either. While protecting his brothers, Gus's father locked him in a shed and then lit it on fire. He managed to escape, but not without painful physical scars dn fears that he would become his father. He was only 13, but soon as he was larger, he made sure his father was gone from the ranch. His brothers also have the abandonment issues from their mother and the guilt of what happened to their brother, protecting them. The only light in his life, is little Alaina Sullivan, his neighbor. Both her parents also walked out on their girls. Eleven years his junior, he has been pulling her out of scraps her entire life. When he finds out that she is pregnant and the father wants nothing to do with her or the baby, he proposes a marriage of convenience. What he doesn't tell her, is that he has actually been lusting after her, since she became a woman, but he is all about being a martyr. Slowly she manages to worm herself into his life, body and heart. His challenge is to let go of the past and give her his heart. It is an engaging story, though parts of it got a it repetitive and it is hard not to feel for both Alaina and Gus.
I read an ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.com. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
I did not read the three previous stories, but could easily fill in the lines from the back stories the author provided. That only encourages me to go read those too. As I wrote above, the parents of the main two characters were mentally and physiaclly abusive and left scars on their children. Gus was the oldest of his brothers. First their mother abandoned them, before their abusive father killed her, but she left her boys behind, promising Gus that she would come back for them. She didn't. The other neighbors did nothing either. While protecting his brothers, Gus's father locked him in a shed and then lit it on fire. He managed to escape, but not without painful physical scars dn fears that he would become his father. He was only 13, but soon as he was larger, he made sure his father was gone from the ranch. His brothers also have the abandonment issues from their mother and the guilt of what happened to their brother, protecting them. The only light in his life, is little Alaina Sullivan, his neighbor. Both her parents also walked out on their girls. Eleven years his junior, he has been pulling her out of scraps her entire life. When he finds out that she is pregnant and the father wants nothing to do with her or the baby, he proposes a marriage of convenience. What he doesn't tell her, is that he has actually been lusting after her, since she became a woman, but he is all about being a martyr. Slowly she manages to worm herself into his life, body and heart. His challenge is to let go of the past and give her his heart. It is an engaging story, though parts of it got a it repetitive and it is hard not to feel for both Alaina and Gus.
I read an ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.com. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
July 27, 2023
I haven't struggled so hard to finish a book in a long time. I would've DNF'd it at 23% if I wasn't holding out hope for more of a storyline, and I liked the male lead. The entire book was about their own childhood trauma and how they couldn't move past it, unless it was to get it on.
August 3, 2023
Alayna had a crush on Hunter but she’s going to wind up marrying his brother Angus. When she found out her best friend was dating Hunter she decided to go out with what she thought was the next best option and she wound up in back of his truck and a month later pregnant. Needless to say she’s not a big fan of SEX. So the night of the bonfire and group meeting Angus sees her run out of the barn when they announce Hunter is marrying elsie. it seems Angus is always around when Alayna need saving but this time it will come in the form of a marriage announcement and Fia isn’t happy about it at all and actually none of the Sullivan sisters are. In four corners everyone knows everyone else’s business but will others find out that Kennedy is really the babies daddy and not Angus and even though Angus is older than Alina And everyone thinks him a murderer will that stop Alayna from falling for the good looking brooding cowboy? I love Macy Yates books and although this is the first one I have read from the four corners collection I will definitely read the rest the spot has the right amount of drama and sweet romance to clinch any lover of Love‘s appetite. I am not a big fan of books about men and women who sleep around but there is something about a great Macy Yates romance that I cannot pass up an in this book The Rough Rider you definitely see why. I hope Fia‘s book is next but no matter who’s next I’m down to read it. This is a book I highly recommend there are no detailed sex scenes but lots of sweet romance I want to think net galley and Harlequin trade romance for my free Ark copy please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
July 23, 2023
You may need tissues handy as you read this book. I certainly did. The two main characters, Alaina and Gus, have survived very painful experiences from their childhoods. Abandonment issues, as well as physical and mental abuses have made them feel unworthy of love. They are wary of exposing their hearts to more hurt, though somehow they feel connected to each other. The physical scars Gus bears are a reminder of a heinous crime against him, but his worst scars are the ones he carries deep within himself. He has protected and watched over his siblings for years, and Alaina has garnered his protection too ever since he rescued her from drowning when she was five. He has watched her grow and blossom into a young woman, and has hidden his attraction to her for years.
Alaina has been smitten with Gus’s brother for years, but when her best friend claims him for herself, Alaina’s disappointment and hurt lead her into the arms of another. A unexpected pregnancy and another rejection leave her feeling more alone than ever. Gus is the first to notice Alaina’s morning sickness and once again steps up to rescue her. He offers her a marriage of convenience and she grudgingly accepts. Gus never thought he would get married or have children, (his scars and rumours about about him keep most people away), but he steps up to help Alaina so she and her child won’t be looked down upon. He tells her he is doing it for honour, but deep down he knows he is marrying her in order to have her close. As their story continues, feelings change and deepen, their relationship becomes more intimate and both must wrestle with their demons, their fears and doubts in an attempt to decide what they want from each other. They eventually find the courage to fight for and accept love between them.
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Alaina has been smitten with Gus’s brother for years, but when her best friend claims him for herself, Alaina’s disappointment and hurt lead her into the arms of another. A unexpected pregnancy and another rejection leave her feeling more alone than ever. Gus is the first to notice Alaina’s morning sickness and once again steps up to rescue her. He offers her a marriage of convenience and she grudgingly accepts. Gus never thought he would get married or have children, (his scars and rumours about about him keep most people away), but he steps up to help Alaina so she and her child won’t be looked down upon. He tells her he is doing it for honour, but deep down he knows he is marrying her in order to have her close. As their story continues, feelings change and deepen, their relationship becomes more intimate and both must wrestle with their demons, their fears and doubts in an attempt to decide what they want from each other. They eventually find the courage to fight for and accept love between them.
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
November 6, 2023
~~~ I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review ~~
I enjoyed The Rough Rider so much! It was one of those books you get sucked into til the wee hours of the morning when you're supposed to be sleeping. This book is the story of Alaina and Gus (Angus). They have known each other since childhood and Gus has always watched out for her, but the ultimate test of his protection is faced with a marriage proposal. The story follows the development of their relationship as they face their traumatic pasts and feelings. The characters of this book are so well written and their chemistry jumps off the pages (there are some quite "smexy" scenes fyi). Overall, this is a book about love, healing, survival, and family. I have only read a couple of the other books in the Four Corners Ranch series and will definitely be reading the rest. Highly recommend this book!
I enjoyed The Rough Rider so much! It was one of those books you get sucked into til the wee hours of the morning when you're supposed to be sleeping. This book is the story of Alaina and Gus (Angus). They have known each other since childhood and Gus has always watched out for her, but the ultimate test of his protection is faced with a marriage proposal. The story follows the development of their relationship as they face their traumatic pasts and feelings. The characters of this book are so well written and their chemistry jumps off the pages (there are some quite "smexy" scenes fyi). Overall, this is a book about love, healing, survival, and family. I have only read a couple of the other books in the Four Corners Ranch series and will definitely be reading the rest. Highly recommend this book!
August 20, 2023
This was a wonderful story of how so many of us have come from disfunctional families and we strive to be better. It is heartbreaking at times but heartwarming as well. Truly a great book.
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August 12, 2024needed to read this to distract myself from actually having to pack to go back to moho :(
August 22, 2025
I can’t even lie I ate this up
June 12, 2023
ARC was provided by Edelweiss and the publisher.
RTC.
RTC.
July 27, 2023
problematic all around
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September 10, 2024☆☆ YouTube | Tumblr | Instagram | Storygraph ☆☆
We Are VERY Deep -- August Reading Wrap Up || 9 books!
I was so so so impressed with the character work done in this book! I’m talking Emily Henry worthy depth being explored in both Alaina and Gus’s backgrounds. Alaina’s got abandonment issues and Gus, well, he’s got some physical scars to go along with the mental ones. Their trauma both felt really well presented and the healing we see them go through to realize that they’re both worthy of love and care was so incredibly sweet.
That said… there are two big reasons I ended up dnfing this. One, the age gap between these two felt so awkwardly handled. Gus regularly calls her mite, which is a pet name that makes me think of a younger sibling or a niece, not a romantic partner. The memories they each bring up really exacerbated the difference in their ages and made it seem like they’ve always had a sibling like relationship, at least in my eyes. Also Gus having lusted after her since she became of age just felt like a really odd detail to include and again, reminds me that there’s eleven years between them. It just makes for a power imbalance that I don’t love.
I also didn’t love how both of them got weirdly possessive of the other when someone of the opposite sex interacted with them. Both immediately go to insert themselves in the middle of the situation and make their identity as spouse known to the unsuspecting person. After Gus does this though, he pops off on Alaina in a way that just seemed like such an extreme overreaction. This whole thing stemmed from their refusal to acknowledge feelings for the other, but he turns it into her issue and also slut shames her for the attention. That’s not romantic.
The initial set up of the story seemed a little silly, but I was actually having fun with the marriage of convenience trope, though it seemed likeeveryone was in on it, so I didn’t feel they really had a need to lie and make the arrangement in the first place. They did have some great banter and I was really falling for Gus the more we learned about his background, (listen, I love a grumpy cinnamon roll with trauma) which I think made his glaring red flag display more frustrating and more of a downfall.
This very much became a not for me book. I don’t think it’s bad, just used tropes I don’t like, but off of the character work, I'd be willing to try something else from Yates.
We Are VERY Deep -- August Reading Wrap Up || 9 books!
I was so so so impressed with the character work done in this book! I’m talking Emily Henry worthy depth being explored in both Alaina and Gus’s backgrounds. Alaina’s got abandonment issues and Gus, well, he’s got some physical scars to go along with the mental ones. Their trauma both felt really well presented and the healing we see them go through to realize that they’re both worthy of love and care was so incredibly sweet.
That said… there are two big reasons I ended up dnfing this. One, the age gap between these two felt so awkwardly handled. Gus regularly calls her mite, which is a pet name that makes me think of a younger sibling or a niece, not a romantic partner. The memories they each bring up really exacerbated the difference in their ages and made it seem like they’ve always had a sibling like relationship, at least in my eyes. Also Gus having lusted after her since she became of age just felt like a really odd detail to include and again, reminds me that there’s eleven years between them. It just makes for a power imbalance that I don’t love.
I also didn’t love how both of them got weirdly possessive of the other when someone of the opposite sex interacted with them. Both immediately go to insert themselves in the middle of the situation and make their identity as spouse known to the unsuspecting person. After Gus does this though, he pops off on Alaina in a way that just seemed like such an extreme overreaction. This whole thing stemmed from their refusal to acknowledge feelings for the other, but he turns it into her issue and also slut shames her for the attention. That’s not romantic.
The initial set up of the story seemed a little silly, but I was actually having fun with the marriage of convenience trope, though it seemed likeeveryone was in on it, so I didn’t feel they really had a need to lie and make the arrangement in the first place. They did have some great banter and I was really falling for Gus the more we learned about his background, (listen, I love a grumpy cinnamon roll with trauma) which I think made his glaring red flag display more frustrating and more of a downfall.
This very much became a not for me book. I don’t think it’s bad, just used tropes I don’t like, but off of the character work, I'd be willing to try something else from Yates.
July 31, 2023
Alaina Sullivan has made a terrible mistake, but she has no idea what to do about it. Gus McCloud has always been Alaina's protector from the time she was a little girl. Will Gus be able to protect Alaina from her mistake while still guarding his heart? That is a very gross understatement of the gist of this story.
Both Alaina and Gus are very damaged people, and they are also immature in many ways. The author gave each of them very large growth curves, but I think that Gus had the more emotionally draining story. I don't want to go into a lot of details because the story builds on itself so I could end up ruining the flow. The author introduces the fact that Gus was burned as a child and still has the scars from the incident. Also, people in town this Gus killed his father when he was 18. Those facts set up a lot of what drives both characters to grow and change. Alaina has issues with her parents, but her biggest issue is immaturity. She has a lot of realizations during the course of the story that make her grow up pretty quickly. The author did not take the easy route and have people enter the story just to cause angst instead choosing to have the characters work thru their personal demons.
This story has a very specific writing style that I found to be annoying at times. I could never fully drop into the pacing of the writing, so I did not feel fully invested until the very end when everything finally comes together. Also, this story uses repetition to push the story along. The problem was that some of the repetition just felt like repetition with no measurable value and some of it felt like maybe the characters knew something only to later reveal that the characters did not know it. I don't want to give the biggest example because it is one of the big reveals at the end, but pieces and parts were repeated so often that I was surprised to find that no everyone knew.
In the end, this story has a true and painful emotional punch. I was screaming for the characters to get professional counseling. They seriously need counseling! This story takes place in Oregon on a ranch called Four Corners. This story is part of a much larger world that takes place in Four Corners. I seriously thought about giving this book a 3-star review but in the end the conclusion has such a punch, I had to give it 4 stars. Will I read more from this author? Maybe. Sometimes a book can be good, but I just don't enjoy the writing style and I don't necessarily want to spend my reading time that way
Both Alaina and Gus are very damaged people, and they are also immature in many ways. The author gave each of them very large growth curves, but I think that Gus had the more emotionally draining story. I don't want to go into a lot of details because the story builds on itself so I could end up ruining the flow. The author introduces the fact that Gus was burned as a child and still has the scars from the incident. Also, people in town this Gus killed his father when he was 18. Those facts set up a lot of what drives both characters to grow and change. Alaina has issues with her parents, but her biggest issue is immaturity. She has a lot of realizations during the course of the story that make her grow up pretty quickly. The author did not take the easy route and have people enter the story just to cause angst instead choosing to have the characters work thru their personal demons.
This story has a very specific writing style that I found to be annoying at times. I could never fully drop into the pacing of the writing, so I did not feel fully invested until the very end when everything finally comes together. Also, this story uses repetition to push the story along. The problem was that some of the repetition just felt like repetition with no measurable value and some of it felt like maybe the characters knew something only to later reveal that the characters did not know it. I don't want to give the biggest example because it is one of the big reveals at the end, but pieces and parts were repeated so often that I was surprised to find that no everyone knew.
In the end, this story has a true and painful emotional punch. I was screaming for the characters to get professional counseling. They seriously need counseling! This story takes place in Oregon on a ranch called Four Corners. This story is part of a much larger world that takes place in Four Corners. I seriously thought about giving this book a 3-star review but in the end the conclusion has such a punch, I had to give it 4 stars. Will I read more from this author? Maybe. Sometimes a book can be good, but I just don't enjoy the writing style and I don't necessarily want to spend my reading time that way
August 4, 2023
4.5 stars
Once again this was another emotional, gut wrenching love story featuring two broken characters featuring family trauma. But this one had to have the most traumatized hero that Maisey Yates has ever written in the character of Gus. It was utterly heartbreaking of what had happened to him in his past, and how he protected everyone around him, and gave all the love in the world to others, while yearning for himself, but never really voicing it out loud for fear of the rejection. It just got to me on so many levels. Even though he never voiced the words, it was clear that he loved Alaina for years and showed it in many different ways, even when he didn’t voice it even when she asked for it. It was just very hard for him to do as well as except love from others for fear of being disappointed by love one once again, just like his mother disappoint him. It was raw, and it was deep and it was hard to read at the end. He most deservedly needed his happy ending that he got it at the end. Alaina went through the trauma too, but not to the extent of Gus.
The tension and angst between them was something else. The passion and attraction was just built up over the pages. It was a really good development as they built up intimacy between them. The chemistry kept growing and feelings got deeper until they finally exploded. I loved it took them a while before they gave into their feelings. As they spent more time together, the more intense it became, and they really became each other’s person. It was beautiful and heartfelt. They belonged together.
Admittedly, though, it did feel a little dragged out at the end before they got their true happily ever after. I did feel that it was a powder, and then I have read and other Maisey books before, and I felt like I already read this ending with the pushing away in the tester at the end. It just didn’t feel anything different, which was made it feel it drag a bit.
Once again, I love the whole small town of Four Corners, and the four families. The family dynamics just added so much dimension to the story as well as helping deal with emotional traumas that we’re going on in each others lives. I just loved their rapports and support of each other. It was just beautiful to see them help each other heal and will continue to do so and further books in the series. I can’t wait for more books in the series featuring the Sullivan sisters and the McLeod brothers. The family is definitely the heart and soul of the series.
Once again this was another emotional, gut wrenching love story featuring two broken characters featuring family trauma. But this one had to have the most traumatized hero that Maisey Yates has ever written in the character of Gus. It was utterly heartbreaking of what had happened to him in his past, and how he protected everyone around him, and gave all the love in the world to others, while yearning for himself, but never really voicing it out loud for fear of the rejection. It just got to me on so many levels. Even though he never voiced the words, it was clear that he loved Alaina for years and showed it in many different ways, even when he didn’t voice it even when she asked for it. It was just very hard for him to do as well as except love from others for fear of being disappointed by love one once again, just like his mother disappoint him. It was raw, and it was deep and it was hard to read at the end. He most deservedly needed his happy ending that he got it at the end. Alaina went through the trauma too, but not to the extent of Gus.
The tension and angst between them was something else. The passion and attraction was just built up over the pages. It was a really good development as they built up intimacy between them. The chemistry kept growing and feelings got deeper until they finally exploded. I loved it took them a while before they gave into their feelings. As they spent more time together, the more intense it became, and they really became each other’s person. It was beautiful and heartfelt. They belonged together.
Admittedly, though, it did feel a little dragged out at the end before they got their true happily ever after. I did feel that it was a powder, and then I have read and other Maisey books before, and I felt like I already read this ending with the pushing away in the tester at the end. It just didn’t feel anything different, which was made it feel it drag a bit.
Once again, I love the whole small town of Four Corners, and the four families. The family dynamics just added so much dimension to the story as well as helping deal with emotional traumas that we’re going on in each others lives. I just loved their rapports and support of each other. It was just beautiful to see them help each other heal and will continue to do so and further books in the series. I can’t wait for more books in the series featuring the Sullivan sisters and the McLeod brothers. The family is definitely the heart and soul of the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 11, 2023
The Rough Rider by Maisey Yates is a story that lovers of sexy and romantic cowboys definitely don’t want to miss! I found myself swooning, laughing, and even shedding some tears as I journeyed through this story. I love the trope of “marriage of convenience” or “fake-relationship-to-love” and I think Yates did a wonderful job bringing two lost people together who were perfect for each other.
As noted in the blurb, “When Alaina finds herself pregnant and alone, she knows she’s in a tight spot. Small towns like hers tend to raise eyebrows at unwed mothers, and she knows the vicious gossip mill will soon be churning. Thankfully, her ruggedly stoic childhood protector, Gus McCloud, knows a thing or two about guarding secrets. Offering Alaina a marriage on paper is the least he can do.
As a hardworking rancher, Gus is well equipped to provide for Alaina and her baby. And despite plans for a solitary life, he wants to. He knows what it’s like to be an outsider, especially after a traumatic childhood left him with scars inside and out. Alaina has long dreamed of a fairy-tale romance, but as the growing fire between her and Gus starts feeling real enough to burn, she questions what that means. Maybe her fake marriage to Gus is the real love she’s been missing all along.”
I absolutely loved Gus McCloud! He is everything the perfect book boyfriend should be. It took me a bit longer to warm up to Alaina - she just didn’t realize what she had soon enough for me - she did eventually grow on me. 😉 Also I have not read any other books in this series but I have added them to my #TBR pile.
I recommend this book and rate it 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📚Disclosure: I received a review copy of this #book Harlequin Publishing via #Netgalley. All thoughts, opinions, comments, and interpretations of the story are my own and bias free. I did not receive any money in exchange for this review. Thank you to the publisher/author for allowing me the opportunity to review. Reviews are usually cross-posted to social media, goodreads, bookbub, and blog. 🦄
As noted in the blurb, “When Alaina finds herself pregnant and alone, she knows she’s in a tight spot. Small towns like hers tend to raise eyebrows at unwed mothers, and she knows the vicious gossip mill will soon be churning. Thankfully, her ruggedly stoic childhood protector, Gus McCloud, knows a thing or two about guarding secrets. Offering Alaina a marriage on paper is the least he can do.
As a hardworking rancher, Gus is well equipped to provide for Alaina and her baby. And despite plans for a solitary life, he wants to. He knows what it’s like to be an outsider, especially after a traumatic childhood left him with scars inside and out. Alaina has long dreamed of a fairy-tale romance, but as the growing fire between her and Gus starts feeling real enough to burn, she questions what that means. Maybe her fake marriage to Gus is the real love she’s been missing all along.”
I absolutely loved Gus McCloud! He is everything the perfect book boyfriend should be. It took me a bit longer to warm up to Alaina - she just didn’t realize what she had soon enough for me - she did eventually grow on me. 😉 Also I have not read any other books in this series but I have added them to my #TBR pile.
I recommend this book and rate it 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📚Disclosure: I received a review copy of this #book Harlequin Publishing via #Netgalley. All thoughts, opinions, comments, and interpretations of the story are my own and bias free. I did not receive any money in exchange for this review. Thank you to the publisher/author for allowing me the opportunity to review. Reviews are usually cross-posted to social media, goodreads, bookbub, and blog. 🦄
November 9, 2025
Alaina had wanted Hunter McCloud, but when her best friend gets with him -- and decides to marry him -- she moves on pretty quick... and has a one night stand with a ranch hand. Who knocks her up and leaves her on her own. But when Gus McCloud finds out what happened, he offers to take care of her and the baby by marrying her. Because Gus has always been her protector -- always been everyone's protector -- and he can't think of a better way to help her than by being there for this child as their father. But after his awful childhood, Gus couldn't want a family any less, but as Alaina starts falling for him and he learns what it really means to be there, both as a husband and a father, he'll have to decide if he's willing to work through that childhood trauma and become a better man for his family. Because that fake marriage is starting to look very real, and Alaina knows that her and her baby need more than just a figurehead in their lives.
You've got a fake marriage, you've got a baby, you've got cowboys who are absolutely traumatized by their childhoods... this is pretty much the recipe for one of these books in this series so far (minus the baby for book three). Literally I could summarize all these books with "I can fix him" (again, except for book three where it's "I can fix her") and I'm pretty okay with this formula. There's not much substance here that hasn't already been explored in the previous books where you have cowboys who are very traumatized by their childhoods and their absentee parents, you have a girl who is traumatized by her own childhood, and one of them makes a breakthrough with overcoming their own issues and decides they're going to help the other person despite that person not wanting to be better or do better. And then realizing they need to do better for their family. I do like this series, and i'm loving the cowboy books right now, so I have pretty much no complaints. This is becoming a comforting series to read for me, despite all the childhood trauma drama.
You've got a fake marriage, you've got a baby, you've got cowboys who are absolutely traumatized by their childhoods... this is pretty much the recipe for one of these books in this series so far (minus the baby for book three). Literally I could summarize all these books with "I can fix him" (again, except for book three where it's "I can fix her") and I'm pretty okay with this formula. There's not much substance here that hasn't already been explored in the previous books where you have cowboys who are very traumatized by their childhoods and their absentee parents, you have a girl who is traumatized by her own childhood, and one of them makes a breakthrough with overcoming their own issues and decides they're going to help the other person despite that person not wanting to be better or do better. And then realizing they need to do better for their family. I do like this series, and i'm loving the cowboy books right now, so I have pretty much no complaints. This is becoming a comforting series to read for me, despite all the childhood trauma drama.
July 30, 2023
The Rough Rider by Maisey Yates, book four in her Four Corners series, is a deeply moving, beautifully written and emotional, story about Alaina Sullivan and Gus McCloud. There are few trigger topics in this story: physical and mental abuse, trust issues, growing up; you may need tissues nearby while reading this book. Alaina and Gus, have survived very painful experiences from their childhoods. Abandonment issues, as well as physical and mental abuses have made them feel unworthy of love.
Gus is the oldest of his siblings and protector of his little brothers from their physically abusive father. When their mother decided to leave before her husband kills her, their father turns his anger on his boys. Trying to save his brother from a beating has Gus running for his life. The scars are still with Gus inside and on the outside. Everyone keeps their distance from him, except for little Alaina, the spitfire always has a smile for him. Never afraid of the scars that cover his face, she grows up and the sweet little girl is now a woman; a woman that Gus is now desiring. Alaina is the youngest of four sisters and never really fits in. Always a daddy’s girl until he left followed by mom a couple years after; struggling to only live with the memories. Fiona the oldest sister has kept the ranch and girls all together but it wasn’t what Alaina saw as her future.
When Gus discovers that she is pregnant and the father wants nothing to do with her or the baby, he proposes a marriage of convenience. He tells her he is doing it for honor, but deep down he knows he is marrying her in order to have her close. Living together, their relationship becomes more intimate and both must wrestle with their demons, their fears and doubts in an attempt to decide what they want from each other. They eventually find the courage to fight for and accept the love between them. I highly recommend The Rough Rider to other readers.
Gus is the oldest of his siblings and protector of his little brothers from their physically abusive father. When their mother decided to leave before her husband kills her, their father turns his anger on his boys. Trying to save his brother from a beating has Gus running for his life. The scars are still with Gus inside and on the outside. Everyone keeps their distance from him, except for little Alaina, the spitfire always has a smile for him. Never afraid of the scars that cover his face, she grows up and the sweet little girl is now a woman; a woman that Gus is now desiring. Alaina is the youngest of four sisters and never really fits in. Always a daddy’s girl until he left followed by mom a couple years after; struggling to only live with the memories. Fiona the oldest sister has kept the ranch and girls all together but it wasn’t what Alaina saw as her future.
When Gus discovers that she is pregnant and the father wants nothing to do with her or the baby, he proposes a marriage of convenience. He tells her he is doing it for honor, but deep down he knows he is marrying her in order to have her close. Living together, their relationship becomes more intimate and both must wrestle with their demons, their fears and doubts in an attempt to decide what they want from each other. They eventually find the courage to fight for and accept the love between them. I highly recommend The Rough Rider to other readers.
August 1, 2023
The Rough Rider is the fourth novel in Maisey Yates Four Corners series. Youngest Sullivan sister Alaina discovers an unexpected pregnancy as the result of a single brief disappointing virginity losing interlude with a known womanizer. As she escapes the get together that follows a Four Corners Town Hall being held at the McClouds spread when she is overcome by nausea, it is the eldest McCloud brother Gus that follows to be sure she is okay. In his mid thirties to Alaina’s mid twenties, the big man who is covered by scars inside and out is a gentle giant with a growling persona, somewhat like the French author Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve’s fairy tale character from Beauty and the Beast. However, rather than this status be a witch’s spell, Gus is the victim of a brutally menacing father that attempted to kill him. What kept Gus going through months of recovery was the knowledge that he was all his younger brothers had to protect them.
With their father out of the picture and the brothers grown, Gus is still a protector at heart. When Gus discerns Alaina’s dilemma, he immediately proposes. He had not planned to ever have a wife or family, but in that moment all Gus knows is that he will be protector for Alaina and her child.
While Gus’s childhood was fraught with violence, Alaina’s was marked by desertion. First Alaina’s father walked away from the family and ranch when she was 11. Seven years later, her mother walked away from the pain of this loss when Alaina, the baby, reached 18. Both deeply scarred, Alaina and Gus expose each other’s vulnerabilities, but in doing so just may save each other after all.
Perhaps I am seeing too deeply, but I find that Ms. Yates has penned a perfectly modern day fairy tale with many life lessons regarding healing from one’s past to prepare for one’s future. This was a well woven story with deeply drawn characters in a rugged setting. I very much enjoyed the depth of this story and absolutely recommend it!
With their father out of the picture and the brothers grown, Gus is still a protector at heart. When Gus discerns Alaina’s dilemma, he immediately proposes. He had not planned to ever have a wife or family, but in that moment all Gus knows is that he will be protector for Alaina and her child.
While Gus’s childhood was fraught with violence, Alaina’s was marked by desertion. First Alaina’s father walked away from the family and ranch when she was 11. Seven years later, her mother walked away from the pain of this loss when Alaina, the baby, reached 18. Both deeply scarred, Alaina and Gus expose each other’s vulnerabilities, but in doing so just may save each other after all.
Perhaps I am seeing too deeply, but I find that Ms. Yates has penned a perfectly modern day fairy tale with many life lessons regarding healing from one’s past to prepare for one’s future. This was a well woven story with deeply drawn characters in a rugged setting. I very much enjoyed the depth of this story and absolutely recommend it!
December 13, 2023
This book was a pleasant surprise!
I tried reading Yates’ Golden Valley series a few years ago but never really got into them. But I saw this series and thought I’d give her another chance. Boy am I glad I did!
This is filled with angst, complicated characters, cowboy ranchers, headstrong women, steamy love scenes & romance.
Alaina finds herself pregnant from a one night stand and Gus offers to help her out with a marriage of convenience. They’re childhood friends and he’s her fierce protector. They have a special bond that only they understand.
The characters are the heart of this story. Gus’ backstory tore my heart out and I felt so much sympathy for Alaina’s childhood too. Both of them have old wounds that need to heal. I think they complimented each other and made the other person better. I loved that Alaina pushed Gus to see that he was letting the past keep him from happiness and Alaina learned about herself and her own worth. Their journeys were beautiful & tremendously well done. I had to hold back tears in some parts. The love these two had was unmatched.
I was also shocked by how steamy this was!!! Their first kiss? Their first time? The picnic? The shower? I mean holy smokes 🔥🥵
Their chemistry was intense because their connection was.
I do feel that this needed another round with an editor because there were a lot of run on sentences and it could be repetitive.
Overall, if you’re looking for an emotional, angsty, romantic cowboy romance definitely give this a try!
Rating: 4.5/5
🌶️ Rating: 4/5
I tried reading Yates’ Golden Valley series a few years ago but never really got into them. But I saw this series and thought I’d give her another chance. Boy am I glad I did!
This is filled with angst, complicated characters, cowboy ranchers, headstrong women, steamy love scenes & romance.
Alaina finds herself pregnant from a one night stand and Gus offers to help her out with a marriage of convenience. They’re childhood friends and he’s her fierce protector. They have a special bond that only they understand.
The characters are the heart of this story. Gus’ backstory tore my heart out and I felt so much sympathy for Alaina’s childhood too. Both of them have old wounds that need to heal. I think they complimented each other and made the other person better. I loved that Alaina pushed Gus to see that he was letting the past keep him from happiness and Alaina learned about herself and her own worth. Their journeys were beautiful & tremendously well done. I had to hold back tears in some parts. The love these two had was unmatched.
I was also shocked by how steamy this was!!! Their first kiss? Their first time? The picnic? The shower? I mean holy smokes 🔥🥵
Their chemistry was intense because their connection was.
I do feel that this needed another round with an editor because there were a lot of run on sentences and it could be repetitive.
Overall, if you’re looking for an emotional, angsty, romantic cowboy romance definitely give this a try!
Rating: 4.5/5
🌶️ Rating: 4/5
July 17, 2023
Rough Rider
Masiey Yates
July 25, 2023
Alaina Sullivan was always a rowdy little girl. She loved to work around the ranch but her favorite task was to work with the horses; riding, training, and taking special care. Her best friend, Elsie, did the same at her farm. As they grew they made grown up plans for men, children and future jobs. At 24 each had worshiped Hunter McCloud. He was one of 5 McCloud siblings who was a standout. When it seemed that Elsie would claim his heart, Alaina decided it was time to find a beau regardless of what she needed to do. In this case the short date with Travis caused further problems. When life provided more than she could handle, the eldest McCloud, Gus, would often come to her rescue.
The Rough Rider will be published on July 25, 2023 by Canary Street Press. I was able to read and review Maisey Yates latest Four Corners Ranch novel via NetGalley. Once again I was charmed by her story of Gus and Alaina. Her storyline is tremendously creative and heartwarming. The backgrounds and deep thoughts of each of the Rough Rider characters are spelled out in such stirring journalism. I am always impressed by the books in this series. Her fans will be pleased with Rough Rider. If you have not read Yates Four Corners Ranch series give it a go, it is a delightful set of family stories.
Do enjoy!
Masiey Yates
July 25, 2023
Alaina Sullivan was always a rowdy little girl. She loved to work around the ranch but her favorite task was to work with the horses; riding, training, and taking special care. Her best friend, Elsie, did the same at her farm. As they grew they made grown up plans for men, children and future jobs. At 24 each had worshiped Hunter McCloud. He was one of 5 McCloud siblings who was a standout. When it seemed that Elsie would claim his heart, Alaina decided it was time to find a beau regardless of what she needed to do. In this case the short date with Travis caused further problems. When life provided more than she could handle, the eldest McCloud, Gus, would often come to her rescue.
The Rough Rider will be published on July 25, 2023 by Canary Street Press. I was able to read and review Maisey Yates latest Four Corners Ranch novel via NetGalley. Once again I was charmed by her story of Gus and Alaina. Her storyline is tremendously creative and heartwarming. The backgrounds and deep thoughts of each of the Rough Rider characters are spelled out in such stirring journalism. I am always impressed by the books in this series. Her fans will be pleased with Rough Rider. If you have not read Yates Four Corners Ranch series give it a go, it is a delightful set of family stories.
Do enjoy!
July 24, 2023
Alaina and Gus have been friends since she was a child. He’s always been there to stand up for her, to protect her. So, when she finds out she’s pregnant, Gus steps in and offers to marry her, even though the child isn’t his. He explains it will only always be a marriage of convenience and nothing more. He will protect her, provide for her, give her anything she wants. Except his love. She accepts his proposal. But as they start their new lives together, Alaina grows closer to Gus. She’s surprised to discover that she’s fallen in love with him and that she probably had loved him since the first time she remembers him being there for her as a child. But Gus won’t return that love.
Both Alaina and Gus had traumatic childhoods. Both suffered abandonment. Gus suffered worse. He fears abandonment again, fears loving someone, fears he’s too much like his abusive father. Can Alaina break down the walls he’s built around himself to keep others away? As much as she loves him, will her love be enough?
A story of domestic abuse, trauma, tragedy, attempted murder, fear, guilt, family dynamics, and more.
One thing that was somewhat annoying was the repetitiveness throughout the book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Both Alaina and Gus had traumatic childhoods. Both suffered abandonment. Gus suffered worse. He fears abandonment again, fears loving someone, fears he’s too much like his abusive father. Can Alaina break down the walls he’s built around himself to keep others away? As much as she loves him, will her love be enough?
A story of domestic abuse, trauma, tragedy, attempted murder, fear, guilt, family dynamics, and more.
One thing that was somewhat annoying was the repetitiveness throughout the book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 3, 2023
4 1/2 STARS!
Highly emotional and addictive! With the fourth book in her always entertaining Four Corners Ranch series Maisey Yates is pouring on the angst when surly Gus McCloud mixes it up with one of the Sullivan sisters! The premise of the book is attention grabbing and for those of you that are hooked on this series like me, you'll have an appreciation for seeing some real emotion coming from Gus for a change. I'm looking forward to more in the series!
Alaina will be familiar to reader's as Elsie's best friend who had her sights set on Hunter McCloud ... before Elsie snagged him that is. Trying to prove she didn't need either of them set her on a self-destructive path that leads to more than she bargained for. I liked her, but she did have some growing up to do for sure.
Gus is really likable because he lays his hang-ups right out there front and center for you to see and deal with. I enjoyed watching him fall hard and fast and have to learn how to be loved.
I highly recommend this book as well as the entire series to anyone that loves a good cowboy romance with several tight-knit families who interact regularly but don't always get along.
Highly emotional and addictive! With the fourth book in her always entertaining Four Corners Ranch series Maisey Yates is pouring on the angst when surly Gus McCloud mixes it up with one of the Sullivan sisters! The premise of the book is attention grabbing and for those of you that are hooked on this series like me, you'll have an appreciation for seeing some real emotion coming from Gus for a change. I'm looking forward to more in the series!
Alaina will be familiar to reader's as Elsie's best friend who had her sights set on Hunter McCloud ... before Elsie snagged him that is. Trying to prove she didn't need either of them set her on a self-destructive path that leads to more than she bargained for. I liked her, but she did have some growing up to do for sure.
Gus is really likable because he lays his hang-ups right out there front and center for you to see and deal with. I enjoyed watching him fall hard and fast and have to learn how to be loved.
I highly recommend this book as well as the entire series to anyone that loves a good cowboy romance with several tight-knit families who interact regularly but don't always get along.
September 6, 2023
Alaina and Gus have known each other for very long time and when Alaina finds herself pregnant she isn't thrilled about the idea that the small town will go so her childhood friend Gus decides to stand in. Gus has always been a protector to those he loves and Alaina is no different and will do everything he can to take care of her and her child as a husband without the whole love thing getting in the way or at least that's what he thought.
I really enjoyed this book this whole plot is something that I'm pretty sure you've read many times over but I like how the author managed to make it her own with these unique set of characters. It was interesting seeing how this book played out. Alaina was a pretty free and out there character, and Gus was pretty serious and he really took care of things in a way he only knew how. When I got to know the past of the characters I could really see why they made certain choices. Both didn't have the greatest parental figures which made them question how it would be when it came to being parent themselves or loving someone. There are plenty of steamy scenes which kept things a bit spicy. Overall this was a pretty good book I really enjoyed it.
I really enjoyed this book this whole plot is something that I'm pretty sure you've read many times over but I like how the author managed to make it her own with these unique set of characters. It was interesting seeing how this book played out. Alaina was a pretty free and out there character, and Gus was pretty serious and he really took care of things in a way he only knew how. When I got to know the past of the characters I could really see why they made certain choices. Both didn't have the greatest parental figures which made them question how it would be when it came to being parent themselves or loving someone. There are plenty of steamy scenes which kept things a bit spicy. Overall this was a pretty good book I really enjoyed it.
August 5, 2023
Cowboy/western themed romance books are not something I am normally drawn to, but I really have loved the books in the Four Corners series, and this one is no different. Actually, I think this one is my favorite of the entire series. I think the thing that really captures my attention in this series is the deep familial bonds, and not just blood bonds, but those of the chosen family the characters build with each other.
This book - it is all about the Gus character for me; a strong man that could have been broken by his circumstances, but has not only survived, but has helped his younger brothers grow up into the men that they have become. His physical appearance is a constant reminder that he wasn’t loved as he should have been, and the hard road he has walked. Yet, when a girl he is friendly with find herself pregnant and without a father for her baby, he immediately steps in to help her, even though he does not believe he is worthy of her.
5 stars, all the way! I can’t wait to see what’s next for Four Corners.
This book - it is all about the Gus character for me; a strong man that could have been broken by his circumstances, but has not only survived, but has helped his younger brothers grow up into the men that they have become. His physical appearance is a constant reminder that he wasn’t loved as he should have been, and the hard road he has walked. Yet, when a girl he is friendly with find herself pregnant and without a father for her baby, he immediately steps in to help her, even though he does not believe he is worthy of her.
5 stars, all the way! I can’t wait to see what’s next for Four Corners.
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September 25, 2023This book was depressing all the way through.
Angus & his brothers were abandoned by their mother, then trying to protect his brother & run from his father, he is burned while hiding in a shed by his father. Alaina is abandoned by both of her parents & her best friend then falls in love with the man she wanted. She loses her virginity to someone else & a few weeks later discovers how wrong that error of judgement was. Angus offers to marry Alaina & raise the baby as his own, but doesn’t really expect a true marriage. He’s loved Alaina from afar & protected her from her wildest ways, but doesn’t think he deserves or needs love. He belittles himself & holds Alaina from afar, even though she falls in love with him.
All through this book, I honestly kept wondering why I continued, but I hate to put books down (unless there is domestic violence in it).
Take my review as a warning that it is a depressing book, but everyone has their own opinions.
I really didn’t feel the happily ever after most romance books have.
Angus & his brothers were abandoned by their mother, then trying to protect his brother & run from his father, he is burned while hiding in a shed by his father. Alaina is abandoned by both of her parents & her best friend then falls in love with the man she wanted. She loses her virginity to someone else & a few weeks later discovers how wrong that error of judgement was. Angus offers to marry Alaina & raise the baby as his own, but doesn’t really expect a true marriage. He’s loved Alaina from afar & protected her from her wildest ways, but doesn’t think he deserves or needs love. He belittles himself & holds Alaina from afar, even though she falls in love with him.
All through this book, I honestly kept wondering why I continued, but I hate to put books down (unless there is domestic violence in it).
Take my review as a warning that it is a depressing book, but everyone has their own opinions.
I really didn’t feel the happily ever after most romance books have.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2023
Gus McCloud & Alaina Sullivan
A marriage of convenience story
Being the oldest, Gus felt he needed to be the protector of his younger brothers from their abusive father. His father had set him on fire and left him to die but he escaped. He’s kept people at a distance with all the hurt and pain but he’s also had a secret thing for Alaina.
Alaina found herself pregnant and not sure what her next move was going to be. When Gus offers to marry her she accepts and things get really interesting. Thank goodness she was a roll-with-it kind of person because she didn’t fret too much like her best friend Elsie. Alaina came from a different hurt because her parents gave up on being her parents but never made an effort after they moved out. She still had her sisters. Alaina definitely grew to understand her feelings and slowly nudged Gus into his feelings.
Well written, flowed nicely and got it done in one day.
A marriage of convenience story
Being the oldest, Gus felt he needed to be the protector of his younger brothers from their abusive father. His father had set him on fire and left him to die but he escaped. He’s kept people at a distance with all the hurt and pain but he’s also had a secret thing for Alaina.
Alaina found herself pregnant and not sure what her next move was going to be. When Gus offers to marry her she accepts and things get really interesting. Thank goodness she was a roll-with-it kind of person because she didn’t fret too much like her best friend Elsie. Alaina came from a different hurt because her parents gave up on being her parents but never made an effort after they moved out. She still had her sisters. Alaina definitely grew to understand her feelings and slowly nudged Gus into his feelings.
Well written, flowed nicely and got it done in one day.
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