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This lost boy needs a Daddy to take the reins...
Nolan Carter is incredibly successful and wealthy. On paper, it seems he's gotten everything he could want. But he's lost himself along the way.
When Nolan retreats to a Texas ranch he bought on a whim, hoping to figure out who he is without the influence of life coaches and socialites, he meets foreman Cruz Coban. Cruz is everything Nolan isn't: self-assured, comfortable in his skin, and commanding.
And he wants to take charge of Nolan too. Because Cruz is a Daddy.
Nolan has never had a Daddy before, but when Cruz takes the reins, Nolan feels accepted for who he is inside: a geeky boy who wants to be loved.
But keeping Cruz means riding off into the sunset of an entirely different life. And take charge or not, Daddy can't make this decision for him. Their happy ending is in Nolan's hands, and for once, this lost boy knows exactly where he belongs.
Nolan Carter is incredibly successful and wealthy. On paper, it seems he's gotten everything he could want. But he's lost himself along the way.
When Nolan retreats to a Texas ranch he bought on a whim, hoping to figure out who he is without the influence of life coaches and socialites, he meets foreman Cruz Coban. Cruz is everything Nolan isn't: self-assured, comfortable in his skin, and commanding.
And he wants to take charge of Nolan too. Because Cruz is a Daddy.
Nolan has never had a Daddy before, but when Cruz takes the reins, Nolan feels accepted for who he is inside: a geeky boy who wants to be loved.
But keeping Cruz means riding off into the sunset of an entirely different life. And take charge or not, Daddy can't make this decision for him. Their happy ending is in Nolan's hands, and for once, this lost boy knows exactly where he belongs.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 24, 2023
466 people are currently reading
360 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 149 reviews
October 28, 2024
So, that was quite nice. Sorry for not being enthusiastic about it. It's a sweet story, well written and if you're unsure if Daddy-kink is for you then it's a good book to see if it appeals to you. Quite lame for me though.
Plot and characters are well done, I really like Nolan and Cruz, but what was missing for me was the spark between the two. The attraction they supposedly have for each other somehow doesn't show, and the first night they spend together, including the sex, came as a bit of a surprise to me.
And even after this, I miss the emotional component. It's there, but in a Daddy/boy relationship it should be much more intense, even if it's all new for Nolan and Cruz is holding back a bit.
So, not perfect for me, for someone else it might be, because it's a really cute story.
“You gave me a place where I’m able to be myself with no judgment. A place where I’m loved just exactly the way I am, and, Daddy, that’s a gift.” 🫠
Plot and characters are well done, I really like Nolan and Cruz, but what was missing for me was the spark between the two. The attraction they supposedly have for each other somehow doesn't show, and the first night they spend together, including the sex, came as a bit of a surprise to me.
And even after this, I miss the emotional component. It's there, but in a Daddy/boy relationship it should be much more intense, even if it's all new for Nolan and Cruz is holding back a bit.
So, not perfect for me, for someone else it might be, because it's a really cute story.
“You gave me a place where I’m able to be myself with no judgment. A place where I’m loved just exactly the way I am, and, Daddy, that’s a gift.” 🫠
December 7, 2024
Cruz is the newly hired ranch manager for Nolan the absentee billionaire owner and is just starting to get a handle on the ranch when Nolan decides to visit. Nolan is a video game creator and developer that is trying to navigate his newfound wealth and people’s expectations of him, and he’s hoping a visit to the ranch will give him some peace and time to think.
Attraction is immediate but Nolan and Cruz slowly grow a relationship that goes beyond employee/employer as Cruz appreciates Nolan’s curiosity and intelligence and Nolan is comforted by Cruz’s patience and caring nature. Cruz soon realizes Nolan is just the "boy" he has been looking for and Nolan is ready and willing to learn.
Both characters are more than just likable. They each have their own individual passions but easily prioritize each other as their affection builds. This was a beautiful and sweet read, with lots of steamy times, lots of honest communication and no angst whatsoever, in the relationship, which will almost earn any romance of any genera 5- stars in my book. I have book 2 and have already met up with Nolan and Cruz again. Happy Me!
Attraction is immediate but Nolan and Cruz slowly grow a relationship that goes beyond employee/employer as Cruz appreciates Nolan’s curiosity and intelligence and Nolan is comforted by Cruz’s patience and caring nature. Cruz soon realizes Nolan is just the "boy" he has been looking for and Nolan is ready and willing to learn.
Both characters are more than just likable. They each have their own individual passions but easily prioritize each other as their affection builds. This was a beautiful and sweet read, with lots of steamy times, lots of honest communication and no angst whatsoever, in the relationship, which will almost earn any romance of any genera 5- stars in my book. I have book 2 and have already met up with Nolan and Cruz again. Happy Me!
February 18, 2023
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
This is my first time reading the author and I wouldn't be against reading more by them, but I would probably go back to the begging of whatever series this is a spin off from. While it can be read as a stand a lone it was blatantly apparent that all the couples surrounding the farm had received their own books. I felt like I should have been excited to see them and spent time with them, but as a newbie I had zero attachment to them.
The main characters, Cruz and Nolan , were great, especially Nolan He was a sweetheart. Story wise, I feel like we get to know Nolan much better than Cruz, but that could be because Cruz is from the prior series and maybe I should have already formed an interest in him. Together they were adorable and the steam was decent. I was a bit underwhelmed with the Daddy/Boy aspect of the book which was the reason I picked it up in the first place. Nolan doesn't find out Cruz is even a Daddy till 60% and then the two don't have a discussion or act of a Daddy/Boy relationship until 75%, by then the story was practically over.
Even though this wasn't a win for me, I did enjoy the author's writing, I will take a peep at their back list. Cruz is a mild Daddy/Boy romance between a wealthy tech game designer and a former rodeo ranch foreman filled with steam, acceptance, care, friendships, cute farm animals, and finding where you belong.
This is my first time reading the author and I wouldn't be against reading more by them, but I would probably go back to the begging of whatever series this is a spin off from. While it can be read as a stand a lone it was blatantly apparent that all the couples surrounding the farm had received their own books. I felt like I should have been excited to see them and spent time with them, but as a newbie I had zero attachment to them.
The main characters, Cruz and Nolan , were great, especially Nolan He was a sweetheart. Story wise, I feel like we get to know Nolan much better than Cruz, but that could be because Cruz is from the prior series and maybe I should have already formed an interest in him. Together they were adorable and the steam was decent. I was a bit underwhelmed with the Daddy/Boy aspect of the book which was the reason I picked it up in the first place. Nolan doesn't find out Cruz is even a Daddy till 60% and then the two don't have a discussion or act of a Daddy/Boy relationship until 75%, by then the story was practically over.
Even though this wasn't a win for me, I did enjoy the author's writing, I will take a peep at their back list. Cruz is a mild Daddy/Boy romance between a wealthy tech game designer and a former rodeo ranch foreman filled with steam, acceptance, care, friendships, cute farm animals, and finding where you belong.
July 27, 2023
1 stars…
Damn I didn’t enjoy this which was so sad… I love daddy MM romances. Like love them but this didn’t hit. First of all I’m sure this is an interconnected series with another, but all the extra characters that we got little to no background on as someone who hasn’t read those series made this incredibly difficult to understand. I started at book 1 of a series and even though having a nod or mentioning people from other series is totally understandable, this was too much for a newbie.
Also I would barely call this daddy romance. Like yeah he called him daddy and his sweet boy but there was practically no real dynamic except him teaching him to ride a horse. And I’m all for light daddy play but based on the name of the series and how some of the other couples acted, I expected a lot more out of the dynamic.
I was honestly just pretty bored reading this and considering it usually takes me a day or two to read a book this size and I had to force myself to finish it after 2 weeks. It’s a pass from me, no hate.
1/5 on spice. 1/5 on kink. 1/5 on tears. Honestly just wasn’t for me. I expected more kink and this took me forever to get through.
Damn I didn’t enjoy this which was so sad… I love daddy MM romances. Like love them but this didn’t hit. First of all I’m sure this is an interconnected series with another, but all the extra characters that we got little to no background on as someone who hasn’t read those series made this incredibly difficult to understand. I started at book 1 of a series and even though having a nod or mentioning people from other series is totally understandable, this was too much for a newbie.
Also I would barely call this daddy romance. Like yeah he called him daddy and his sweet boy but there was practically no real dynamic except him teaching him to ride a horse. And I’m all for light daddy play but based on the name of the series and how some of the other couples acted, I expected a lot more out of the dynamic.
I was honestly just pretty bored reading this and considering it usually takes me a day or two to read a book this size and I had to force myself to finish it after 2 weeks. It’s a pass from me, no hate.
1/5 on spice. 1/5 on kink. 1/5 on tears. Honestly just wasn’t for me. I expected more kink and this took me forever to get through.
March 8, 2023
4.5 stars, rounded up.
It's been a couple of years or so since I read Finding Ripley, so I had to go back into it and refresh my memory with Cruz. It was nice seeing him finally find somebody for his own happily-ever-after, not happy-for-now.
Cruz and Nolan are as different as night and day. Cruz is a sexy cowboy. Nolan's a rich video game creator. The two of them together? Perfect.
This is a bit of a slow burn, but not too slow. They needed time to build the relationship without it feeling too rushed.
A really good book. It was nice seeing Ripley and Reed again.
Full review can be found at -
It's been a couple of years or so since I read Finding Ripley, so I had to go back into it and refresh my memory with Cruz. It was nice seeing him finally find somebody for his own happily-ever-after, not happy-for-now.
Cruz and Nolan are as different as night and day. Cruz is a sexy cowboy. Nolan's a rich video game creator. The two of them together? Perfect.
This is a bit of a slow burn, but not too slow. They needed time to build the relationship without it feeling too rushed.
A really good book. It was nice seeing Ripley and Reed again.
Full review can be found at -
February 25, 2023
Rating: 4 ♥️
Steam: 3 🔥
PoV: dual, 1st person
MM | cowboy | Daddy kink | boss / employee
Cruz and Nolan's story was so sweet! I really didn't want to put their story down and used every opportunity I had at work to keep reading.
I loved seeing Nolan find himself together with Cruz, they were so good together and I really liked their chemistry. It was easy to see that Nolan would be a great fit for Cruz and his characteristics as a Daddy, even if being a boy wasn't something Nolan had considered before. Nolan had my heart from the start and it was easy to see his struggles and how lost he was in his life. I liked the slower, building pace of the story that allowed me to get to know the characters and for them to get to know each other.
Sadly, the Daddy kink was a little underwhelming, Nolan didn't know Cruz was a Daddy until 60% in and it was even later on that they finally had a discussion about it and what it meant to them. I just had the expectation that the Daddy/boy dynamic would have a more central role. I still enjoyed the story, but I would have liked to see more of them as Daddy/boy and how that dynamic would look like for them.
There were lots of interactions with past characters and while it didn't bother me, I think this story would be best enjoyed if you've read the other books about River Gorge beforehand. I'm curious about some of the other couples though and can't wait to check out their stories! If you want a sweet, low angst romance story with a slightly clueless boy and his cowboy, I recommend this one!
Steam: 3 🔥
PoV: dual, 1st person
MM | cowboy | Daddy kink | boss / employee
Cruz and Nolan's story was so sweet! I really didn't want to put their story down and used every opportunity I had at work to keep reading.
I loved seeing Nolan find himself together with Cruz, they were so good together and I really liked their chemistry. It was easy to see that Nolan would be a great fit for Cruz and his characteristics as a Daddy, even if being a boy wasn't something Nolan had considered before. Nolan had my heart from the start and it was easy to see his struggles and how lost he was in his life. I liked the slower, building pace of the story that allowed me to get to know the characters and for them to get to know each other.
Sadly, the Daddy kink was a little underwhelming, Nolan didn't know Cruz was a Daddy until 60% in and it was even later on that they finally had a discussion about it and what it meant to them. I just had the expectation that the Daddy/boy dynamic would have a more central role. I still enjoyed the story, but I would have liked to see more of them as Daddy/boy and how that dynamic would look like for them.
There were lots of interactions with past characters and while it didn't bother me, I think this story would be best enjoyed if you've read the other books about River Gorge beforehand. I'm curious about some of the other couples though and can't wait to check out their stories! If you want a sweet, low angst romance story with a slightly clueless boy and his cowboy, I recommend this one!
February 24, 2023
Loved it
This was such a great book and I loved returning to River Gorge.
Nolan is just so adorable and I loved seeing him come into his own and finally become happy within himself. Cruz is such a great character and his patience with Nolan is just so beautiful.
I always enjoyed the River Gorge books and it was really great to go back and learn more about some of the newer inhabitants. The only downside for me is that the book ended - I could have happily stayed at the ranch with those two for much longer!!
This was such a great book and I loved returning to River Gorge.
Nolan is just so adorable and I loved seeing him come into his own and finally become happy within himself. Cruz is such a great character and his patience with Nolan is just so beautiful.
I always enjoyed the River Gorge books and it was really great to go back and learn more about some of the newer inhabitants. The only downside for me is that the book ended - I could have happily stayed at the ranch with those two for much longer!!
March 18, 2023
4.5 stars
I’m glad to be back in River Gorge, and I’m happily looking forward to the next in this spinoff series.
I’m glad to be back in River Gorge, and I’m happily looking forward to the next in this spinoff series.
March 25, 2023
Loved this book!
Great story! I loved these characters and their journey to their HEA! Can't wait for the next book in this series. Totally recommend!
Great story! I loved these characters and their journey to their HEA! Can't wait for the next book in this series. Totally recommend!
March 18, 2024
Super cute, low tension, quick romance 💕
March 30, 2023
Ive read all the River Gorge books so far , so was excited for this ARC read, hoping we would learn more about Cruz but we didnt.
Nolan we learnt lots about and the daddy/boy stuff was very light on , almost non existent.
So only 3 stars for me
Nolan we learnt lots about and the daddy/boy stuff was very light on , almost non existent.
So only 3 stars for me
February 18, 2023
This is such a sweet story, both Cruz and Nolan have gentle, quiet and sweet characters. Together they were bound to be pure sweetness. This story is very low angst and a calm read. Written well so despite there not being very much drama, it held my attention throughout. Secretly championing the relationship that is simmering. I love to read ranch stories there is definitely something very sexy about men who ride horses. The Daddy/boy relationship doesn't really get going until the last quarter and it isn't overly dominating in the story. It suits this couple who are quiet and gentle together but have a romantic relationship that works for them. The sex scenes were good; I enjoyed the rope scene. There are some amazing secondary characters who I presume ate from this author's previous works 'The men of River Gorge'. These characters really add to the story and I will definitely be reading their stories. The story ends as a HFN but with all of the plans put in place it is a solid happy ending. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 26, 2023
*3.5 stars*
This is a cute and sweet read. Although it may have taken a while to get to know the characters and feel any sort of connection between them, both Nolan and Cruz are likeable. I did also think that because it took a while for the two to really spend any time together, the Daddy/boy element in their relationship wasn’t as developed as I would have liked. By the time Nolan finds out Cruz is a Daddy, the book is three quarters of the way over. I wouldn’t say no to more exploration of this dynamic. But the romance is still sweet and organic, and by the end I was really cheering for Nolan to figure out how much happier he had become since finding himself on the ranch. Looking forward to the next one in this series.
This is a cute and sweet read. Although it may have taken a while to get to know the characters and feel any sort of connection between them, both Nolan and Cruz are likeable. I did also think that because it took a while for the two to really spend any time together, the Daddy/boy element in their relationship wasn’t as developed as I would have liked. By the time Nolan finds out Cruz is a Daddy, the book is three quarters of the way over. I wouldn’t say no to more exploration of this dynamic. But the romance is still sweet and organic, and by the end I was really cheering for Nolan to figure out how much happier he had become since finding himself on the ranch. Looking forward to the next one in this series.
November 15, 2023
I didn’t love this. Not even sure I liked it. This can be read as a standalone from The Men of River Gorge series, but really I did feel like I missed out on details or something by not reading at least Finding Ripley first. Reed and Ripley are in this.
There was just no real connection between Cruz and Nolan for me. I also found this be sort of boring. Maybe rushed.
Don’t think I’ll be reading anymore of this series or any other stories by this author.
This Daddy/Boy story was kind of a turn off to the trope. It didn’t seem well written to me.
There was just no real connection between Cruz and Nolan for me. I also found this be sort of boring. Maybe rushed.
Don’t think I’ll be reading anymore of this series or any other stories by this author.
This Daddy/Boy story was kind of a turn off to the trope. It didn’t seem well written to me.
August 14, 2025
This was such a great book, I was actually disappointed that it ended and I didn't get more of Nolan & Cruz. These two were so perfect for each other, and I loved seeing their relationship grow. There were appearances by some of The Men of River Gorge, but it's not necessary to read that series first (although I highly recommend that series.) I'm excited to see more of River Gorge.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
August 27, 2023
Maybe it’s my current mood🤷🏽♀️, but this was just ok. I was expecting more for Cruz, and I currently feel let down.
February 24, 2023
This book is a spin off from her River Gorge series and in my opinion it's more enjoyable if you read the other books beforehand. Lots of interaction with previous characters happen in this one and I think without knowing them, the book looses out.
Nolan is a self-made tech millionaire who is lost in his new status and doesn't really know how to find himself anymore. A spontanous decision a while back was buying a ranch unseen and letting it run by the foreman. Worked until the foreman just vanished. Cruz takes over.
When Nolan accepts that he needs a break to sort himself out, the ranch is seen as a place to escape to. But meeting Cruz is an obstacle he hasn't forseen. Despite their reluctant to start anything, they can't stop.
I loved visiting River Gorge again, especially Ripley. I love Nolan's nerdyness and the way he looks to solve problems. Both guys are well written and there is definitely chemistry between them.
It's a book you want to continue reading and where you hate life making you stop.
But: in my view the whole Daddy/Boy set up is just not really there. Cruz doens't really act like a Daddy, Nolan doesn't see it until after well into the second half of the book despite clearly acknowleding and accepting Ripley and Reed's relationship.
While no doubt that Noland benefits from it, Cruz and his relationship doesn't move into a proper Daddy/Boy set up until very late and even then it feels like a light version of what the author writes in other books.
Nevertheless the book is enjoyable but if you want a serious Daddy Romance, it may not what you look for.
Nolan is a self-made tech millionaire who is lost in his new status and doesn't really know how to find himself anymore. A spontanous decision a while back was buying a ranch unseen and letting it run by the foreman. Worked until the foreman just vanished. Cruz takes over.
When Nolan accepts that he needs a break to sort himself out, the ranch is seen as a place to escape to. But meeting Cruz is an obstacle he hasn't forseen. Despite their reluctant to start anything, they can't stop.
I loved visiting River Gorge again, especially Ripley. I love Nolan's nerdyness and the way he looks to solve problems. Both guys are well written and there is definitely chemistry between them.
It's a book you want to continue reading and where you hate life making you stop.
But: in my view the whole Daddy/Boy set up is just not really there. Cruz doens't really act like a Daddy, Nolan doesn't see it until after well into the second half of the book despite clearly acknowleding and accepting Ripley and Reed's relationship.
While no doubt that Noland benefits from it, Cruz and his relationship doesn't move into a proper Daddy/Boy set up until very late and even then it feels like a light version of what the author writes in other books.
Nevertheless the book is enjoyable but if you want a serious Daddy Romance, it may not what you look for.
February 24, 2023
What a great start to a new series - low angst, opposites attract, daddy/boy romance set in the much loved town of River Gorge.
Nolan is adorable in his forgetfulness, hyper focus on learning and developing, and his need to be his true self, not the person the rich elite expect in the city. Cruz is a caring guy, not looking for a bit but definitely one turn on down when he arrives at the ranch. He's taken with Nolan from their first encounter and sees that he might need a little extra care to make sure that he eats and remembers all his tasks throughout the day. There is attraction from the start but with Nolan only visiting, they're not sure about doing anything but once they take that step, there's no turning back or denying what they come to mean to each other. I loved reading Nolan as he gets to know everything about ranch life and what it entails. He's serious when it comes to learning, writing everything down and having more questions. Cruz finds it totally endearing along with everything else about the man.
This is an easily enjoyable romance and it's so good to be back in River Gorge with old friends from that series. Everything that develops between the two MC's feels natural and goes at their own pace. I like that it's low angst as that fits with the characters and the plan for the ranch is going to be great to see carried out in the series.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Nolan is adorable in his forgetfulness, hyper focus on learning and developing, and his need to be his true self, not the person the rich elite expect in the city. Cruz is a caring guy, not looking for a bit but definitely one turn on down when he arrives at the ranch. He's taken with Nolan from their first encounter and sees that he might need a little extra care to make sure that he eats and remembers all his tasks throughout the day. There is attraction from the start but with Nolan only visiting, they're not sure about doing anything but once they take that step, there's no turning back or denying what they come to mean to each other. I loved reading Nolan as he gets to know everything about ranch life and what it entails. He's serious when it comes to learning, writing everything down and having more questions. Cruz finds it totally endearing along with everything else about the man.
This is an easily enjoyable romance and it's so good to be back in River Gorge with old friends from that series. Everything that develops between the two MC's feels natural and goes at their own pace. I like that it's low angst as that fits with the characters and the plan for the ranch is going to be great to see carried out in the series.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
February 28, 2023
This is the first book that I have read by this author in the River Gorge series and boy was I pleasantly surprised. I really enjoyed this book. This is the story of Nolan Carter and Cruz Coban. Nolan is a pure nerd/geek who has amassed a fortune with his computer knowledge. Suddenly rich, he is trying desperately to fit in with those in his new tax bracket but he is slowly losing himself. He isn't happy nor comfortable. He decides to return to the ranch that he purchased where he originally found peace and quiet. It is there that he meets Cruz Coban. Cruz stepped in to be ranch foreman to help out Nolan. He is a rodeo champion and very comfortable in his skin. He is saving money up to get his own ranch and raise the very best possible rodeo stock from roping to barrel racing. Each are surprised with each other. Cruz is definately a daddy albeit a new one. And Nolan is a boy who didn't know he was one. This is their story. I enjoyed the chemistry and communication between them. I loved that Nolan could just be Nolan and still be a boy. I liked that there was no major personality, behaviour or dress overhaul in Nolan. Some books tend to do that to boys so I found this refreshing. This book is well written and easy to read. I really loved it. I love forward to more by this author.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 11, 2023
⭐️
Booooooooooring,ugh!
This book was so so boring and I couldn’t feel an ounce of connection to the characters or their story.
The amount of times I stopped myself from not dnf’ing this were so much.
Since Daddy kink is one of my favorite tropes in books and I also have a soft spot for m/m romances,considering this book is an m/m romance with a daddy/boy kink (something that I’ve never read before I might add) I was super excited to read it.
But it absolutely disappointed because it’s so boring.
The characters are vague and there’s nothing interesting in their story.
They mention a few times that they find each other attractive but nothing else.There’s nothing going on between them up until 50% of the book when out of nowhere they kiss and have $ex the same night.
Like??????
Anyway I won’t spend any more time talking about this book.I personally didn’t like it.
However there’s one thing I really liked about this book and that’s how much animals were included.The scenery of the book is set in a ranch where the main characters are currently living in.(One is the owner-boy- and the other is the main rancher or something like that-daddy-).I love animals and I enjoyed reading so much about them in this book.
Overall I didn’t like this book.It’s not that I hated it it’s just I didn’t find anything interesting about it.
Booooooooooring,ugh!
This book was so so boring and I couldn’t feel an ounce of connection to the characters or their story.
The amount of times I stopped myself from not dnf’ing this were so much.
Since Daddy kink is one of my favorite tropes in books and I also have a soft spot for m/m romances,considering this book is an m/m romance with a daddy/boy kink (something that I’ve never read before I might add) I was super excited to read it.
But it absolutely disappointed because it’s so boring.
The characters are vague and there’s nothing interesting in their story.
They mention a few times that they find each other attractive but nothing else.There’s nothing going on between them up until 50% of the book when out of nowhere they kiss and have $ex the same night.
Like??????
Anyway I won’t spend any more time talking about this book.I personally didn’t like it.
However there’s one thing I really liked about this book and that’s how much animals were included.The scenery of the book is set in a ranch where the main characters are currently living in.(One is the owner-boy- and the other is the main rancher or something like that-daddy-).I love animals and I enjoyed reading so much about them in this book.
Overall I didn’t like this book.It’s not that I hated it it’s just I didn’t find anything interesting about it.
February 21, 2023
A billionaire genius that is trying to find his confidence with being himself and a capable and caring Daddy that unexpectedly finds a boy in the sweet ranch owner.
First in series (The Daddies of River Gorge), it is a spinoff from the author’s Men of River Gorge series with cameos with characters from that series. Daddy/boy. Slow burn. Dual POV. Cruz is the newly hired ranch manager for Nolan the absentee billionaire owner and is just starting to get a handle on the ranch when Nolan decides to visit. Nolan is a video game creator and developer that is trying to navigate his newfound wealth and people’s expectations of him, and he’s hoping a visit to the ranch will give him some peace and time to think. Attraction is immediate but Nolan and Cruz slowly grow a relationship that goes beyond employee/employer as Cruz appreciates Nolan’s curiosity and intelligence and Nolan is comforted by Cruz’s patience and caring nature. Cruz soon realizes Nolan is just the boy he has been looking for and Nolan is ready and willing to learn, and both men are likable, have their own individual passions but easily prioritize each other as their affection builds. This was a sweet read, with steamy times, honest communication and no angst in the relationship. 4.5 rounded up
First in series (The Daddies of River Gorge), it is a spinoff from the author’s Men of River Gorge series with cameos with characters from that series. Daddy/boy. Slow burn. Dual POV. Cruz is the newly hired ranch manager for Nolan the absentee billionaire owner and is just starting to get a handle on the ranch when Nolan decides to visit. Nolan is a video game creator and developer that is trying to navigate his newfound wealth and people’s expectations of him, and he’s hoping a visit to the ranch will give him some peace and time to think. Attraction is immediate but Nolan and Cruz slowly grow a relationship that goes beyond employee/employer as Cruz appreciates Nolan’s curiosity and intelligence and Nolan is comforted by Cruz’s patience and caring nature. Cruz soon realizes Nolan is just the boy he has been looking for and Nolan is ready and willing to learn, and both men are likable, have their own individual passions but easily prioritize each other as their affection builds. This was a sweet read, with steamy times, honest communication and no angst in the relationship. 4.5 rounded up
February 24, 2023
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Star Rating: 5/5
Cowboy Daddies are a trope I will never get tired of! And Jacki has such a knack for writing them.
Cruz is absolutely perfect, both the character and the book! Cruz and Nolan are both something special. Cruz is trying to figure out his second career now that his rodeo one is over, while also being interested in exploring his newly discovered Daddy side.
Nolan is also in a second career of sorts. He’s now wealthy, and that may sound wonderful, but if he didn’t feel like he fit in before, it’s even worse now.
When he decides to take some time to regroup on his ranch in Texas he’s not expecting a very sexy, caring and take charge Foreman by the name of Cruz.
With these two now sharing space, they find themselves fascinated by the other.
I love the way their relationship just eased into Daddy/Boy dynamic. It was perfect for them. Cruz is such a caring man. And I adored the nerdy/geeky Nolan and his whiteboard and notebook obsession.
Looking forward to getting more of Jacki’s daddies.
Star Rating: 5/5
Cowboy Daddies are a trope I will never get tired of! And Jacki has such a knack for writing them.
Cruz is absolutely perfect, both the character and the book! Cruz and Nolan are both something special. Cruz is trying to figure out his second career now that his rodeo one is over, while also being interested in exploring his newly discovered Daddy side.
Nolan is also in a second career of sorts. He’s now wealthy, and that may sound wonderful, but if he didn’t feel like he fit in before, it’s even worse now.
When he decides to take some time to regroup on his ranch in Texas he’s not expecting a very sexy, caring and take charge Foreman by the name of Cruz.
With these two now sharing space, they find themselves fascinated by the other.
I love the way their relationship just eased into Daddy/Boy dynamic. It was perfect for them. Cruz is such a caring man. And I adored the nerdy/geeky Nolan and his whiteboard and notebook obsession.
Looking forward to getting more of Jacki’s daddies.
October 18, 2023
I love how simple these books are; guys meet, fall in love, get into a kinky relationship, and there are little to no obstacles along the way. It’s all very tender and sweet, and feeds right into my love for plotless, angst less stories that exist just for vibes and read a lot like fanfics.
I think I did like this one a little less than the second book, though. The dialogue still reads very unnatural, and I realized the thing that bothers me most is that every dialogue is unnecessarily long and informative, going into every bit of detail about things that just don’t matter, such as choosing between a table or a boot. I also felt like there were some missed opportunities as far as plot and characterization: although we’re told multiple times Nolan is this techy guy, all we get on page is some general interest in drones. Not just that, I felt like unlike in Bear, the daddy/boy thing was really an afterthought here, brought on so close to the end it just didn’t have time to blossom.
There are also a lot of characters, and because they all sound the same and I didn’t read the other River George series, I could not keep any of them apart. However, I still find myself pretty attached to this little town, and will definitely continue with the series.
I think I did like this one a little less than the second book, though. The dialogue still reads very unnatural, and I realized the thing that bothers me most is that every dialogue is unnecessarily long and informative, going into every bit of detail about things that just don’t matter, such as choosing between a table or a boot. I also felt like there were some missed opportunities as far as plot and characterization: although we’re told multiple times Nolan is this techy guy, all we get on page is some general interest in drones. Not just that, I felt like unlike in Bear, the daddy/boy thing was really an afterthought here, brought on so close to the end it just didn’t have time to blossom.
There are also a lot of characters, and because they all sound the same and I didn’t read the other River George series, I could not keep any of them apart. However, I still find myself pretty attached to this little town, and will definitely continue with the series.
October 16, 2023
Cruz et Nolan
Contremaître et millionnaire et propriétaire d'un ranch
.
Intéressant sans plus
📖
Ce garçon perdu a besoin d'un papa pour prendre les rênes...
Nolan Carter est incroyablement prospère et riche. Sur le papier, il semble qu’il ait obtenu tout ce qu’il pouvait souhaiter. Mais il s'est perdu en chemin.
Lorsque Nolan se retire dans un ranch texan qu'il a acheté sur un coup de tête, dans l'espoir de découvrir qui il est sans l'influence des coachs de vie et des mondains, il rencontre le contremaître Cruz Coban. Cruz est tout ce que Nolan n'est pas : sûr de lui, à l'aise dans sa peau et autoritaire.
Et il veut aussi prendre en charge Nolan. Parce que Cruz est un papa.
Nolan n'a jamais eu de papa auparavant, mais lorsque Cruz prend les rênes, Nolan se sent accepté tel qu'il est à l'intérieur : un garçon geek qui veut être aimé.
Mais garder Cruz signifie partir au coucher du soleil d’une vie complètement différente. Et qu'on prenne les choses en main ou pas, papa ne peut pas prendre cette décision à sa place. Leur fin heureuse est entre les mains de Nolan, et pour une fois, ce garçon perdu sait exactement à quelle place il appartient.
📕
Contremaître et millionnaire et propriétaire d'un ranch
.
Intéressant sans plus
📖
Ce garçon perdu a besoin d'un papa pour prendre les rênes...
Nolan Carter est incroyablement prospère et riche. Sur le papier, il semble qu’il ait obtenu tout ce qu’il pouvait souhaiter. Mais il s'est perdu en chemin.
Lorsque Nolan se retire dans un ranch texan qu'il a acheté sur un coup de tête, dans l'espoir de découvrir qui il est sans l'influence des coachs de vie et des mondains, il rencontre le contremaître Cruz Coban. Cruz est tout ce que Nolan n'est pas : sûr de lui, à l'aise dans sa peau et autoritaire.
Et il veut aussi prendre en charge Nolan. Parce que Cruz est un papa.
Nolan n'a jamais eu de papa auparavant, mais lorsque Cruz prend les rênes, Nolan se sent accepté tel qu'il est à l'intérieur : un garçon geek qui veut être aimé.
Mais garder Cruz signifie partir au coucher du soleil d’une vie complètement différente. Et qu'on prenne les choses en main ou pas, papa ne peut pas prendre cette décision à sa place. Leur fin heureuse est entre les mains de Nolan, et pour une fois, ce garçon perdu sait exactement à quelle place il appartient.
📕
February 21, 2023
Digital ARC: Cruz by Jacki James
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶.5
This lost boy needs a Daddy to take the reins...
What happens when you mix a nerdy rich game designer and a horse loving ranch hand? A steamy Daddy/Boy relationship that will leave you wanting a ranch of your own and some rabbits.
This was a quick read. The writing style was great and flowed well. I'll have to agree with another reviewer and say that I would I would have gotten a little more of Cruz's background. I will also add that this is the first thing that I have ever read by Jacki James. I know this book is part of a series, and you may get more of Cruz in other books. So, keep that in mind if you start with this one first. The only thing that I wish this would have had a little more of was conflict. I feel like the only tough decision that had to be made was made very quickly and too easily.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. I'm not much into Daddy/Boy dynamics, but this one 👌.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶.5
This lost boy needs a Daddy to take the reins...
What happens when you mix a nerdy rich game designer and a horse loving ranch hand? A steamy Daddy/Boy relationship that will leave you wanting a ranch of your own and some rabbits.
This was a quick read. The writing style was great and flowed well. I'll have to agree with another reviewer and say that I would I would have gotten a little more of Cruz's background. I will also add that this is the first thing that I have ever read by Jacki James. I know this book is part of a series, and you may get more of Cruz in other books. So, keep that in mind if you start with this one first. The only thing that I wish this would have had a little more of was conflict. I feel like the only tough decision that had to be made was made very quickly and too easily.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. I'm not much into Daddy/Boy dynamics, but this one 👌.
February 22, 2023
I’m so glad we’re back in River Gorge!
Cruz and Nolan were so perfect in the best ways. Cruz is a character I’ve loved for a while so seeing more from him was always going to be awesome and in many ways made my expectations for his boy suuuuper high. Nolan though… I could not have imagined a more perfect person for Cruz. Nolan was such a sweetheart and about two seconds into meeting him I wanted wrap him up in a hug and tell him he was perfect just as he is. Luckily he made his way pretty quickly to Cruz who was able to do just that (even if at first he was a bit unsure). I adore River Gorge - it’s a town filled with enough good people to drown out (at least mostly) the bad and trying so hard to be a safe space for everyone. Seeing all my favourite characters was lovely (especially when they were so kind and welcoming to Nolan). I will always love getting to visit this amazing town with all its wonderful characters.
Cruz and Nolan were so perfect in the best ways. Cruz is a character I’ve loved for a while so seeing more from him was always going to be awesome and in many ways made my expectations for his boy suuuuper high. Nolan though… I could not have imagined a more perfect person for Cruz. Nolan was such a sweetheart and about two seconds into meeting him I wanted wrap him up in a hug and tell him he was perfect just as he is. Luckily he made his way pretty quickly to Cruz who was able to do just that (even if at first he was a bit unsure). I adore River Gorge - it’s a town filled with enough good people to drown out (at least mostly) the bad and trying so hard to be a safe space for everyone. Seeing all my favourite characters was lovely (especially when they were so kind and welcoming to Nolan). I will always love getting to visit this amazing town with all its wonderful characters.
February 24, 2023
Nolan is a billionaire on paper but is clueless what to do with himself. He had hired a life coach and decorator to try and help him but he lost himself along the way. His Mom commented on where his favorite items were in the house and why did he surround himself with items that have no meaning? This comment sent Nolan to the ranch that he bought but never really cared about. Cruz is the new ranch manager and trying to make changes from the prior manger who left without a word. Cruz is shocked that the ranch owner does not care and tells him do what he wants as long as it within the ranch budget. When the two of them meet Cruz sees someone who is perfect but needs to be reminding of that. Nolan is able to be himself with the love of Cruz.
I loved the return to River George and seeing old friends! This story hooked me from the first world until I finished it. I highly recommend it.
I loved the return to River George and seeing old friends! This story hooked me from the first world until I finished it. I highly recommend it.
February 26, 2023
Sweet, instalove, Daddy/boy
Nolan is a really sweet, awkward, nerdy tech guy who can't seem to find himself or where he belongs.
He made an insane amount of money and now finds himself at odds with himself trying to figure out his next move.
He has a ranch he has no clue what to do with so he decides to head there for some R&R in hopes of sparking his imagination.
He meets Cruz there who is his new ranch foreman and the attraction is mutually instantaneous.
Very quickly things progress on a physical level.
Cruz has realized that he is a Daddy at heart and Nolan seems like he would be a perfect fit as his boy.
I really enjoyed how easily and naturally they both fell into their roles together.
Cruz just wants to ease Nolan's anxiety and Nolan just wants to help his Daddy.
These two men were scorching hot together and I also loved the sense of found family in the community.
I can't wait to continue with the series.
Nolan is a really sweet, awkward, nerdy tech guy who can't seem to find himself or where he belongs.
He made an insane amount of money and now finds himself at odds with himself trying to figure out his next move.
He has a ranch he has no clue what to do with so he decides to head there for some R&R in hopes of sparking his imagination.
He meets Cruz there who is his new ranch foreman and the attraction is mutually instantaneous.
Very quickly things progress on a physical level.
Cruz has realized that he is a Daddy at heart and Nolan seems like he would be a perfect fit as his boy.
I really enjoyed how easily and naturally they both fell into their roles together.
Cruz just wants to ease Nolan's anxiety and Nolan just wants to help his Daddy.
These two men were scorching hot together and I also loved the sense of found family in the community.
I can't wait to continue with the series.
February 27, 2023
I absolutely enjoyed reading this book! M/M Cowboys type of stories is one of my few favorite that I love reading about. This one didn’t disappoint. I love how two different worlds collided and made for a sweet reading! I’ve had the opportunity reading several of the author’s other books and this was a nice change of scenery!
The story focuses on Nolan, a young game develop whiz who had bought a ranch in Texas and recently found out that the overseer he hired disappeared and was in need of a new overseer. He sought help in hiring one who was Cruz. Nolan gave Cruz lots of freedom in handling the ranch. Cruz found out that there were lots of stuff that needed to be fixed. He, however was up for the task. It so happened that Nolan did not let Cruz know he was coming to the ranch for a short visit and it led to a rude awakening for both. I’m going to stop right there and have you pick up the book to read and find out what happens! 5 stars reading from me!
The story focuses on Nolan, a young game develop whiz who had bought a ranch in Texas and recently found out that the overseer he hired disappeared and was in need of a new overseer. He sought help in hiring one who was Cruz. Nolan gave Cruz lots of freedom in handling the ranch. Cruz found out that there were lots of stuff that needed to be fixed. He, however was up for the task. It so happened that Nolan did not let Cruz know he was coming to the ranch for a short visit and it led to a rude awakening for both. I’m going to stop right there and have you pick up the book to read and find out what happens! 5 stars reading from me!
May 21, 2023
Nolan Carter might be successful and wealthy, but he has lost himself along the way and so he retreats to the ranch he owns in Texas on a whim. When there he meets his new foreman Cruz Coban who is self-assured, comfortable in his skin, and commanding and wants to become Nolan's Daddy. Nolan has never had a Daddy before, but when Cruz takes the reins, Nolan feels accepted for who he is inside: a geeky boy who wants to be loved - but what will he decide about their future?
I enjoyed this story with the geeky lost boy Nolan and the confident rancher who needed his own boy to love and care for. I enjoyed the way that they met and the humour in that situation as well as Nolan's initial meeting with the cows lol It was nice to include some of the analysis of emotions and the way that Nolan thought in order to solve problems which were interesting to experience. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was a MM story with mature content and a BDSM-like DDLB relationship.
I enjoyed this story with the geeky lost boy Nolan and the confident rancher who needed his own boy to love and care for. I enjoyed the way that they met and the humour in that situation as well as Nolan's initial meeting with the cows lol It was nice to include some of the analysis of emotions and the way that Nolan thought in order to solve problems which were interesting to experience. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was a MM story with mature content and a BDSM-like DDLB relationship.
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